Show 308, January 26, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now an enticing preview of Saturday’s mouthwatering show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always thanks for being a part of our loyal listening audience.

Geraldine Gilliland is a well-known and long-time restaurateur in Santa Monica. Her flagship establishment on Main Street is the long-running Lula Cocina Mexicana launched in 1991. She is also a veteran resident of Malibu and dedicated to animal rescue with Chiquita’s Friends. There is a new printing of Geraldine’s The Lula Cocina Cookbook – My favorite Recipes, from Mexico to Malibu. All of the proceeds from book sales generously benefit Chiquita’s Friends.

Why aren’t we using vegetables in desserts? They are as sweet as many fruits when caramelized or marinated, and offer incredible flavors and visual appeal, and of course wonderful nutrition! Vegetable Cakes – The most fun way to five a day! by Ysanne Spevack brings us a wonderful kale and coconut gateau, asparagus and sesame cake, carrot and plant-based cheesecakes made with fennel, pumpkin, and arugula. We’re in the bountiful produce garden with Ysanne.

Escondido’s Restaurant Week is happening January 27 to February 2, 2019. It’s a week of unrivaled deliciousness. No tickets needed… just show up, order the special at a participating restaurant, and make new memories! The Wooden Spoon Restaurant is participating. We’ll meet Chef/Owner Jesse Paul.

This marks the seventh year that the Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure has showcased the wines of some of California’s best small production winemakers in one of California’s most charming small towns, which is celebrating its 107th anniversary this year. Solvang is in the heart of the renowned Santa Ynez Valley wine country, just north of picturesque Santa Barbara, California. Garagiste Festival Co-founder Doug Minnick uncorks the details for us.

Faye Levy is an internationally acclaimed cookbook author and food journalist. Most recently she collaborates with her husband, Yakir, who is also their resident photographer. In the book Foodwork: Jobs in the Food Industryand How to Get Them, with a foreword by the late Julia Child, Faye and Yakir Levy were profiled as the role models for cookbook authors. We’re talking about the delights of Middle Eastern cuisine with the very knowledgeable Faye and Yakir.

On the “SoCal Restaurant Show” we know Terri Henry as the resourceful Producer of the annual DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week launching on August 3rd. In her spare time she is a fearless world traveler and prefers to explore the less obvious destinations. She just returned from a 7-day stay in Cambodia. Terri will share with us highlights of her edible experiences there and her impressions of Cambodia and the people.

Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel joins us with another informative segment of “Ask the Chef.” It’s of considerable value to have a real, working chef in our radio kitchen! Last week Chef Andrew was the keynote panelist at the Global Seafood Market Conference in Coronado. Conference highlights are on the discussion menu.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 308, January 26, 2019: Chef Geraldine Gilliland, The Lula Cocina Cookbook & Lula Cocina Mexicana, Santa Monica

Geraldine Gilliland at Melissa's ProduceGeraldine Gilliland is a well-known and long-time restaurateur in Santa Monica. Her popular establishment on Main Street is the long-running Lula Cocina Mexicana launched in 1991. It’s a living tribute to her (Mexico City-based) Mexican cooking teacher, Lula Bertran. Geraldine is also a long-time resident of Malibu and dedicated to animal rescue with Chiquita’s Friends.

There is a new printing of Geraldine’s The Lula Cocina Cookbook – My favorite Recipes, from Mexico to Malibu. All of the proceeds from book sales generously benefit Chiquita’s Friends.

“Learn not only her best recipes, but how to put your own spin on them to create your own signature dishes…all while helping a great cause.

“Chiquita’s Friends,” is a 501 © 3 I founded that is dedicated to helping abused, neglected and abandoned dogs in and around Southern California. We have rescued and successfully placed over 1,000 dogs in loving homes with the help of this network of allies in the fight against animal negligence and abuse.”

Geraldine spoke to us from the LXV Wine Tasting Room in Paso Robles where she is on a research trip. She recommends their wines.

January 26: Geraldine Gilliland, Ysanne Spevack, The Wooden Spoon, Garagiste Festival, Faye and Yakir Levy, Terri Henry

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Geraldine Gilliland, The Lula Cocina Cookbook & Lula Cocina Mexicana, Santa Monica
Segment Three: Author Ysanne Spevack, Vegetable Cakes – The most fun way to five a day!
Segment Four: Chef / Proprietor Jesse Paul, The Wooden Spoon, Escondido
Segment Five: Doug Minnick, Co-Founder, Garagiste Festival : Southern Exposure, Solvang
Segment Six: Food Journalists & Authors Faye and Yakir Levy
Segment Seven: Terri Henry, Founder, DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week & Fearless International Traveler
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s mouthwatering show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always thanks for being a part of our loyal listening audience.

Geraldine Gilliland is a well-known and long-time restaurateur in Santa Monica. Her flagship establishment on Main Street is the long-running Lula Cocina Mexicana launched in 1991. She is also a long-time resident of Malibu and dedicated to animal rescue with Chiquita’s Friends. There is a new printing of Geraldine’s The Lula Cocina Cookbook – My favorite Recipes, from Mexico to Malibu. All of the proceeds from book sales generously benefit Chiquita’s Friends.

Why aren’t we using vegetables in desserts? They are as sweet as many fruits when caramelized or marinated, and offer incredible flavors and visual appeal, and of course wonderful nutrition! Vegetable Cakes – The most fun way to five a day! by Ysanne Spevack brings us a wonderful kale and coconut gateau, asparagus and sesame cake, carrot and plant-based cheesecakes made with fennel, pumpkin, and arugula. We’re in the produce garden with Ysanne.

