July 2: Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards, Bocuse d’Or Team USA, Guittard Chocolate Company, Vegas Test Kitchen

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards’ Winemaker Samra Morris – Preview of “Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction”
Segment Three: Team USA 2023 with Head Coach Chef Robert Sulatycky and Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi
Segment Four: Guittard Chocolate Co’s Guittard Chocolate Studio Workshops Part One
Segment Five: Guittard Chocolate Co’s Guittard Chocolate Studio Workshops Part Two
Segment Six: Culinary Empresario Jolene Mannina of Vegas Test Kitchen and Greene Street Test Kitchen at Palms Casino Resort Part One
Segment Seven: Culinary Empresario Jolene Mannina of Vegas Test Kitchen and Greene Street Test Kitchen at Palms Casino Resort Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

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

Happy 4th of July Weekend!

Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards is hosting its second annual fundraiser to support mental health: Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction on Saturday, July 23, 2022. To support community services as well as mental health research, the 2022 Peace of Mind event will be a walk of approximately 10,000 steps or 4.5 miles across the Alma Rosa estate in Buellton benefiting two organizations: the Mental Wellness Center and One Mind. Alma Rosa’s Winemaker, Samra Morris, joins us with all the details.

“Since 2008 it has been a key mission for the Ment’or BKB Foundation to enable the best young talent in America to effectively train for the privilege and honor of representing the United States at the Bocuse d’Or in Lyon. The result of that patience and determination was realized for the first time in 2015 when Team USA stood on the podium with the Silver Bocuse, garnering the recognition and respect of the international culinary community. In January of 2017 Team USA returned from Lyon with the Bocuse d’Or, having realized Monsieur Paul Bocuse’s dream of USA winning Gold.” Team USA 2023 includes Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel. The Head Coach is Bocuse d’Or veteran, Chef Robert Sulatycky. The next stop for Team USA on the long road to Lyon in January is the Bocuse d’Or Americas competition in Santiago, Chile on July 14th, representing all the countries of the American continent. Eight teams will be vying for the five places to advance to the Grand Finale in Lyon. Taking a short break to join us from the intensive practice sessions at the Team USA Kitchen at the Copia Campus in Napa of the Culinary Institute of America are Team USA’s Head Coach Robert Sulatycky and Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi.

Under the direction of Guittard Chocolate Company’s acclaimed Executive Pastry Chef Donald Wressell, the Guittard Chocolate Studio in Culver City offers hands-on workshops with prominent chefs, chocolatiers and bakers for a unique opportunity for cooking professionals and serious home cooks to learn new skills, finesse techniques and expand on their chocolate knowledge.

Next on this year’s class schedule is Market Driven Desserts with Della Gossett (Executive Pastry Chef for Wolfgang Puck’s Spago) and Roxana Jullapat (Co-Proprietor and Pastry Chef for Friends & Family in Hollywood.) It’s a 2-day course on July 13 & 14th from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Chefs Donald Wressell, Della Gossett and Roxana Jullapat join us rolling pin firmly in hand.

“Exciting culinary events are now underway at the Palms Casino Resort in the wake of the Las Vegas property’s recent grand reopening. Palms and Vegas Test Kitchen have unleashed an unparalleled pop-up, Greene Street Test Kitchen, to the Las Vegas valley. Guests are now enjoying a taste test of a wide variety of cuisine from three local chefs every Friday and Saturday night, continuing through July 30. From Polynesian Chinese inspired dining to American Italian cuisine, chefs Josh Bianchi, Crystina Nguyen, Bryan Tejada and Gary FX LaMorte will be trying out new concepts at the Greene Street Test Kitchen. Two rotating concepts remain on the debut schedule.” Producer Jolene Mannina joins us from Vegas Test Kitchen.

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. There is a new program happening in the Gulf Coast of Florida (and elsewhere) restoring high-density clam sites and sea grass beds while creating avenues for the commercial fishing community to become more involved with environment restoration. Chef Andrew explains the importance and significant benefits.

