August 1: Susan Montgomery, The Wine Artist, Carla Hall, Martin Diedrich, Bobby Navarro, Simon Majumdar

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Chef Andrew Gruel & Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Travel Journalist and IFWTWA Board Member, Susan Montgomery
Segment Three: MJ Hong, Proprietress, The Wine Artist, Laguna Beach
Segment Four: Chef Carla Hall
Segment Five: Artisan Coffee Roaster, Martin Diedrich, Kean Coffee
Segment Six: Bobby Navarro, 100EATS.com
Segment Seven: Food Network’s Simon Majumdar Part One
Segment Eight: Food Network’s Simon Majumdar Part Two

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

Next a tempting preview of Saturday’s satisfyingly abundant show. With any luck we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a good thing…

A group of professional journalists from The International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association is visiting the show. Their Secretary, Susan Montgomery, joins us. In addition to explaining the mission of the IFTWTA Sue will highlight her recent visit to Casa Mayoral in the Guadalupe Valley in Northern Baja California.

MJ Hong is the gracious proprietress of The Wine Artist in Laguna Beach. It’s a boutique winery, special event venue (and more) designed to accommodate team building exercises. It’s also a destination for unusual cooking demos and classes. We’ll learn all about it.

ABC’s “The Chew’s” Chef Carla Hall is, fortunately, no stranger to the show. She is a Daytime Emmy Award-winning chef and best-selling cookbook author. Last Saturday Chef Carla was the honoree at the James Beard Foundation’s Chefs & Champagne benefit in The Hamptons. In June she was part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Presidential Delegation to the World Expo in Milan and the USA Pavilion.

When the conversation turns to artisan coffee roasters in Orange County you always hear the name of coffeehouse visionary Martin Diedrich. He grew up in Guatemala where is Family owned a small coffee farm. In late 2005 Martin and his wife, Karen, launched their latest retail venture Kean Coffee in Newport Beach. A location in Tustin has been added to the portfolio. It’s Coffee 101 with Martin Diedrich.

Bobby Navarro left a decade of work in the hospitality industry to fully commit to his own event planning and culinary promotions company, 100eats.com. He cooked with Amar Santana at both Charlie Palmer’s in South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana. Bobby’s passion for branding and business keeps him visiting hundreds of restaurants across the country, stemming from his original feat of dining at 100 restaurants in 100 consecutive days. We’ll meet him…

Simon Majumdar is a food writer, broadcaster, Food TV personality, and author of the recently published, Fed, White and Blue – Finding America with My Fork. You know him as the no-nonsense judge on Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen” with host Alton Brown. In fact, Mr. Brown penned the enthusiastic Forward to Fed, White, and Blue.

Majumdar is also the new Master of Ceremonies for the upcoming 2015 Golden Foodie Awards presented in the red carpet affair on September 27th at the Fairmont Newport Beach.

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

Susan MontgomeryA group of professional journalists from The International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) is visiting the show. Their Board of Directors Secretary, Susan Montgomery, joins us.

IFWTWA is now a global network of journalists who cover the hospitality and lifestyle fields, and the people who promote them.

In addition to explaining the mission of the IFTWTA Sue will highlight her recent visit to Casa Mayoral in the Guadalupe Valley in Northern Baja California.

Located at the heart of the Baja Wine Country in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico, Casa Mayoral is a Bed and Breakfast boutique hotel. It’s also an event venue offering culinary experiences. The modern rooms offer unmatched views of the Valley and the nighttime skyline.

It’s a chef prepared-breakfast in the morning. The spread includes fresh juices, fruit, cereal, eggs, pastries, and premium brewed coffee.

MJ HongMJ Hong is the gracious proprietress of The Wine Artist in Laguna Beach. She is a former corporate executive turned entrepreneur. It’s a boutique winery, special event venue (and more) designed to accommodate team building exercises. It’s also a destination for unusual cooking demos and classes.

With over 2,500 square feet, this elegantly decorated Tuscan Winery is perfect for hosting private parties, team building, birthday parties, fund raising and charity events where you can incorporate wine tasting, and bottling your favorite wine.

MJ’s passion for entertaining, food and wine led her to leave her secure corporate job of 15 years to pursue her dream job of The Wine Artist.

We’ll learn all about it with MJ.

Carla HallABC’s “The Chew’s” Chef Carla Hall is, fortunately, no stranger to the show. She is a Daytime Emmy Award-winning chef and best-selling cookbook author.

Hall is a true believer that, “If you’re not in a good mood. The only thing you should make is a reservation.”

Last Saturday (July 25th.) Chef Carla was the honoree at the James Beard Foundation’s Chefs & Champagne benefit in The Hamptons. In New York this is always the annual culinary highlight of the Summer. It’s held on the grounds of the Wolffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack. In addition to free-flowing Champagne over 40 celebrated chefs served their own delectable creations.

In June she was part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Presidential Delegation to the World Expo in Milan and the USA Pavilion. The Delegation toured the USA Pavilion which showcases American leadership on global food security and development issues, innovation, climate change and sustainability, and nutrition and health.

Martin DiedrichWhen the conversation turns to artisan coffee roasters in Orange County you always hear the name of coffeehouse visionary Martin Diedrich. He grew up in Guatemala where is Family owned a small coffee farm.

In late 2005 Martin and his wife, Karen, launched their latest retail venture Kean Coffee in Newport Beach. It’s named after their son. A location in Tustin has been added to the portfolio.

Kean Coffee has developed a loyal following of customers with its high quality artisan coffees fresh roasted onsite daily by Martin himself. The world-class roaster itself is a family affair. It’s built and manufactured by his brother, Stephen Diedrich in Sandpoint Idaho.

Through his Kean Coffee, Martin is realizing his dream of reviving the community coffeehouse. It also embraces his ideal that businesses should model community and global responsibility and awareness, both environmental and cultural.

It’s Coffee 101 with Martin Diedrich.

Bobby NavarroBobby Navarro left a decade of work in the hospitality industry to fully commit to his own event planning and culinary promotions company, 100eats.com. He cooked with Amar Santana at both Charlie Palmer’s in South Coast Plaza (now closed) and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach.

Bobby’s passion for branding and business keeps him visiting hundreds of restaurants across the country, stemming from his original feat of dining at 100 restaurants in 100 consecutive days.

Bobby’s affection for the hospitality community and similar industries led him to create inspireartisticminds.org, an organization that gives thousands of dollars annually to connecting passionately driven individuals to the things that inspire them.

He also contributes to Foodbeast and Locale.

Simon MajumdarSimon Majumdar is a food writer, broadcaster, Food TV personality, and author of the recently published, Fed, White and Blue – Finding America with My Fork. You know him as the no-nonsense judge on Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen with host Alton Brown. In fact, Mr. Brown penned the enthusiastic Forward to Fed, White, and Blue.

Simon is probably not your typical idea of an immigrant. As he says, “I’m well rested, not particularly poor, and the only time I ever encountered “huddled masses” is in line at Costco.” But immigrate he did, and thanks to a Homeland Security agent who asked if he planned to make it official, the journey chronicled in Fed, White, and Blue was born. In it Simon sets off on a trek across the United States to find out what it really means to become an American, using what he knows best: food.

Majumdar is also the new Master of Ceremonies for the upcoming 2015 Golden Foodie Awards presented in the red carpet affair on September 27th at the Fairmont Newport Beach.

Majumdar will lead the Golden Foodie Awards on-stage unveiling winners in over 25 categories including Golden Chef, Golden Pastry Chef, and Best New Restaurant.

The Golden Foodie Awards honor Orange County’s culinary community and creates an environment where nominees and foodies can indulge in an evening of accolades and decadent cuisine.

On-line voting (for seven days only) in the initial seven categories starts Saturday August 1st. These include Best Cocktail, Bartender of the Year, Best Food Talk Radio Show, Best Food Writer, Best Sushi, Best Dessert and Best Service Award.

The next group of categories are eligible for voting starting on August 8th. Vote for the Golden Foodies here.

We’ll meet him…

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Chef Andrew Gruel & Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Travel Journalist and IFWTWA Board Member, Susan Montgomery
Segment Three: MJ Hong, Proprietress, The Wine Artist, Laguna Beach
Segment Four: Chef Carla Hall
Segment Five: Artisan Coffee Roaster, Martin Diedrich, Kean Coffee
Segment Six: Bobby Navarro, 100EATS.com
Segment Seven: Food Network’s Simon Majumdar Part One
Segment Eight: Food Network’s Simon Majumdar Part Two

Show 130, July 11, 2015: Chef Jet Tila, Stir Market and Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen”

Jet Tila at Cochon 555Time to check in with our esteemed emeritus show host, Chef Jet Tila. Locally he’s the chef and partner of Stir Market in Los Angeles. He’s also one of three permanent judges on Food Network’s hit series, Cutthroat Kitchen” with Host Alton Brown.

