Show 356, January 18, 2020: Show Preview with Co-Host & Executive Producer Andy Harris

Now a captivating preview of Saturday’s delectable show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will hopefully leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without you.
Cakebread Cellars in Rutherford, Napa Valley, has been a pioneering and prominent California winery since 1973. A newer venture for Cakebread is Mullan Road Cellars of Walla Walla in Washington State producing Bordeaux blends. The first release was in 2012. Bruce Cakebread, representing the 2nd generation of proud Family ownership, has worked alongside his father since the founding of the family winery in 1973 and is our guest.

Celebrity chef and restaurateur Susan Feniger is best known for creating Border Grill (Los Angeles & Las Vegas) with her business partner Mary Sue Milliken. She was also one of the first stars on Food Network. The partners have recently made their return to Santa Monica with the launch of Socalo in the Gateway Hotel. Also new to the still growing empire are two fast casual concepts, Border BBQ and Pacha Mamas located at 2nd & PCH on Long Beach. We corral Susan for a chat.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. For budding chefs is culinary school always the right path in terms of training? What does culinary school actually prepare you for upon graduation? Recent trends signal enrollment in culinary schools is perhaps on the decline. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

If you’re a serious foodie and enjoy supporting great causes you’ll relish hearing all the details of the upcoming Careers through Culinary Arts Los Angeles Winter Gala Benefit at the iconic Jonathan Town Club DTLA on Saturday evening, February 1, 2020. It’s a spectacular night honoring those exemplary chefs who inspire and mentor the C-CAP students and alumni on their path to success. The high – profile chefs cooking in the kitchen that night include Austin Cobb of The Strand House, Hilary Henderson of Cut Beverly Hills, Michael Hung of Faith & Flower, Mei Lin of Nightshade, Jason McClain of Philly Jay’s Food Truck (Executive Chef Emeritus of Jonathan Club), James Beard award-winner Sherry Yard of “The Great American Baking Show” and the entire culinary team at Jonathan Club. Joining us with all the enticing details are the Director of C-CAP L.A., Lisa Fontanesi, and Jonathan Club’s COO and General Manager, Matthew Allnatt.

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

Show 356, January 18, 2020: Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger, SOCALO, Santa Monica Part One

Susan Feniger of Socalo and Border GrillCelebrity chef and restaurateur Susan Feniger is best known for creating Border Grill (Los Angeles & Las Vegas) with her business partner Mary Sue Milliken. She was also one of the first stars on Food Network. The partners have recently made their return to Santa Monica with the launch of Socalo in the Gateway Hotel.

“Socalo serves breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner. The beachy California canteen and Mexican pub features Milliken and Feniger’s iconic balance of tradition and innovation, serving Mexican fare with a California sensibility, alongside Mexican craft beers, wines and cocktails. Socalo’s playful pops of warm colors, breezy accents, and indoor/outdoor dining atmosphere make it a go-to spot for beachgoers, businesspeople, and everyone in between.”

“The duo is known for their beloved restaurant, Border Grill, which opened in Santa Monica in 1990 and has since expanded to locations in Downtown Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Excited to open another restaurant near the coast, Feniger says, “Santa Monica has always felt like home, and we’re excited to be back in a fantastic spot for the community to grab great food and drinks.” Milliken adds, “Socalo is a culmination of everything we love about SoCal – the awesome, local ingredients and incredible neighborhood restaurants – plus our passion for Mexican flavors.””

“Inspired by the Spanish word Zócalo, meaning a central gathering place in Mexican cities, and the restaurant’s home in SoCal, Socalo offers conscientiously-sourced menu options, prepared by Executive Chef Giovanni Lopez. The restaurant provides quick counter service at breakfast, including pastries and fresh juices, as well as at lunch. The dinner menu shifts to full-service dining with raw bar offerings and an array of small plates, salads, taco selections and large plates.”

Also new to the still growing empire are two fast casual concepts, Border BBQ and Pacha Mamas located at 2nd & PCH on Long Beach.

We corral Susan for a chat.

Show 356, January 18, 2020: Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger, SOCALO, Santa Monica Part Two

Susan Feniger of Socalo and Border GrillCelebrity chef and restaurateur Susan Feniger is best known for creating Border Grill (Los Angeles & Las Vegas) with her business partner Mary Sue Milliken. She was also one of the first stars on Food Network. The partners have recently made their return to Santa Monica with the launch of Socalo in the Gateway Hotel.