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

Samra Morris of Alma Rosa Winery

Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards is hosting its second annual fundraiser to support mental health: Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction on Saturday, July 23, 2022. To support community services as well as mental health research, the 2022 Peace of Mind event will be a walk of approximately 10,000 steps or 4.5 miles across the Alma Rosa estate in Buellton benefiting two organizations: the Mental Wellness Center and One Mind.”

“100 per cent of the $55 registration fee will support the two benefiting organizations: One Mind, which funds research into the causes, treatments and cures of mental illness, and Mental Wellness Center, which provides servicers and housing for individuals with a mental health diagnosis in Santa Barbara County.”

Alma Rosa proprietors Bob & Barb Zorich are doubling all donations made through Peace of Mind dollar-for-dollar up to $35,000 for each charity, for a total of $70,000.

Alma Rosa’s Winemaker, Samra Morris, joins us with all the details.

Robert Sulatycky, Head Coach of Team USA

“Since 2008 it has been a key mission for the Ment’or BKB Foundation based in New York to enable the best young talent in America to effectively train for the privilege and honor of representing the United States at the Bocuse d’Or in Lyon. The result of that patience and determination was realized for the first time in 2015 when Team USA stood on the podium with the Silver Bocuse, garnering the recognition and respect of the international culinary community. In January of 2017 Team USA returned from Lyon with the Bocuse d’Or, having realized Monsieur Paul Bocuse’s dream of USA winning Gold.”

“Team USA is chosen through a national selection process that mimics the format and atmosphere of the competition that is held in Lyon biennially. Chefs from around the country apply to compete in the Team USA National Selection Event.”

Team USA 2023 includes Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel. The Head Coach is Bocuse d’Or veteran, Chef Robert Sulatycky.

Jeffrey Hayashi is the head chef for the 2021 Bocuse D'Or

The next stop for Team USA on the long road to Lyon in January is the Bocuse d’Or Americas competition in Santiago, Chile on July 14th, representing all the countries of the American continent. Eight teams will be vying for the five places to advance to the Grand Finale in Lyon.

If Team USA advances from Santiago (nothing is for-sure) then in January 2023, Team USA travels to Lyon, France to compete in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or competition, fighting for a spot on the podium and the world’s culinary stage.

Taking a short break to join us from the intensive on-going practice sessions at the Team USA Kitchen at the Copia Campus in Napa of the Culinary Institute of America are Team USA’s Head Coach Robert Sulatycky and Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi.

Donald Wressell of Guittard Chocolate Company

Under the direction of Guittard Chocolate Company’s acclaimed Executive Pastry Chef Donald Wressell, the “Guittard Chocolate Studio in Culver City offers hands-on workshops with prominent chefs, chocolatiers and bakers for a unique opportunity for cooking professionals and serious home cooks to learn new skills, finesse techniques and expand on their chocolate knowledge.”

Next on this year’s class schedule is Market Driven Desserts with Della Gossett (Executive Pastry Chef for Wolfgang Puck’s Spago) and Roxana Jullapat (Co-Proprietor and Pastry Chef for Friends & Family in Hollywood.) It’s a 2-day course on July 13 & 14th from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Roxanne Jullapat of Friends and Family

“Begin this lesson by joining Della & Roxana to a visit at the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market, meeting the farmers & vendors who bring in the best produce of the season. Shop for a selection to work with and come back to the Chocolate Studio kitchen to create desserts and baked goods using the market produce. Find ways to inspire your current seasonal menu and explore the skill of making preserves using seasonal produce for use in the future.”

Chefs Donald Wressell, Della Gossett and Roxana Jullapat join us rolling pin firmly in hand.

Food Entrepreneur Jolene Mannina

“Exciting culinary events are now underway at the Palms Casino Resort in the wake of the Las Vegas property’s recent grand reopening. Palms and Vegas Test Kitchen have unleashed an unparalleled pop-up, Greene Street Test Kitchen to the Las Vegas valley.”

