Show 190, September 24, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish Restaurant Group

Please note… Next Saturday, October 1st we’re preempted in our usual morning slot for Fighting Irish Football. No worries as we’ll still have a live show for you at the special afternoon time of 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on October 1st only. Thanks & please help spread the word…

Andrew Gruel and his son WilliamExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Brea, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for Rams and USC Football, is back as today’s Guest Host. San Clemente is launching next. In May in Chicago during the National Restaurant Association’s annual conclave he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish.

Our food-loving colleagues in Richmond, British Columbia are at it again. Richmond is known for having some of the best and most authentic regional Chinese food outside of China. For all of us in SoCal it’s a whole lot closer. Just launched is “Travel the Dumpling Trail.” Colin Wong, Director of Communications for Tourism Richmond, joins us with all the crave-worthy details.

Noted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the globally respected L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Southern Hemisphere tasting and lots more, and how the public can sample some of the winning oils during the closing Weekend of the L.A. County Fair. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

L.A. Kitchen is a high-profile, local non-profit whose thoughtful mission is that food and people should never go to waste. On Saturday evening, October 22nd they are launching their first ever fundraiser: Shared Plates. It’s “a night of 100 dinner parties” across Los Angeles. Robert Egger, Founder & CEO of L.A. Kitchen is our guest with a preview.

At 25, Chef Marcel Vigneron competed on the memorable Season 2 of Bravo’s “Top Chef” and, impressively, was the Runner-Up. He now has two side-by-side restaurants on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, Wolf (Seasonal LA Cuisine) and the plant-based, Beefsteak. We’ll meet him.

Austin-born burger joint Hopdoddy Burger Bar, known for its thoughtfully crafted selection of high quality burgers, craft beer and handspun shakes, has recently opened their second Orange County location at The Market Place in Tustin. Hopdoddy’s Brand Manager, Erin Fohn>, joins us with all the hot & juicy specifics.

Foodbeast presents the 2nd Annual OozeFest in Downtown Santa Ana on the Weekend of October 15th and 16th. It’s the very cheesiest of course, with awesome cheese creations and premium beer! There is a VIP all-you-can-eat option this year. Producer Bobby Navarro of 100eats.com has the gooey details for us.

Co-host Chef Andrew Gruel> of Slapfish Restaurant Group has two young children and also enjoys dining out at all levels of establishments. What to do? Chef Andrew shares his top picks for chef-driven restaurants that are also kid-friendly. Mangia…

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 190, September 24, 2016: Darrell Corti, Chair, L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition

Darrell CortiNoted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the globally respected L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Southern Hemisphere tasting and lots more and how the public can sample some of the winning oils during the final Weekend of the L.A. County Fair. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

For the Southern Hemisphere competition 101 oils were evaluated from 45 producers in Australia, New Zealand and South America. The judging yielded 82 awards.

Now in its 17th year, the Los Angeles International Olive Oil Competition is the top ranking EVOO competition in the United States and fifth worldwide. The goal is to bring together the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in awarding medals to the best oils from around the globe.

September 24: Tourism Richmond, Corti Brothers, LA Kitchen, Marcel Vigneron, Hopdoddy Burger Bar, OozeFest

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish Restaurant Group
Segment Two: “The Dumpling Trail” with Colin Wong, Director of Communications, Tourism Richmond
Segment Three: Darrell Corti, Chair, L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition
Segment Four: Robert Egger, Founder & CEO, L.A. Kitchen
Segment Five: Owner/Chef Marcel Vigneron, Wolf & Beefsteak
Segment Six: Erin Fohn, Brand Manager, Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Segment Seven: Foodbeast Presents: The 2nd Annual OozeFest
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Please note… Next Saturday, October 1st we’re preempted in our usual morning slot for Fighting Irish Football. No worries as we’ll still have a live show for you at the special afternoon time of 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on October 1st only. Thanks & please help spread the word…

Andrew Gruel and his son WilliamExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Brea, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for Rams and USC Football, is back as today’s Guest Host. San Clemente is launching next. In May in Chicago during the National Restaurant Association’s annual conclave he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish.

Our food-loving colleagues in Richmond, British Columbia are at it again. Richmond is known for having some of the best and most authentic regional Chinese food outside of China. For for all of us in SoCal it’s a whole lot closer. Just launched is “Travel the Dumpling Trail.” Colin Wong, Director of Communications for Tourism Richmond, joins us with all the crave-worthy details.

Noted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the globally respected L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Southern Hemisphere tasting and lots more, and how the public can sample some of the winning oils during the closing Weekend of the L.A. County Fair. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

L.A. Kitchen is a high-profile, local non-profit whose thoughtful mission is that food and people should never go to waste. On Saturday evening, October 22nd they are launching their first ever fundraiser : Shared Plates. It’s “a night of 100 dinner parties” across Los Angeles. Robert Egger, Founder & CEO of L.A. Kitchen is our guest with a preview.

At 25, Chef Marcel Vigneron competed on the memorable Season 2 of Bravo’s “Top Chef” and, impressively, was the Runner-Up. He now has two side-by-side restaurants on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, Wolf (Seasonal LA Cuisine) and the plant-based, Beefsteak. We’ll meet him.