Also new to the still growing empire are two fast casual concepts, Border BBQ and Pacha Mamas located at 2nd & PCH on Long Beach.

Border BBQ offers a variety of bowls, wraps, and salads full of flavor and filled with slow smoked Texas-style brisket, mesquite smoked chicken, pulled pork and smoked tofu, in addition to housemade lemonades, beertails and wine (coming soon!). Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken utilize seasonal, locally grown ingredients, organic rice and beans, and meats and poultry without antibiotics or hormones. At Border BBQ, slow smoked barbecue meets fresh Southern California ingredients for an easy to eat and affordable option that can be enjoyed on the go.

“At Pacha Mamas, Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken serve freshly composed ceviches and seared skewers a la plancha with bold Peruvian and coastal inspired sauces. Pacha Mamas offers conscientiously-sourced fare, using the finest locally grown and organic ingredients, sustainable seafood, and meats and poultry without antibiotics or hormones, alongside housemade lemonades and sangrias (coming soon!) in a casual and comfortable outdoor setting. Food enthusiasts of all types – vegan, vegetarian, meat and fish lovers alike – will love our satisfying flavors and personable staff.”

Chef Susan Feniger continues…

January 18: Cakebread Cellars, Susan Feniger on Socalo and C-CAP’s Winter Gala

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host & Executive Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Bruce Cakebread, Cakebread Cellars and Mullan Road Cellars Part One
Segment Three: Bruce Cakebread, Cakebread Cellars and Mullan Road Cellars Part Two
Segment Four: Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger, SOCALO, Santa Monica Part One
Segment Five: Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger, SOCALO, Santa Monica Part Two
Segment Six: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”
Segment Seven: Preview of C-CAP’s Winter Gala Benefit Dinner Part One
Segment Eight: Preview of C-CAP’s Winter Gala Benefit Dinner Part Two

Now a captivating preview of this Saturday’s delectable show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will hopefully leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without you.

Cakebread Cellars in Rutherford, Napa Valley, has been a pioneering and prominent California winery since 1974. A newer venture for Cakebread is Mullan Road Cellars of Walla Walla in Washington State producing Bordeaux blends. The first release was in 2012. Bruce Cakebread, representing the 2nd generation of proud Family ownership, has worked alongside his father since the founding of the family winery in 1973 and is our guest.

Celebrity chef and restaurateur Susan Feniger is best known for creating Border Grill (Los Angeles & Las Vegas) with her business partner Mary Sue Milliken. She was also one of the first stars on Food Network. The partners have recently made their return to Santa Monica with the launch of Socalo in the Gateway Hotel. Also new to the still growing empire are two fast casual concepts, Border BBQ and Pacha Mamas located at 2nd & PCH on Long Beach. We corral Susan for a chat.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. For budding chefs is culinary school always the right path in terms of training ? What does culinary school actually prepare you for upon graduation? Recent trends signal enrollment in culinary schools is perhaps on the decline. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

If you’re a serious foodie and enjoy supporting great causes you’ll relish hearing all the details of the Careers through Culinary Arts Los Angeles’ Winter Gala Benefit at the iconic Jonathan Town Club DTLA on Saturday evening, February 1, 2020. It’s a spectacular night honoring those exemplary chefs who inspire and mentor the C-CAP students and alumni on their path to success. The high – profile chefs cooking in the kitchen that night include Austin Cobb of The Strand House, Hilary Henderson of Cut Beverly Hills, Michael Hung of Faith & Flower, Mei Lin of Nightshade, Jason McClain of Philly Jay’s Food Truck (Executive Chef Emeritus of Jonathan Club), James Beard award-winner Sherry Yard of “The Great American Baking Show” and the entire culinary team at Jonathan Club. Joining us with all the enticing details are the Director of C-CAP L.A., Lisa Fontanesi, and Jonathan Club’s COO and General Manager, Matthew Allnatt.

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

Bruce Cakebread of Cakebread CellarsCakebread Cellars in Rutherford, Napa Valley, has been a pioneering and prominent California winery since 1973. A newer venture for Cakebread is Mullan Road Cellars of Walla Walla in Washington State producing Bordeaux blends. The first release was in 2012.