“Guests are now enjoying a taste test of a wide variety of cuisine from three local chefs every Friday and Saturday night, continuing through July 30. From Polynesian Chinese inspired dining to American Italian cuisine, chefs Josh Bianchi, Crystina Nguyen, Bryan Tejada and Gary FX LaMorte will be trying out new concepts at the Greene Street Test Kitchen. Two rotating concepts remain on the debut schedule:”

  • July 1-2: Makatas by Chefs Bryan Tejada and Gary FX LaMorte – Healthy, Social and Succulent Pinoy inspired dining
  • July 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30: Mamasan by Crystina Nguyen – Fresh and Saucy American Polynesian Chinese Cuisine

“Vegas Test Kitchen owner Jolene Mannina says, “In addition to the stellar line-up of chefs and the variety of cuisine, the pop-up experience will feature a high-energy setting with live music and nightly entertainment. With its edgy design, artwork and vibrancy, the Greene Street Kitchen is the perfect setting to showcase these culinary talents. We are looking forward to seeing the Vegas community through July 30th and to present three wonderful chefs that each bring a unique flair to their style of cooking.”

“Pre-fixe dinners with welcome cocktail are $59 per person and reservations are currently available.

“Vegas Test Kitchen (VTK) was designed by Vegas food insider and culinary event planner Jolene Mannina during the pandemic to build a home and be a creative outlet for the talented chefs in Las Vegas community.”

“VTK is a brick & mortar location in downtown Las Vegas, located next to Fergusons Downtown. The establishment offer a variety of cuisines weekly from celebrated chefs testing new concepts. The Vegas Test Kitchen is a casual dining experience with a full bar. Don’t be surprised if a chef is serving you food, this is the way.”

Jolene Mannina joins us from Vegas Test Kitchen.

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

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.

There is an important new program happening in the Gulf Coast of Florida (and elsewhere) restoring high-density clam sites and sea grass beds while creating avenues for the commercial fishing community to become more involved with environment restoration. Restoring clam populations (filter feeders) and seagrass meadows will result in improved water quality and healthier habitats for commercial and recreational fisheries – and people, too! Chef Andrew explains the importance and benefits.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards’ Winemaker Samra Morris – Preview of “Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction”
Segment Three: Team USA 2023 with Head Coach Chef Robert Sulatycky and Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi
Segment Four: Guittard Chocolate Co’s Guittard Chocolate Studio Workshops Part One
Segment Five: Guittard Chocolate Co’s Guittard Chocolate Studio Workshops Part Two
Segment Six: Culinary Empresario Jolene Mannina of Vegas Test Kitchen and Greene Street Test Kitchen at Palms Casino Resort Part One
Segment Seven: Culinary Empresario Jolene Mannina of Vegas Test Kitchen and Greene Street Test Kitchen at Palms Casino Resort Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 415, March 6, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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

Hudson House in Redondo Beach was opened in early 2008 by Chefs Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts (Playa Provisions,) aptly named after their newborn son, Hudson. For over 11 years, they built a restaurant focused on the neighborhood, good food and well-crafted cocktails which quickly helped grow the business into what it is today, a loved South Bay staple. In 2020, Nick & Brooke sadly stepped away from the business as a result of the stresses of COVID-19. In a happy turn of events, their former Director of Operations, Kate Failor partnered up with the owner of the former A Basq Kitchen in Redondo Beach, Jessica Ibarra, to help keep Hudson House alive. With a few enhancements and a lot of TLC, the new Hudson House was born. Restaurateur Kate Failor is our guest.”

Bob and Jane Oswaks, owners and proprietors of the award-winning Bob’s Well Bread Bakery in Los Alamos, debuted their long-awaited second location at the historic Ballard Store at 2449 Baseline Avenue in Ballard, California late last year. The 1,500 square foot Bob’s Well Bread at the Ballard Store was designed by Jane and Bob Oswaks, located fourteen miles south from their flagship store. The Oswaks rotate regularly between both operations to ensure the quality and standards of hospitality, food and beverage. Chef Gary Clark leads the new kitchen.” “Since its inception in 2014, locals, travelers and journalists alike have embraced Bob’s Well Bread Bakery artisan breads and bakery. The bakery has successfully become a family business and an integral part of the growing Los Alamos community, which has developed into a richly diverse wine country destination. Bob’s Well Bread Bakery and the Oswaks family are committed to products that are hand-made with only the finest ingredients and natural starters.” Artisan Bread Baker & Proprietor Bob Oswaks joins us with Irish Soda Bread in hand.