Austin-born burger joint Hopdoddy Burger Bar, known for its thoughtfully crafted selection of high quality burgers, craft beer and handspun shakes, has recently opened their second Orange County location at The Market Place in Tustin. Hopdoddy’s Brand Manager, Erin Fohn, joins us with all the hot & juicy specifics.

Foodbeast presents the 2nd Annual OozeFest in Downtown Santa Ana on the Weekend of October 15th and 16th. It’s the very cheesiest of course, with awesome cheese creations and premium beer! There is a VIP all-you-can-eat option this year. Producer Bobby Navarro of 100eats.com has the gooey details for us.

Co-host Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish Restaurant Group has two young children and also enjoys dining out at all levels of establishments. What to do? Chef Andrew shares his top picks for chef-driven restaurants that are also kid-friendly. Mangia…

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Colin WongOur food-loving colleagues in Richmond, British Columbia are at it again. Richmond has some of the best regional Chinese food outside of China and for all of us in SoCal it’s a whole lot closer. Just launched is “Travel the Dumpling Trail.”

“Did you know there are over 20 different types of Asian dumplings? Dumplings come in all shapes and forms, from water-boiled, to deep-fried, steamed and even dessert dumplings. In Richmond, B.C. there is no shortage of dumplings to choose from and Tourism Richmond is inviting visitors to sample some of the delicious options that the city has to offer through a new tour, the Dumpling Trail.”

“With over 800 restaurants in Richmond, dining choices can be overwhelming,” said Tracy Lakeman, CEO of Tourism Richmond. “We’ve carefully selected 15 eateries with some of the best dumplings, from upscale restaurants to hidden gems and food court stalls. These restaurants make up the Dumpling Trail, a walkable, self-guided tour that showcases Richmond as a culinary destination. Each location on the Trail offers unique varieties of dumplings and Tourism Richmond has identified some of the city’s best.”

Here’s a preview of Tourism Richmond’s top picks for dumplings:

  • Su Hang Restaurant: Xiao long bao (soup dumplings) & water-boiled dumplings
  • Shiang Garden: Har Gow (shrimp dumplings)
  • Shibuyatei Sushi & Larmen: Japanese scallop gyoza
  • Golden Sichuan Restaurant: Spicy Chinese dumplings

Colin Wong, Director of Communications for Tourism Richmond, joins us with all the crave-worthy details.

Darrell CortiNoted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the globally respected L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Southern Hemisphere tasting and lots more and how the public can sample some of the winning oils during the final Weekend of the L.A. County Fair. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

Now in its 17th year, the Los Angeles International Olive Oil Competition is the top ranking EVOO competition in the United States and fifth worldwide. The goal is to bring together the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in awarding medals to the best oils from around the globe.

Robert EggarL.A. Kitchen is a growing-in-profile, local non-profit whose thoughtful mission is that food and people should never go to waste. On Saturday evening, October 22nd they are launching their first ever fundraiser : Shared Plates. It’s “a night of 100 dinner parties” across Los Angeles.

“On behalf of the L.A. Kitchen, I’m thrilled to invite you to SHARED PLATES, an extraordinary night of 100 dinner parties hosted in homes all across our great city on Saturday, October 22nd. By sharing plates, stories, and a few surprises, these dinners will bring Angelenos from every walk of life together to reveal the power of food”

“Thanks to the generosity of our hosts, 100 per cent of your ticket revenue goes to support the L.A. Kitchen’s vital work to ensure that neither food nor people will ever go to waste.” – From Robert Egger, Founder & CEO, L.A. Kitchen

Robert Egger, Founder & CEO of L.A. Kitchen is our guest with a tantalizing preview.

Marcel VigneronAt 25, Chef Marcel Vigneron competed on the memorable Season 2 of Bravo’s “Top Chef” and, impressively, was the Runner-Up. He now has two side-by-side restaurants on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, Wolf (Seasonal LA Cuisine) and the plant-based, Beefsteak. We’ll meet him.

“At WOLF, we are influenced by fresh local ingredients and the farmers that grow them. We pay tribute to the food by preparing it with care, using every edible part from flower to root and nose to tail. Our inspiration stems from the variety of cultures that make up our city, from Thai Town to Taco Trucks. Our goal is to combine these traditional flavors into something uniquely Los Angeles.  Come in and experience food and service that are precise, but never pretentious.  Join Marcel and his team to take your place in the Wolfpack.”

“At Beefsteak, we strive to bring the best produce and local ingredients to our guests in a casual environment that serves fresh and seasonal California cuisine. We aim to source everything from socially conscious purveyors that will in turn be used in dishes that are not only healthy, but also intended to be super tasty, and ecologically responsible. We value the intimate connection between our food, our farms, our planet and our health and aim to be sustainable in all of our practices.  We support our community through partnerships with local vendors and producers.”

Erin FohmAustin-born burger joint Hopdoddy Burger Bar, known for its thoughtfully crafted selection of high quality burgers, craft beer and handspun shakes, has recently opened their second Orange County location at The Market Place in Tustin.