Escondido’s Restaurant Week is happening January 27 to February 2, 2019. It’s a week of unrivaled deliciousness. No tickets needed… just show up, order the special at a participating restaurant, and make new memories! The Wooden Spoon Restaurant is participating. We’ll meet Chef/Owner Jesse Paul.

This marks the seventh year that the Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure has showcased the wines of some of California’s best small production winemakers in one of California’s most charming small towns, which is celebrating its 107th anniversary this year. Solvang is in the heart of the renowned Santa Ynez Valley wine country, just north of picturesque Santa Barbara, California. Garagiste Festival Co-founder Doug Minnick uncorks the details for us.

Faye Levy is an internationally acclaimed cookbook author and food journalist. Most recently she collaborates with her husband, Yakir, who is also their resident photographer. In the book Foodwork: Jobs in the Food Industry and How to Get Them, with a foreword by the late Julia Child, Faye and Yakir Levy were profiled as the role models for cookbook authors. We’re talking about the delights of Middle Eastern cuisine with the very knowledgeable Faye and Yakir.

On the “SoCal Restaurant Show” we know Terri Henry as the resourceful Producer of the annual DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week launching on August 3rd. In her spare time she is a fearless world traveler and prefers to explore the less obvious destinations. She just returned from a 7-day stay in Cambodia. Terri will share with us highlights of her edible experiences there and her impressions of Cambodia and the people.

Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel joins us with another informative segment of “Ask the Chef.” It’s of considerable value to have a real, working chef in our radio kitchen! Last week Chef Andrew was the keynote panelist at the Global Seafood Market Conference in Coronado. Conference highlights are on the discussion menu.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Geraldine Gilliland at Melissa's ProduceGeraldine Gilliland is a well-known and long-time restaurateur in Santa Monica. Her popular establishment on Main Street is the long-running Lula Cocina Mexicana launched in 1991. It’s a living tribute to her (Mexico City-based) Mexican cooking teacher, Lula Bertran. Geraldine is also a long-time resident of Malibu and dedicated to animal rescue with Chiquita’s Friends.

There is a new printing of Geraldine’s The Lula Cocina Cookbook – My favorite Recipes, from Mexico to Malibu. All of the proceeds from book sales generously benefit Chiquita’s Friends.

“Learn not only her best recipes, but how to put your own spin on them to create your own signature dishes…all while helping a great cause.

“Chiquita’s Friends,” is a 501 © 3 I founded that is dedicated to helping abused, neglected and abandoned dogs in and around Southern California. We have rescued and successfully placed over 1,000 dogs in loving homes with the help of this network of allies in the fight against animal negligence and abuse.”

Ysanne SpevackWhy aren’t we using vegetables in desserts? They are as sweet as many fruits when caramelized or marinated, and offer incredible flavors and visual appeal, and of course wonderful nutrition! Vegetable Cakes – The most fun way to five a day! by Ysanne Spevack (her 12th book) brings us a wonderful kale and coconut gateau, asparagus and sesame cake, carrot and plant-based cheesecakes made with fennel, pumpkin, and arugula.

“From a decadent beet cheesecake to a vegan radish-pavlova, eating vegetables has never been easier! Squash, corn, carrots, spinach, kale, onions and even fiddlehead ferns take you into a new culinary universe, where the tastes are intriguing, the bakes beautiful, and the results are irresistibly tempting.”

“Ysanne Spevack’s thoughtful step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, with a gorgeous finished photo for every recipe. Vegetable Cakes is a must have for anyone looking to brighten their baking universe, by adding some healthy layers to their daily diet.”

“Ysanne Spevack brings 25+ years of experience to Vegetable Cakes. Her previous books, ‘The Ranch at Live Oak Cookbook,” published by Rizzoli and “Fresh & Wild—A Real Food Adventure” commissioned by Whole Foods and published by HarperCollins received critical acclaim. Born and raised in London, Ysanne moved to Los Angeles in 2004, and has been based in New York City. All three cities inform her unique perspective on food.”

We’re in the lush vegetable garden with Ysanne.

Jesse PaulEscondido’s Restaurant Week is happening January 27 to February 2, 2019. It’s a week of unrivaled deliciousness. No tickets needed… just show up, order the special at a participating restaurant, and make new memories! The Wooden Spoon Restaurant is participating.

“The Wooden Spoon Restaurant provides the freshest quality foods, sourced from local San Diego farms and artisans. We are organic when possible, GMO-free, sustainable and natural. Our food is made with love and respect. We are guided by passion and driven by perfection. Welcome to The Wooden Spoon!”

Their featured item for Dine Out Escondido! (at Lunch or Dinner) is a Beef Dip on a French Roll with au jus and Beer Mustard.

We’ll meet Chef/Owner Jesse Paul.

Doug MinnickThis marks the seventh year that the Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure (February 8th to 10th.) has showcased the wines of some of California’s best small production winemakers in one of California’s most charming small towns, which is celebrating its 107th anniversary this year. Solvang is in the heart of the renowned Santa Ynez Valley wine country, just north of picturesque Santa Barbara, California.

“America’s best wine festival meets one of America’s best historic small towns for the seventh year in a row…what could make for a better wine country weekend?” said Garagiste Festival Co-founder Doug Minnick. “There is a special place in our hearts for Solvang, and for the amazing small production winemakers who pour at this venue. Solvang, and the beautiful Veteran’s Memorial Hall, lend such a charming and intimate setting for attendees to chat and taste with the winemakers and owners who will be pouring their hard-to-find wines. We love the diversity of the wines poured here, with multiple micro-climates, grape varieties and innovative blends represented.”