“Perched atop Sonoma Mountain, Belden Barns celebrates the totality of farmstead agriculture with a surprising range of exceptional, cool-climate estate bottlings for such a boutique property.  In addition to delicious, terroir-driven wines, they rely on resident farmers Vince and Jenny Trotter for their sustainably grown estate fruit and produce.” 
“Belden Barns was recently voted one of USA Today’s Top Ten Winery ToursProprietors Nate and Lauren Belden are an amiable
couple and their wines (including some highly regarded Pinots, Sparkling Wine, Grenache and what may be the only commercially available Gruner Veltliner in Sonoma County, among other bottlings) are noteworthy.” Nate and Lauren Belden pull the cork for us on Belden Barns.

“Consistently regarded as one of the best cooking schools in Southern California, The Gourmandise School in downtown Santa Monica in Santa Monica Place offers hands-on recreational cooking and baking class for beginners to professionals, now exclusively online … until further notice!  You learn classic techniques from their instructors in your very own home. Gourmandise has classes for adults, kids (6 and over), and teens.” “Together with co-founder Chef Clémence de Lutz’s culinary expertise, and partner Sabrina Ironside’s marketing and operations background, The Gourmandise School has a new vision to expand the consumer’s education and experience of how to create amazing meals and treats out of locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, using the very finest techniques.” Chef Clemence de Lutz joins us, whisk in hand.

In this difficult period for hospitality the New York-based non-profit, Ment’or, is aware of the importance of mentorship and remain steadfast in their commitment to that mission. Mentorship and leadership are needed throughout all our communities to invigorate us with hope and motivation. It is critical, especially during these times, that we continue to support and enrich the future for our young chefs. Each month during 2021 Ment’or will be hosting virtual cooking lessons, inclusive of a Q & A, with a featured chef from their culinary family to share their knowledge and lessons they have learned throughout the journey and on the importance of mentorship. Los Angeles’ own Chef Timothy Hollingsworth (Otium at The Broad, Free Play and C.J. Boyd’s) is set for Mentors, Our Inspiration. Virtual Cooking Series” at 4:00 p.m. PT on Tuesday, March 16th via Zoom. The experience includes the recipe and ingredient list for each featured dish. Chef Tim’s featured dish (a Hollingsworth Family favorite) is Pistachio Presto Pasta with Grilled Chicken and Blistered Tomatoes. Also, an exclusive Q&A with Chef Hollingsworth. Chef Tim provides the enticing preview.

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. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants which is a genuine (and increasingly growing) concern. Restaurants in Southern California are finally again allowed to operate for outside/patio dining at reduced capacities with all the requisite COVID 19 safety precautions. How has it been going? We’ll “Ask the Chef.” For California restaurants to safely reopen as the pandemic is slowly mitigated they need protection from frivolous COVID 19 lawsuits. Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 415, March 6, 2021: Restaurateur and Chef Timothy Hollingsworth, Otium at The Broad and Free Play

Chef Timothy Hollingsworth

“In this difficult period for hospitality the non-profit, Ment’or, is aware of the importance of mentorship and remain steadfast in their commitment to that mission. Mentorship and leadership are needed throughout all our communities to invigorate us with hope and motivation. It is critical, especially during these times, that we continue to support and enrich the future for our young chefs ”

“Each month during 2021 Ment’or will be hosting virtual cooking lessons, inclusive of a Q & A, with a featured chef from their culinary family to share their knowledge and lessons they have learned throughout the journey and on the importance of mentorship.”