Hopdoddy delivers fresh, all-natural angus burgers alongside Kennebec hand cut fries, farm fresh salads and handcrafted milkshakes. Their buns are baked in-house from scratch every day. Craft local beer is a passion for Hopdoddy, as well as their full bar including house-made liqueurs and fresh-squeezed juices. Founded in 2010, Hopdoddy now has locations in Texas, Arizona, Colorado and California.

Hopdoddy’s Brand Manager, Erin Fohn, joins us with all the hot & juicy specifics.

Foodbeast OozefestFoodbeast presents the 2nd Annual OozeFest in Downtown Santa Ana on the Weekend of October 15th and 16th. It’s the very cheesiest of course with awesome cheese creations and premium beer! There is a VIP all-you-can-eat option this year.

OozeFest is an amazing festival with tons of chef-driven, awesome cheese creations and premium beer.

Marketplace tickets ($5.00) include entry to the Marketplace section which has vendors you can buy food and drinks from. VIP tickets ($40.00) include all-you-can-enjoy food and beer from great establishments including Five Crowns and Slapfish.

Producer Bobby Navarro of 100eats.com has all the gooey details for us.

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosCo-host Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish Restaurant Group has two young children and also enjoys dining out at all levels of establishments. What to do? Chef Andrew shares his top picks for chef-driven restaurants that are also kid-friendly. Manga…

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish Restaurant Group
Segment Two: “The Dumpling Trail” with Colin Wong, Director of Communications, Tourism Richmond
Segment Three: Darrell Corti, Chair, L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition
Segment Four: Robert Egger, Founder & CEO, L.A. Kitchen
Segment Five: Owner/Chef Marcel Vigneron, Wolf & Beefsteak
Segment Six: Erin Fohn, Brand Manager, Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Segment Seven: Foodbeast Presents: The 2nd Annual OozeFest
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group

August 27: Western Foodservice Expo, Corti Brothers, LA Loves Alex’s, Meathead Goldwyn, Tuxton China, The Taste, Curtis Stone

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ron Mathews, Vice President, Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo
Segment Three: Caroline Styne, Lucques Restaurant Group, L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Culinary Benefit
Segment Four: Meathead Goldwyn, AmazingRibs.com, MEATHEAD: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling
Segment Five: Jennifer Rolander, Marketing Director, Tuxton China, Inc.
Segment Six: Los Angeles Times The Taste, Preview
Segment Seven: Chefs Curtis Stone (Maude and Gwen) and Dominique Crenn (Altier Crenn and Petit Crenn)

A preview of today’s show and what you need to know for a chance for a free, premium fried chicken sandwich on August 31st to celebrate the last day of National Sandwich Month!

The largest annual gathering of foodservice executives, chefs and restaurateurs in the West is the 2016 Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo on August 28th to 30th at the Los Angeles Convention Center. It’s for the trade, only. Ron Mathews, Vice President of the Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo joins us with a preview.

Noted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the globally respected L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Southern Hemisphere tasting and lots more, and how the public can sample some of the winning oils at the upcoming L.A. County Fair. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

Prominent chefs from across the country are set to return to Los Angeles for the 7th Annual L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade culinary cookout benefiting Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and the fight against childhood cancer on Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 12-4pm at UCLA’s Royce Quad. The event — hosted by Chef Suzanne Goin, business partner Caroline Styne (Lucquesa.o.c.,Tavern) along with Chef David Lentz (The Hungry Cat) – will offer fantastic food, wine and cocktails prepared by the nation’s best chefs, winemakers and mixologists, all to fight childhood cancer. Lucques Restaurant Group’s Caroline Styne joins us with an enticing preview.

He’s back…Meathead Goldwyn is the founder, barbecue and grilling whisperer, and hedonism evangelist behind AmazingRibs.com. the world’s most popular outdoor cooking website. His new book is MEATHEAD : The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling . Just in time for Labor Day cookouts…

Tuxton China Company started business in 1999, but it has a long family history which has contributed to its success.  Three generations of the founding Lam family continue to run Lynn’s and Tuxton China, and with the addition of William Burden (former owner of Burden China Co., Inc.) who became Tuxton’s President in 2001, Tuxton has become one of the top suppliers in the foodservice industry.  In September Tuxton is donating a percentage of their total sales to support the Careers through Culinary Arts Program C-CAP. Tuxton’s Marketing Director, Jennifer Rolander, joins us with all the needed 411.

The Los Angeles Times’ The Taste is back Labor Day Weekend on the backlot at Paramount Pictures Studios in Hollywood. It’s perhaps the ultimate Summer epicurean pop-up and block party featuring the talents of the area’s best chefs, bartenders and restaurateurs. Our guests are Sunday Block Party’s Host, Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director, and Michael Flood of the L.A. Regional Food Bank.

Chef Curtis Stone’s Maude in Beverly Hills features monthly changing prix fixe menus with the courses designed around a key ingredient. For instance the featured ingredient for August is the Plum. For 2 very special nights San Francisco’s Dominique Crenn (Atelier Crenn and Petit Crenn) is cooking a special benefit menu at the Chef’s Counter at Maude with Chef Curtis. Curtis Stone joins us with the details.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Western Foodservice ExpoThe largest annual gathering of foodservice executives, chefs and restaurateurs in the West is the 2016 Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo on August 28th to 30th at the Los Angeles Convention Center. There will be over 8,000 attendees and 500 exhibitors. It’s for the trade, only.