“Over 40 winemakers from Santa Barbara County and across California converge at Solvang’s Mission-style Veterans’ Memorial Hall to pour over 150 wines over three days of events which include the continuation of the festival’s ‘Original Garagiste’ seminars, moderated by Garagiste Festival Co-founder and KRUSH radio host, Stewart McLennan, and, this year, featuring Central Coast winemaking legend Ken Brown of Ken Brown Wines.”

Garagiste Festival Co-founder Doug Minnick uncorks the details for us.

For full Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure 2019 schedule details, go here.

Faye and Yakir LevyFaye Levy is an internationally acclaimed cookbook author. Most recently she collaborates with her husband, Yakir, who is also their resident photographer. In the book Foodwork: Jobs in the Food Industry and How to Get Them, with a foreword by the late Julia Child, Faye and Yakir Levy were profiled as the role models for cookbook authors.

Faye Levy lived in the Middle East for seven years. Along the way she taught cooking at Montana Mercantile, Let’s Get Cookin’, and other cooking schools, and has demonstrated cooking on national and regional TV. In addition to Feast from the Mideast, Faye has written 22 other cookbooks, including the award-winning books Faye Levy’s International Vegetable Cookbook, Fresh from France–Vegetable Creations, Chocolate Sensations and Classic Cooking Techniques.

Over her long career Faye has written many important articles for Bon Appétit, Gourmet, and other magazines and major newspapers. Faye’s most recent articles, which she wrote with Yakir, were for the Los Angeles Times, the Jerusalem Post and the Orange County Register.

We’re talking about the delights of Middle Eastern cuisine with the very knowledgeable Faye and Yakir.

Terri HenryOn the “SoCal Restaurant Show” we know Terri Henry as the resourceful Producer of the annual DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. In her spare time she is a fearless world traveler and likes to explore the less obvious destinations. She just returned from a 7-day stay in Cambodia.

Terri will share with us highlights of her edible experiences there and her impressions of Cambodia and the people. Lots more to see than the sprawling Phnon Penh.

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosCo-Host Chef Andrew Gruel joins us with another informative segment of “Ask the Chef.” It’s of considerable value to have a real, working chef in our radio kitchen! Last week Chef Andrew was the keynote panelist at the Global Seafood Market Conference in Coronado. Conference highlights are on the discussion menu.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Geraldine Gilliland, The Lula Cocina Cookbook & Lula Cocina Mexicana, Santa Monica
Segment Three: Author Ysanne Spevack, Vegetable Cakes – The most fun way to five a day!
Segment Four: Chef / Proprietor Jesse Paul, The Wooden Spoon, Escondido
Segment Five: Doug Minnick, Co-Founder, Garagiste Festival : Southern Exposure, Solvang
Segment Six: Food Journalists & Authors Faye and Yakir Levy
Segment Seven: Terri Henry, Founder, DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week & Fearless International Traveler
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Show 299, November 24, 2018: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now an enticing and decadent preview of Saturday’s absolutely scrumptious, culinary celebrity-packed show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

The Proprietors of the phenomenally popular Bestia and the newly opened Bavel, Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, are no strangers to the show. Just in time for the Holidays their debut cookbook, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A., is now available. Ori and Genevieve join us.

“Eat, Drink & Game” at Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s (Otium) new Restaurant, Bar & Arcade, Free Play, located on the 2nd level of The Fields LA Food Hall in Exposition Park adjacent to Banc of California Stadium. (“Come for the Food – Stay for the Game.”) It’s a nostalgic menu representing the different comfort foods of L.A., presented with a touch of whimsey. The buzzy central bar serves craft beer and specialty cocktails.

We’re big fans of beloved TV chef (ABC’s Emmy Award-winning The Chew and fan favorite on Bravo’s Top Chef,) Carla Hall. In her 3rd cookbook, Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration, she takes us back to her own Nashville roots to offer a fresh, lip-smackin’ look at America’s favorite comfort cuisine. We’re in the Southern kitchen with Carla.

Two-star Michelin Chef and native Angeleno, Josiah Citrin (Melisse), has launched Openaire, a poolside oasis of green at the center of Koreatown in a glass-curtained greenhouse located on the roof of The Line Hotel on Wilshire Blvd. The ambitious menu (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) features the best of California’s ingredients from land and sea, embracing the seasons and presented in a shareable format. Simply, Openaire is a celebration of indoor / outdoor living at the center of the melting-pot that is LA.

Nathan Peitso, a second-generation farmer of Kenter Canyon Farms, is at the helm of FARMHOUSE together with Executive Chef Craig Hopson. Located on the ground floor of the refreshed Beverly CenterFARMHOUSE redefines the traditional restaurant model by placing a farmer at the forefront of the business and thus creating a new culinary movement focused on collaboration with the region’s top farmers to grow and harvest ingredients dictating the dining destination’s dishes.

Chef Bill Bracken and high-profile chef friends (Bracken’s Kitchen, “Driven to combat food insecurity one tasty meal at a time”) – are gathering together for a Holiday Open House benefit on Thursday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Bracken’s new kitchen in Garden Grove to help raise awareness and funds for Bracken’s Kitchen’s mission to feed those in need. Bill Bracken is grateful to be in a new 9,000 sq. ft. kitchen, yet with the growth comes more need to accomplish more that requires additional resources and funding. Our own Chef Andrew Gruel’s SlapfishTwo Birds and Butterleaf will be part of the festivities. Chef Andrew provides the details of what’s on the Deck The Halls (And The Kitchen!) menu.