Los Angeles’ own Chef Timothy Hollingsworth (Otium, Free Play and C.J. Boyd’s) is set for Mentors, Our Inspiration. Virtual Cooking Series” at 4:00 p.m. PT on Tuesday, March 16th via Zoom. The experience includes the recipe and ingredient list for each featured dish. Chef Tim’s featured dish is Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken and Blistered Tomatoes. This pasta dish is a favorite of Chef Tim’s 5-year old daughter, Hunter, who will be participating in the cooking demo with him. It’s a regular dish on the Family Table at The Hollingsworth household. Also, an exclusive Q&A with Chef Hollingsworth.

“All proceeds from each virtual event will go towards Ment’or’s programs which help support the culinary community, including: providing young chefs fully funded internships at restaurants around the world, Team USA and their competitions, which opens the doors to further the careers of young chefs across the country, and the Giving Fund, which directs necessary funds to restaurant workers in times of crisis.”

Chef Timothy Hollingsworth is our guest to preview his upcoming Ment’or Virtual Cooking Class.

March 6: Hudson House, Bob’s Well Bread Bakery, Belden Barns, The Gourmandise School, Timothy Hollingsworth

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur Kate Failor of Hudson House, Redondo Beach
Segment Three: Bread Baker Bob Oswaks, Bob’s Well Bread, Los Alamos & Ballard
Segment Four: Belden Barns Winery and Farmstead with Nate and Lauren Belden Part One
Segment Five: Belden Barns Winery and Farmstead with Nate and Lauren Belden Part Two
Segment Six: Gourmandise Cooking School with Chef Clemence de Lutz
Segment Seven: Restaurateur and Chef Timothy Hollingsworth, Otium at The Broad and Free Play
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

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

Hudson House in Redondo Beach was opened in early 2008 by Chefs Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts (Playa Provisions,) aptly named after their newborn son, Hudson. For over 11 years, they built a restaurant focused on the neighborhood, good food and well-crafted cocktails which quickly helped grow the business into what it is today, a loved South Bay staple. In 2020, Nick & Brooke sadly stepped away from the business as a result of the stresses of COVID-19. In a happy turn of events, their former Director of Operations, Kate Failor partnered up with the owner of the former A Basq Kitchen in Redondo Beach, Jessica Ibarra, to help keep Hudson House alive. With a few enhancements and a lot of TLC, the new Hudson House was born. Restaurateur Kate Failor is our guest.

“Bob and Jane Oswaks, owners and proprietors of the award-winning Bob’s Well Bread Bakery in Los Alamos, debuted their long-awaited second location at the historic Ballard Store at 2449 Baseline Avenue in Ballard, California late last year. The 1,500 square foot Bob’s Well Bread at the Ballard Store was designed by Jane and Bob Oswaks, located fourteen miles south from their flagship store. The Oswaks rotate regularly between both operations to ensure the quality and standards of hospitality, food and beverage. Chef Gary Clark leads the new kitchen.” “Since its inception in 2014, locals, travelers and journalists alike have embraced Bob’s Well Bread Bakery artisan breads and bakery. The bakery has successfully become a family business and an integral part of the growing Los Alamos community, which has developed into a richly diverse wine country destination. Bob’s Well Bread Bakery and the Oswaks family are committed to products that are hand-made with only the finest ingredients and natural starters.” Artisan Bread Baker & Proprietor Bob Oswaks joins us with Irish Soda Bread in hand. 

“Perched atop Sonoma Mountain, Belden Barns celebrates the totality of farmstead agriculture with a surprising range of exceptional, cool-climate estate bottlings for such a boutique property. In addition to delicious, terroir-driven wines, they rely on resident farmers Vince and Jenny Trotter for their sustainably grown estate fruit and produce.”

“Belden Barns was recently voted one of USA Today’s Top Ten Winery Tours. Proprietors Nate and Lauren Belden are an amiable

couple and their wines (including some highly regarded Pinots, Sparkling Wine, Grenache and what may be the only commercially available Gruner Veltliner in Sonoma County, among other bottlings) are noteworthy.” Nate and Lauren Belden pull the cork for us on Belden Barns.

