Show 546, October 7, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Andy Harris about the 360 Experience on the Discovery Princess

We’re celebrating the 11th Anniversary of the debut of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM830 KLAA. Please join us.

Executive Producer Andy Harris is just off the Discovery Princess (Princess’ newest (and final) Royal Class Ship) from their special Pacific Coast Wine & Food Experience (six-day voyage) with ports of call in Victoria, BC and San Francisco. The sailing was from Vancouver to the World Cruise Terminal in San Pedro. This was also the Annual Conference for the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA.) 

The show highlights this themed Princess cruise experience with the prominent, behind-the-scenes people responsible for creating memorable experiences for the cruise guests.

Chuck Wagner of Caymus Vineyards

We’ll also speak with Winemaker Chuck Wagner of Caymus Vineyards, Napa, and the new Caymus-Suisun Winery in Suisun Valley / Fairfield. Chuck and the Culinary Team at Princess have added the very special 5-course, wine-paired Caymus Vineyards Winemaker Dinner as an amenity on Princess ships sailing in North America.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. As nutty as it sounds both Houses of the California legislature have passed a bill prohibiting the sale of the popular plastic gift cards usable at a specific business. This would include the demise of your favorite restaurant’s branded gift cards. Chef Andrew shares his opinionated thoughts.

Podcasts

Segment Two: Chef Rudi Sodamin, Head of Culinary Arts for Princess Cruises
Segment Three: Winemaker Chuck Wagner, Caymus Vineyards, Napa & Caymus -Suisun Winery, Suisun Valley / Fairfield
Segment Four: Peter Priestley, Food and Beverage Director, Discovery Princess
Segment Five: Callum Moughan, Roving Bar Manager, Princess Cruises
Segment Six: Terri Cybuliak, Hotel General Manager, Discovery Princess
Segment Seven: Travel Journalist Stacey Wittig, Board Member and Secretary, International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association. “UNSTOPPABLE Stacey” Travel Blog
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 546, October 7, 2023: Chef Rudi Sodamin, Head of Culinary Arts for Princess Cruises

Rudi Sodamin of Princess Cruises

Chef Rudi is probably the most decorated chef cooking on the ocean. He started cooking at age 14 in Austria. Next year he’ll be celebrating a 50-year career in the culinary arts and Chef Rudi is just getting started.

He was unusually aboard Discovery Princess for the benefit of the IFWTWA (International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association) Conference and was a featured speaker. He also conducted a widely attended cooking demonstration in the Princess Theater for all the ship’s guests showcasing a souffle that will be part of the menu of The Catch by Rudi seafood specialty restaurant coming soon to Discovery Princess. The Catch is already available on Enchanted Princess, Majestic Princess and Sky Princess. It’s Princess’ first seafood specialty restaurant.

“Each day Chef Rudi lives by the philosophy, that “All can be done.” Chef Rudi’s unbridled passion for innovating global tastes and his exuberant influence in bringing international cuisines to an increasingly wide audience has been extensively celebrated.” He is also the author of 15 cookbooks.

We’ll meet him.

Show 519, April 1, 2023: GK Café & Provisions in Fort Wayne, Indiana with Pastry Chef Grace Kelly May

Grace Kelly May of GK Baked Goods

“Grace Kelly May’s newly launched GK Cafe & Provisions located in the heart of Downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana offers crave-worthy handmade pastries, artisanal breads, local groceries, and more. Find them on the corner of Berry & Harrison, open daily! Particularly known for their outstanding cinnamon rolls and croissants.”

“GK Baked Goods opened in 2015 by Executive Pastry Chef/Owner Grace Kelly May along with the team behind Affine Hospitality Group, Andrew Smith, Daniel Campbell and Jack May.”

“At GK Baked Goods, they are devoted to bringing Northeast Indiana high-quality, hand-crafted artisan breads and pastries to their community. Chef Grace uses the highest quality of raw ingredients and works closely with local famers to bring their delicious breads and pastries to life. They use traditional, from scratch methods with a heavy attention to detail to each of their products. GK is proud to be a part of a growing and diverse hospitality community and excited to continue to grow their brand.”