When we spoke with celebrated Santa Monica restaurateur & philanthropist Geraldine Gilliland (Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub) last week her respected animal rescue (Chiquita’s Friends) was still displaced from her ranch in Malibu and her new rescue sanctuary, Cornell Sanctuary in Agoura. Gerri was currently encamped with 26 rescue dogs at a generous benefactor’s ranch in Lompoc. We’ll get updated on Gerri’s plight and how you can help.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

November 24: Ori Menashe, Genevieve Gergis, Tim Hollingsworth, Carla Hall, Josiah Citrin, Farmhouse LA, Bracken’s Kitchen, Geraldine Gilliland

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateurs Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A.
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Tim Hollingsworth, Free Play Restaurant, Bar & Arcade
Segment Four: Chef Carla Hall – Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration
Segment Five: Restaurateur & Chef Josiah Citrin
Segment Six: Restaurateur & Executive Farmer, Nathan Peitso, FARMHOUSE Los Angeles
Segment Seven: Chef Andrew Gruel, Bracken’s Kitchen’s Deck the Halls Holiday Open House Benefit
Segment Eight: Chef & Restaurateur Geraldine Gilliland, Lula Cocina Mexicana, Finn McCool’s Irish Pub, Chiquita’s Friends Animal Rescue

Now an enticing and decadent preview of this Saturday’s absolutely scrumptious show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

The Proprietors of the phenomenally popular Bestia and the newly opened Bavel, Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, are no strangers to the show. Just in time for the Holidays their debut cookbook, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A., is now available. Ori and Genevieve join us.

“Eat, Drink & Game” at Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s (Otium) new Restaurant, Bar & Arcade, Free Play, located on the 2nd level of The Fields LA Food Hall in Exposition Park adjacent to Banc of California Stadium. (“Come for the Food – Stay for the Game.”) It’s a nostalgic menu representing the different comfort foods of L.A., presented with a touch of whimsey. The buzzy central bar serves craft beer and specialty cocktails.

We’re big fans of beloved TV chef (ABC’s Emmy Award-winning The Chew and fan favorite on Bravo’s Top Chef,) Carla Hall. In her 3rd cookbook, Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration, she takes us back to her own Nashville roots to offer a fresh, lip-smackin’ look at America’s favorite comfort cuisine. We’re in the Southern kitchen with Carla.

Two-star Michelin Chef and native Angeleno, Josiah Citrin (Melisse,) has launched Openaire, a poolside oasis of green at the center of Koreatown in a glass-curtained greenhouse located on the roof of The Line Hotel on Wilshire Blvd. The ambitious menu (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) features the best of California’s ingredients from land and sea, embracing the seasons and presented in a shareable format. Simply, Openaire is a celebration of indoor/outdoor living at the center of the melting-pot that is LA.

Nathan Peitso, a second-generation farmer of Kenter Canyon Farms, is at the helm of FARMHOUSE together with Executive Chef Craig Hopson. Located on the ground floor of the refreshed Beverly Center, FARMHOUSE redefines the traditional restaurant model by placing a farmer at the forefront of the business and thus creating a new culinary movement focused on collaboration with the region’s top farmers to grow and harvest ingredients dictating the dining destination’s dishes.

Chef Bill Bracken and high profile chef friends (Bracken’s Kitchen, “Driven to combat food insecurity one tasty meal at a time”) – are gathering together for a Holiday Open House benefit on Thursday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Bracken’s new kitchen in Garden Grove to help raise awareness and funds for Bracken’s Kitchen’s mission to feed those in need. Bill Bracken is grateful to be in a new 9,000 sq. ft. kitchen, yet with the growth comes more need to do more that requires additional resources and funding. Our own Chef Andrew Gruel’s Slapfish, Two Birds and Butterleaf will be part of the festivities. Chef Andrew provides the details of what’s on the Deck The Halls (And The Kitchen!) menu.

When we spoke with celebrated Santa Monica restaurateur & philanthropist Geraldine Gilliland (Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub) last week her respected animal rescue (Chiquita’s Friends) was still displaced from her ranch in Malibu and her new rescue sanctuary, Cornell Sanctuary in Agoura. Gerri was currently encamped with 26 rescue dogs at a generous benefactor’s ranch in Lompoc. We’ll get updated on Gerri’s plight and how you can help.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Executive Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis of BestiaThe Proprietors of the phenomenally popular Bestia and the newly opened Bavel, Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, are no strangers to the show. Just in time for the Holidays their debut cookbook, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A., is now available.

This debut cookbook from L.A.’s phenomenally popular Bestia restaurant features rustic Italian food that is driven by intense flavors, including house-made charcuterie, pizza and pasta from scratch, and innovative desserts inspired by home-baked classics.

Since opening in downtown Los Angeles in 2012, Bestia has captivated diners with its bold, satisfying, and flavor-forward food served in a festive, communal atmosphere. Now, in this accessible and immersive debut cookbook, all of the incredible dishes that have made Bestia one of the most talked-about restaurants in the country are on full display.

Irresistible desserts such as apple cider donuts and a chocolate budino tart, from Co-owner and pastry chef Genevieve Gergis, end the concert of flavors on a high note.

Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A. delivers a distinctively innovative approach to Italian-inspired cooking.

Proprietors Ori and Genevieve join us.

Timothy Hollingsworth“Eat, Drink & Game” at Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s (Otium) new Restaurant, Bar & Arcade, Free Play, located on the 2nd level of The Fields LA Food Hall in Exposition Park adjacent to Banc of California Stadium. (“Come for the Food – Stay for the Game.”)