It’s 3-days of menu trends, state of the art design and décor, and the best in business education.

Ron Mathews, Vice President of the Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo joins us with a preview.

Prominent chefs from across the country are set to return to Los Angeles for the 7th Annual LA Loves Alex’s Lemonade culinary cookout benefiting Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and the fight against childhood cancer on Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 12-4pm at UCLA’s Royce Quad.

Caroline StyneThe event — hosted by Chef Suzanne Goin, business partner Caroline Styne (Lucquesa.o.c.,Tavern) along with Chef David Lentz (The Hungry Cat) – will offer fantastic food, wine and cocktails prepared by the nation’s best chefs, winemakers and mixologists, all to fight childhood cancer.

Joining host Suzanne Goin, Caroline Styne and David Lentz will be another stellar lineup of the nation’s culinary superstars. Returning chefs include Adam Perry LangGiada De Laurentiis, Michael VoltaggioApril BloomfieldNancy SilvertonChris BiancoDonald LinkJonathan WaxmanMichael Cimarusti, and Marc VetriThe founders also announce an outstanding group of first-time participating chefs – Derek DammannAarón SánchezFrank Stitt, Walter Manzke, Dominique Crenn, Timothy Hollingsworth and Ori Menasche. The event will also feature leading vintners and mixologists from around the country.

The day is filled with delicious foods from coast to coast, cocktails for a cause, a treasure trove of children’s activities, live and silent auctions of exclusive experiences and packages as well as the signature Alex’s Lemonade Stand manned by youth volunteers.

From its inception in 2010, the event has sold tickets to capacity and raised over $3.2 million for the Foundation’s efforts in funding research for childhood cancer treatment and cures. In addition to the generous backing of the community, prominent personalities from the entertainment industry – long time attendee Jimmy KimmelLena DunhamLaura DernJoe MantegnaTimothy Olyphant, Kirsten Vangsness and others – have become champions to the cause.

Lucques Restaurant Group’s Caroline Styne joins us with an enticing preview.

Meathead GoldwynHe’s back…Meathead Goldwyn is the founder, barbecue and grilling whisperer, and hedonism evangelist behind AmazingRibs.com. the world’s most popular outdoor cooking website. His new book is MEATHEAD: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling. Just in time for Labor Day cookouts…

The emphasis on this encore segment is Meathead’s take on grilling and smoking veggies. Meadhead goes Veghead ! Who knew…?

The founder of the destination website amazingribs.com applies the latest scientific research to barbecuing and grilling, including 200 recipes
for succulent results every time, nothing is more crucial than understanding the science behind the interaction of fire and food.

In this definitive guide to the concepts, methods, and equipment of barbecuing and grilling, “Meathead” Goldwyn shatters the myths that stand in the way of perfection. “Busted” misconceptions include:

Meat should be brought to room temperature before cooking: In fact, cold meat absorbs smoke better.

Hardwood charcoal is better than briquets: Actually, there’s no difference in flavor, and briquets last longer.

Meat needs to rest after grilling to reabsorb its juices: Tests show it does not take up juices but can become cold and overcooked.

Meathead reveals everything backyard heroes need to know, including how to decide when to use a dry rub or a brine and a detailed roundup of equipment—from grills and grates to the best thermometers.

Lavishly designed with full-color photos and illustrations, this book contains all the sure-fire recipes for traditional American favorites: Tennessee Hollerin’ Sauce, Last Meal Ribs, Simon & Garfunkel Chicken, Schmancy Smoked Salmon, Roman-Style No-Knead Pizza, and Ultimate Corn on the Cob.

Tuxton ChinaTuxton China Company started business in 1999, but it has a long family history which has contributed to its success.  Back in 1963 T.Y. Lam founded what came to be known as the world famous Chinese Ceramic Arts Import and Export Company. Due to his renowned reputation and the fact that the Chinese Government was privatizing factories, Mr. Lam took over a government factory in order to continue expanding his business. So in 1989 The Lynn’s Group (which currently makes chinaware for the retail industry) was formed in conjunction with his other business.

While the Lynn’s Group continued to grow, Mr. Lam recruited his children to help run the company and keep his legacy alive.  Eventually they opened offices in Hong Kong, China and the United States. While Lynn’s kept up the retail manufacturing, the company also began to manufacture for numerous well-known companies in the U.S. foodservice industry. This move led to the founding of Tuxton China Inc.

Three generations of the Lam family continue to run Lynn’s and Tuxton China, and with the addition of William Burden (former owner of Burden China Co., Inc.) who became Tuxton’s President in 2001, Tuxton has become one of the top suppliers in the foodservice industry.

For more than a decade, Tuxton has been anchored by its core values of passionate dedication to customer service, excellence in product quality, high integrity, embracing innovation, and last but not least, a positive and humble attitude. These values, along with Tuxton’s dedication to its employees and customers, continue to drive the company to be the best in the industry.

