Show 522, April 22, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

What’s a new season of Angels Baseball without a home run of new food items to contemplate and savor. Joining us to make us incredibly hungry is new Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe of Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium. We’re chatting about what’s new in the concession stands, at Brewery X, and the Premium Suites. Angel Stadium also has an in-house pastry chef. Think fresh-baked brownie bites and oversized caramel (Granny Smith) apples! It’s everything from the Out-of-the-Park Dog to the juicy BX Burger on at Brewery X.

When we last visited Luchador Brewing Co. they were just operating their original craft brewery and restaurant in Chino Hills. A new location in Cathedral City joined the collection last year.
“Co-owner Brent Miller was inspired by the nostalgia of the Luchador wrestling he watched as a child and co-owner Jaime Benson had strong connections to both Chino Hills and the Coachella Valley, and thus, Luchador Brewing Co was born. The flagship location in Chino Hills opened its doors in March 2020 & their second location, Cathedral City in the Coachella Valley, opened in August 2022. Coming soon: LBC Distribution Center in Banning, CA.” Restaurateur Brent Miller joins us in-studio to tap the keg on Luchador Brewing Co.

“As a former professional athlete and a self- proclaimed health junkie Cristina Kown and Christian Gerloff were always trying to keep up with the latest health trends and best new wellness products. But when they started looking closely at labels and saw the amount of artificial ingredients, sugar, coloring and junk that was going into drinks that were made “healthy and natural” they just knew that they could create something better. Christina and Christian set out to make drinks that tasted great and could actually be helpful in supporting wellness. They had to be as clean as possible and contain real and organic ingredients. Their drinks had to contain meaningful levels of nutrition- not just buzz words on a label. And so, the idea for all Phenoms was born.” All Phenoms’ Cristina Kown and Christian Gerloff join us to pull the tab on all Phenoms sparkling functional beverages for us.

SoCalGas is hosting the 10th Annual SoCalGas Foodservice Equipment Expo (2 days) on Tuesday, April 25th and Wednesday, April 26th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the SoCalGas Energy Resource Center in Downey. “With no-cost registration, the 10th annual Foodservice Equipment Expo provides an opportunity to Reconnect, Rebuild, and Innovate at one of the industry’s largest West Coast showcases of natural gas and energy-efficient commercial foodservice equipment. Leading industry manufacturers will display and demonstrate their brands as attendees visit booths and live-action cooking stations, sample artisan foods cooked on a variety of natural gas equipment, network, and learn about available rebates.” SoCalGas Co.’s Gina Christian (Foodservice Technical Specialist) and William Morris (Senior Foodservice Program Advisor) are our guests providing all the details.

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 of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. If servers (middle-income earners at best) at full-service restaurants didn’t have it rough already coming back after the Pandemic there is a new force of concern out there to contend with. The IRS has a new campaign out there to aggressively audit servers looking at their gratuities. Hardly going after the possible big ticket tax cheats as promised. Chef Andrew explains.

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

Show 522, April 22, 2023: Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe, Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium Part One

Dennis Radcliffe of Legends Hospitality

What’s a new season of Angels Baseball without a home run of new food items to contemplate and savor. Joining us to make us incredibly hungry is new Executive Chef of Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium, Dennis Radcliffe.

We’ll be chatting about what’s new in the concession stands, at Brewery X, and the Premium Suites. Angel Stadium also has an in-house pastry chef. Think fresh-baked brownie bites and oversized caramel (Granny Smith) apples!

It’s everything from the Out-of-the-Park Dog to the BX Burger on an OC Baking Co bun at Brewery X.

Also the Barbacoa Burrito and the California Steak Board in the Suites. A whole lot lot of deliciousness at the ready.

Show 522, April 22, 2023: Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe, Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium Part Two

Dennis Radcliffe of Legends Hospitality

What’s a new season of Angels Baseball without a home run of new food items to contemplate and savor. Continuing with us to make us incredibly hungry is new Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe of Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium.

We’ll be chatting about what’s new in the concession stands, at Brewery X, and the Premium Suites. Angel Stadium also has an in-house pastry chef. Think fresh-baked brownie bites and oversized caramel (Granny Smith) apples!

It’s everything from the Out-of-the-Park Dog to the BX Burger at Brewery X. 

It’s everything from the Out-of-the-Park Dog to the BX Burger (with a special bun from OC Baking Co.) at Brewery X.