“Chef and Owner Grace Kelly May is a Fort Wayne native who is a classically trained pastry chef who has worked and managed pastry kitchens across the United States including, Chicago and Houston. Returning to Indiana, she became a co-owner of Junk Ditch Brewing Company, Affine Food Truck, GK Baked Goods and GK Pastry Truck.

Chef Grace Kelly May is our guest with a warm cinnamon roll at the ready.”

“The SoCal Restaurant Show” was introduced to Grace Kelly May last year when Chef Grace was part of a Webinar for the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association highlighting Fort Wayne as a travel destination. Chef Grace demonstrated in real time her recipe for an Almont Croissant sandwich.

Show 502, December 3, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Holiday Gingerbread Cookies

Happy National Cookie Day which is Sunday, December 4th.

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and Travel Costa Mesa. Anne Marie joins us in-studio for her regular bi-monthly visit to talk about her recent Mediterranean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s newest and largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas. Anne Marie also chats about her preview evening at the eagerly anticipated Bloom Restaurant + Bar (a newly launched restaurant from Russ Bendel and Partners) in a historic building in San Juan Capistrano and other significant Orange County restaurant news.

Yangban Society located in The Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles (in the previous home of Bon Temps Restaurant) draws inspiration from Korean flavors and influences with California ingredients. Together, Chef / Proprietors Katianna & John Hong craft dishes that reveal their distinct perspectives and upbringings as Korean Americans, as well as their nuanced culinary approach, refined from their shared time at The Restaurant at Meadowood, The Charter Oak and Mélisse.” Chef Kat Hong takes a break from her busy kitchen to join us.

It’s holiday Latke Time at The Spielberg Family’s kosher diary restaurant, The Milky Way, in the Pico / Robertson neighborhood of Los Angeles. “There will be candles, there will be dreidels – but most importantly there will be latkes! Often called “the best in Los Angeles”, people flock to The Milky Way on Pico restaurant for this Hanukkah necessity.  Made fresh and ready to pick up in the signature Milky Way box, the Latke Box features a dozen latkes, house-made apple compote and sour cream.” We pull founding Consulting Executive Chef Philip Kastel away from gently frying the latkes to be with us.

Linda Kissam (Arizona and Seattle-based) is the immediate past President of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), a by-invitation only group of credentialed travel journalists primarily based in North America. Last month Princess Cruises brought Linda to San Pedro to board their newest ship, Discovery Princess, to preview their latest VIP amenity, ss, to preview their new VIP amenity, 360: An Extraordinary Experience. It’s a new, invitation-only experience from Princess Cruises that transports guests nightly to the Mediterranean – no matter where they’re actually sailing – engaging all of their senses with the tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of the Mediterranean.

Linda Kissam is our “Cruise Director” to share highlights of 360: An Extraordinary Experience on Discovery Princess.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. What’s going on with Maine Lobster and it’s availability at Whole Foods? Whole Foods has said that they are going to stop buying and stocking Maine Lobsters. Quite a blow to the hard-working Maine lobsterman. We’ll “Ask the Chef.

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

Show 502, December 3, 2022: Linda Kissam, Travel Journalist – Preview of Princess Cruises’ “360-An Extraordinary Experience”

Journalist Linda Kissam

Linda Kissam (Arizona and Seattle-based) is the immediate past President of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), a by-invitation only group of credentialed travel journalists primarily based in North America.

Last month Princess Cruises brought Linda to San Pedro to board their newest ship, Discovery Princess, to preview their new VIP amenity, 360: An Extraordinary Experience. “It’s a new, invitation-only experience from Princess Cruises that transports guests nightly to the Mediterranean – no matter where they’re actually sailing – engaging all of their senses with the tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of the Mediterranean. The fully-immersive 360: An Extraordinary Experience is the cruise line’s most epic experience ever offered and is now available onboard Discovery Princess and coming to Enchanted Princess in late January.” Among the premium cruise lines Princess has always been known for their innovations in technology enhancing the guest experience aboard luxury cruise ships.

Linda Kissam is our “Cruise Director” to share highlights of 360: An Extraordinary Experience on Discovery Princess.