In September Tuxton is donating a percentage of their total sales to support the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP,) an extraordinary non-profit that transforms the lives of at-risk high school students through the culinary arts. In Los Angeles alone, C-CAP was able to work with 3,200 students in 22 schools and awarded over $765,000 in scholarships in the 2015-2016 academic year. There are also programs in Arizona, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Virginia and Washington D.C.

Tuxton’s Marketing Director, Jennifer Rolander, joins us with all the needed 411.

Noelle CarterThe Los Angeles Times’ The Taste is back Labor Day Weekend on the backlot at Paramount Pictures Studios in Hollywood. It’s perhaps the ultimate epicurean pop-up and block party featuring the talents of chefs, bartenders and restaurateurs. Our guests are Sunday Block Party’s Host, Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director, and Michael Flood of the L.A. Regional Food Bank.

A panel of the Sunday Block Party hosted by Noelle Carter is “Waste Not Want Not : Sustainable Uses for Food Waste.” It’s at 12:45 p.m. on September 4th. on the Taste Bar Stage. Noelle is the moderator and Michael Flood of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is a panelist.

Curtis StoneChef Curtis Stone’s Maude in Beverly Hills features monthly changing prix fixe menus with the courses designed around a key ingredient. For instance, the featured ingredient for August is the Plum.

For 2 very special nights San Francisco’s Dominique Crenn (Atelier Crenn and Petit Crenn) is cooking a spectacular benefit menu at the Chef’s Counter at Maude with Chef Curtis. Curtis Stone joins us with the tantalizing details.

It’s been quite a year for Chef Dominique Crenn. She was named the World’s Best Female Chef by San Pellegrino’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. She was also nominated for a James Beard Award for Best Chef: West.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ron Mathews, Vice President, Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo
Segment Three: Caroline Styne, Lucques Restaurant Group, L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Culinary Benefit
Segment Four: Meathead Goldwyn, AmazingRibs.com, MEATHEAD: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling
Segment Five: Jennifer Rolander, Marketing Director, Tuxton China, Inc.
Segment Six: Los Angeles Times The Taste, Preview
Segment Seven: Chefs Curtis Stone (Maude and Gwen) and Dominique Crenn (Altier Crenn and Petit Crenn)

Show 168, April 23, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

Congrats to Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel on his Nation’s Restaurant News 2016 Menu Masters Award as a Trendsetter. Presented annually by Nation’s Restaurant News, the prestigious awards honor outstanding foodservice research and development. Chef Andrew will receive his MenuMaster Award in a by-invitation-only reception at The Drake Hotel in Chicago on May 21st during the National Restaurant Association’s convention.

Now an enticing sneak peak of Saturday’s appetizing show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a good thing…

One of the newest additions to Santa Ana’s 4th Street Market is Pig Pen Delicacy. It’s a fresh take on American comfort food using an array of sophisticated and modern interpretations of bacon and pork favorites. Co-owner and Director of Operations Jason Trinh joins us with all the pork-a-licious details.

It’s time for America’s favorite pastime…Ballpark food. It’s our always anticipated annual report on what’s new on the menu at Angel Stadium with Executive Chef Robert Biebrich. It’s the 50th season at Angel Stadium so expect to be impressed.

Since The Pie Hole launched in The Arts District of Downtown L.A. in 2011 it’s been a word-of-mouth and social media sensation. The Pie Hole offers fresh baked sweet pie by the slice, individual savory pies, and their own premium coffee. Co-owner Sean Brennan joins us with his fresh-from-the-oven recipe for sweet (and savory) success.

The Four Brix Winery in Ventura grew out of three couples’ hobby of making premium wine at home for their appreciative friends. The Winery represents a throwback to the days of blended wines made in California. Winemaker and Partner Gary Stewart uncorks it for us.

One of the more unusual finds at the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim was Tin Star Foods. They produce Cultured Ghee and Cultured Brown Butter in small batchers. Tin Star Foods Founder, Hima Pandya, is our guest.

The annual Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week is taking place April 23 – May 1, 2016. Each participating restaurant from twelve unique neighborhoods in the city offers a three course menu priced at $20, $30, $40 or $50, either per guest with wine pairing options at fine dining locations OR dinner for two priced at $20, $30, $40 or $50, where diners share an appetizer, each enjoy their own entree, then share a dessert at more casual establishments. One of the participating restaurants in DINE LBC is Domenico’s Italian Restaurant, Long Beach’s oldest restaurant. Proprietor Mike Rhodes joins us.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 167, April 9, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel

Program Note for Saurday, April 16thOur Halos are playing an unusual 11:10 a.m. start on the road with the Minnesota Twins. We’ll be back with another big show on April 23rd at 10:00 a.m. See you then.

Andrew Gruel and his son WilliamExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

Now an enticing sneak peak of Saturday’s mouthwatering show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a good thing…

The annual Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week is taking place April 23 – May 1, 2016. Each participating restaurant from twelve unique neighborhoods in the city offers a three course menu priced at $20, $30, $40 or $50, either per guest with wine pairing options at fine dining locations OR dinner for two priced at $20, $30, $40 or $50, where diners share an appetizer, each enjoy their own entree, then share a dessert at more casual establishments. Producer Terri Henry and Executive Chef David MacLennan of James Republic (an encoring participating restaurant) are our guests.

