(Redlands, CA) – Roberto Argentina, executive chef at Farm Artisan Foods in Redlands, will prepare a gourmet brunch and give cooking demonstrations as a highlight of a special event at the Asistencia in Redlands on Saturday, October 30 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. “Harvest Tastes at the Asistencia” is presented by the San Bernardino County Museum and the Museum Association, and portions of the program proceeds will benefit exhibit restoration at this historic site. Reservations are necessary and tickets are on sale now at $75 per person.

“San Bernardino County has a rich agricultural history, a legacy that continues today. Interest in eating locally grown foods is on the rise, and our region is a great place to do it,” said Michele Nielsen, curator of history. “The San Bernardino Rancho and its estancia on the site of today’s Asistencia was an agricultural center nearly 200 years ago. And as you drive by the Asistencia on Barton Road today, you may not realize that just a few miles away in San Timoteo Canyon, agricultural traditions live on in a new, healthy and delicious way.”

Harvest Tastes will offer guests an opportunity to learn cooking techniques at demonstrations by Chef Argentina assisted by the museum’s director, Robert McKernan. Guests can also peek into the kitchen and watch brunch being prepared by Argentina and his staff. After the meal, Nielsen will offer informal tours of the historic site.

To make reservations and purchase tickets, visit the museum’s web site at www.sbcountymuseum.org or call (909) 307-2669 ext. 225.

The Asistencia, at 26930 Barton Road in Redlands, is a historic site of the San Bernardino County Museum and California State Historical Landmark #42. The original estancia was established in 1819 as part of the Mission San Gabriel’s Rancho San Bernardino. In 1925, the buildings were in ruins; construction of a new structure began in 1926 and was completed in 1937, when it opened as the “Asistencia.” The building is recognized as a State Historical Landmark because it is an outstanding example of handcrafted structures of the WPA era.

Free parking is available adjacent to the Asistencia. “Harvest Tastes at the Asistencia” is accessible to persons with disabilities.