Also the Barbacoa Burrito (with a tortilla from Tortillas Mejorado) and the California Steak Board with Smoked Tr-Tip and Twice Baked Dutch Red & Dutch Yellow Potatoes from Melissa’s in the Suites. Clearly a whole lot of deliciousness at the ready.

April 22: Angels Baseball Food, Luchador Brewing Co., All Phenoms Sparking Functional Beverages, SoCal Gas Foodservice Equipment Expo

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe, Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium Part One
Segment Three: Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe, Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium Part Two
Segment Four: Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills and Cathedral City with Co-Founder Brent Miller Part One
Segment Five: Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills and Cathedral City with Co-Founder Brent Miller Part Two
Segment Six: All Phenoms Sparkling Functional Beverages with Founders Cristina Kown and Christian Gerloff
Segment Seven: 10th Annual SoCalGas Foodservice Equipment Expo and Restaurants Care Resilience Fund Grants
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel (Co-Host) of Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach with “Ask the Chef”

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

What’s a new season of Angels Baseball without a home run of new food items to contemplate and savor. Joining us to make us incredibly hungry is new Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe and Pastry Chef Christy Petro of Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium. We’ll be chatting about what’s new in the concession stands, at Brewery X, and the Premium Suites. Angel Stadium also has an in-house pastry chef. Think fresh-baked brownie bites and oversized caramel (Granny Smith) apples! It’s everything from the Out-of-the-Park Dog to the juicy BX Burger at Brewery X.

When we last visited Luchador Brewing Co. they were just operating their original craft brewery and restaurant in Chino Hills. A new location in Cathedral City has joined the collection last year.

Co-owner Brent Miller was inspired by the nostalgia of the Luchador wrestling he watched as a child and co-owner Jaime Benson had strong connections to both Chino Hills and the Coachella Valley, and thus, Luchador Brewing Co was born. The flagship location in Chino Hills opened its doors in March 2020 & their second location, Cathedral City in the Coachella Valley, opened in August 2022. Coming soon: LBC Distribution Center in Banning, CA.” Restaurateur Brent Miller joins us in-studio to tap the keg on Luchador Brewing Co.

“As a former professional athlete and a self- proclaimed health junkie Cristina Kown and Christian Gerloff were always trying to keep up with the latest health trends and best new wellness products. But when they started looking closely at labels and saw the amount of artificial ingredients, sugar, coloring and junk that was going into drinks that were made “healthy and natural” they just knew that they could create something better. Christina and Christian set out to make drinks that tasted great and could actually be helpful in supporting wellness. They had to be as clean as possible and contain real and organic ingredients. Their drinks had to contain meaningful levels of nutrition- not just buzz words on a label. And so, the idea for all Phenoms was born.” All Phenoms’ Cristina Kown and Christian Gerloff join us to pull the tab on all Phenoms sparkling functional beverages for us.

SoCalGas is hosting the 10th Annual SoCalGas Foodservice Equipment Expo (2 days) on Tuesday, April 25thand Wednesday, April 26th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the SoCalGas Energy Resource Center in Downey. “With no-cost registration, the 10th annual Foodservice Equipment Expo provides an opportunity to Reconnect, Rebuild, and Innovate at one of the industry’s largest West Coast showcases of natural gas and energy-efficient commercial foodservice equipment. Leading industry manufacturers will display and demonstrate their brands as attendees visit booths and live-action cooking stations, sample artisan foods cooked on a variety of natural gas equipment, network, and learn about available rebates.” SoCalGas Co.’s Gina Christian (Foodservice Technical Specialist) and William Morris (Senior Foodservice Program Advisor) are our guests providing all the details.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. If servers (middle-income earners at best) at full-service restaurants didn’t have it rough already coming back after the Pandemic there is a new force of concern out there to contend with. The IRS has a new campaign out there to aggressively audit servers looking at their gratuities. Hardly going after the possible big ticket tax cheats as promised. Chef Andrew explains.

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

Dennis Radcliffe of Legends Hospitality

What’s a new season of Angels Baseball without a home run of new food items to contemplate and savor. Joining us to make us incredibly hungry is new Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe and Pastry Chef Christy Petro of Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium.

We’ll be chatting about what’s new in the concession stands, at Brewery X, and the Premium Suites. Angel Stadium also has an in-house pastry chef. Think fresh-baked brownie bites and oversized caramel (Granny Smith) apples!

It’s everything from the Out-of-the-Park Dog to the BX Burger at Brewery X. 