December 3: Anne Marie Panoringan, Yangban Society, The Milky Way, Linda Kissam

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anne Marie Panoringan, The Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part One
Segment Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, The Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part Two
Segment Four: Katianna Hong, Chef & Partner – Yangban Society and Yangban Super, Arts District, Downtown Los Angeles Part One
Segment Five: Katianna Hong, Chef & Partner – Yangban Society and Yangban Super, Arts District, Downtown Los Angeles Part Two
Segment Six: Phil Kastel, Consulting Executive Chef, The Milky Way, Los Angeles
Segment Seven: Linda Kissam, Travel Journalist – Preview of Princess Cruises’ “360-An Extraordinary Experience”
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and Travel Costa Mesa. Anne Marie joins us in-studio for her regular bi-monthly visit to talk about her recent Mediterranean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s newest and largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas. Anne Marie also chats about her preview evening at the eagerly anticipated Bloom Restaurant + Bar (a newly launched restaurant from Russ Bendel and Partners) in a historic building in San Juan Capistrano and other Orange County restaurant news.

“Yangban Society located in The Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles (in the previous home of Bon Temps Restaurant) draws inspiration from Korean flavors and influences with California ingredients. Together, Chef/Proprietors Katianna & John Hong craft dishes that reveal their distinct perspectives and upbringings as Korean Americans, as well as their nuanced culinary approach, refined from their shared time at The Restaurant at Meadowood, The Charter Oak and Mélisse.” Chef Kat Hong takes a break from her busy kitchen to join us.

It’s holiday Latke Time at The Spielberg Family’s kosher diary restaurant, The Milky Way, in the Pico / Robertson neighborhood of Los Angeles. “There will be candles, there will be dreidels – but most importantly there will be latkes! Often called “the best in Los Angeles”, people flock to The Milky Way on Pico restaurant for this Hanukkah necessity. Made fresh and ready to pick up in the signature Milky Way box, the Latke Box features a dozen latkes, house-made apple compote and sour cream.” We pull Consulting Executive Chef Philip Kastel away from gently frying the latkes to be with us.

Linda Kissam (Arizona and Seattle-based) is the immediate past President of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA),a by-invitation only group of credentialed travel journalists primarily based in North America. Last month Princess Cruises brought Linda to San Pedro to board their newest ship, Discovery Princess, to preview their new VIP amenity, 360: An Extraordinary Experience. It’s a new, invitation-only experience from Princess Cruises that transports guests nightly to the Mediterranean – no matter where they’re actually sailing – engaging all of their senses with the tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of the Mediterranean.

Linda Kissam is our “Cruise Director” to share highlights of 360 : An Extraordinary Experience on Discovery Princess.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. This is a bit curious…The price of proteins has been on the rise yet the price of chicken breasts and wings has declined since the Summer. Definitely value to be found there. Chef Andrew adds his informed perspective. What’s going on with Maine Lobster and it’s availability at Whole Foods? We’ll “Ask the Chef.

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

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and Travel Costa Mesa.

Anne Marie joins us in-studio to talk about her recent Mediterranean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s newest and largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas. Anne Marie also chats about her preview evening at the eagerly anticipated Bloom Restaurant + Bar (a newly launched  restaurant from Russ Bendel and Partners) in a historic building in San Juan Capistrano and other Orange County restaurant news.

From there Anne Marie highlights (from her most recent column in Voice of OC) a new Orange County-based private dining platform that pre-sells pop-up events and private dining experiences with high profile private chefs and caterers.

Katianna Hong of the Yangban Society

Yangban Society located in The Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles (in the previous home of Bon Temps Restaurant) draws inspiration from Korean flavors and influences with California ingredients. Together, Chef / Proprietors Katianna & John Hong craft dishes that reveal their distinct perspectives and upbringings as Korean Americans, as well as their nuanced culinary approach, refined from their shared time at The Restaurant at Meadowood, The Charter Oak and Mélisse.” Chef Kat Hong takes a break from her busy kitchen to join us.

“Within Yangban Society resides the Yangban Super, a stand-alone specialty minimart. In addition to retail products, housemade pantry staples, snacks and drinks such as Korean fruit milks, face masks, and incense, Yangban Super showcases items from L.A. – based and Asian-American-owned businesses. Carefully-crafted housemade canned and bottled cocktails, interesting wines, beer and Yangban’s custom-made Sawtelle Sake Makgeolli are just a few selections that one can find in the diversified beverage program. The space also gives voice to Katianna’s and John’s passion for Hip Hop, fashion and streetwear culture. This is a reflection of their intension for Yangban Society to speak to their identities outside the kitchen.”