“Consistently regarded as one of the best cooking schools in Southern California, The Gourmandise School in downtown Santa Monica in Santa Monica Place offers hands-on recreational cooking and baking class for beginners to professionals, now exclusively online … until further notice! You learn classic techniques from their instructors in your very own home. Gourmandise has classes for adults, kids (6 and over), and teens.” “Together with co-founder Chef Clémence de Lutz’s culinary expertise, and partner Sabrina Ironside’s marketing and operations background, The Gourmandise School has a new vision to expand the consumer’s education and experience of how to create amazing meals and treats out oflocally sourced, sustainable ingredients, using the very finest techniques.” Chef Clemence de Lutz joins us, whisk in hand.

In this difficult period for hospitality the non-profit, Ment’or, is aware of the importance of mentorship and remain steadfast in their commitment to that mission. Mentorship and leadership are needed throughout all our communities to invigorate us with hope and motivation. It is critical, especially during these times, that we continue to support and enrich the future for our young chefs. Each month during 2021 Ment’or will be hosting virtual cooking lessons, inclusive of a Q & A, with a featured chef from the rgeir culinary family to share their knowledge and lessons they have learned throughout the journey and on the importance of mentorship. Los Angeles’ own Chef Timothy Hollingsworth (Otium at The Broad, Free Play and C.J. Boyd’s) is set for “Mentors, Our Inspiration. Virtual Cooking Series” at 4:00 p.m. PT on Tuesday, March 16th via Zoom. The experience includes the recipe and ingredient list for each featured dish. Chef Tim’s featured dish is Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken and Blistered Tomatoes. Also, an exclusive Q&A with Chef Hollingsworth. Chef Tim provides the enticing preview.

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. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants which is a genuine (and increasingly growing) concern. Restaurants in Southern California are finally again allowed to operate for outside/patio dining at reduced capacities with all the requisite COVID 19 safety precautions. How has it been going? We’ll “Ask the Chef.” The opportunistic fraudsters are at it again with a variation of the “Dine and Dash” scheme to rip off already beleaguered restaurants. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Kate Failor of Hudson House

Hudson House in Redondo Beach was opened in early 2008 by Chefs Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts, aptly named after their newborn son, Hudson. For over 11 years, they built a restaurant focused on the neighborhood, good food and cocktails which quickly helped grow the business into what it is today, a loved South Bay staple. In 2020, Nick & Brooke sadly stepped away from the business as a result of the stresses of COVID-19.”

In a happy turn of events, their former Director of Operations, Kate Failor, partnered up with the owner of the former A Basq Kitchen in Redondo Beach, Jessica Ibarra, to help keep Hudson House alive. With a few enhancements and a lot of love, the new Hudson House was born. 

With a surf shack vibe Hudson House now displays a curation of pieces from local artists and photographers all inspired by the beach and Southern California lifestyle. Blending together good food, amazing cocktails and a welcoming space, Hudson House aspires to be your favorite local bar and restaurant in the South Bay!”

Menu highlights include Brown Sugar Pork Ribs with crispy shallots and cilantro and Sweet Corn Cake with roasted plantain, fermented black garlic, stewed lentils and avocado cotija cream. For fruit pie lovers don’t miss a slice (a la mode of course) from A Little Salty Pie Co.

Proprietress Kate Failor is our guest.

Bob Oswaks of Bob's Well Bread

Bob and Jane Oswaks, owners and proprietors of the award-winning Bob’s Well Bread Bakery in Los Alamos, debuted their long-awaited second location at the historic Ballard Store at 2449 Baseline Avenue in Ballard, California late last year. The 1,500 square foot Bob’s Well Bread at the Ballard Store was designed by Jane and Bob Oswaks, located fourteen miles south from their flagship store. The Oswaks rotate regularly between both operations to ensure the quality and standards of hospitality, food and beverage. Chef Gary Clark leads the new kitchen.