Also the Barbacoa Burrito and the California Steak Board in the Suites. A whole lot lot of deliciousness at the ready.

Brent Miller of Luuchador Brewing

When we last visited Luchador Brewing Co. they were just operating their original craft brewery and restaurant in Chino Hills. A new location in Cathedral City has joined the collection last year.

“Co-owner Brent Miller was inspired by the nostalgia of the Luchador wrestling he watched as a child and co-owner Jaime Benson had strong connections to both Chino Hills and the Coachella Valley, and thus, Luchador Brewing Co was born. The flagship location in Chino Hills opened its doors in March 2020 & their second location, Cathedral City in the Coachella Valley, opened in August 2022. Coming soon: LBC Distribution Center in Banning, CA.”

“Brewer Paul Marquez and his team head up Luchador’s custom brew system, made up of eight five-barrel brew tanks in Chino Hills and four ten-barrel tanks in Cathedral City. LBC has 15 rotating taps featuring a wide selection of beers & seltzers, all made in-house, as well as a solid selection of wine by the glass and bottle.

Luchador’s in-house food truck El Camión turns the brewery food truck tradition on its head and serves up delicious Mexican street food small plates, Tijuana-style. Specialties include Aguachile, Gorditas, Tortas, Tacos, Birria Ramen, Luchador Dog and a Mexi-Cali Cheesesteak. Growlers, crowlers, and their full menu are available for take-out. Check LBC’s beer and food links for our current selection.

Brent Miller joins us in-studio to tap the keg on Luchador Brewing Co. and also preview their upcoming Cinco de Mayo festivities.

Christian Gerloff and Christina Kown of All Phenoms

“As a former professional athlete and a self-proclaimed health junkie Cristina Kown and Christian Gerloff were always trying to keep up with the latest health trends and best new wellness products. But when they started looking closely at labels and saw the amount of artificial ingredients, sugar, coloring and junk that was going into drinks that were made “healthy and natural” they just knew that they could create something better.”

“Christina and Christian set out to make drinks that tasted great and could actually be helpful in supporting wellness. They had to be as clean as possible and contain real and organic ingredients. Their drinks had to contain meaningful levels of nutrition- not just buzz words on a label. And so, the idea for all Phenoms was born.”

“Christina and Christian crafted three delicious organic fruit infused sparkling waters to enjoy anytime of day. And each of all Phenoms drinks contain a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, botanicals, adaptogens and nootropics crafted to make getting the best in wellness a little bit easier.”

“Try Daily (sparling Mango Pineapple) for simple nutrition and daily wellness. Superboost (sparking Strawberry Mint) supports immune health and hydration and Motivate (sparking Citrus Ginger) is crafted for better energy and focus.”

All Phenoms also has partnered with 1% For The Planet, because we believe that all businesses need to do their part in supporting responsible environmental practices.

All Phenoms’ Cristina Kown and Christian Gerloff join us to pull the tab on all Phenoms sparkling beverages for us.

Gina Christian of SoCal Gas

SoCalGas is hosting the 10th Annual SoCalGas Foodservice Equipment Expo (2 days) on Tuesday, April 25thand Wednesday, April 26th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the SoCalGas Energy Resource Center in Downey. “With no-cost registration, the 10th annual Foodservice Equipment Expo provides an opportunity to Reconnect, Rebuild, and Innovate at one of the industry’s largest West Coast showcases of natural gas and energy-efficient commercial foodservice equipment. Leading industry manufacturers will display and demonstrate their brands as attendees visit booths and live-action cooking stations, sample artisan foods cooked on a variety of natural gas equipment, network, and learn about available rebates.” SoCalGas Co.’s Gina Christian (Foodservice Technical Specialist) and William Morris (Senior Foodservice Program Advisor) are our guests providing all the details.

“Grant applications for the California Restaurant Foundation‘s (CRF) Restaurants Care Resilience Fund are open now to May 7, making $5,000 grants available to 177 restaurants in SoCalGas’ service area, with a total of 360 grants available statewide for qualifying independent restaurants. The grants will go towards technology adoption, equipment upgrades, employee onboarding and retention, or unforeseen hardships. This latest round of grants follows SoCalGas’ $1 million donation earlier this year to the foundation’s Restaurants Care Resilience Fund to support independently owned restaurants. Together, this brings this year’s fund total to $2.1 million, making it the largest Restaurants Care® Resilience Fund to date since the program started in 2021.”