The Pacific Food & Beverage Museum is inaugurating The Thoughtful Feast,” a new series of curated dinners that highlight the culinary heritage of Southern California, the Pacific Coast, American West, and beyond. The first dinner on April 11th will focus on a region of the American South that in the early 1700s developed a cosmopolitan cuisine. Host Chef Brian Dunsmoor of Hatchet Hall in Culver City and The Pacific Food & Beverage’s Museum’s Philip Dobard are with us to set the ample table.

Noted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the globally respected L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Best of Show award recipients and lots more. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

Chef Michael Puglisi (ex-Bouchon Beverly Hills) is the Electric City Butcher at the 4th Street Market in Santa Ana. He was greatly influenced by a cousin in Sicily who has a popular, neighborhood butcher shop there. Chef Michael is a custom, whole animal, artisan butcher. We’ll meet him.

Executive Chef Amar Santana (a C-CAP graduate) is the Proprietor of Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach and the new Vaca in Costa Mesa. Both restaurants have highly innovative beverage programs to compliment the stellar cuisine. Chef Amar was also one of two finalists on Bravo’s Top Chef Season 13 which just concluded with a cliff-hanger of a two-part finale in Las Vegas. Chef Amar is our guest.

The 3rd Annual “The Big Cheese” Grilled Cheese Festival & Competition returns to Provisions Market in Orange on Tuesday, April 19th. Provisions Market and OC Baking Co. will celebrate National Grilled Cheese Month with fellow OC Chefs and a ProAm Challenger in an intense (but light-hearted) grilled cheese competition. Event co-founder, Chef Greg Daniels of Provisions, joins us with the gooey overview courtesy of Tillamook County Creamery Association.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 167, April 9, 2016: Darrell Corti, Corti Brothers, Sacramento & Chair of the L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition

Darrell CortiNoted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the Los Angeles International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Best of Show award recipients and lots more about gourmet specialty food with the revered Mr. Corti. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

Now in its 17th year, the Los Angeles International Olive Oil Competition is the top ranking EVOO competition in the United States and fifth worldwide. The goal is to bring together the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in awarding medals to the best oils from around the globe.

The L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition conducts two judgings a year. Just completed in March was the 2016 Northern Hemisphere Judging.

The overall winner is the Premio Mugelli / Mugelli Award recipient. For 2016 (the 2nd year in a row) it’s Olio di Dievole, Coratina, Robust, from Gaiole in Chianti, Italy. Unfortunately it’s not readily available in the United States. It will be available for tasting (along with the other notable award-winners) at the L.A. County Fair running from September 2nd to September 25th, 2016.

Show 167, April 9, 2016: Darrell Corti, Corti Brothers, Sacramento & Chair of the L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Continues…

Darrell CortiFor “Best of Show – Domestic” at the L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition there is an award-winner in Delicate, Medium and Robust category oils. Best of Show – Robust is Pacific Sun, Riverview Ranch Tuscan Blend, Yolo County, California.

Chef Andrew tasted this EVOO. He compares notes and flavor profiles with Corti who was tasting the premium oil on-air. It’s a grassy, bright, fruity, peppery olive oil.

Suggested Food Pairings: “Delicious with poultry, lamb, beans, soups, or any dish you want to add a little pepperiness to.” Darrell (a serious and accomplished home cook) advises it does wonders for kale.

From TheDailyMeal.com:
One sign of how cool this Italian-American Sacramento grocer is is the fact that he’ll think the whole idea of being considered cool is just plain silly. Running the family business in the California capital is a full-time job, and he doesn’t have spare moments for a lot of folderol. Of course, Corti is a grocer like Itzhak Perlman plays some fiddle. Corti is simply one of the most deeply knowledgeable food and drink experts in America, able to expound with equal authority on Chinese tea, Spanish vinegar, Central Asian wine, Italian pasta, and about 30,000 other gastronomic topics.

The Corti Brothers online store, where you can buy their Italian specialties even if you don’t live in Sacramento, remains charmingly low-tech and straightforward, giving away very little about the vast treasures and culinary knowledge amassed by this family. At the store itself, you can shop for everything from toilet paper and skim milk to artisanal soy sauce and sherries so rare you can’t even find them in Spain — or just stand in line for one of the California capital’s best deli sandwiches.

Corti, a member of The Daily Meal Council, knows everybody worth knowing in his chosen field, and everybody knows him. They call him “The Professor.” If you’ve never heard of him, well, that sort of makes him even cooler, you know?

April 9: Amar Santana, James Republic, Brian Dunsmoor, Corti Brothers, Electric City Butcher, Big Cheese

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Executive Chef David MacLennan, James Republic, Long Beach
Segment Three: Executive Chef Brian Dunsmoor of Hatchet Hall & Philip Dobard, The Pacific Food & Beverage Museum
Segment Four: Darrell Corti, Corti Brothers, Sacramento & Chair of the L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Part One
Segment Five: Darrell Corti, Corti Brothers, Sacramento & Chair of the L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Part One
Segment Six: Chef Michael Puglisi, Electric City Butcher, 4th Street Market, Santa Ana
Segment Seven: Executive Chef Amar Santana, Broadway by Amar Santana & Vaca
Segment Eight: Chef Greg Daniels, “The Big Cheese” Grilled Cheese Festival & Competition

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

Now an enticing sneak peak of Saturday’s mouthwatering show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a good thing…

The annual Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week is taking place April 23 – May 1, 2016. Each participating restaurant from twelve unique neighborhoods in the city offers a three course menu priced at $20, $30, $40 or $50, either per guest with wine pairing options at fine dining locations OR dinner for two priced at $20, $30, $40 or $50, where diners share an appetizer, each enjoy their own entree, then share a dessert at more casual establishments. Producer Terri Henry and Executive Chef David MacLennan of James Republic (an encoring participating restaurant) are our guests.