Chef Jet’s Porchetta Sandwich at Stir Market was just recognized by Restaurant Hospitality magazine as “Best Sandwiches in America 2015: Pork.” The key ingredients are porchetta seasoned with fennel, lavender, lemon zest, rosemary and garlic.

“What the Judges Said: This category nearly drove us insane because there were so many great entries, but we fell in love with this porchetta sandwich. In Italy, it’s not uncommon to find street vendors serving this elaborately stuffed and rolled pork in sandwich form, but rarely is it seen in sandwich form in this country. It’s labor intensive to prepare, but well worth the effort. Tila lays juicy white pork atop house-made jam and then adds texture with layers of crispy pork skin. What else can we say but, “Yum!” “

Jet’s new chef at Stir Market in Beverly Grove is Stacy Rampton. Chef Jet previously worked with her at Wynn Las Vegas and Encore at Wynn Las Vegas.

Chef Jet is also part of Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen’s” Summer Tournament, “Camp Cutthroat.” It’s five episodes. Can you imagine host Alton Brown as your Head Counselor? It debuts on Wednesday evening, August 12th. Chef Jet’s two episodes are August 26th (“Rock Wall Me, Amadeus”) and September 2nd. (“If it Bleeds We Can Skillet”) .

November 22: Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours, Deborah Schneider, Eric Greenspan, Frank Ostini, Stir Market, Celebrity Cruises

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours / Wine Tours Santa Ynez Valley
Segment Three: Executive Chef Deborah Schneider, solita Tacos & Margaritas
Segment Four: Chef Eric Greenspan Part One
Segment Five: Chef Eric Greenspan Part Two
Segment Six: Frank Ostini, Hitching Post II
Segment Seven: Stir Market
Segment Eight: Executive Chef John Suley, Celebrity Cruises

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and occasional Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s full show…

The primo attraction in California’s charmingly rural Santa Ynez Valley is the diversity of noteworthy wineries. The wine trail there includes Los Alamos, Buellton, Solvang, Ballard, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. How do you navigate the Valley? The “SoCal Restaurant Show” recently left that in the expert hands of Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours, based right there. We’ll meet the proprietor, Eric John Reynolds.

When it comes to the flavors and preparations of the authentic foods of Baja California our local expert is Chef Deborah Schneider. To keep current she now orchestrates an annual cooking research trip to different interior States in Mexico. Back in 2006 Chef Deb wrote Baja! Cooking on the Edge which is still in print and greatly admired. Her two restaurant concepts are SOL Mexican Cocina (Newport Beach and Scottsdale) and solita Tacos and Margaritas (Huntington Beach and Valencia.) The Valencia solita opened this week for dinner in the Westfield Valencia Town Center. Chef Deb is out guest.

Fine dining chef, Eric Greenspan, is all over Food Television. He impressively just vanquished the competition in Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen : Superstar Sabotage Tournament.” He came out on top against a group of seven other fiercely competitive celebrity chefs. All his winnings went to charity. Chef Eric’s new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” debuts on the National Geographic Channel on Monday, November 24th.

Thanksgiving is on Chef Eric Greenspan’s mind, too. He’s teamed up with Tillamook (think cheese) for a special promotion to honor the season of gratitude. Tillamook has also added ice cream to their product line.

Ten years ago Twentieth Century-Fox released a modestly budgeted film based on a best-selling book with wine appreciation at its center. The movie was Sideways and the Santa Ynez Valley wine country, a central character in the film, was forever changed. Hitching Post II, previously famous with visitors for their tasty Santa Maria-style BBQ earned a double dose of notoriety from the film. A major character in the film, played by Virginia Madsen, is a waitress at The Hitching Post. Hitching Post wines also found their way into the film. Chef, winemaker, and Santa Ynez Valley goodwill ambassador, Frank Ostini of Hitching Post fame joins us to look back.

Stir Market, located in mid-city Los Angeles, has just launched. It’s a boutique California take on the European food hall experience that is both urban market hall and restaurant. Executive Chef Christopher Barnett (ex-The Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills) collaborates with Food Network culinary personality Chef Jet Tila on the menu of sandwiches and salads, small plates, and European-style rotisserie items.

Celebrity Cruises and their executive chef, John Suley, are always innovating when it comes to dining on Celebrity’s modern fleet of 11 cruise ships. Now the coveted white truffle, “the diamond of the kitchen,” will be featured on very special menus on select Caribbean sailings in late November and early December. Celebrity acquired two coveted white truffles (weighing 700 grams) at the recent World White Truffle Auction in Grinzane Cavour, Italy. The rare truffles are only available a few months of the year. Chef Suley returns to the show to talk about the mouthwatering dishes he’ll create which will showcase the extraordinary white truffles.

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

Eric John ReynoldsThe primo attraction in California’s charmingly rural Santa Ynez Valley is the diversity of noteworthy wineries. The wine trail there includes Los Alamos, Buellton, Solvang, Ballard, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. How do you navigate the Valley? The “SoCal Restaurant Show” recently left that in the expert hands of Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours, based right there.

All of their accommodating hosts have sommelier training and are treated as VIPs at the carefully selected wineries included on the tour. As a Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours guest you are guaranteed a warm welcome at each winery stop. A picnic lunch is part of excursion and you get picked up at your hotel.

“Just sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty and wonderful boutique wineries that Santa Barbara wine country has to offer.”

We’ll meet the proprietor and founder, Eric John Reynolds.

Deborah SchneiderWhen it comes to the flavors and preparations of the authentic foods of Baja California our local expert is Chef Deborah Schneider. To keep current she now orchestrates an annual cooking research trip to different interior States in Mexico. Back in 2006 Chef Deb wrote Baja! Cooking on the Edge which is still in print and greatly admired.

Her two successful restaurant concepts are SOL Mexican Cocina (Newport Beach and Scottsdale) and solita Tacos and Margaritas (Huntington Beach and Valencia.) The Valencia solita opened this week for dinner in the Westfield Valencia Town Center.

“Solita is a simple, sophisticated neighborhood Mexican restaurant built around a custom oak-fired Santa Maria-style grill, inspired by Chef Deb’s travels through Baja California and Mexico. Solita’s Mexico is fresh and delicious, simple and light. It’s made from scratch, often carrying a whiff of smoky flavor from the wood grill, full of flavor from fresh salsas, corn tortillas, dry and fresh chiles, crushed herbs, fruit and spices, mole sauces and cheeses…”

Chef Deb is our guest.

Eric GreenspanFine dining chef, Eric Greenspan, is all over Food Television. He impressively just vanquished the competition in Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen : Superstar Sabotage Tournament.” He came out on top against a group of seven other fiercely competitive celebrity chefs. All his winnings went to charity. Chef Eric’s new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” debuts on the National Geographic Channel on Monday, November 24th.

“Famed Los Angeles Chef and Restaurateur Eric Greenspan believes there’s no better place to experience food than at the source. So, he’s hitting the road with his best friend and trusted sidekick, Captain Mauzner, to hunt for the best dishes America has to offer. From the field to the fire, they’re hunting, cooking and learning about authentic American food served up by the people who know it best.”

Thanksgiving is on Chef Eric Greenspan’s mind, too. He’s teamed up with Tillamook (think cheese) for a special promotion to honor the season of gratitude. Tillamook has also added premium ice cream to their product line.

“If you’re like us (Tillamook) you give thanks for cheese on a daily basis, so for the season of gratitude we thought it only fitting to take our appreciation up a notch. We’ve partnered with Grilled Cheese Guru and Master of Melt, Chef Eric Greenspan, to bring you Grilled Cheesegiving, featuring special Tillamook Thanksgiving menu items available at Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese in Los Angeles.”

Frank OstiniTen years ago Twentieth Century-Fox released a modestly budgeted film based on a best-selling book with wine appreciation at its center. The movie was Sideways and the Santa Ynez Valley wine country, a central character in the film, was forever changed.

Hitching Post II, previously famous with visitors for their tasty Santa Maria-style BBQ using red oak earned a double dose of notoriety from the film. A major character in the film, played by Virginia Madsen, is a waitress (Maya) at The Hitching Post. Hitching Post wines also found their way into the film.

Chef, winemaker, and Santa Ynez Valley goodwill ambassador, Frank Ostini of Hitching Post fame joins us to look back.

Christopher Barnett and Jet TilaStir Market, located in mid-city Los Angeles, has just launched. It’s a boutique California take on the European food hall experience that is both urban market hall and restaurant. Executive Chef Christopher Barnett (ex- The Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills) collaborates with Food Network culinary personality Chef Jet Tila on the menu of sandwiches and salads, small plates, and European-style rotisserie items.