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

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 of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

If hard-working servers (middle-income earners at best) at full-service restaurants didn’t have it rough already coming back after the Pandemic there is a new force of concern out there to contend with. The IRS has a fresh campaign out there to aggressively audit servers looking at their gratuities. Hardly going after the possible big ticket tax cheats as promised. This impacts the restaurants, too. Chef Andrew explains.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe, Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium Part One
Segment Three: Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe, Legends Hospitality at Angel Stadium Part Two
Segment Four: Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills and Cathedral City with Co-Founder Brent Miller Part One
Segment Five: Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills and Cathedral City with Co-Founder Brent Miller Part Two
Segment Six: All Phenoms Sparkling Functional Beverages with Founders Cristina Kown and Christian Gerloff
Segment Seven: 10th Annual SoCalGas Foodservice Equipment Expo and Restaurants Care Resilience Fund Grants
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel (Co-Host) of Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach with “Ask the Chef”

Show 473, May 7, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Mother’s Day best wishes to all the stellar Moms out there…Should be more than one celebration annually!

The Matzo Project, a discovery at the recent Natural Products Expo West at the Anaheim Convention Center, introduces carefully made, artfully packaged, legitimately scrumptious matzo to a stale, overlooked corner of the food marketplace. While it currently languishes in the “Ethnic” food isle The Matzo Project’s hope is to help matzo claim its rightful spot in the cracker isle right next to Rosemary Pita Chips and the Gorgonzola Fig Toast.” The Matzo Project’s product line includes Matzo Flats, Matzo Chips, a Matzo Ball Soup Kit and a Matzo Ball Mix.

The Matzo Project Co-founders Ashley Albert and Kevin Rodriguez join us.

“The wines of AOC Ventoux in the Rhone Valley of France are made at the foot of Mont-Ventoux, which culminates at 1912 meters, offering a unique freshness and balance. It has been an AOC since 1973. It is the only appellation with vineyards spreading over two Regional Natural Parks. It is also recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve. Ventoux is first and foremost defined by its cooler climate : the influence of the mountain creates a wide variation of temperatures between days and nights.” Noted wine journalist Jonathan Cristaldi is our well-informed guide to Ventoux AOC.

Sampling the creative variety of foods at Angel Stadium is always part of the game experience. A real Executive Chef oversees all of this. New this year is expanded In-Seat Service in various parts of the Big A. Be reminded it’s again cashless for food, beverage and merchandise.

We’ll find out what’s on the menu for In-Seat Dining, at Diamond Club and in the Suites. Think BBQ Beef Brisket… Also on the menu are a preview of the wide variety of exclusive Halo merchandise items. There are unique (and limited edition) Shohei Ohtani items. Our guides to all this deliciousness are Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Merchandise Buyer Roman Avila.

Chef Andrew Gruel is on the road so Co-Host Andy Harris covers “Ask the Chef.” Andy shares last-minute ideas for inspired Mother’s Day dining (Mother’s Day Brunch at Smorgasburg LA at ROW DTLA) and previews the very special South Coast Plaza 55th Anniversary Dinner on June 5th to benefit the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.) The headlining chefs for the “O.C. Chefs: The Next Generation” evening are Tony Esnault of the Michelin-starred Knife Pleat and Amar Santana (a C-CAP alum) of Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana.

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

Show 473, May 7, 2022: Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Roman Avila – Retail Operations Manager for Legends at Angel Stadium Part One

Hugo Miranda

Sampling the creative variety of foods at Angel Stadium is always part of the game experience. A real Executive Chef oversees all of this. New this year is expanded In-Seat Service in various parts of the Big A. Be reminded it’s again cashless for food, beverage and merchandise.

Also new is Brewery X in right field on the Club Level. In addition to the limited- edition craft beers the food menu includes a Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich on a Black Sesame Seed Egg Bun with Roasted Aioli, Asian Citrus Coleslaw, Gochujang Sauce, House Made Kimchi and served with House Fries, and a House-Made Jumbo Pretzel with Jalapeno White Cheddar Cheese Sauce with a Honey-Beer Mustard Sauce.

We’ll find out what’s on the menu for In-Seat Dining, at Diamond Club and in the Suites. Think BBQ Beef Brisket for openers…

Also on the menu is an introduction to the variety of collectable Halo merchandise items. There are unique (and limited edition) Shohei Ohtani items. The Main Team Store at Angel Stadium carries exclusive items that you can’t buy anywhere else. The Team Store is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (On Game Days the Team Store closes 3 hours before the gates open to prepare for the game.)