The Pacific Food & Beverage Museum is inaugurating “The Thoughtful Feast,” a new series of curated dinners that highlight the culinary heritage of Southern California, the Pacific Coast, American West, and beyond. The first dinner on April 11th will focus on a region of the American South that in the early 1700s developed a cosmopolitan cuisine. Host Chef Brian Dunsmoor of Hatchet Hall in Culver City and The Pacific Food & Beverage’s Museum’s Philip Dobard are with us to set the ample table.

Noted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the globally respected L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Best of Show award recipients and lots more. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

Chef Michael Puglisi (ex-Bouchon Beverly Hills) is the Electric City Butcher at the 4th Street Market in Santa Ana. He was greatly influenced by a cousin in Sicily who has a popular, neighborhood butcher shop there. Chef Michael is a custom, whole animal, artisan butcher. We’ll meet him.

Executive Chef Amar Santana (a C-CAP graduate) is the Proprietor of Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach and the new Vaca in Costa Mesa. Both restaurants have highly innovative beverage programs to compliment the stellar cuisine. Chef Amar was also one of two finalists on Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 13 which just concluded with a cliff-hanger of a two-part finale in Las Vegas. Chef Amar is our guest.

The 3rd Annual “The Big Cheese” Grilled Cheese Festival & Competition returns to Provisions Market in Orange on Tuesday, April 19th. Provisions Market and OC Baking Co. will celebrate National Grilled Cheese Month with fellow OC Chefs and a ProAm Challenger in an intense (but light-hearted) grilled cheese competition. Event co-founder, Chef Greg Daniels of Provisions, joins us with the gooey overview courtesy of Tillamook County Creamery Association.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

David McLennan of Dine LBCThe annual Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week is taking place April 23 – May 1, 2016. Each participating restaurant from twelve unique neighborhoods in the city offers a three course menu priced at $20, $30, $40 or $50, either per guest with wine pairing options at fine dining locations OR dinner for two priced at $20, $30, $40 or $50, where diners share an appetizer, each enjoy their own entree, then share a dessert at more casual establishments.

James Republic encores in 2016 as a participating restaurant in DINE LBC. They hosted the launch party this year.

“Our menus are a labor of love – a love of the finest foods. We proudly serve a large array of local artisan products.  Organic is important to us, but more importantly we believe in all natural products without the use of steroids, growth hormones, and animals raised responsibly.  As well as our preference for products and practices that are sustainable, we try to embrace the idea of localism to strengthen our community.   Most of our items are priced under $20 which is incredible considering the high quality of products we serve.  Our passion for the seasons and what it brings to us in food keeps us always searching for great new combinations.  Come join us for a journey in cuisine.”

Producer Terri Henry and Executive Chef David MacLennan of James Republic (an encoring participating restaurant) are our guests with all the tempting specifics.

Brian Dunsmoor of Hatchet HallThe Pacific Food & Beverage Museum is inaugurating The Thoughtful Feast,” a new series of curated dinners that highlight the culinary heritage of Southern California, the Pacific Coast, American West, and beyond. The first dinner on April 11th will focus on a region of the American South that in the early 1700s developed a cosmopolitan cuisine, one that is not generally available in greater Los Angeles.

Host Chef Brian Dunsmoor of Hatchet Hall in Culver City and The Pacific Food & Beverage’s Museum’s Philip Dobard are with us to set the ample table.

Charleston, South Carolina, was the South’s leading port in the Colonial Era, and the city’s wealth and trade links came to be expressed in a cuisine that included French, African, South Asian, and native foods and techniques. Chef Brian Dunsmoor of Hatchet Hall studied in Charleston and brings his personal experience to recreating a meal that would have been enjoyed in Colonial America but has flavors that are surprising and beguiling to a modern palate. Between courses, Chef Brian will explain the dishes and discuss the region’s culinary culture.

Darrell CortiNoted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento is the Chairman of the Los Angeles International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. We’ll chat about the Best of Show award recipients and lots more about gourmet specialty food with the revered Mr. Corti. TheDailyMeal.com has dubbed him one of the coolest people in food and drink in America.

Now in its 17th year, the Los Angeles International Olive Oil Competition is the top ranking EVOO competition in the United States and fifth worldwide. The goal is to bring together the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in awarding medals to the best oils from around the globe.

For “Best of Show – Domestic” there is an award-winner in Delicate, Medium and Robust category oils. Best of Show – Robust is Pacific Sun, Riverview Ranch Tuscan Blend, Yolo County, California.