Stir Market serves all-day (from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.) including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

The roots of Stir Market pay homage to the major food hall cities of Europe. “We’re inspired by iconic culinary/retail destinations such as Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid and Harrods in London where dining and shopping blend effortlessly,” explains Stir Market President and Co-Founder Mimi Mok, a self-professed Francophile who has spent over a decade living in southern France.” These great markets – that offer diverse eating experiences, shopping, and a sense of discovery – are as memorable as any Michelin starred restaurant. That’s was our inspiration for Stir Market, an environment where neighbors can come together for morning coffee, a meal on-the-go, sit-down dinner, and even shop for a gourmand gift.”

John Suley of Celebrity CruisesCelebrity Cruises and their executive chef, John Suley, are always innovating when it comes to dining on Celebrity’s modern fleet of 11 cruise ships. Now the coveted white truffle, “the diamond of the kitchen,” will be featured on very special menus on select Caribbean sailings in late November and early December.

Celebrity acquired two coveted white truffles (weighing 700 grams) at the recent World White Truffle Auction in Grinzane Cavour, Italy. The rare truffles are only available a few months of the year. Chef Suley returns to the show to talk about the mouthwatering dishes he’ll create which will showcase the extraordinary white truffles.

“Chef Suley and his culinary team will use the highly coveted truffles acquired at the auction to create an exclusive dining experience onboard Celebrity Equinox during a 10-night Caribbean cruise departing on Friday, Nov. 21st from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Truffle-themed dinners will be available onboard Celebrity ships for select Caribbean sailings in late November and early December. Plus, the winning delicacies will also be featured at the James Beard Foundation’s legendary James Beard House in New York on Monday, Nov. 24th, for a special truffle-and-wine-pairing event.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours / Wine Tours Santa Ynez Valley
Segment Three: Executive Chef Deborah Schneider, solita Tacos & Margaritas
Segment Four: Chef Eric Greenspan Part One
Segment Five: Chef Eric Greenspan Part Two
Segment Six: Frank Ostini, Hitching Post II
Segment Seven: Stir Market
Segment Eight: Executive Chef John Suley, Celebrity Cruises

November 15: Noah Blom, Rick Rodgers, Simon Majumdar, Jo-Jo Doyle, Susan Feniger

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Noah Blom
Segment Two: Thanksgiving Cooking Tips with Chef Noah Blom
Segment Three: Rick Rodgers, cookbook author and culinary instructor
Segment Four: Simon Majumdar Part One
Segment Five: Simon Majumdar Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle, Honda Center
Segment Seven: Susan Feniger, Border Grill and Mud Hen Tavern
Segment Eight: Chef Noah Blom, ARC Restaurant Food & Libations and Shuck Oyster Bar

Chef Noah Blom, the executive chef and partner of ARC Restaurant Food & Libation, is this week’s guest host. Now a preview of today’s full show…

In his formative years Chef Noah worked in some incredible restaurants including Restaurant Daniel in Manhattan. He also opened restaurants for Laurent Tourendel. In Orange County, before he started ARC, he was part of the culinary team at Mesa. With the high pressure Thanksgiving Holiday ahead he has some great practical tips to make your Thanksgiving less stressful and more delicious.

Rick Rodgers is an award-winning cookbook author and cooking teacher and the accomplished writer of more than forty cookbooks on subjects ranging from baking to grilling, and more. Rodgers often works behind the scenes as a recipe tester, co-author, and valued consultant on cookbooks by other authors.

Just in time for the Holidays is The Big Book Of Sides – More than 450 Recipes for the Best Vegetables, Grains, Salads, Breads, Sauces and More. What’s the Thanksgiving feast without the assortment of tasty sides? Rick gives the humble side dish its due, elevating it to its proper, important place on the menu – front and center.

You know food historian Simon Majumdar as the no-nonsense judge on Food Network’s hit series, “Cutthroat Kitchen” with Alton Brown. Majumdar’s new food series, “EAT : The Story of Food” launches soon on National Geographic Channel. The show examines how food impacts societies throughout history.

The Ducks are back on the ice at Honda Center so it’s a good time to revisit Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle and see what is new in cravable edibles for the season. Chef Jo-Jo even has a new, full-service restaurant, Standing ‘O’ in his domain. What’s tending in various outlets for hearty appetites is the Hot Brown, the New Orleans Muffuletta, and the One Pound Meatball over Penne Pasta.

Susan Feniger is the co-executive chef and co-owner of the popular and critically acclaimed Border Grill restaurants and Truck serving modern Mexican food in Las Vegas, Santa Monica and Downtown Los Angeles.A second Border Grill location in Las Vegas is newly opened at The Forum Shops at Caesars (also the home of the pioneering Spago Las Vegas.)

One of the already talked about attractions of the new Border Grill Las Vegas is the ceviche bar. “We’re excited to offer a variety of fresh, sustainable seafood from our new ceviche and oyster bar, inspired by the flavors from our first trip to Veracruz where we tasted the most incredible ceviche,” says Susan Feniger.

Away from the Border Grill empire Feniger is also the principal of Mud Hen Tavern in Los Angeles.

At last a chance to chat with Chef Noah about ARC which is just under two-years old. After being open for all of six weeks, ARC was referred to as one of the “most important restaurants to open in America this decade” by respected food and travel journalist, Brad A. Johnson of The Orange County Register. He is the recipient of a prestigious James Beard Award for excellence in food writing.

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

Marin Howarth and Executive Chef Noah BlomIn his formative years Chef Noah worked in some incredible restaurants including Restaurant Daniel in Manhattan. He also opened restaurants for Laurent Tourendel. In Orange County, before he started ARC, he was part of the culinary team at Mesa. With the high pressure Thanksgiving Holiday ahead he has some great practical tips to make your Thanksgiving less stressful and more delicious.

Chef Noah’s wife and partner, Marin Howarth, runs the front-of-the house at ARC.

Rick RodgersRick Rodgers is an award-winning cookbook author and cooking teacher and the accomplished writer of more than forty cookbooks on subjects ranging from baking to grilling, and more. Rodgers often works behind the scenes as a recipe tester, co-author, and valued consultant on cookbooks by other authors, including Sarabeth Levine of Sarabeth’s Bakery

Rodgers has also penned corporate cookbooks for well-known clients such as Kingsford Charcoal and Sur La Table, as well as many titles for Williams-Sonoma.

Just in time for the Holidays is The Big Book of Sides – More than 450 Recipes for the Best Vegetables, Grains, Salads, Breads, Sauces and More. What’s the Thanksgiving feast without the assortment of tasty sides ? Side dishes make the meal. Rick gives the humble side dish its due, elevating it to its proper, important place on the menu – front and center.

“With 32 color photos, main course pairings for every recipe and a guide to the best cooking methods, The Big Book of Sides provides answers to the age-old question of what to serve with what, with side dishes for all seasons, celebrations, occasions and even everyday weeknight meals.”

Simon MajumdarYou know food historian Simon Majumdar as the no-nonsense judge on Food Network’s hit series, “Cutthroat Kitchen” with Alton Brown. Majumdar’s new food series, “EAT: The Story of Food” launches soon on National Geographic Channel. The show examines how food impacts societies throughout history.

“This is a wonderful way to look at the world because it’s so universal.” Majumdar said. “As I’ve travelled around the world I’ve seen how much food impacts every society and every period in history, and how much it impacts the world we live in today”

“Traveling around the United States over the past year, I saw that it’s a country that finds lots of ways to argue with each other – over religion, guns, politics, you name it. But once you have a meal with someone in their home, it becomes a different equation. I always say it’s hard to have an argument with someone when you have a mouthful of ribs. I think if we all are together, we’d probably have a better society.”

Majumdar is the author of “Eat My Globe” and “Eating For Brittan.” His new book, “Fed White and Blue,” is scheduled for release in 2015.

It’s just been announced that Simon Majumdar will be the new master of ceremonies for the 2015 Golden Foodie Awards at the Fairmont Newport Beach hotel on September 27, 2015.

“For far too long, Orange County has been the neglected middle child of the Southern California food world. Now, however, it has emerged from the shadow of its larger siblings, Los Angeles and San Diego to be recognized for the variety and quality of its vibrant dining scene, and the energy, enthusiasm and skill of those who work in its many restaurants and bars,” Majumdar says.”

Jo Jo DoyleThe Ducks are back on the ice at Honda Center so it’s a good time to revisit Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle and see what is new in cravable edibles for the season. Chef Jo-Jo even has a new, full-service restaurant, Standing ‘O’ in his growing domain .

What’s tending in various outlets for hearty appetites is the Hot Brown, the New Orleans Muffuletta, and the One Pound Meatball over Penne Pasta.

An eagerly anticipated (and long in the works) Wahoo’s Fish Taco outlet is also new for the season.

As of July 2013 Honda Center (unusually) took its food and beverage operations in-house. This is a direction that only a very small number of arenas have taken on.