Our guides to all this deliciousness are Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Merchandise Buyer Roman Avila.

Show 473, May 7, 2022: Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Roman Avila – Retail Operations Manager for Legends at Angel Stadium Part Two

Hugo Miranda

Sampling the creative variety of foods at Angel Stadium is always part of the game experience. A real Executive Chef oversees all of this. New this year is expanded In-Seat Service in various parts of the Big A. Be reminded it’s again cashless for food, beverage and merchandise.

Also new is Brewery X in right field on the Club Level. In addition to the limited- edition craft beers the food menu includes a Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich on a Black Sesame Seed Egg Bun with Roasted Aioli, Asian Citrus Coleslaw, Gochujang Sauce, House Made Kimchi and served with House Fries, and a House-Made Jumbo Pretzel with Jalapeno White Cheddar Cheese Sauce with a Honey-Beer Mustard Sauce.

We’ll find out what’s on the menu for In-Seat Dining, at Diamond Club and in the Suites. Think BBQ Beef Brisket for openers…

Also on the menu is an introduction to the variety of collectable Halo merchandise items. There are unique (and limited edition) Shohei Ohtani items. The Main Team Store at Angel Stadium carries exclusive items that you can’t buy anywhere else. The Team Store is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (On Game Days the Team Store closes 3 hours before the gates open to prepare for the game.)

Our continuing guides to all this deliciousness are Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Merchandise Buyer Roman Avila.

May 7: Matzo Project, Jonathan Cristaldi on Ventoux AOC, Angels Baseball Food

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: The Matzo Project, Brooklyn, NY Part One
Segment Three: The Matzo Project, Brooklyn, NY Part Two
Segment Four: Ventoux AOC, Rhone Valley, France with Jonathan Cristaldi, Wine Journalist Part One
Segment Five: Ventoux AOC, Rhone Valley, France with Jonathan Cristaldi, Wine Journalist Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Roman Avila – Retail Operations Manager for Legends at Angel Stadium Part One
Segment Seven: Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Roman Avila – Retail Operations Manager for Legends at Angel Stadium Part Two
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Producer Andy Covering for Chef Andrew

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

“The Matzo Project, a discovery at the recent Natural Products Expo West at the Anaheim Convention Center, introduces carefully made, artfully packaged, legitimately scrumptious matzo to a stale, overlooked corner of the food marketplace. While it currently languishes in the “Ethnic” food isle The Matzo Project’s hope is to help matzo claim its rightful spot in the cracker isle right next to Rosemary Pita Chips and the Gorgonzola Fig Toast. The Matzo Project’s product line includes Matzo Flats, Matzo Chips, a Matzo Ball Soup Kit and a Matzo Ball Mix.

The Matzo Project Co-founders Ashley Albert and Kevin Rodriguez join us.

“The wines of AOC Ventoux in the Rhone Valley of France are made at the foot of Mont-Ventoux, which culminates at 1912 meters, offering a unique freshness and balance. It has been an AOC since 1973. It is the only appellation with vineyards spreading over two Regional Natural Parks. It is also recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve. Ventoux is first and foremost defined by its cooler climate : the influence of the mountain creates a wide variation of temperatures between days and nights.” Noted wine journalist Jonathan Cristaldi is our well-informed guide to Ventoux AOC.

Sampling the creative variety of foods at Angel Stadium is always part of the game experience. A real Executive Chef oversees all of this. New this year is expanded In-Seat Service in various parts of the Big A. Be reminded it’s again cashless for food, beverage and merchandise.

We’ll find out what’s on the menu for In-Seat Dining, at Diamond Club and in the Suites. Think BBQ Beef Brisket… Also on the menu are a preview of the wide variety of exclusive Halo merchandise items. There are unique (and limited edition) Shohei Ohtani items. Our guides to all this deliciousness are Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Merchandise Buyer Roman Avila.

Chef Andrew Gruel is on the road so Co-Host Andy Harris covers “Ask the Chef.” Andy shares last-minute ideas for inspired Mother’s Day dining and previews the very special South Coast Plaza 55th Anniversary Dinner on June 5th to benefit the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.) The headlining chefs for the “O.C. Chefs: The Next Generation” evening are Tony Esnault of the Michelin-starred Knife Pleat and Amar Santana (a C-CAP alum) of Vacaand Broadway by Amar Santana.