We’ve tasted this EVOO. It’s a grassy, bright, peppery olive oil.

Suggested Food Pairings: “Delicious with poultry, lamb, beans, soups, or any dish you want to add a little pepperiness to.”

Noted gourmand Darrell Corti of Corti Brothers gourmet grocery and spirit purveyors in Sacramento continues…

From TheDailyMeal.com:
One sign of how cool this Italian-American Sacramento grocer is is the fact that he’ll think the whole idea of being considered cool is just plain silly. Running the family business in the California capital is a full-time job, and he doesn’t have spare moments for a lot of folderol. Of course, Corti is a grocer like Itzhak Perlman plays some fiddle. Corti is simply one of the most deeply knowledgeable food and drink experts in America, able to expound with equal authority on Chinese tea, Spanish vinegar, Central Asian wine, Italian pasta, and about 30,000 other gastronomic topics.

The Corti Brothers online store, where you can buy their Italian specialties even if you don’t live in Sacramento, remains charmingly low-tech and straightforward, giving away very little about the vast treasures and culinary knowledge amassed by this family. At the store itself, you can shop for everything from toilet paper and skim milk to artisanal soy sauce and sherries so rare you can’t even find them in Spain — or just stand in line for one of the California capital’s best deli sandwiches.

Corti, a member of The Daily Meal Council, knows everybody worth knowing in his chosen field, and everybody knows him. They call him “The Professor.” If you’ve never heard of him, well, that sort of makes him even cooler, you know?

Michael PuglisiChef Michael Puglisi (ex-Bouchon Beverly Hills) is the Electric City Butcher at the 4th Street Market in Santa Ana. He was greatly influenced by a cousin in Sicily who has a popular, neighborhood butcher shop there. Chef Michael is a custom, whole animal, artisan butcher. We’ll meet him.

From Michael Puglisi:
“Electric City Butcher is built upon relationships – our relationship to you, our relationship to sustainable farmers and humanely raised animals, and your relationship to the food that you serve to your friends and family.  ECB is modeled after our family’s shop in Sicily, where guests arrive with an idea of what they’d like, have a conversation with the butcher and leave with freshly prepared cuts.  We take the time to offer personalized service and the highest quality products, because we believe that it matters what we serve to our family and we believe that you will taste the difference.”

Amar Santana at the Top Chef FinaleExecutive Chef Amar Santana (a C-CAP graduate) is the Proprietor of Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach and the new Vaca in Costa Mesa. Both restaurants have highly innovative beverage programs to compliment the stellar cuisine.

Chef Amar was also one of two finalists on Bravo’s Emmy-Award winning Top Chef Season 13 which just concluded with a two-part finale in Las Vegas. Amar battled Chef Jeremy Ford, the Chef de Cuisine of Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Matador Room in Miami.

Chef Amar’s “Top Chef” Official Bio:
Amar Santana serves as the Executive Chef and Partner at Broadway By Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, CA and Vaca in Costa Mesa, CA. Born in the Dominican Republic, he immigrated to the US at the age of 13 and began his culinary career at 16.

He has been mentored by some of the world’s most renowned chefs, including Charlie Palmer, who helped him develop his skills of expressing his passion through food. By combining flavors and culinary traditions from all over the world, Chef Amar provides a truly unforgettable gastronomical experience.

Chef Amar is our very special guest.

The Big Cheese Grilled Cheese CompetitionThe 3rd Annual “The Big Cheese” Grilled Cheese Festival & Competition returns to Provisions Market in Orange on Tuesday, April 19th. Provisions Market and OC Baking Co. will celebrate National Grilled Cheese Month with fellow OC Chefs and a ProAm Challenger in an intense grilled cheese competition. All are in competition for the coveted title of “The Big Cheese.”

OC Baking Company Master Baker Dean Kim will supply locally produced freshly baked bread to the competing chefs, while the farmer-owned dairy cooperative Tillamook will offer a selection of its award-winning cheeses and butter for use at the festival. Participating chefs will present their own spin on the classic grilled cheese sandwich that festival attendees will sample and then vote on.

“Now in our third year, this event has served to unite our local chefs and engage them in a lighthearted competition,” commented Chef Greg Daniels, who oversees the kitchens at Provisions Market and Haven Gastropub.

Tickets for the event must be purchased for $60 in advance (will include limited tasters of select craft beer) through Universe. This event will be limited to 100 guests (tickets will be sold at the door, if capacity permits).

Event co-founder, Chef Greg Daniels of Provisions, joins us with all the gooey specifics.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Executive Chef David MacLennan, James Republic, Long Beach
Segment Three: Executive Chef Brian Dunsmoor of Hatchet Hall & Philip Dobard, The Pacific Food & Beverage Museum
Segment Four: Darrell Corti, Corti Brothers, Sacramento & Chair of the L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Part One
Segment Five: Darrell Corti, Corti Brothers, Sacramento & Chair of the L.A. International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Part One
Segment Six: Chef Michael Puglisi, Electric City Butcher, 4th Street Market, Santa Ana
Segment Seven: Executive Chef Amar Santana, Broadway by Amar Santana & Vaca
Segment Eight: Chef Greg Daniels, “The Big Cheese” Grilled Cheese Festival & Competition