“Bruce Cakebread, representing the 2nd generation of Family ownership, has worked alongside his father since the founding of the family winery in 1973. He officially joined the winery in 1977, and after graduating with a degree in Viticulture and Enology from the University of California at Davis, in 1979 he took over as winemaker, overseeing all vineyard and cellar operations for the next twenty years. In 2002, Bruce became the winery’s President and Chief Operations Officer, also leading international distribution efforts, and today he serves as co-owner and a board member.”

“We are very fortunate to have an excellent collection of vineyards as well as long-term relationships with some of the best growers in Napa Valley,” says Bruce. “Great vineyards, plus the fact that we’ve had only four winemakers over the past forty-five years (Jack, myself, Julianne Laks, and now Stephanie Jacobs), have allowed us to produce world-class wines of extraordinarily consistent quality and style.”

“Bruce has served on the Viticulture and Enology Executive Leadership Board at UC Davis, as a member of the Executive Committee for the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science, as a member of the Napa Valley Vintners Board—which he chaired in 2010 and 2013—and as Chair of the Napa Valley College Foundation Board.”

“Since its founding in 1973, Cakebread Cellars has developed a reputation for producing world-class wines. Its success is built on quality, consistency and continuity, characteristics which apply equally to the grapes, the wines, the people and the operation of the winery. The Cakebread family remains committed to creating fine Napa Valley wines.”

AVEO Table + Bar sat the Monarch Bay Resort in Dana Point is hosting an exclusive evening with Cakebread Cellar Vineyards. “AVEO is proud to offer its first winemaker dinner of 2020 on Thursday, January 23rd at 6 p.m. Winery co-owner and chief winemaker Bruce Cakebread will be present to connect with guests and unveil a new red blend. Executive Chef Jason Adams and Chef de Cuisine Donald Lockhart are preparing a five-course dinner paired with exclusive bottles from Cakebread Cellars including the all-new Mullen Road Blend from Columbia Valley.”

Bruce Cakebread joins us to pull the cork on Cakebread Cellars.

Susan Feniger of Socalo and Border GrillCelebrity chef and restaurateur Susan Feniger is best known for creating Border Grill (Los Angeles & Las Vegas) with her business partner Mary Sue Milliken. She was also one of the first stars on Food Network. The partners have recently made their return to Santa Monica with the launch of Socalo in the Gateway Hotel.

“Socalo serves breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner. The beachy California canteen and Mexican pub features Milliken and Feniger’s iconic balance of tradition and innovation, serving Mexican fare with a California sensibility, alongside Mexican craft beers, wines and cocktails. Socalo’s playful pops of warm colors, breezy accents, and indoor/outdoor dining atmosphere make it a go-to spot for beachgoers, businesspeople, and everyone in between.”

“The duo is known for their beloved restaurant, Border Grill, which opened in Santa Monica in 1990 and has since expanded to locations in Downtown Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Excited to open another restaurant near the coast, Feniger says, “Santa Monica has always felt like home, and we’re excited to be back in a fantastic spot for the community to grab great food and drinks.” Milliken adds, “Socalo is a culmination of everything we love about SoCal – the awesome, local ingredients and incredible neighborhood restaurants – plus our passion for Mexican flavors.””

“Inspired by the Spanish word Zócalo, meaning a central gathering place in Mexican cities, and the restaurant’s home in SoCal, Socalo offers conscientiously-sourced menu options, prepared by Executive Chef Giovanni Lopez. The restaurant provides quick counter service at breakfast, including pastries and fresh juices, as well as at lunch. The dinner menu shifts to full-service dining with raw bar offerings and an array of small plates, salads, taco selections and large plates.”

Also new to the still growing empire are two fast casual concepts, Border BBQ and Pacha Mamas located at 2nd & PCH on Long Beach.

Border BBQ offers a variety of bowls, wraps, and salads full of flavor and filled with slow smoked Texas-style brisket, mesquite smoked chicken, pulled pork and smoked tofu, in addition to housemade lemonades, beertails and wine (coming soon!). Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken utilize seasonal, locally grown ingredients, organic rice and beans, and meats and poultry without antibiotics or hormones. At Border BBQ, slow smoked barbecue meets fresh Southern California ingredients for an easy to eat and affordable option that can be enjoyed on the go.