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

Ashley Albert and Kevin Rodriguez of the Matzo Project

The Matzo Project, a discovery at the recent Natural Products Expo West at the Anaheim Convention Center, introduces carefully made, artfully packaged, legitimately scrumptious matzo to a stale, overlooked corner of the food marketplace.”

“Summer Camp friends Ashley Albert and Kevin Rodriguez set out to bake a new take on the culturally beloved, but traditionally flavorless box of matzo. Instead, they created a super-snappy, extra-sturdy, crazy-versatile cracker that goes with virtually every single thing they’ve tried to put on it.”

“Ashley had been tinkering with the idea of updating matzo for nearly 20 years and casually mentioned it to Kevin when they were charting about him making a change. He began experimenting in his kitchen.”

“The two would taste test Kevin’s recipes while Ashley started sketching out plans for The Matzo Project’s branding and packaging. That work led to their muse – the grandmother on their box – asking “Would it kill you to try something new?”

“After selling out their first trial batch in a single day, the two moved out of their tiny commissary kitchen and into a larger Kosher bakery in Brooklyn to take their unleavened show on the road.”

“While it currently languishes in the “Ethnic” food isle The Matzo Project’s hope is to help matzo claim its rightful spot in the cracker isle right next to Rosemary Pita Chips and the Gorgonzola Fig Toast.”

The Matzo Project’s product line includes Matzo Flats, Matzo Chips, a Matzo Ball Soup Kit and a Matzo Ball Mix.

“The Bubbe” of The Matzo Project has given Ashley and Albert permission to join us. She is thinking we’re looking skinny…

Sommelier and Wine Journalist Jonathan Cristaldi

“The wines of AOC Ventoux in the Rhone Valley of France are made at the foot of Mont-Ventoux, which culminates at 1912 meters, offering a unique freshness and balance. It has been an AOC since 1973. It is the only appellation with vineyards spreading over two Regional Natural Parks. It is also recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve. Ventoux is first and foremost defined by its cooler climate: the influence of the mountain creates a wide variation of temperatures between days and nights.”

It covers some 14,000 acres of vineyards with the resulting wines being 54 per cent Red, 38 per cent Rose and 8 per cent White. There are 150 wineries in the AOC representing private ownership, co-ops and negociants.

“Vines have been grown in the Ventoux area since ancient times; archaeological digs around the village of Mazan uncovered a potter’s workshop dating from the 1st century BC, where the first known wine amphorae in France were produced.”

“The vineyards flourished during the Avignon Papacy, and over the centuries Ventoux wines, alongside other leading French wines, were served to the kings of France at the Royal Court.”

Wine journalist Jonathan Cristaldi is our well-informed guide to Ventoux AOC.

Hugo Miranda

Sampling the creative variety of foods at Angel Stadium is always part of the game experience. A real Executive Chef oversees all of this. New this year is expanded In-Seat Service in various parts of the Big A. Be reminded it’s again cashless for food, beverage and merchandise.

Also new is Brewery X in right field on the Club Level. In addition to the limited- edition craft beers the food menu includes a Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich on a Black Sesame Seed Egg Bun with Roasted Aioli, Asian Citrus Coleslaw, Gochujang Sauce, House Made Kimchi and served with House Fries, and a House-Made Jumbo Pretzel with Jalapeno White Cheddar Cheese Sauce with a Honey-Beer Mustard Sauce.

We’ll find out what’s on the menu for In-Seat Dining, at Diamond Club and in the Suites. Think BBQ Beef Brisket for openers…

Also on the menu is an introduction to the variety of collectable Halo merchandise items. There are unique (and limited edition) Shohei Ohtani items.

Our guides to all this deliciousness are Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Merchandise Buyer Roman Avila.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

Chef Andrew Gruel is on the road so Co-Host Andy Harris covers “Ask the Chef.” Andy shares last-minute ideas for inspired Mother’s Day dining and previews the very special South Coast Plaza 55th Anniversary Dinner on June 5th to benefit the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.)