Chef Doyle assisted with the development of the division including menus, procedures and culture. Bringing with him over 15 years of experience, Chef Doyle is responsible for managing all food and beverage offerings at Honda Center. Prior to Honda Center he served as Executive Chef at the legendary Churchill Downs.

Susan Feniger of Mud Hen TavernSusan Feniger is the co-executive chef and co-owner of the popular and critically acclaimed Border Grill restaurants and Truck serving modern Mexican food in Las Vegas, Santa Monica and Downtown Los Angeles.

A second Border Grill location in Las Vegas is newly opened at The Forum Shops at Caesars (also the home of the pioneering Spago Las Vegas.)

One of the already talked about attractions of the new Border Grill Las Vegas is the ceviche bar. “We’re excited to offer a variety of fresh, sustainable seafood from our new ceviche and oyster bar, inspired by the flavors from our first trip to Veracruz where we tasted the most incredible ceviche,” says Susan Feniger.

Away from the Border Grill empire Feniger is also the principal of Mud Hen Tavern in Los Angeles.

Susan and her business partner, Mary Sue Milliken, were early pioneers of Food Network with the long-running series, “Too Hot Tamales.” They have also authored five cookbooks including Cooking with Too Hot Tamales. Active members of the community, both play leading roles in Share Our Strength and the Scleroderma Research Foundation.

Noah BlomFinally a chance to chat with Chef Noah about ARC which is just under two-years old. Their provocative tagline is : “Dirty. Sexy. Happiness.”

After being open for all of six weeks, ARC was referred to as one of the “most important restaurants to open in America this decade” by respected food and travel journalist, Brad A. Johnson of The Orange County Register. He is the recipient of a prestigious James Beard Award for excellence in food writing.

Earlier in the year the OC Register Magazine (February 4th) awarded Chef Noah the accolade of “Chef of the Year”

“ARC’s culinary focus is on flame, flavor and finesse – every item is crafted over an open fire in a kitchen where there is nowhere to hide,” explained Noah Blom. “Our goal is to embrace the lost love of simplicity, while satiating the guest with classic dishes that focus on fresh, farmed and vibrant ingredients.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Noah Blom
Segment Two: Thanksgiving Cooking Tips with Chef Noah Blom
Segment Three: Rick Rodgers, cookbook author and culinary instructor
Segment Four: Simon Majumdar Part One
Segment Five: Simon Majumdar Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle, Honda Center
Segment Seven: Susan Feniger, Border Grill and Mud Hen Tavern
Segment Eight: Chef Noah Blom, ARC Restaurant Food & Libations and Shuck Oyster Bar

August 16: Eric Greenspan, CANstruction, Jason Grilli, LA Food and Wine, PigOut, KTown Night Market, Harlowe

Podcasts

Segment One: Guest Host Chef Eric Greenspan and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris preview the show
Segment Two: Chef Eric Greenspan of Foundation Hospitality Group
Segment Three: Long Beach CANstruction benefiting Food Finders
Segment Four: Halo Reliever Jason Grilli
Segment Five: Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival
Segment Six: Pigout 3.0
Segment Seven: KTOWN Night Market & OC Block Party
Segment Eight: Head Barman Chris Amirault of Harlowe, West Hollywood

Guest Host Celebrity Chef Eric Greenspan of Foundation Hospitality Group and Producer Andy preview the show.

Besides being all over Food TV (he bested Iron Chef Bobby Flay on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America”) Chef Eric Greenspan has made a name for himself in the rarified world of fine-dining. For almost two years he was the executive chef of Joachim Splichal’s highly-acclaimed flagship restaurant, Patina. More recently he created The Foundry on Melrose Ave. In the Fall he returns to Melrose with the eagerly anticipated fine dining, Enclave.

Although Chef Eric Greenspan has created the more casual, Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire, his heart and true passion remains in fine dining. We’ll talk about the future of fine-dining in Los Angeles and get Chef Eric’s perspective. We’ll also preview Chef Eric’s new series for the National Geographic Channel debuting in November.

The first Canstruction Competition is coming to Long Beach on August 21st. The resulting collections of food benefit Food Finders food rescue / food bank. It’s going to be a wild 12 hours benefiting people in need!

The Halos have an ace relief pitcher in Jason Grilli newly arrived in a trade deal with The Pittsburgh Pirates. In Pittsburgh he’s known for The Closer, a 3-decker grilled cheese sandwich using 9 different premium cheeses. Jason is with us live from Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Texas to talk about it.

The 2014 Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival (4th Annual) is once again upon us taking place in Downtown Los Angeles on August 21 -24. This is one of the biggest culinary festivals staged on the West Coast with culinary masters hosting power lunches, cocktail culture merging with some of the finest chefs for spirited dinners, and first –time events such as the “Ultimate Bites of L.A. Challenge” on Opening Night hosted by Graham Elliott and Fabio Viviani.

The 3rd Annual PigOut (benefiting Inspire Artistic Minds) is set for Sunday afternoon, August 24th at the California Scenario in Costa Mesa.

The main attraction will be a 250 pound Templeton Rye Duroc Pig of the Templeton Rye Heritage Pork Project.

The KTown Night Market and Block Party is coming to Angel Stadium on Friday and Saturday, August 22nd and 23rd. It’s 60 plus food trucks and vendors (including the Seoul Sausage Co.) and a large beer garden. Also there will be live music, games and rides. We’ll chat with the co-producer and one of the young founders of the participating Seoul Sausage Co.

Meet Mixologist Chris Amirault of Harlowe, a new bar that’s attracting a lot of attention in West Hollywood. Even his standard cocktails are very special. Chris also creates unusual draft and bottled cocktails.

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

Eric GreenspanBesides being all over Food TV (he bested Iron Chef Bobby Flay on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America”) Chef Eric Greenspan has made a name for himself in the rarified world of fine-dining. For almost two years he was the executive chef of Joachim Splichal’s highly-acclaimed flagship restaurant Patina. More recently he created The Foundry on Melrose Ave. In the Fall he returns to Melrose with the eagerly anticipated fine dining, Enclave.

Although Chef Eric Greenspan has created the more casual, Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire, his heart and true passion remains in fine dining. We’ll talk about the future of fine-dining in Los Angeles and get Chef Eric’s perspective.

We’ll also preview Chef Eric’s new series for the National Geographic Channel debuting in November. Look for Chef Eric on the next two Tuesday evenings in prime time as a chef competitor on NBC’s “Food Fighters” hosted by Adam Richman. In October Chef Eric will part of the celebrity chef episode of Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen hosted by Alton Brown.

Canstruction Long BeachThe first CANstruction Competition is coming to Long Beach on August 21st. The resulting collections of food benefit Food Finders food rescue / food bank. It’s going to be a wild 12 hours benefiting people in need!

Four teams comprised of five prominent local architectural and engineering firms will transform thousands of cans of food into larger than life artistic masterpieces. The structures may be built up to 10’ x 10’ x 10’ and will be comprised of edible canned goods totaling over 7,000 lbs.

The completed structures will be on display to the public from August 22nd through September 2nd.

CANstruction was founded in 1992 to help promote the design community and raise food donations for hunger relief efforts. CANstruction events have been held in over 140 cities worldwide donating over 15 million pounds of canned foods to alleviate the concern of hunger and malnutrition.

Jason GrilliThe Halos have an ace relief pitcher in Jason Grilli, newly arrived in a trade deal with The Pittsburgh Pirates. In Pittsburgh he’s known for The Closer, a 3-decker grilled cheese sandwich using 9 different premium cheeses. Jason is with us live from Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas to talk about it.

Grilli, and partners, are also the Pittsburgh franchisees for the rapidly growing Tom+Chee. This is a grilled cheese and tomato soup shop for the kid at heart. The restaurants mix classic comfort food with fresh ingredients, healthy alternatives, and a flare for the unexpected. In addition to the regular menu there are lots of daily specials.

David BernahlThe 2014 Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival (4th Annual) is once again upon us taking place in Downtown Los Angeles on August 21 -24. This is one of the biggest culinary festivals staged on the West Coast with culinary masters hosting power lunches, cocktail culture merging with some of the finest chefs for spirited dinners, and first–time events such as the “Ultimate Bites of L.A. Challenge” on Opening Night hosted by Graham Elliott and Fabio Viviani.

The star-studded lineup of chefs at LAFW will also include Food & Wine Magazine Best New Chefs, James Beard Award winners, iconic personalities within the culinary arena, as well as Food TV personalities (Scott Conant, Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Michelle Bernstein, Michael Chiarello, Nancy Silverton, David Kinch, Michael Cimarusti, Jonathan Waxman, and more.)

Founder David Bernahl of Coastal Luxury Management is our guest.

3rd annual PigOut in Costa MesaThe 3rd Annual PigOut (benefiting Inspire Artistic Minds) is set for Sunday afternoon, August 24th at the California Scenario (Noguchi Gardens) in Costa Mesa.