“At Pacha Mamas, Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken serve freshly composed ceviches and seared skewers a la plancha with bold Peruvian and coastal inspired sauces. Pacha Mamas offers conscientiously-sourced fare, using the finest locally grown and organic ingredients, sustainable seafood, and meats and poultry without antibiotics or hormones, alongside housemade lemonades and sangrias (coming soon!) in a casual and comfortable outdoor setting. Food enthusiasts of all types – vegan, vegetarian, meat and fish lovers alike – will love our satisfying flavors and personable staff.”

We corral Susan for a chat.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoOur own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment.

For budding chefs is culinary school always the right path in terms of training? What does culinary school realistically prepare you for upon graduation? Recent trends signal enrollment in culinary schools is perhaps on the decline. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Matthew Allnatt of the Jonathan ClubIf you’re a serious foodie and enjoy supporting great causes you’ll relish hearing all the salivating details of the upcoming Careers through Culinary Arts Los Angeles’ (C-CAP) Winter Gala Benefit at the iconic Jonathan Town Club DTLA on Saturday evening, February 1, 2020. It’s a spectacular night honoring those exemplary chefs who inspire and mentor the C-CAP students and alumni on their long path to success.

The high – profile chefs cooking in the kitchen that night include Austin Cobb of The Strand House, Hilary Henderson of Cut Beverly Hills, Michael Hung of Faith & Flower, Mei Lin of Nightshade, Jason McClain of Philly Jay’s Food Truck (Executive Chef Emeritus of Jonathan Club), James Beard award-winner Sherry Yard of “The Great American Baking Show” and the entire culinary team at Jonathan Club.

The Winter Gala will raise funds to support C-CAP L.A’s career readiness programs for underserved high school culinary students in Southern California.

Starting the evening is a festive Cocktail Reception. On the menu are a variety of passed, chef-created hors d’oeuvres, fine wine, sparkling wine, craft beer and specialty cocktails created by Brian Summers, Jonathan Club’s Mixologist, celebrating the pre-Prohibition days of the Club.

Dinner is a multi-course feast matched with premium, hand-selected wines. Also featured is a Silent & Live Auction offering everything from rare wines to special vacation getaways.

Joining us with all the enticing details are the Director of C-CAP L.A., Lisa Fontanesi, and Jonathan Club’s COO and General Manager, Matthew Allnatt.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host & Executive Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Bruce Cakebread, Cakebread Cellars and Mullan Road Cellars Part One
Segment Three: Bruce Cakebread, Cakebread Cellars and Mullan Road Cellars Part Two
Segment Four: Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger, SOCALO, Santa Monica Part One
Segment Five: Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger, SOCALO, Santa Monica Part Two
Segment Six: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”
Segment Seven: Preview of C-CAP’s Winter Gala Benefit Dinner Part One
Segment Eight: Preview of C-CAP’s Winter Gala Benefit Dinner Part Two

Show 322, May 4, 2019: Socalo’s & Border Grill’s Chef / Partner Susan Feniger

The 13th Annual Vegas Uncork’d is back on The Strip in Vegas on May 10th, 11th & 12th. A standout event for Uncork’d the night of May 11th is A Smokin’ Good Time with Susan Feniger” at Border Grill at Mandalay Bay.

“Border Grill’s Co-Founder Susan Feniger and Executive Chef Mike Minor are bringing the heat at an epic BBQ party with a Mexican twist. Join the Border Grill chefs, Andy Baraghani of Bon Appetit, and host Whembley Sewell, Executive Editor of them, for a smokin’ good time on the outdoor patio of Border Grill at Mandalay Bay as variety of meats, plant-based proteins, and veggies get smoked, grilled, and slow-cooked to perfection at interactive stations.”

“Guests will experience a mouthwatering feast of mesquite pulled pork tortas, fried chicken tacos, slow-smoked Texas-style brisket, spare ribs, house-smoked tofu with habanero BBQ sauce, Impossible sliders, all the fixins’ and much more. Also, the famous burnt ends burrito from BBQ Mexicana, a new quick service eatery from Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger at Mandalay Bay Resort.”

“Top it all off with local craft beer pairings from CraftHaus brewery, barrel-aged cocktails, smoked spirits, fire pits, and live music by The All-Togethers.”