It’s a nostalgic menu representing the different comfort foods of L.A., presented with a touch of whimsey. Think Frito Pie with chili, cheese, pickled Fresnos and sour cream. The buzzy central bar serves craft beer and specialty cocktails like the Melon Dollar Baby (gin, sake, watermelon, hibiscus and lime.).

The playable restored, vintage pinball and video games are really “Free Play” during the daily Happy Hour of 5 to 7:00 p.m. (Wednesday through Sunday.)

Chef Tim is also a Cheftestant on Netflix’s ambitious “The Final Table” international chef competition series. Chef Tim will provide an overview.

Carla HallWe’re big fans of beloved TV chef (ABC’s Emmy Award-winning The Chew and fan favorite on Bravo’s Top Chef,) Carla Hall. In her 3rd cookbook, Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration, she takes us back to her own Nashville roots to offer a fresh, lip-smackin’ look at America’s favorite comfort cuisine.

In Carla Hall’s Soul Food, the big-hearted chef and television celebrity traces soul food’s history from Africa and the Caribbean to the American South. Carla shows us that soul food is more than barbecue and mac and cheese. Traditionally a plant-based cuisine, everyday soul food is full of veggie goodness that’s just as delicious as cornbread and fried chicken.

From Black-Eyed Pea Salad with Hot Sauce Vinaigrette to Tomato Pie with Garlic Bread Crust, the recipes in Carla Hall’s Soul Food deliver her distinctive Southern flavors using farm-fresh ingredients. The results are light, healthy, seasonal dishes with big, satisfying tastes—the mouthwatering soul food everyone will want a taste of.

“Featuring 145 original recipes, 120 color photographs, and a whole lotta love, Carla Hall’s Soul Food is a wonderful blend of the modern and the traditional—honoring soul food’s heritage and personalizing it with Carla’s signature fresh style. The result is an irresistible and open-hearted collection of recipes and stories that share love and joy, identity, and memory.”

We’re in the Southern kitchen with Carla.

Josiah CitrinTwo-star Michelin Chef and native Angeleno, Josiah Citrin (Melisse & Charcoal,) has launched Openaire, a poolside oasis of green at the center of the Koreatown in a glass-curtained greenhouse located on the roof of The Line Hotel on Wilshire Blvd.

The ambitious menu (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) features the best of California’s ingredients from land and sea, embracing the seasons and presented in a shareable format. Highlights at dinner include Tagliatelle Duck Ragout with Pistachio, and Pecorino and Suckling Pig with Ginger Rice & XO sauce. The lunch menu offers a fun section of “Hotel Classics” and an unusual Tuna Katsu Sandwich with Napa Cabbage Slaw and Black Garlic Katsu Sauce. A dessert highlight is an impressive Dark Chocolate Cake with Salted Coffee Ice Cream and Dulce De Leche sauce.

Simply, Openaire is a celebration of indoor/outdoor living at the center of the melting-pot that is LA. Josiah’s Executive Chef at Openaire is Richard Archuleta (ex-The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.)

Chef Josiah joins us.

Nathan PietsoNathan Peitso, a second-generation farmer of Kenter Canyon Farms is at the helm of FARMHOUSE together with Executive Chef Craig Hopson. Located on the ground floor of the refreshed Beverly Center, FARMHOUSE redefines the traditional restaurant model by placing a farmer at the forefront of the business and thus creating a new culinary movement focused on collaboration with the region’s top farmers to grow and harvest ingredients dictating the dining destination’s dishes.

Introducing a fresh role in the restaurant industry at Beverly Center’s FARMHOUSE restaurant, Executive Farmer Nathan Peitso calls on his extensive California farming experience cultivated since youth to fill the post organically—both literally and figuratively. Peitso brings an unprecedented level of authenticity and expertise to the industry’s heightened dedication to farm-traceable culinary programs.

“The FARMHOUSE concept hinges on getting the best produce, and preparing superior food with superior ingredients,” Peitso says. Reimagining the menu design process, Peitso plans months in advance through thoughtful collaboration with farmers on anticipated produce being planted. Once farming partnerships are in place, Peitso curates the rotating seed to plate menu highlighting peak Southern California ingredients, exclusively harvested for FARMHOUSE.

Last month FARMHOUSE debuted its inaugural Autumn Harvest Chef’s Tasting Dinner Menu from Executive Chef Craig Hopson. For $52 per person (not inclusive of tax and gratuity) guests will have their choice of three-courses inspired by six selective and locally-sourced seasonal ingredients at their peak—such as honeynut squash, Cotton Candy, Concord, and Red Flame grapes, Bermuda onions, mushrooms, pears, and Japanese sweet potato—prepared by Chef Hopson and sourced by Executive Farmer Nathan Peitso (“The Farmer & The Chef” duo).

Bill BrackenChef Bill Bracken and high- profile chef friends (Bracken’s Kitchen, “Driven to combat food insecurity one tasty meal at a time”) – are gathering together for a Holiday Open House benefit on Thursday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Bracken’s new kitchen in Garden Grove to help raise awareness and funds for Bracken’s Kitchen’s mission to feed those in need. Bill Bracken is grateful to be in a new 9,000 sq. ft. kitchen, yet with the growth comes more need to do more that requires additional resources and funding.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoAttendees will be invited to tour the various kitchens to sample signature dishes made from top chefs such as Chef Hugo Bolanos from Wolfgang Puck at the Hotel Bel Air, Avalon Grille & The Catalina Company’s Chef Roberto Hernandez, Chef Andrew Gruel from Slapfish and Two Birds and Butterleaf and Chef John Park of Toast Kitchen + Bakery, not to mention Bracken’s Kitchen’s Executive Chef Jerry and Founder & Culinary Director, Chef Bill Bracken. Master Baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Company, Pastry Chef Michael Owens of the new Left Coast Bakery, and from The Dirty Cookie, Shahira Marel will round out our pastries and dessert tasting.

