California, Cocktails & Compliance: The Zaller Law Employers Summit

The California restaurant community came together last Thursday at the stunning Gran Blanco in Venice beach for our Zaller Law Employers Summit. The oceanfront venue, courtesy of Sam Trude and Kelsey Champion of Great White Partners, provided the perfect backdrop for serious compliance talk mixed with sunset networking. First-timers to Gran Blanco (ourselves included!) were treated to the venue’s signature coastal charm and impressive hospitality.

The afternoon kicked off with an insightful panel featuring Anthony Zaller, Kelsey Champion, Rudy Sugueti, and Jamie Boalbey tackling everything from HR timing to I-9 compliance and ICE audits. But the real magic happened during the post-panel mixer, where operators shared their experiences, swapped compliance hacks, and formed connections that extended well beyond business cards. Scroll down for our favorite moments captured from this beachside gathering of California’s restaurant leaders! Click on each photo to see it full size.