The headlining chefs for the “O.C. Chefs: The Next Generation” evening are Tony Esnault of the Michelin-starred Knife Pleat and Amar Santana (a C-CAP alum) of Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: The Matzo Project, Brooklyn, NY Part One
Segment Three: The Matzo Project, Brooklyn, NY Part Two
Segment Four: Ventoux AOC, Rhone Valley, France with Jonathan Cristaldi, Wine Journalist Part One
Segment Five: Ventoux AOC, Rhone Valley, France with Jonathan Cristaldi, Wine Journalist Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Roman Avila – Retail Operations Manager for Legends at Angel Stadium Part One
Segment Seven: Executive Chef Hugo Miranda and Roman Avila – Retail Operations Manager for Legends at Angel Stadium Part Two
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Producer Andy Covering for Chef Andrew

Show 470, April 16, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Easter, Passover and Ramadan holiday good wishes to all.

Chef Robert Biebrich is the Senior Executive Chef for Legends at SoFi Stadium at Hollywood Park in Inglewood. Robert was previously the Executive Chef right here at Angel Stadium. Chef Robert and his culinary team were responsible earlier this year for the elevated food and beverage served to 70,000 VIP Guests at the Super Bowl. We’ll meet him.

Jenny Goldfarb, aka Mrs. Goldfarb, is the Founder & CEO of Unreal Deli, the country’s leading provider of premium plant-based deli meats. Unreal Deli is meat from a (truly happy) farm, not a factory, made with locally-sourced ingredients you can pronounce. With no experience in the food sector, let alone launching a company, Jenny gave birth to this rapidly expanding business in her tiny kitchen while pregnant with her 3rd child. Her great-grandfather, Morris Gross, immigrated to NYC in 1907 and worked his way up from dishwasher to owning several NY delis.” Jenny Goldfarb is our guest with an overstuffed Unreal Deli Corn’d Beef Reuben on corn rye in hand.

Alma Rosa Winery is situated on the north-facing slopes of the Santa Rosa Hills in Santa Barbara County. The wines are layered, vibrant and balanced, and they reflect the special terroir of the Sta. Rita Hills, which benefits from cool Pacific Ocean breezes funneled inland through the unique transverse mountain range of the region. Founder and Winery Ambassador Richard Sanford planted the first Pinot Noir in the region in 1971. He provides invaluable experience in guiding Alma Rosa’s focus on excellence and balance in all Alma Rosa does. Winemaker Samra Morris (born and raised in Bosnia) brings sensitivity and technique inspired by great winemakers in California and Burgundy to wine growing and wine-making.” Winemaker Samra Morris joins us to gently pull the cork on all that is Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Farmed seafood, raised sustainably, is a good path for the United States to increase domestic production. Farming fish has moved inland from ocean aquaculture which is a positive development. Chef Andrew will explain the benefits.

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

Show 470, April 16, 2022: Robert Biebrich, Senior Executive Chef, Legends at SoFi Stadium, Hollywood Park Inglewood Part One

Robert Biebrich

Chef Robert Biebrich is the Senior Executive Chef for SoFi Stadium at Hollywood Park in Inglewood. Robert was previously the Executive Chef here at Angel Stadium. Chef Robert and his culinary team were responsible earlier this year for the food and beverage served to 70,000 VIP Guests at the Super Bowl. Talk about a challenge. We’ll meet him.

“The culinary program at SoFi was created by James Beard-Award winning Chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo in partnership with Legends, which operates the stadium’s culinary program under the direction of Legends Senior Executive Chef Robert Biebrich and Legends Vice President of Culinary Innovation Gretchen Beaumarchais. The goal was to reimagine the stadium culinary experience.”

SoFi Stadium’s culinary program is based on four core geographic concepts. These include Fairfax Avenue (Burgers, Hot Dogs and Sandwiches,) San Vicente Blvd. (Italian,) Sawtelle Blvd. (Fried Chicken and Asian) and Olvera Street (Mexican.) Each is grounded in local flavors and features creative combinations. There will be more enhancements for the upcoming 2022 Football Season.

“SoFi Stadium’s state-of-the-art amenities and indoor-outdoor design are incorporated into the presentation of its innovative food program to create a memorable experience. The stadium’s kitchens offer open-air spaces with breathtaking views of the city. Their expansive design features clear glass, with each kitchen placed in a location that always has sightlines to the field, videoboard or seating bowl. Fans are now able to leave their seats for food and drink and not worry about missing the big play.”

“The clear glass in SoFi Stadium’s kitchens allows food to be prepared in front of guest’s eyes. In a first for stadium design, SoFi Stadium features 100 percent live-fire kitchens. This allows for the stadium to produce food in each and every one of its kitchens.”