“Born in Korea and raised in upstate New York, Katianna spent much of her childhood training in competitive gymnastics, developing a profound sense of drive and discipline at an early age. After high school, Katianna uncovered her passion for the culinary arts and went on to study at the Culinary Institute of America Hyde Park and the UNLV School of Hospitality. Following graduation, Katianna furthered her education under the acclaimed chef Josiah Citrin at the Michelin two-starred Melisse in Santa Monica, California. Amid long kitchen shifts at Melisse, Katianna met her culinary collaborator and future husband, John. The two relocated to Napa Valley in 2011, where Katianna began working as a line cook at chef Christopher Kostow’s lauded The Restaurant at Meadowood. In 2014, she was named the restaurant’s first-ever chef de cuisine, simultaneously becoming the only female chef de cuisine at a Michelin three-star restaurant in the United States.”

“Following the birth of their daughter, Alessia, Katianna and John relocated to Southern California in 2019 to pursue their dream of opening their first solo restaurant project together. At Yangban Society, Katianna & John offer a multi-dimensional, autobiographical experience that showcases their respective backgrounds and upbringings, while providing standout to-go offerings and a dynamic neighborhood space for locals to gather.”

Phil Kastel of PK+J Hospitality Group

It’s holiday Latke Time at The Spielberg Family’s (yes, the entertainment Spielberg Family) kosher diary restaurant, The Milky Way, located in the Pico / Robertson neighborhood of Los Angeles.

“There will be candles, there will be dreidels – but most importantly there will be latkes! Often called “the best in Los Angeles”, people flock to The Milky Way for this Hanukkah necessity. Made fresh and ready to pick up in the signature Milky Way box, the Latke Box features a dozen latkes, house-made apple compote and sour cream.”

“A local legend in her own right, The Milky Way’s Leah “Lee Lee” (Spielberg) Adler’s restaurant has been an institution for more than 30 years. Her recipes are next level, and after her passing several years ago, The Spielberg Family is lovingly carrying on her legacy.”

“Bernie and Leah (Spielberg) Adler opened the doors to Milky Way restaurant in 1977. Their vision was to offer fine kosher food to the Jewish community at a time when such a thing didn’t exist in Los Angeles. The restaurant soon became known in the global Jewish communities, and among the general public too! Leah was a devoted mother to her four children and a beloved friend and employer. She will always be an iconic figure, revered by so many. Her memory is forever a blessing and her spirit lives on inside Milky Way, its food and community always.”

“A Holiday latke kit is $36 for a dozen and includes fresh, house-made apple compote and sour cream through Door Dash or by calling (310) 859-0004.”

We pull Consulting Executive Chef Philip Kastel away from gently frying the latkes to be with us.

Journalist Linda Kissam

Linda Kissam (Arizona and Seattle-based) is the immediate past President of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), a by-invitation only group of credentialed travel journalists primarily based in North America.

Last month Princess Cruises brought Linda to San Pedro to board their newest ship, Discovery Princess, to preview their new VIP amenity, 360: An Extraordinary Experience. “It’s a new, invitation-only experience from Princess Cruises that transports guests nightly to the Mediterranean – no matter where they’re actually sailing – engaging all of their senses with the tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of the Mediterranean. The fully-immersive 360: An Extraordinary Experience is the cruise line’s most epic experience ever offered and is now available onboard Discovery Princess and coming to Enchanted Princess in late January.”

Linda Kissam is our “Cruise Director” to share highlights of 360: An Extraordinary Experience on Discovery Princess.

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

This is a bit curious…The price of proteins has been on the rise yet the price of chicken breasts and wings has actually declined since the Summer. Definitely value to be found with cluck. Chef Andrew adds his informed perspective. What’s going on with Maine Lobster and having it available at Whole Foods? We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anne Marie Panoringan, The Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part One
Segment Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, The Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part Two
Segment Four: Katianna Hong, Chef & Partner – Yangban Society and Yangban Super, Arts District, Downtown Los Angeles Part One
Segment Five: Katianna Hong, Chef & Partner – Yangban Society and Yangban Super, Arts District, Downtown Los Angeles Part Two
Segment Six: Phil Kastel, Consulting Executive Chef, The Milky Way, Los Angeles
Segment Seven: Linda Kissam, Travel Journalist – Preview of Princess Cruises’ “360-An Extraordinary Experience”
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 420, April 10, 2021: Web Designer and Developer Adam Bell of dataTV

Adam Bell of dataTV

Adam Bell, the founder of dataTV established in 1996, is the “SoCal Restaurant Show’s” accomplished, long -time web designer, webmaster and all-around social media guru. He relocated to Los Angeles from New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. His wide range of clients includes Chef Jet Tila, Café du Monde and the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA).