Chef Susan and Border Grill are also part of Friday evening’s Grand Tasting at the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesars Palace and Saturday afternoon’s Picnic at the Park at Park MGM.

Chef Susan joins us with a tempting preview.

Show 284, August 4, 2018: Executive Chef Mike Minor, Border Grill Las Vegas, BBQ Mexicana

Mike Minor of Truck U Barbecue in Las VegasWhen we last spoke with Chef Mike Minor last December, the Executive Chef for Mary Sue Milliken’s and Susan Feniger’s Border Grill in Las Vegas, he teased us with news that a BBQ concept was in the works. That has now launched as BBQ Mexicana, a quick service eatery located across the corridor from Border Grill at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. The menu was created by Mary Sue and Susan in collaboration with Chef Mike, a passionate BBQ master.

Inspired by Mary Sue and Susan’s travels to Mexico, where they fell in love with delicious barbacoa and smoked meats, the menu at BBQ Mexicana offers a variety of burritos, bowls, and salads filled with mesquite smoked chicken, pulled pork, slow smoked Texas-style brisket, and smoked tofu in addition to aguas frescas, beers and margaritas to go. BBQ Mexicana is ideal for convention attendees and those seeking a good meal on the go before continuing on to the casino, pool, convention center, or exploring Las Vegas.

Not to be missed is the Slow Smoked Brisket Burnt Ends Burrito with chipotle coleslaw, crispy potatoes, Manchego cheese and BBQ mole sauce.

Current hours are Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with select mornings and weekends.

We pull Chef Mike away from the smoker for a meaty chat.

 

Show 272, May 5, 2018: Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger, Border Grill, Los Angeles & Las Vegas

Susan Feniger of Mud Hen TavernWe’re going to start referring to Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger as “The Festival Queen.” She is back with us previewing her events for the ongoing Los Angeles Times Food Bowl including “Plant Power – The No Beast Feast – An All-Star Chef Celebration of Vegetable Cuisine” on Saturday, May 19th (5:30 p.m. VIP / 6:30 p.m. GA) at Coral Tree Plaza at Border Grill Downtown LA.

For LA Times Food Bowl, Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken will host Plant Power, the No Beast Feast, a garden party focusing on the region’s bountiful produce. On the upper plaza of Border Grill in downtown Los Angeles, guests will be treated to a variety of signature bites and an interactive dessert bar at this al fresco strolling event.

Featuring an international lineup of prominent chefs, this seasonal, vegetarian and vegan extravaganza will showcase innovative vegetable-driven cuisine paired with fine wines, beers and handcrafted cocktails from female winemakers, brewers and distillers.

Besides Milliken and Feniger, participating chefs include cookbook author Nadine Redzepi (Noma), Monique Fiso of New Zealand (Hiakai), Akasha Richmond (Akasha), Antonia Lofaso (Scopa Italian Roots), April Bloomfield (Hearth & Hound), Brooke Williamson (Playa Provisions), Dahlia Narvaez (Mozza), Dakota Weiss (Sweetfin Poké), Jazz Singsanong (Jitlada), Niki Nakayama (n/naka), Nyesha Arrington (Native Santa Monica), Roxana Jullapat (Friends & Family), Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson (Kismet), Sherry Yard (iPic Theaters), Shirley Chung (Ms. Chi), Tanya Holland (Brown Sugar Kitchen), Valerie Gordon (Valerie Confections), and more.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to Girls Inc. and the James Beard Foundation Women’s Leadership Programs to support the advancement of young girls and the empowerment of women in the hospitality industry.

Susan is also a panelist at the LA Chef Conference at iPic Theater, Westwood. Her panel is Serve and Protect – The New Expectation. That’s on Tuesday, May 15th.

Show 251, December 9, 2017: Chef Mike Minor, Border Grill Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas

Mike Minor of Border Grill in Las VegasMike Minor is back as the Executive Chef of Mary Sue Milliken’s and Susan Feniger’s original Border Grill Las Vegas (launched in 1999) located by the lazy river adjacent to Mandalay Beach at the Mandalay Bay Resort on The Strip. Chef Mike grew up in Las Vegas and has a huge locals’ following. We’ll meet him.

This Border Grill is known for their incredible Weekend, all-you-can-enjoy brunch with everything cooked to order. There is also bottomless sparkling wine. Talk about indulgent…It’s Vegas, baby !