The main attraction will be a 250 pound Templeton Rye Duroc Pig of the Templeton Rye Heritage Pork Project. Only 25 of these special pigs are in existence.

Chef Mike Puglisi (ex-Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Beverly Hills) of the soon-to-be Electric City Butcher in Santa Ana will be performing a pig deconstruction demonstration.

Koreatown Night MarketThe KTown Night Market and Block Party is coming to Angel Stadium on Friday and Saturday, August 22nd and 23rd. It’s 60 plus food trucks and vendors (including the Seoul Sausage Co.) and a large beer garden. Also there will be live music, games and rides.

Seoul Sausage Co., the Season 3 winners of Food Network’s “Great Food Truck Race,” are curating the all-star mobile culinary experience. The 20 food truck lineup includes fan favorites such as Coolhaus, Slangin Corea, and Fluff Ice.

We’ll chat with the co-producer Danny Park and Yong Kim, one of the young founders of the participating Seoul Sausage Co.

Chris AmiraultMeet Mixologist Chris Amirault of Harlowe, a new bar that’s already attracting a lot of attention in West Hollywood. He’s the Head Barman there. This is from the 1933 Group (Oldfield’s Liquor Room and Sassafras.)

Even Chris’ standard cocktails are very special. Chris also creates unusual draft and bottled cocktails. Also of note are the carafe cocktails and the shared punch bowls.

Not easy to order a libation these days with all the tempting options!

“Give me a bottle of bourbon & half a chicken and I’ll take over the world.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Guest Host Chef Eric Greenspan and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris preview the show
Segment Two: Chef Eric Greenspan of Foundation Hospitality Group
Segment Three: Long Beach CANstruction benefiting Food Finders
Segment Four: Halo Reliever Jason Grilli
Segment Five: Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival
Segment Six: Pigout 3.0
Segment Seven: KTOWN Night Market & OC Block Party
Segment Eight: Head Barman Chris Amirault of Harlowe, West Hollywood

February 15: Rick Bayless, Top Round Roast Beef, Cochon 555, OC Restaurant Week, Grill on the Alley

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Jamie Tiampo and Chef Steven Fretz, partners, Top Round Roast Beef
Segment Three: Chef Rick Bayless, Topolobampo, Frontera Grill, and Red O (in West Hollywood & Newport Beach) Part One
Segment Four: Chef Rick Bayless, Topolobampo, Frontera Grill, and Red O (in West Hollywood & Newport Beach) Part Two
Segment Five: Brady Lowe, Founder & Lord of Pork, Cochon 555
Segment Six: Executive Chef Jason Montelibano, Chapter One: The Modern Local, Santa Ana
Segment Seven: Bob Spivak, President, CEO, and Co-Founder, Grill Concepts, Inc.
Segment Eight: Jet Tila on Manhattan Dining. (Part 2)

Chef Jet and Producer Andy preview the show.

Chef jet Tila and Alton BrownFood Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen” with host Alton Brown is back on Sunday nights for Season 2. Our own Chef Jet Tila is the most frequently appearing solo judge on this tough competition show that requires strategy as well as cooking chops. Look for Jet’s new episodes starting in February.

Thanks to all of our generous listeners who attended Chef Carla Hall’s Culinary Concert to benefit The James Beard Foundation at Zov’s Bistro in Tustin on Feb. 9th. Carla and guest MC Sherry Yard had the group thoroughly entertained with Carla’s demo of her Swamp Thing recipe which is from her new cookbook. It’s a braised pork shoulder in a smoked pork and corn broth.

America’s own master Mexican cooking authority, Rick Bayless of Topolobampo and Frontera Grill, is with us. He’s the menu-maker for the fashionable new Red O restaurant in Fashion Island in Newport Beach. It’s the 30th Anniversary of the legendary Grill on The Alley in Beverly Hills. We’ll celebrate with the founder. Cochon 555, a pork spectacular, returns to Santa Monica this month. We’ll tell you all about it. How about a fast food stand serving quality roast beef sandwiches using the very best ingredients? It’s run by fine dining chefs! Orange County Restaurant Week launches February 23rd. We’ll have a preview with one of the colorful participating executive chefs.

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

Top Round Roast BeefTop Round Roast Beef opened in the extensively remodeled space of a former donut shop at the busy corner of Olympic Blvd. and La Brea Avenue last June. The theme is top quality roast beef sandwiches where the beef is sliced to order. On the menu is a variety of quality roast beef sandwiches served on a butter-toasted bun with natural au jus. The beef is impressively sliced to order. Also on the small menu are curly French fries cooked in beef fat for maximum flavor, milkshakes and St. Louis frozen custard.

The owners have impressive culinary credentials from places including Red Medicine, 800 Degrees, and Curtis Stone’s restaurants.

Restaurant investor Jamie Tiampo (who is also the owner of See Food Media in New York) joins us along with Chef Steven Fretz (previously executive chef for Curtis Stone’s restaurant group) to explain the concept.

Rick BaylessWhen it comes to possessing a vast knowledge of the regional cooking of the various states in Mexico the recognized “el jefe” in the United States is Chicago’s Rick Bayless. Locally he’s probably best known for the PBS’s series “Mexico – One Plate at a Time” (now starting its 9th award-winning season) and from Bravo’s “Top Chef Masters.” In Chicago he’s a local culinary celebrity for his highly popular restaurants including River North’s Topolobampo and Frontera Grill.

Chef Bayless has created the menu for the recently opened, and much talked about, highly designed Red O in Fashion Island, Newport Beach. It’s basically his contemporary take on Oaxacan fare and other culinary regions of Mexico.

Certain dishes are exclusive to Fashion Island and the tequila list includes 100 selections.

Chef Bayless offers tips for preparing the perfect guacamole.

The new season of his hit PBS series takers us to Oaxaca, one of his favorite culinary regions in Mexico. We’ll see the “Day of the Dead” celebration Oaxaca-style.

Brady Lowe of Cochon 555Cochon 555 (a celebration of heritage pork) returns to Los Angeles on its 2014 cross-country tour at The Fairmont Miramar Hotel on Sunday afternoon, February 23rd. Over 11 tons of heritage pork raised by family farms will be served across the country in the nose-to-tail touring culinary competition.

2014’s competing chefs include Host Chef Ray Garcia of Fig Restaurant, Christian Page of Short Order, Jason Neve of B&B Ristorante, Ray England of Craft, and Brian Howard of Comme Ca. Each chef prepares a maximum of six dishes created from one whole heritage pig.

Our own Jet Tila will be preparing an additional late-night sixth pig for the After Party.

orange-county-restaurant-weekThe OC’s most anticipated, and delicious, dining event, Orange County Restaurant Week, returns from February 23rd to March 1st. Diners will have the opportunity to enjoy the wide spectrum of dining options in the County at special prices for prix-fixe menus for both lunch and dinner.

Over 100 restaurants are part of Orange County Restaurant Week.

One of the featured restaurants is Santa Ana’s Chapter One: The Modern Local. Chef Jason Montelibano (aka Chef Chicken Wing) joins us to talk about his menu. Given his Filipino ancestry he’s incorporated a few contemporary Filipino touches into his menu.

Chef Jason won Riveria Magazine’s “To Live and Dine” chefs’ challenge event @ SoCo last year with his Lamb & Gnocchi dish.

The Grill on the Alley30 years ago dining history was made in Beverly Hills (a tough city for restaurant longevity) with the launch of The Grill on the Alley which is better known as The Grill. It soon evolved into a high profile business destination for lunch for the power brokers of Hollywood. Where your table was signified your status in the Entertainment Business. At night it became a destination for affluent locals with a very loyal following. Unusually for the time pretentiousness was never part of the gameplan. It also was the start of a significant restaurant company with three successful concepts.

Grill Concepts, Inc. continues to flourish to this day. Public School is the newest concept (with a sense of humor) with locations in Downtown Los Angeles, Culver City and Thousand Oaks. Northern California is next and more locations on the horizon. It’s a bar & restaurant gathering spot.

Founder Bob Spivak, a second generation restaurateur with a love for the hospitality business, joins us to share the fascinating story.

“We are so fortunate to have been in business for 30 years,” President, CEO, and Co-Founder Bob Spivak said. “In the ever changing restaurant industry, we are proud to say that we were vintage before it was trendy. And we will continue to maintain the tradition of exceptional service and timeless cuisine that guests have come to count on.”

Ippudo Ramen in New York CityChef Jet has been in New York twice over the last two weeks and has enjoyed some standout dining adventures along the way. Jet shares the details of his meal at Chef April Boomfield’s Spotted Pig (no reservations) in the West Village. This was one of the country’s first gastropubs. It’s still a scene over ten years later.