Tickets for the event start at $95 and will be going directly toward Bracken’s Kitchen food recovery efforts and feeding programs.

“We are excited to be able to make a bigger impact in the communities we serve with the additional space in our new kitchen,” says Chef Bill Bracken. “Thanks to our community donors and food business partners, we are able to host events like Deck The Halls and continue to restore food and lives.”

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel’s Slapfish, Two Birds and Butterleaf will be part of the festivities. Chef Andrew provides the details of what’s on the Deck The Halls (And The Kitchen!) menu.

Geraldine GillilandWhen we spoke with celebrated Santa Monica chef, restaurateur & philanthropist Geraldine Gilliland (Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub) last week her respected animal rescue (Chiquita’s Friends) was still displaced from her ranch in Malibu and her new rescue sanctuary, Cornell Sanctuary in Agoura.

Gerri was currently encamped with 26 rescue dogs at a generous benefactor’s ranch in Lompoc. Many of these rescue canines are special needs due to being seniors or are on prescription medications.

The newly restored guest cottage at Cornell Sanctuary was tragically lost in the Woolsey fire along with all of the caretaker’s personal belongings. Miraculously all the animals (including goats and rabbits) were saved.

We’ll get updated on Gerri’s plight and how you can help. In this time of great need a contribution of any size would be greatly appreciated.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateurs Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A.
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Tim Hollingsworth, Free Play Restaurant, Bar & Arcade
Segment Four: Chef Carla Hall – Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration
Segment Five: Restaurateur & Chef Josiah Citrin
Segment Six: Restaurateur & Executive Farmer, Nathan Peitso, FARMHOUSE Los Angeles
Segment Seven: Chef Andrew Gruel, Bracken’s Kitchen’s Deck the Halls Holiday Open House Benefit
Segment Eight: Chef & Restaurateur Geraldine Gilliland, Lula Cocina Mexicana, Finn McCool’s Irish Pub, Chiquita’s Friends Animal Rescue

Show 298, November 17, 2018: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Diestel Turkey Ranch from West Coast Prime MeatsIf you’re looking for perhaps the best in “hassle free” Thanksgiving cooking tips please listen to these informative podcast segments from earlier in the month with practical advice from our own Chef Andrew Gruel and The Meatheads from West Coast Prime Meats, Terry and Jay.

Chef Andrew Gruel’s Chef’s Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining, Part 1
Chef Andrew Gruel’s Chef’s Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining, Part 2
The Meatheads Thanksgiving Cooking Tips and Recipes

Now a provocative preview of this Saturday’s incredibly appetizing show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

Chef Dean Thomas is the well-traveled and personable Innkeeper (along with his wife, Nicole) of the Inn at Europa Village located on a hill adjacent to Temecula’s Europa Village Winery. The long-in-the-works Groundbreaking for Europa Village’s Spanish winery, restaurant and casitas (Bolero) took place earlier in the month. Chef Dean will provide all the scrumptious details of what the future holds.

The Fields LA, a stylized urban culinary destination featuring award-winning chefs and restaurants, is located adjacent to LAFC’s Banc of California Stadium in Exposition Park next to the L.A. Memorial Coliseum. A three-floor space, the dining complex houses separate concepts to provide distinct dining experiences. The Fields LA (ground level) consists of nine different food vendors serving a variety of regional American and international cuisines along with an outdoor patio for craft beer and cocktails. The Fields LA’s Executive Chef, Michael Teich, and Connie Cossio of Coni’ Seafood (L.A.’s First Family of Mexican Seafood) are our guests.

Award-winning author Dorie Greenspan is the recipient of five prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards for her writing. Her newest title (her baker’s dozen effort) is Everyday Dorie – The Way I Cook.

It’s her most personal work to date and an incredible friend for the challenged home cook. We’re in the home kitchen with Dorie.

Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar) launched Terrace by Mix Mix in South Coast Plaza in late September. Located on Level 3 of the Crate and Barrel / Macy’s Home Store Wing, TERRACE by Mix Mix concentrates on well-priced, market-driven small plates. The cuisine showcases Pangilinan’s eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors, as well as his refined technique. Chef Ross pops out of the kitchen for a chat.

It’s the best in premium wines priced at a value for your Holiday Table and gifting with our resident wine authority Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange. This is Part 2 of his special Holiday report. It includes a helpful recap of what wine grape varietals are really suitable for the abundant Thanksgiving Table.

Geraldine Gilliland is a well-known and long-time restaurateur in Santa Monica. Her proprieties on Main Street are Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub. She is also a long-time resident of Malibu and dedicated to animal rescue with Chiquita’s Friends. The tragic Woolsey fire necessitated her hurried evacuation from her new Agoura animal sanctuary with 26 of her rescue dogs. Gerri will bring us up-to-date on a very difficult week and how we can help.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 298, November 17, 2018: Chef & Restaurateur Geraldine Gilliland, Lula Cocina Mexicana, Finn McCool’s Irish Pub, Chiquita’s Friends Animal Rescue

Geraldine GillilandGeraldine Gilliland is a well-known and long-time restaurateur and philanthropist in Santa Monica. Her proprieties on Main Street are Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub. She has a long tradition of generously giving back to the community.