As restaurants are slowly regrouping and reestablishing their enterprises Adam has some sound (and easy to follow) advice to share regarding the importance of having a useful and easy to navigate website with speedy page loading. Social media is vitally important and useful but it doesn’t replace the need for an informative website.

There are now also new and affordable means for restaurant patrons to order online without engaging the mega delivery apps.

Adam has a history of being genuinely helpful to small, independent restaurants with initial consultations with no strings attached (particularly during the ongoing) pandemic. This is not a solicitation for new business (fortunately Adam is very busy talking care of existing clients) but he graciously made the offer of evaluating the existing website of an independent restaurant that asks on a gratis basis. Adam can be contacted via Email.

Show 309, February 2, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

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

Niman Ranch’s All -Natural premium meats aren’t sourced from just one ranch. They are a community of more than 720 small, independent family farms and ranches located in 28 states – primarily in the Midwest, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, in states with an abundance of grain to limit their carbon footprint. Niman Ranch’s Vice President of Beef, John Tarpoff is our guest. He’s also known in restaurant circles as “The Steak Whisperer.”

Travel and food journalist Allen Cox is a life-long resident of the Northwest. He is Editor-in-Chief of Northwest Travel & Life magazine. Allen serves as Co-chair of Travel & Worlds, an annual travel writers conference held in the Northwest. Allen joins us to share a handful of favorite dining gems in the Northwest including the best of the classics as well as a selection of the new stars.

The Big Game is upon us and we’re thirsty. Time for a chat with the distinguished brewers from Golden Road Brewing Co. We’re joined by Brewmaster Victor Novak and Anaheim Head Brewer Steven Torres. Clean, crisp lagers perhaps deserve more respect. We’ll talk about it.

Bring on the gracious Southern hospitality this “Big Game” Sunday at Preux & Proper in Downtown Los Angeles. Keeping the Southern theme, as Super Bowl LIII takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, there is truly perhaps no better place or a more Southern home on the West Coast to gather for this all-American tradition. Featuring 4 TV’s, there is room for everyone to find a good seat and cheer on the two championship teams. We’re, of course, partial to our own L.A. Rams. Proprietor Joshua Kopel and Executive Chef Sammy Monsour kick off the exciting Big Game festivities for us.

We’ve been enthusiastically following the El Segundo Brewing Co. in El Segundo since the beginning, and this year they will be celebrating their 8th Anniversary. A wonderful entrepreneurial success story. They were one of the first craft breweries in the South Bay and are particularly known for their award-winning, hop-centric brews. Just opened a short walk from the brewery is ESBC The Slice and Pint. You can’t go wrong with fresh craft beer and pizza! Proprietors Rob Croxall (Founder) and Thomas Kelley tap the keg for us.

Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel joins us from the road with another informative segment of “Ask the Chef.” It’s of considerable value to have a real, working chef in our radio kitchen! With the monetary enticement from a major credit card company some restaurants are experimenting with going cashless. Is it really a good idea for right now? We’ll revisit this controversial subject that generates passionate opinions!

Listener note for next Saturday, February 9th. For that Saturday only we follow Anaheim Ducks Hockey from 3 to 5:00 p.m. Please join us just a bit later in the afternoon. Same salivating show…

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

February 2: Niman Ranch, Allen Cox, Golden Road Brewing, Preux & Proper, El Segundo Brewing and the Slice and Pint

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: John Tarpoff, Niman Ranch’s Vice President of Beef, “The Steak Whisperer”
Segment Three: Travel & Food Journalist Allen Cox, Editor-in-Chief, Northwest Travel & Life magazine
Segment Four: Brewmaster Victor Novak, Anaheim Head Brewer Steven Torres, Golden Road Brewing Co.
Segment Five: Preux & Proper’s Joshua Kopel and Chef Sammy Monsour, Downtown Los Angeles
Segment Six: El Segundo Brewing Co’s Rob Croxall and Thomas Kelley Part One
Segment Seven: El Segundo Brewing Co’s Rob Croxall and Thomas Kelley Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group