Jet also visited Ippudo, a well-known Japanese ramen shop and a personal favorite.

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Jamie Tiampo and Chef Steven Fretz, partners, Top Round Roast Beef
Segment Three: Chef Rick Bayless, Topolobampo, Frontera Grill, and Red O (in West Hollywood & Newport Beach) Part One
Segment Four: Chef Rick Bayless, Topolobampo, Frontera Grill, and Red O (in West Hollywood & Newport Beach) Part Two
Segment Five: Brady Lowe, Founder & Lord of Pork, Cochon 555
Segment Six: Executive Chef Jason Montelibano, Chapter One: The Modern Local, Santa Ana
Segment Seven: Bob Spivak, President, CEO, and Co-Founder, Grill Concepts, Inc.
Segment Eight: Jet Tila on Manhattan Dining. (Part 2)

Show 60, February 8, 2013: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris

Chef Jet and Producer Andy preview the show.

Valentine’s Day is next week so get moving and don’t panic. It falls on a Friday this year. Friday is an especially tough day for restaurants due to Valentine’s Day anxiety so if you want to be a bit more relaxed make your plans for Saturday or Sunday instead. Still the Valentine’s Day orbit but a bit less crazed for the restaurant. You’ll definitely have better service…

Chef jet Tila and Alton BrownFood Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen” with host Alton Brown is back on Sunday nights for Season 2. Our own Chef Jet Tila is the most frequently appearing solo judge on this tough competition show that requires strategy as well as cooking chops. Look for Jet’s new episodes starting in February.

It’s the Winter Olympics in Sochi and a classic Newport Beach restaurant is serving a special Olympics-themed menu for the duration. We’ll go inside the menu with the creative executive chef. Caroline Styne is the partner and Wine Director (with Chef Suzanne Goin) in Lucques, A.O.C. and Tavern in West Hollywood and Los Angeles. We’ll talk with her and get insight on how you keep a firmly established and growing restaurant group fresh for the dining public. We’ll also hear the story of Slapfish which started as a modest food truck and now is a growing international empire. Did you know there is an emerging wine region in Northern Baja? You’ll learn about a promising winery in the Guadalupe Valley founded by Italians. Brad A. Johnson, the restaurant critic for The Orange County Register, joins us to talk about letter grades for restaurants. We’ll also have a visit with travel journalist Linda Kissam, who was recently in Spain touring the wineries representing the 50 best Cavas produced there.

All of that and lots more incredible deliciousness on the “SoCal Restaurant Show.”

February 8: Caroline Styne, San Antonio Winery, Andrew Gruel, Brad A. Johnson, Paul Gstrein, Linda Kissam

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Caroline Styne, Wine Director and Partner, Lucques, A.O.C., The Tavern, and The Larder
Segment Three: Allan Stark, San Antonio Winery, Los Angeles
Segment Four: Andrew Gruel, Executive Chef & Partner, Slapfish
Segment Five: Brad A. Johnson, Restaurant Critic, Orange County Register
Segment Six: Paul Gstrein, Executive Chef, Bayside Restaurant
Segment Seven: Linda Kissam, Food, Wine & Travel Journalist, 1st Vice President, IFWTWA
Segment Eight: Jet Tila on Manhattan Dining

Chef Jet and Producer Andy preview the show.

Valentine’s Day is next week so get moving and don’t panic. It falls on a Friday this year. Friday is an especially tough day for restaurants due to Valentine’s Day anxiety so if you want to be a bit more relaxed make your plans for Saturday or Sunday instead. Still the Valentine’s Day orbit but a bit less crazed for the restaurant. You’ll definitely have better service…

Chef jet Tila and Alton BrownFood Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen” with host Alton Brown is back on Sunday nights for Season 2. Our own Chef Jet Tila is the most frequently appearing solo judge on this tough competition show that requires strategy as well as cooking chops. Look for Jet’s new episodes starting in February.

It’s the Winter Olympics in Sochi and a classic Newport Beach restaurant is serving a special Olympics-themed menu for the duration. We’ll go inside the menu with the creative executive chef. Caroline Styne is the partner and Wine Director (with Chef Suzanne Goin) in Lucques, A.O.C. and Tavern in West Hollywood and Los Angeles. We’ll talk with her and get insight on how you keep a firmly established and growing restaurant group fresh for the dining public. We’ll also hear the story of Slapfish which started as a modest food truck and now is a growing international empire. Did you know there is an emerging wine region in Northern Baja? You’ll learn about a promising winery in the Guadalupe Valley founded by Italians. Brad A. Johnson, the restaurant critic for The Orange County Register, joins us to talk about letter grades for restaurants. We’ll also have a visit with travel journalist Linda Kissam, who was recently in Spain touring the wineries representing the 50 best Cavas produced there.

All of that and lots more incredible deliciousness on the “SoCal Restaurant Show.”

Caroline StyneCaroline Styne had an extensive background in specialty food products, catering, and restaurant management before partnering with Chef Suzanne Goin to open Lucques in 1988. In December of 2002, Goin & Styne opened their second restaurant, A.O.C., where the concept of small plates and fifty wines by the glass was born out of their shared passion for going out and sampling a variety of appetizers and intriguing wines. A.O.C. relocated to the face-lifted former Orso space about a mile West on 3rd Street in late 2012. Styne is the Wine Director for all the restaurants.

Tavern, in Brentwood, followed in May of 2009. It offers fine dining all day along with The Larder which has gourmet prepared foods and packaged goods. There is a new Larder at Burton Way in the luxury 8500 Burton Way Apartments on the border of L.A. and Beverly Hills as well as at LAX.

Styne contributed the helpful wine notes to Suzanne’s The A.O.C. Cookbook.

“And because wine and cheese are at the heart of A.O.C. there are two exciting additions. Caroline Styne presents a specific wine pairing for each dish. Styne explains why each varietal works well with the ingredients and which flavors she’s trying to highlight, and she gives you room to experiment as well – showing how to shape the wine to your own palate. Whether you’re just grabbing a glass to go with dinner or planning an entire menu, her expert notes are a real education in wine.”

LA Cetto WinesDid you know there is a burgeoning wine industry in Mexico? Finally some of these affordable wines are finding their way into the United States. Shouldn’t a fine Mexican restaurant also offer premium Mexican wines?

One of the premier grape growing areas of Mexico is in the Guadalupe Valley (and adjacent valleys) located in Northern Baja California. It has the rural feel of the flat areas of Sonoma County from 40 years ago.

The predecessor wine interests of L.A. Cetto were established in Baja by Italians in the late 1920s. In 1960 L.A. Cetto acquired their first vineyards in the Guadalupe Valley. Today they have some 2,500 acres in the Valley under the stewardship of the 3rd generation of the Baja-based Cetto Family. They are the largest producer of table wines in Mexico.

L.A’s own San Antonio Winery (dating to 1917) is the distributor of L.A. Cetto wines in Southern California. Allan Stark, a 25-year veteran of San Antonio Winery joins us to tell the L.A. Cetto story and discuss some of their premium reserve wines including Nebbiolo, Chardonnay, and a Brut Sparkling wine.

Andrew GruelFood trucks have proven to be a worthwhile testing ground for innovative food concepts. A great example is Slapfish with a limited service, fast-casual restaurant in Huntington Beach located in a strip center. A new Laguna Beach location will launch later this year.

The partners started with one food truck serving the OC in 2009. By 2011 they had three trucks serving both Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

Executive Chef Andrew Gruel is with us to fill us in on the Slapfish tale. They have just signed a franchise agreement to open 75 full service restaurants in the Middle East over the next 5 to 7 years.

They like to characterize Slapfish as a modern seafood shack. It’s a real American seafood experience that revolves around fresh, sustainable fish, prepared simply, but delivering big flavors.

Letter Grades at RestaurantsLast month The Orange County Register’s James Beard Award-winning restaurant critic, Brad A. Johnson, was looking to review a Newport Beach restaurant. Instead all of the members of his dining group came down with severe cases of food poisoning. When Brad checked the Health Department records of this restaurant he was surprised to learn that they had received a serious violation on each of their previous inspections since they opened two years ago.

Brad is with us to discuss his campaign for Orange County restaurants to receive Letter Grades as a result of their Health Department inspections as is practice in Los Angeles County and other areas of California.

The Winter Olympics in Sochi is underway. Russia is on peoples’ minds.

Paul Gstrein of Bayside RestaurantPaul Gstrein, the long-time (Austria-born) executive chef at Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach has been inspired by Russia, too. For the duration of the Games Paul will be featuring Russian dishes as appetizers, entrees, and even desserts. How about Beef Short Rib Borscht and Berkshire Pork Tenderloin Stroganoff?

Please note that not every appetizer or entrée on the special Russian menu will be available each night.