She is also a long-time resident of Malibu and dedicated to animal rescue with Chiquita’s Friends. All of the proceeds from the Lula Cocina Cookbook benefit Chiquita’s Friends.

The tragic Woolsey fire necessitated her hurried evacuation from her new Cornell Sanctuary in Agoura on Thursday night, November 8th with 26 of her rescue dogs. Just imagine the task of getting all these senior and challenged animals with special needs gently coaxed into travel kennels and loading them onto a van and truck in the dark for transport.

As of the broadcast Geraldine still had not been able to get back home to either her Malibu ranch or the Cornell Sanctuary. Sadly the recently restored caretaker’s cottage at the Sanctuary was completely destroyed including all the caretaker’s belongings.

Gerri will bring us up-to-date on a very difficult week and how we can help. A contribution of any amount to Chiquita’s Friends at this challenging time would be greatly appreciated.

 

November 17: Europa Village, The Fields LA, Dorie Greenspan, Ross Pangilinan, Wine Exchange, Geraldine Gilliland

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef / Innkeeper Dean Thomas, Inn at Europa Village, Europa Village Winery, Temecula
Segment Three: The Fields LA
Segment Four: Cookbook Author Extraordinaire Dorie Greenspan, Everyday Dorie – The Way I Cook
Segment Five: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, TERRACE by Mix Mix (South Coast Plaza) and Mix Mix Kitchen Bar
Segment Six: Kyle Meyer, Proprietor, Wine Exchange, Part 2 – Best Holiday Wine Picks for Value
Segment Seven: Chef & Restaurateur Geraldine Gilliland, Lula Cocina Mexicana, Finn McCool’s Irish Pub, Chiquita’s Friends Animal Rescue

Please don’t miss us at our special time this Saturday of 4 to 6:00 p.m. following Fighting Irish Football. We’re expecting you…

Now a provocative preview of this Saturday’s incredibly appetizing show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

Chef Dean Thomas is the well-traveled and personable Innkeeper (along with his wife, Nicole) of the Inn at Europa Village located on a hill adjacent to Temecula’s Europa Village Winery. The long-in-the-works Groundbreaking for Europa Village’s Spanish winery, restaurant and casitas (Bolero) took place earlier in the month. Chef Dean will provide all the scrumptious details of what the future holds.

The Fields LA, a stylized urban culinary destination featuring award-winning chefs and restaurants, is located adjacent to LAFC’s Banc of California Stadium in Exposition Park next to the L.A. Memorial Coliseum. A three-floor space, the dining complex houses separate concepts to provide distinct dining experiences. The Fields LA (ground level) consists of nine different food vendors serving a variety of regional American and international cuisines along with an outdoor patio for craft beer and cocktails. The Fields LA’s Executive Chef, Michael Teich, and Connie Cossio of Coni’ Seafood (L.A.’s First Family of Mexican Seafood) are our guests.

Award-winning author Dorie Greenspan is the recipient of five prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards for her writing. Her newest title (her baker’s dozen effort) is Everyday Dorie – The Way I Cook.

We’re in the home kitchen with Dorie.

Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar) launched Terrace by Mix Mix in South Coast Plaza in late September. Located on Level 3 of the Crate and Barrel/Macy’s Home Store Wing, TERRACE by Mix Mix concentrates on well-priced, market-driven small plates. The cuisine showcases Pangilinan’s eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors, as well as his refined technique. Chef Ross pops out of the kitchen for a chat.

It’s the best in premium wines priced at a value for your Holiday Table and gifting with our resident wine authority Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange. This is Part 2 of his special Holiday report.

Geraldine Gilliland is a well-known and long-time restaurateur in Santa Monica. Her proprieties on Main Street are Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub. She is also a long-time resident of Malibu and dedicated to animal rescue with Chiquita’s Friends. The tragic Woolsey fire necessitated her hurried evacuation from Malibu with 26 of her rescue dogs. Gerri will bring us up-to-date on a very difficult week and how we can help.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Dean ThomasChef Dean Thomas is the well-traveled and personable Innkeeper (along with his wife, Nicole) of the Inn at Europa Village located on a hill adjacent to Temecula’s Europa Village Winery. He has even cooked Spanish paella with Celebrity Chef Jose Andres at a charity benefit.

The long-in-the-works Groundbreaking for Europa Village’s Spanish winery, restaurant and casitas (Bolero) took place earlier in the month. Chef Dean artfully prepared an abundant table of Spanish cheeses and proper accompaniments as well as two giant pans (from Spain) of paella for the hungry VIPs.

Chef Dean will provide all the scrumptious details of what the future holds.

Michael TeichThe Fields LA, a stylized urban culinary destination featuring award-winning chefs and restaurants, is located adjacent to LAFC’s Banc of California Stadium in Exposition Park adjacent to the L.A. Memorial Coliseum. A three-floor space, the dining complex houses separate concepts to provide distinct dining experiences.

The Fields LA (ground level) consists of nine different food vendors serving a variety of regional American and international cuisines along with an outdoor patio for craft beer and cocktails. On The Fields LA menu are C.J Boyd’s Fried Chicken (Tim Hollingsworth,) Akko Port (Middle Eastern,) Ms. Chi (Chinese from Shirley Chung,) Barbara Jean (Soul Food,) Coni’ Seafood (Nayarit-style), Burritos La Palma, Al Pastor (Street Style Tacos,) Piccolio Antico Pizzeria Focacceria (Chad Colby) and Sweet & Savory.

The Fields LA’s Executive Chef, Michael Teich, and Connie Cossio of Coni’ Seafood (L.A.’s First Family of Mexican Seafood) are our guests.