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

Niman Ranch’s All Natural premium meats aren’t sourced from just one ranch. They are a community of more than 720 small, independent family farms and ranches located in 28 states – primarily in the Midwest, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, in states with an abundance of grain to limit their carbon footprint. Niman Ranch’s Vice President of Beef, John Tarpoff is our guest. He’s also known in restaurant circles as “The Steak Whisperer.”

Travel and food journalist Allen Cox is a life-long resident of the Northwest. He is Editor-in-Chief of Northwest Travel & Life magazine. Allen serves as Co-chair of Travel & Worlds, an annual travel writers conference held in the Northwest. Allen joins us to share some favorite dining gems in the Northwest including the best of the classics as well as a selection of the new stars.

The Big Game is upon us and we’re thirsty. Time for a chat with the brewers from Golden Road Brewing Co. We’re joined by Brewmaster Victor Novak and Anaheim Head Brewer Steven Torres. Clean, crisp lagers perhaps deserve more respect. We’ll talk about it.

Bring on the gracious Southern hospitality this “Big Game” Sunday at Preux & Proper in Downtown Los Angeles. Keeping the Southern theme, as Super Bowl LIII takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, there is truly perhaps no better place or a more Southern home on the West Coast to gather for this all-American tradition. Featuring 4 TV’s, there is room for everyone to find a good seat and cheer on the two championing teams. We’re, of course, partial to our own L.A. Rams. Proprietor Joshua Kopel and Executive Chef Sammy Monsour kick off The exciting Big Game festivities for us.

We’ve been enthusiastically following the El Segundo Brewing Co. in El Segundo since the beginning, and this year they will be celebrating their 8th Anniversary. A wonderful entrepreneurial success story. They were one of the first craft breweries in the South Bay and are particularly known for their award-winning, hop-centric brews. Just opened a short walk from the brewery is ESBC The Slice and Pint. You can’t go wrong with fresh craft beer and pizza! Proprietors Rob Croxall (Founder) and Thomas Kelley tap the keg for us.

Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel joins us from the road with another informative segment of “Ask the Chef.” It’s of considerable value to have a real, working chef in our radio kitchen! With the monetary enticement from a major credit card company some restaurants are experimenting with going cashless. Is it really a good idea for right now ? We’ll revisit this controversial subject that generates passionate opinions!

Listener note for next Saturday, February 9th. For that Saturday only we follow Anaheim Ducks Hockey from 3 to 5:00 p.m. Please join us just a bit later in the afternoon. Same salivating show…

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

John TarpoffNiman Ranch’s All Natural premium meats aren’t from just one ranch. They are a community of more than 720 small independent family farms and ranches located in 28 states – primarily in the Midwest, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, in states with an abundance of grain to limit their carbon footprint.

Niman Ranch Beef was the core of the business when Bill Niman started his program back in 1969. Today, it has grown in volume and stature and is privy to menus in the best U.S. restaurants and stores. The pasture raised, no antibiotic or hormone, true Angus beef program utilizes only Angus genetics that are 100 percent bred, born, raised and harvested in the U.S. Niman Ranch’s beef program is fully traceable from birth to box.

Niman Ranch cattle graze on a combination of grains and grasses which are locally appropriate to their geographic location and finished with carefully selected grains to round out the flavor to produce beef that is consistently rich, tender, and well-marbeled. The beef is graded USDA Choice or Prime – the highest rankings for tenderness, juiciness and flavor.

Niman Ranch’s Vice President of Beef, John Tarpoff is our guest. He’s also known in restaurant circles as “The Steak Whisperer.” Tarpoff got started in the cattle business through the influence of his family’s packing business and ranch in the Midwest.

After receiving his degree in biology from the University of Missouri – Columbia, Tarpoff began raising his own cattle focusing on genetics and nutrition. His decision to closely maintain statistics on each animal eventually resulted in the establishment of specific practices for raising Angus breeds to grade Prime.