Linda KissamThe very well-traveled Linda Kissam is a respected food, wine, and travel writer who is on the go most of the time. She serves as the 1st Vice President of the International Food, Wine and Travel Writers Association. She is also an author and the Global Wine & Travel Editor-at-Large for Luxe Beat Magazine.

Late last year Linda was invited to Spain to tour the Penedes wine region, the heart of cava sparkling wine production. Her mission was to taste and evaluate 50 fine cavas over an intensive five day period. Linda shares the highlights of this very special experience with us.

Le BernardinChef Jet has been in New York twice over the last two weeks and has enjoyed some standout dining adventures along the way. Jet shares the details of his truly exquisite meal at the classic Le Bernardin. It’s expertly prepared French seafood from Chef Eric Ripert at a very high level.

Jet also visited Ippudo, a well-known Japanese ramen shop.

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Caroline Styne, Wine Director and Partner, Lucques, A.O.C., The Tavern, and The Larder
Segment Three: Allan Stark, San Antonio Winery, Los Angeles
Segment Four: Andrew Gruel, Executive Chef & Partner, Slapfish
Segment Five: Brad A. Johnson, Restaurant Critic, Orange County Register
Segment Six: Paul Gstrein, Executive Chef, Bayside Restaurant
Segment Seven: Linda Kissam, Food, Wine & Travel Journalist, 1st Vice President, IFWTWA
Segment Eight: Jet Tila on Manhattan Dining

January 25: South Coast Collection, Carla Hall, Roger Havot, Sanford D’Amoto, Chefs to the Max

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anais Tangie, Marketing Coordinator, SoCo and The Mix
Segment Three: Chef Carla Hall, ABC’s “The Chew,” “Bravo’s “Top Chef ,” and Carla Hall Petit Cookies
Segment Four: Roger Hayot, Executive Chef, J. Nichols Kitchen Part One
Segment Five: Roger Hayot, Executive Chef, J. Nichols Kitchen Part Two
Segment Six: Sanford D’Amato, founder and former Executive Chef of the award-winning Sanford restaurant, Milwaukee, WI
Segment Seven: Al Mancini, Las Vegas-based food journalist and co-author of Eating Las Vegas guidebook for 2011, 2012, and 2013
Segment Eight: Chef Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris of “SoCal Restaurant Show”

Chef Jet and Producer Andy preview the show.

Chef jet Tila and Alton BrownFood Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen” with host Alton Brown is back on Sunday nights for Season 2. Our own Chef Jet Tila is the most frequently appearing solo judge on this tough competition show that requires strategy as well as cooking chops. Look for Jet’s new episodes starting in February.

On Friday morning, January 31st catch Chef Jet on NBC’s “Today Show” in the 9:00 a.m. hour PST. He’s sharing his recipe for Peking Duck Sliders for Chinese New Year and The Big Game!

ABC’s “The Chew’s,” Carla Hall, is back with us talking about the very special Culinary Concert she is doing at Zov’s Bistro in Tustin on Sunday, February 9th to benefit the scholarship fund of The James Beard Foundation. “Hootie Hoo”…You’ll meet Sandy D’Amato, a kid from Milwaukee, who grew up to become one of the most outstanding chefs in America. Chef Roger Hayot joins us. You may not know his name but you really should. In the 90s Chef Roger had one of the most acclaimed restaurants in L.A. Now he’s quietly making waves again at a hidden gem of a neighborhood place in Marina del Rey.

All of that and lots more incredible deliciousness on the “SoCal Restaurant Show.”

The first Saturday of last October we were live at South Coast Collection (SoCo) and The Mix in Costa Mesa for the first Patchwork Show: Edible Edition.

Anais TangieWe showcased the growing collection of outstanding boutique food businesses and restaurants there. The SoCo and Mix’s Marketing Coordinator, Anais Tangie, joins us to talk about the new additions and what’s soon on the way. Think handcrafted artisanal chocolates and also a one-of-kind cocktail education and tools-of-the-trade store owned by a master bartender…

Carla HallFood fans know Chef Carla Hall as the “Hootie Hoo” lady and fan favorite from multiple seasons of Bravo’s “Top Chef.” She is now the co-host of ABC’s daytime lifestyle series, “The Chew.” Last month “The Chew” celebrated their 500th episode and the show continues to gain in popularity. Carla also is the author of Cooking with Love: Comfort Food That Hugs You, newly available in paperback.

Carla is being honored by Zov Karamardian of Zov’s Bistro in Tustin at her Culinary Concert to benefit the James Beard Foundation on Sunday, February 9th.

That Sunday Carla and Zov will conduct a highly entertaining, interactive cooking class for the guests followed by a lavish lunch. Carla will be available to sign copies of her book and interact with the guests. It all starts at Noon.

Pastry Chef to the Stars and a multiple James Beard Award-winner, Sherry Yard, is the celebrity MC.

For more info and to make reservations please call 714.838.8855 ext. 21

Carla is represented in Saveur’s 100 which is the current January/February issue. Item 13 on the list is Carla’s suggestion of Lemon Olive Oil.

Roger Hayot of J. Nichols KitchenIn 1987 the Authentic Café opened on Beverly Blvd. near CBS’s Television City in the Fairfax District of Los Angeles. It was the inspiration of Chef Roger Hayot who was mentored by his prior employer, David Overton, the creator of The Cheesecake Factory. It was initially a small place and from Day 1 they had lines of patient guests out the door…Eventually they expanded into the space next-door to accommodate the strong demand.

Roger’s always intriguing menu was inspired by the cuisines of the American Southwest, Latin America, Asia, and the Mediterranean. He used authentic global ingredients which was unusual at the time. Thai fish sauce was one of his regular ingredients. The exotic appeal of his cooking was always balanced by its hominess.

He had the honor of cooking at The James Beard Foundation in New York.

There is a new chapter to Chef Roger Hayot’s inspirational cooking story in Los Angeles so we continue.

Mezze Plate at J. Nichols KitchenIn 2012 Roger moved into the Executive Chef position at J Nichols Kitchen in Marina del Rey. This originally opened as Nichols Family Restaurant in 1974 as a friendly, neighborhood coffee shop with reasonable prices and big portions. When the founders’ son and daughter took over the operation they faced a dilemma. The retail center they were in was about to undergo a major renovation (and upscaling) and their clientele was aging and the younger crowd wasn’t patronizing them. The Nichols made the tough decision to remodel and reposition themselves as a destination neighborhood restaurant with more serious food and no snootiness. That’s a major transition…

The first 6 months of the new concept was a bit rocky. The seniors didn’t like the new menu or pricing and the Millennials thought it was still a coffee shop. A lot of guest confusion…Chef Roger joined the team in progress with the mission of improving the food and consistency. Over the last 18 months that has happened and the successful transition accomplished! A great turnaround story…

Virtually everything is now made from scratch from the pizza dough (3-day process) to the fruit preserves served at breakfast. Chef Roger takes the time to make his own biscuits (very popular) as well as flavorful premium sausages. He has his own smoker. All the desserts are house-prepared. The novel Greek Yogurt Cheesecake is perhaps Chef Roger’s tribute to The Cheesecake Factory. It’s light, has a graham cracker crust, crushed pistachios, and a honey drizzle. Yum…

Sanford D'AmotoGood Stock: Life on Low Simmer was written by Sanford “Sandy” D’Amato, one of America’s most respected chefs and restaurateurs. It is a special memoir of a life in cooking that weaves more than 80 recipes and both personal and food photos in a beautiful and engaging way.

Chef D’Amato tells his life story in brief episodes that are keyed to more than 80 of this James Beard Award-winning chef’s favorite recipes.

Sanford, the restaurant D’Amato opened in his native Milwaukee in 1989 (in the space that once housed his grandfather’s grocery store,) has long been one of the highest rated restaurants in America.

D’Amato and his wife, Angie, currently split their time between Milwaukee and their mini-farm in Hatfield, MA, where they are preparing to open a cooking school (also called Good Stock.)

If you really want to understand what it takes to be a successful, career executive chef this is the book for you. It’s also highly entertaining and a fascinating read. Chef Sandy’s encounters with the legendary Julia Child over the years are priceless.

Max JacobsonMax Jacobson is a serious food journalist who relocated to Las Vegas from Southern California in 1999 to cover the burgeoning dining scene there. Southern Californians remember his coverage of the Orange County dining scene for The Los Angeles Times. He is currently Vegas Seven’s restaurant critic. His colleagues have great respect for him.

Two days before Christmas 2013, Jacobson was struck by a hit-and-run driver while he was in a crosswalk. He sustained severe brain trauma from the accident. He remains hospitalized in serious condition and his prognosis is uncertain.

Chefs to the Max benefit for Max Jacobson at RX Boiler RoomIn true hospitality industry fashion a group of prominent, celebrity chefs have joined together to launch the Chefs to the Max fundraising series to assist with Max Jacobson’s horrendous medical expenses.