Dorie Greenspan and her cookbook Dories CookiesAward-winning author Dorie Greenspan is the recipient of five prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards for her writing. Her newest title (her baker’s dozen effort) is Everyday Dorie – The Way I Cook.

In her latest cookbook Dorie’s legion of loyal fans can find the irresistible food she turns to for weekday and weekend meals. These are the meals she makes for friends in Paris, where she has lived for part of the year for more than twenty years, and the ones she prepares in her small New York City kitchen and her rural Connecticut home.

“The recipes, most of which are simple, none of which needs skills beyond basic, turn out food that’s comforting, satisfying and inviting,” she says.

“Whenever I’m cooking, I like to sneak in a little surprise. I love it when there’s something unexpected in a dish, especially when it’s in one we know well.”—From the Introduction

“Greenspan prides herself on being a practical cook. She prefers to use common ingredients found in supermarkets, farmers’ markets, and her pantry and fridge. Often her fresh touches come from the way she appropriates what she has on hand to create a new dish, like Pasta with Cabbage, Winter Squash, and Walnuts, which gets a pert burst from dried cranberries and a splash of cider vinegar.”

We’re in the home kitchen with Dorie.

Ross PangilinanChef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar) launched Terrace by Mix Mix in South Coast Plaza in late September. Located on level 3 of the Crate and Barrel / Macy’s Home Store Wing, TERRACE by Mix Mix concentrates on well-priced, market-driven small plates.

The cuisine showcases Pangilinan’s eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors, as well as his refined technique. An approachable wine list offers varietals by the glass and bottle as well as rotating craft beers.

True to its name, the restaurant features full-service evening dining (and Weekend Brunch) in a beautifully designed covered terrace off the west end of Bridge of Gardens. A small wine bar, additional seating, an open kitchen and a counter offering a weekday lunch quick-service menu is inside.

Pangilinan opened his first restaurant, Mix Mix Kitchen Bar, in downtown Santa Ana in 2016. The name “Mix Mix” is inspired by the English translation of the Filipino dessert Halo-Halo and is also a play on Pangilinan’s culinary style and Filipino-American identity. The restaurant has been an unqualified success since opening, garnering accolades as best new restaurant from Orange Coast Magazine and earning the chef critical praise.

Pangilinan’s culinary journey began upon graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena. He traveled to France to work in the Michelin-starred Les Trois Marches in Versailles. Back in the U.S., he was hired as sous chef to open the critically acclaimed, fine dining Sinatra restaurant at Wynn Las Vegas. Returning to Southern California, Pangilinan worked as sous chef at the Patina flagship and became a protégé of founder chef Joachim Splichal. The Patina Group recognized his talent and named him executive chef at Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge, which is part of South Coast Plaza’s fine dining collection.

Chef Ross pops out of the kitchen for a chat.

Kyle Meyer of Wine ExchangeIt’s the best in premium wines priced at a value for your Holiday Table and gifting with our resident wine authority Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange. This is Part 2 of his special Holiday 2018 report.

There is more depth to Italian Lambrusco than you probably are aware of.

 

Geraldine GillilandGeraldine Gilliland is a well-known and long-time restaurateur and philanthropist in Santa Monica. Her proprieties on Main Street are Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub.

She is also a long-time resident of Malibu and dedicated to animal rescue with Chiquita’s Friends. All of the proceeds from the Lula Cocina Cookbook benefit Chiquita’s Friends. The tragic Woolsey fire necessitated her hurried evacuation from Malibu with 26 of her rescue dogs.

Gerri will bring us up-to-date on a very difficult week and how we can help.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef / Innkeeper Dean Thomas, Inn at Europa Village, Europa Village Winery, Temecula
Segment Three: The Fields LA
Segment Four: Cookbook Author Extraordinaire Dorie Greenspan, Everyday Dorie – The Way I Cook
Segment Five: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, TERRACE by Mix Mix (South Coast Plaza) and Mix Mix Kitchen Bar
Segment Six: Kyle Meyer, Proprietor, Wine Exchange, Part 2 – Best Holiday Wine Picks for Value
Segment Seven: Chef & Restaurateur Geraldine Gilliland, Lula Cocina Mexicana, Finn McCool’s Irish Pub, Chiquita’s Friends Animal Rescue

Show 225, May 27, 2017: Chef & Restaurateur, Geraldine Gilliland, Santa Monica

Geraldine GilliliandLong-time Santa Monica restaurateur Chef Geraldine Gilliland is represented there on Main Street with Lula Cocina and Finn McCool’s. The Lula Cocina Cookbook has just been released in paperback. Proceeds benefit Gerri’s 501 (c) 3 animal rescue agency. We’ll meet her.

With The Lula Cocina Cookbook – My favorite Recipes, from Mexico to Malibu, chef, author and accomplished restaurateur Geraldine Gilliland takes you on a fun, easy to read tour of her favorite recipes from Mexico, all the way to her hilltop Ranch in Malibu

Learn not only her best recipes, but how to put your own spin on them to create your own signature dishes…all while helping a great cause.

Gerri doesn’t neglect her signature potent libations in the Lula book. The first chapter is “Beverages & Cocktails.” Look for the coveted recipes for The Signature “Lula” Margarita and the “Americana” variation.

“All proceeds from this book will go to benefit the non-profit, Chiquita’s Friends,” I founded that is dedicated to helping abused, neglected and abandoned dogs in and around the Southern California area. We have rescued and successfully placed over 1,000 dogs in loving homes with the help of this network of allies in the fight against animal negligence and abuse.” Geraldine Gilliland