With this expertise, Tarpoff created Niman Ranch’s cattle raising protocols in conjunction with Temple Grandin. He continues to work with a network of dedicated ranchers and farmers to raise Certified Humane cattle that are recognized as the finest quality product in the industry.

Allen CoxTravel and food journalist Allen Cox is a life-long resident of the Northwest. He is Editor-in-Chief of Northwest Travel & Life magazine. Allen serves as Co-chair of Travel & Worlds, an annual travel writers conference held in the Northwest.

He also donates his considerable expertise to participate on the Board of Directors for International Food, Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA,) and Allen has served as Vice President of that organization. His travel and food writings have appeared in dozens of regional and national publications.

Allen joins us to share some favorite dining gems in the Northwest including the best of the classics as well as a selection of the new stars. Expert to hear about Seattle’s Chef Edouardo Jordan, a dual James Beard Foundation Award-winner from last year and the “Toast of the Town.”.

Victor Novak and Steven TorresThe Big Game is upon us and we’re thirsty. Time for a chat with the distinguished brewers from Golden Road Brewing Co.

We’re joined by Brewmaster Victor Novak and Anaheim Head Brewer Steven Torres. Clean, crisp lagers perhaps deserve more respect. We’ll talk about it including Helles, Pils, Dortmunder and more…

Also, an update on their experiment with Et Tu, Brut-Tea, a Brut IPA.

Sammy MonsourBring on the Southern hospitality this “Big Game” Sunday at Preux & Proper in Downtown Los Angeles. Keeping the Southern theme, as Super Bowl LIII takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, there is perhaps no better place or a more Southern home on the West Coast to gather for this all-American tradition.

Featuring 4 TV’s, there is room for everyone to find a good seat and cheer on the two championing teams. We’re, of course, partial to our own L.A. Rams who played for 15 years at Angel Stadium before moving to Saint Louis.

Kickoff this Sunday Funday with Sunday Brunch served from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. and stay for the epic game. Begin with a Wakey Wakey Bloody Mary prepared with bacon-infused vodka, Smog City Little Bo’ Pils, Blackstrap Worcestershire, hickory smoked black salt, sharp cheddar, pepperoni, cherry tomato and house-pickled okra.

Contemplate Executive Chef Sammy Monsour’s sweet and savory Fried Chicken & Waffles brunch special made with Mary’s Free-Range Chicken breast, buttermilk cornbread waffle, honey, pecans, and butter of course, lots of butter.

Preux & Proper wants the fun to continue “all day long” so they will be offering Happy Hour from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Barroom and the upstairs Proper Dining Hall while also shucking and serving $1 Oysters, $1 Wings and Handcrafted Pitchers of Cocktails inspired by the two competing Big Game teams ($45 each) which serve up to four guests.

If guests are still hungry for more, they can indulge in Preux & Proper’s tantalizing Southern Barroom Eats such as the Dungeness Crab Hushpuppies served with house bourbon barrel-aged green hot sauce, boil spice and charred poblano butter, or make the entire team happy with a Deep Dish Biscuit Dough Pizza like the Paulie’s Pomegranate-Habanero B.B.Q. Pork with smoked red onions and Tillamook cheddar.

Preux & Proper will be open for The Big Game on Sunday, February 3rd, 2019 for Sunday Brunch from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m., Happy Hour from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sunday Supper from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm; 840 South Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015; 213.896.0090.

Proprietor Joshua Kopel and Executive Chef Sammy Monsour kick off The Big Game festivities for us.

Rob Croxall and Thomas KelleyWe’ve been enthusiastically following the El Segundo Brewing Co. in El Segundo since the beginning, and this year they will be celebrating their 8th Anniversary. A wonderful entrepreneurial success story. The craft beer from “Mayberry by the Sea” is now available all over California and also in Portland, Oregon.

They were one of the first craft breweries in the South Bay and are particularly known for their award-winning, hop-centric brews. Just opened a short walk from the brewery is the family-friendly, ESBC The Slice and Pint.

It’s 18” hand-tossed or 8” x 12” pan pizza. Available by the slice, too.

Also meatballs, baked garlic knots, wings, Calamari strips and salads.

Expect a wide selection of rotating ESBC’s styles available on tap.

“The Slice & Pint is locally focused and environmentally responsible. We partner with vendors who share the same values. We support local, independent farmers for our produce whenever possible. If we can make it in-house, we’re going to do that…simple as that.”