The first dinner was January 19th at Chef Rick Moonen’s Rx Boiler Room at Mandalay Place on the Las Vegas Strip. The evening raised an impressive $275,799.

Fellow Las Vegas-based food journalist, Al Mancini, joins us to talk about the Chefs to the Max benefits and working with Max. Al and Max collaborated (with a third Las Vegas-based restaurant writer) on the three editions of the very popular Las Vegas dining guidebook series, Eating Las Vegas.

Republique Restaurant in Los AngelesLet’s talk food…Chef Jet and Producer Andy share some of their recent dining adventures.

Jet has experienced the much talked-about Republique with Walter Manzke and Chef Margarita Manzke behind the stoves at the former Campanile space. Andy has dined at Downtown’s Orsa & Winston, the new fine-dining spot from Josef Centeno (Bar Ama & Baco Mercat.)

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anais Tangie, Marketing Coordinator, SoCo and The Mix
Segment Three: Chef Carla Hall, ABC’s “The Chew,” “Bravo’s “Top Chef ,” and Carla Hall Petit Cookies
Segment Four: Roger Hayot, Executive Chef, J. Nichols Kitchen Part One
Segment Five: Roger Hayot, Executive Chef, J. Nichols Kitchen Part Two
Segment Six: Sanford D’Amato, founder and former Executive Chef of the award-winning Sanford restaurant, Milwaukee, WI
Segment Seven: Al Mancini, Las Vegas-based food journalist and co-author of Eating Las Vegas guidebook for 2011, 2012, and 2013
Segment Eight: Chef Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris of “SoCal Restaurant Show”

January 18: Antonia Lafaso, Mark Boster, Kedric Francis, Skyler Reeves

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Antonia Lofaso, Executive Chef & Partner, Scopa Italian Roots and Black Market Liquor Bar Part One
Segment Three: Antonia Lofaso, Executive Chef & Partner, Scopa Italian Roots and Black Market Liquor Bar Part Two
Segment Four: Mark Boster, Senior Photojournalist, Los Angeles Times Part One
Segment Five: Mark Boster, Senior Photojournalist, Los Angeles Times Part Two
Segment Six: Kedric Francis, Executive Editor, Orange County Register Magazine, Coast Magazine
Segment Seven: Skyler Reeves, master barman, co-producer of Golden State of Cocktails
Segment Eight: Chef Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris of “SoCal Restaurant Show”

Chef Jet and Producer Andy preview the show.

Los Angeles Times Travel ShowDon’t forget the Los Angeles Times Travel Show on January 18th & 19th at The L.A. Convention Center. There is a fun travel opportunity waiting for every budget. Save $2 per ticket with Promo Code: TRAVEL4.

You know the lovely Antonia Lafaso from Bravo’s “Top Chef” and Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen.” Chef Antonia will be talking about her new restaurant, Scopa. The ace photo journalist from The Los Angeles Times is along to preview his presentation at The Los Angeles Times Travel Show and give us some insider’s tips on better food photography with smart phones. Kedric Francis, the dashing Executive Editor about town, previews the upcoming Restaurant Issue of The Orange County Register Magazine.

All of that and lots more deliciousness on the “SoCal Restaurant Show.”

Antonia Lofaso of Black Market Liquor Bar and Scopa Italian RootsFor a chef with as much media exposure as she has received Antonia Lofaso is refreshingly low-key. Her name is not even on the menu for the two successful restaurants in Los Angeles that she is both executive chef & partner of. The popular restaurants are Black Market Liquor Bar in Studio City and, the newest, Scopa Italian Roots in Marina del Rey, her loving homage to Italian-American red sauce cooking.

You first met Chef Antonia on Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 4 set in Chicago. Two years later she was invited back to compete on “Top Chef All-Stars” where she battled to the finals.

Antonia currently serves as one of the regular judges on Food Network’s hit series, “Cutthroat Kitchen” hosted by Alton Brown. Season 2 is now airing on Sunday nights.

Chef Antonia is a graduate of the French Culinary Institute in New York and cooked at Spago. Her first executive chef post was at SBE’s Foxtail in West Hollywood.

Scopa, located next door to Roy Choi’s Sunny Spot, is her latest venture.

There is a huge antipasti bar where all the cheeses and salumi are cut and plated to order right in front of the guests. The Italian Hero (coppa, prosciutto, salami, provolone, olive oil, and vinegar) is very popular.

There is also an oyster bar.

The varied menu also offers salads, pasta, large plate mains, and seasonal sides including polenta. The Pappardelle with pork shank, stracciatella, and arugula is a standout. The flavorful T-Bone is a meat-lovers’ dream.

Antonia’s first cookbook, published in 2012, is still available via Amazon. It’s The Busy Mom’s Cookbook: 100 Recipes for Quick, Delicious, Home-Cooked Meals. Antonia has a teenage daughter and the recipes were developed through the eyes of a hardworking single mom.

Mark BosterThe 16th Annual Los Angeles Times Travel show returns to the West Hall of the LA Convention Center on January 18 & 19. Veteran Los Angeles Times photojournalist, Mark Boster, is with us to preview his activities at the show.

Mark is on the LA Times Stage both Saturday & Sunday at 1:00 p.m. with his “Postcards From the West” presentation. He’s doing this with LA Times Travel Writer Christopher Reynolds.

In an exclusive for our listeners Mark Boster is sharing tips for taking great food shots!

Boster is also quite an expert on California’s great treasure, Yosemite. He is the author of the acclaimed coffee table book, Four Seasons of Yosemite: A Photographer’s Journey with a forward by Robert Redford.

Mark is the co-presenter of “Postcards from the West” on the LA Times Stage at The Los Angeles Times Travel show at the Los Angeles Convention Center on January 18th & 19th.

A photojournalist for 37 years and a Times photographer since 1983, Mark has covered presidential campaigns, the war in Kosovo, the 1984 Olympics, Super Bowls, the World Series, the Northridge earthquake, and Hurricane Katrina.

In this informative segment Mark shares an expert’s tips for better food photography using a smartphone.

Kedric Francis of Coast Magazine and the Orange County Register MagazineOur favorite debonair man about Orange County, Kedric Francis, is back with us with a preview of the upcoming “Restaurant Issue” of The Orange County Register Magazine which is with the newspaper on Monday, January 20th. Kedric is the restaurant-savvy Executive Editor of both Coast Magazine and The Orange County Register Magazine.

One of the most intriguing pieces is Orange County chefs who have professional ties to one of America’s great chefs, Thomas Keller. You know Chef Keller’s name from the French Laundry in Yountville, CA., Per Se in New York, Bouchon, and the Bouchon Bakeries. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at some of the OC chefs who have worked for Thomas Keller earlier in their careers.

Skyler ReevesSkyler Reeves is a master barman. Denizens of Downtown Los Angeles’ popular nightlife scene will know him from 213 Downtown. He’s one of the best…

His new project is co-producing the upcoming “Golden State of Cocktails.” It takes place January 27th through 30th primarily on the historic top floor of the Los Angeles Times Building in Downtown Los Angeles. This space was the former executive offices and the grandeur of the floor will surely impress. The educational event is designed exclusively for the trade.

“California’s long awaited large-scale cocktail event is finally here: Announcing Golden State of Cocktails! Staged in Los Angeles, the West Coast’s largest city and California’s anchor, Golden State of Cocktails celebrates all aspects of cocktail culture, both industry and consumer, from San Francisco to Los Angeles to San Diego and everywhere in between. Be a part of the inaugural event in one or more ways. From experiential interactive labs, take-away stations and brand immersion rooms, Golden State of Cocktails takes a hands-on approach to the learning experience and celebrates the best of what California cocktail culture is all about.” The event is open to restaurateurs, chefs, bartenders and people associated with the trade.

Chef Jet Tila host of the SoCal Restaurant ShowWe receive intriguing food related questions via social media…

Today Chef Jet is answering a sampling of those inquiries on the air. He’ll weigh-in on salt in food, the new regulation in California that food handlers touching raw food products must wear gloves, and the Letter Grade rating system for restaurants in effect in many California counties.

This will definitely get interesting…

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Antonia Lofaso, Executive Chef & Partner, Scopa Italian Roots and Black Market Liquor Bar Part One
Segment Three: Antonia Lofaso, Executive Chef & Partner, Scopa Italian Roots and Black Market Liquor Bar Part Two
Segment Four: Mark Boster, Senior Photojournalist, Los Angeles Times Part One
Segment Five: Mark Boster, Senior Photojournalist, Los Angeles Times Part Two
Segment Six: Kedric Francis, Executive Editor, Orange County Register Magazine, Coast Magazine
Segment Seven: Skyler Reeves, master barman, co-producer of Golden State of Cocktails
Segment Eight: Chef Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris of “SoCal Restaurant Show”