Ironically, it was a French restaurant where Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger first tasted authentic Latin flavors. While guests were dining on escargot out front, in the back of the house Mary Sue and Susan were discovering the home cooking of Oaxaca and the Yucatan at staff meals prepared by their fellow cooks from Mexico. Unlike anything they had ever tasted in Mexican restaurants in the United States, the dishes were as varied and complex as the French fare the chefs were serving out front.

In 1985, Mary Sue and Susan packed a VW bug and took a road trip far south of the Mexican border. Never setting foot in a “fine restaurant,” they learned the recipes and techniques of market vendors and home cooks, from street corners in downtown Mexico City to back road family barbecues and taco stands along the beach. When they returned they opened Border Grill and “applied the same intelligence,” noted Los Angeles Magazine, “to green corn tamales and cactus-paddle tacos that other chefs might to a lobe of foie gras.” Border Grill quickly established a new standard for gourmet Mexican fare.

Show 222, May 6, 2017: Susan Feniger, Border Grill, The Los Angeles Times Food Bowl

Susan Feniger of Mud Hen TavernWe’re continuing our preview of the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl which is on now through May 31st. Joining us is Susan Feniger of Border Grill fame. Border Grill, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are all participating in multiple events as part of the Food Bowl. Their contribution to “Things In A Bowl Menu Items is an Heirloom tomato gazpacho in a bowl topped with shrimp and crab salpicon.

Susan will also be previewing the May 19th screening at The Huntington, Pasadena of the new documentary, James Beard: America’s First Foodie. Beard is revered (and remembered) as the Dean of American Cookery.

Susan’s business partner, Mary Sue Milliken, knew Beard (also a Trustee of The James Beard Foundation) and will be a part of a panel with Chef Jim Dodge and the filmmakers after the screening of the documentary.

Border Grill is also part of Beast Feast (May 21st) with Fergus Henderson, April Bloomfield and Michael Cimarusti.

Show 160, February 20, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel, Founder, Slapfish Restaurant Group

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

Next a mouthwatering preview of Saturday’s promisingly scrumptious and always healthy show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s positively a good thing…

Leave it to our local celebrity chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger to have some real fun with Leap Day on February 29th at Border Grill Downtown Los Angeles. For one night only on Leap Day, Mary Sue’s and Susan’s fondly remembered CITY will return for an encore. Mary Sue Milliken takes us back to the beginning in 1981.

Disney’s “OC Chef’s Table” culinary event will be held March 13, 2016 at the Disney Grand Californian Resort & Spa’s Grand Ballroom. The event features 30 of Orange County’s top chefs coming together to create a delectable five-course meal prepared tableside at tables decorated to reflect the personality and brand of each restaurant represented. All proceeds from the event go to Illumination Foundation. Host Chef Andrew Sutton of Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian joins us with all the details.

For the first time ever, Planned Parenthood Los Angeles (PPLA) is recognizing a Restaurateur of the Year for the upcoming 2016 PPLA Food Fare on March 3rd in Santa Monica. This inaugural honor has been proudly presented to Jenny Rush, head and founder of the Blue Plate Restaurant Group in Santa Monica and Los Angeles. Honoree Jenny Rush is our guest.

Berlin Bistro, a favorite casual dining destination in Long Beach’s eclectic East Village neighborhood, is partnering with the Art Theatre and DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week, in bringing attention to the very important issue of edible food waste and to raise vitally needed funds for local non-profit Food Finders food rescue organization. The benefit on March 6th is a special screening of the highly-praised documentary, Just Eat It. A Food Waste Story followed by a specialty multi-course “Root-to-Stem” lunch created by Berlin Bistro’s chef, Tim Balen. Chef Tim and the Producer of DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week, Terri Henry, join us with the 411.

Hundreds of premium wine varieties, sweet and savory chocolate confections, gourmet food samples from acclaimed Pechanga Resort & Casino restaurants, live music, a silent auction and helping out a good cause are all on the agenda for February 26 and 27 at Pechanga Resort & Casino. Tickets for the 8th annual Chocolate Decadence and Pechanga Wine Festival are on sale now. Proceeds from both events benefit Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley. Pechanga Resort & Casino’s Executive Banquet Chef, Colin McGinley, joins us with all the sweet and savory details.

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