Proprietors Rob Croxall and Thomas Kelley tap the keg for us.

ESBC has a Tap Room at The Brewery on Main Street in El Segundo. All available styles can be tasted, and purchased there. The beer doesn’t get any fresher…

ESBC’s Steve Austin’s Broken Skull IPA has developed a beer geek following. It’s an “India Pale Ale designed by Steve Austin and ESBC for the working man and woman. It features Citra, Cascade, and Chinook hops to deliver big flavor with an easy finish.” We’ll get the history…

We’ll also discuss some of ESBC’s flagship beers including Citra and Mayberry IPA.

Proprietors Rob Croxall and Thomas Kelley continue.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoCo-Host Chef Andrew Gruel joins us from the road with another informative segment of “Ask the Chef.” It’s of considerable value to have a real, working chef in our radio kitchen! With the monetary enticement from a major credit card company some restaurants are experimenting with going cashless. Is it really a good idea for right now? We’ll revisit this controversial subject that generates passionate opinions!

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: John Tarpoff, Niman Ranch’s Vice President of Beef, “The Steak Whisperer”
Segment Three: Travel & Food Journalist Allen Cox, Editor-in-Chief, Northwest Travel & Life magazine
Segment Four: Brewmaster Victor Novak, Anaheim Head Brewer Steven Torres, Golden Road Brewing Co.
Segment Five: Preux & Proper’s Joshua Kopel and Chef Sammy Monsour, Downtown Los Angeles
Segment Six: El Segundo Brewing Co’s Rob Croxall and Thomas Kelley Part One
Segment Seven: El Segundo Brewing Co’s Rob Croxall and Thomas Kelley Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Show 210, February 11, 2017: Show Preview with Andy Harris

9th annual Pechanga Chocolate Decadence and Wine FestivalWe’re live on Saturday from the 9th Annual Pechanga Wine Festival and Chocolate Decadence. It’s a benefit for Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley. A few hundred of the finest vintages from Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Temecula, France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand and beyond are available for the tasting. Also on the menu are a variety of impressive tastes from the award-winning chefs of Pechanga Resort & Casino.

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s totally decadent show with Co-Host Andy Harris. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

Friday, February 10th is Chocolate Decadence at Pechanga. An incredible array of sinful chocolates and pastries are featured from the bakeshops of Pechanga’s Executive Pastry Chef, Jean-Jacques Granet. Chef Jean-Jacques puts down his whisk briefly to join us.

Wilson Creek Winery is a family-owned winery in the heart of Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country known for its quality wines and warm hospitality. The winery features a welcoming tasting room, full-service restaurant with vineyard view dining and expansive patio, creek side picnic area, indoor and outdoor conference and event spaces, romantic wedding venue and exclusive retreat accommodations. We’ll uncork it all with Winemaker Gus Vizgirda.

The Great Oak Steakhouse at Pechanga is one of the most highly regarded fine dining restaurants in the Inland Empire. It’s premium seafood, 100 per cent Prime Angus beef, and an exceptional wine cellar to match. The Great Oaks’ Manager, Alex Pena (who started at Pechanga 13 years ago as a server), is our guest.

Pechanga is well along with an ambitious $285 million expansion of the Hotel and all other guest amenities on the property with the exception of the Casino facilities. A new 2,400 space parking garage has just opened as the first part of the enhancements. Pechanga’s Digital Marketing Manager, Sean Macready fills us in.

Chef Marlene Moore is Pechanga’s two-time defending chili champ. She oversees all the food in the always busy Temptations Food Walk, Bingo Hall and the Poker Room. We’ll chat with Chef Marlene about what’s new on her menus.

We love inspirational entrepreneurial food success stories. For Melba Artea (and her husband Steve) of Crown City Toffee it all started with a family recipe for toffee (with chocolate & nuts) and a pressing need to provide more financial resources for her Family. Crown City Toffee is part of the Pechanga Wine Festival. We’ll get the full story on her popular toffee line that started in her home kitchen.

Temecula Valley has become a popular destination for both day visitors and longer stays, too. Temecula-based food, wine & travel journalists, Susan & Todd Montgomery, provide the local perspective. Sue is on the Board of Directors (also the Treasurer) of the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association.

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