“Since its inception in 2014, locals, travelers and journalists alike have embraced Bob’s Well Bread Bakery artisan breads and bakery. The bakeryhas successfully become a family business and an integral part of the growing Los Alamos community, which has developed into a richly diverse wine country destination. Bob’s Well Bread Bakery and the Oswaks family are committed to products that are hand-made with only the finest ingredients and natural starters. No added preservatives will be found in any of their baked items, and they strive to source ingredients locally using farmers and growers who practice the purest growing initiatives. They allow their loaves to take their time, and practice old world European traditions and techniques to make the very best breads and baked goods possible. Their commitment to being “well bread” means doing good things, supporting the community and donating what they don’t sell to local food banks.”

For St. Patrick’s Day Bob’s Well Bread is baking Roasted Potato Bread with caramelized onions and mustard seed, and Irish Soda Bread. Also available are Pistachio Croissants.

Bob Oswaks (with his hands in the dough) joins us.

Lauren and Nate Belden

“Perched atop Sonoma Mountain, Belden Barns celebrates the totality of farmstead agriculture with a surprising range of exceptional, cool-climate estate bottlings for such a boutique property.  In addition to delicious, terroir-driven wines, they rely on resident farmers Vince and Jenny Trotter for their sustainably grown estate fruit and produce.” 

“Tastings normally take place in a charming old barn — a throwback to an earlier time in Sonoma County farm life. (Currently, all tastings are conducted outside due to COVID 19 restrictions).  Visitors to the (kid-friendly) winery are encouraged to meander around the vines or head downhill to the orchards/produce where they can also hang a wish on the “wishing tree.””

“Belden Barns was recently voted one of USA Today’s Top Ten Winery Tours.  Proprietors Nate and Lauren Belden are an amiable couple and their wines (including some highly regarded Pinots, Sparkling Wine, Grenache and what may be the only commercially available Gruner Veltliner in Sonoma County, among other bottlings) are noteworthy.”

“From day one, Belden Barns has been about much more than just wine. When we set out to build our business, we envisioned a winery that would offer unique, hands-on opportunities to learn about both farming and making wine. We were tired of traditional tasting rooms and determined to bring people closer to the land through experiences that were meaningful, sustainable, and ultimately unforgettable. Enter the Farm at Belden Barns. Wine is best enjoyed with food after all, and we are excited about creating a family business and brand that celebrates the full diversity of agriculture.”

“Consistently regarded as one of the best cooking schools in Southern California, The Gourmandise School in downtown Santa Monica offers hands-on recreational cooking and baking class for beginners to professionals, now exclusively online… until further notice! You learn classic techniques from their instructors in your very own home. Gourmandise has classes for adults, kids (6 and over), and teens.”

Classes are conducted via Zoom. Most sessions are 75 minutes to 2 hours long. The Gourmandise School sends class participants recipes, equipment needs and shopping lists.

“Together with co-founder Chef Clémence de Lutz’s culinary expertise, and partner Sabrina Ironside’s marketing and operations background, The Gourmandise School has a new vision to expand the consumer’s education and experience of how to create amazing meals and treats out of locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, using the very finest techniques.”

Chef Clemence de Lutz joins us whisk in hand.

Chef Timothy Hollingsworth

In this difficult period for hospitality the non-profit, Ment’or, is aware of the importance of mentorship and remain steadfast in their commitment to that mission. Mentorship and leadership are needed throughout all our communities to invigorate us with hope and motivation. It is critical, especially during these times, that we continue to support and enrich the future for our young chefs. 

Each month during 2021 Ment’or will be hosting virtual cooking lessons, inclusive of a Q & A, with a featured chef from their culinary family to share their knowledge and lessons they have learned throughout the journey and on the importance of mentorship.

Los Angeles’ own Chef Timothy Hollingsworth (Otium, Free Play and C.J. Boyd’s) is set for Mentors, Our Inspiration. Virtual Cooking Series” at 4:00 p.m. PT on Tuesday, March 16th via Zoom. The experience includes the recipe and ingredient list for each featured dish. Chef Tim’s featured dish is Pistachio Presto Pasta with Grilled Chicken and Blistered Tomatoes. Also, an exclusive Q&A with Chef Hollingsworth.

“All proceeds from each virtual event will go towards Ment’or’s programs which help support the culinary community, including: providing young chefs fully funded internships at restaurants around the world, Team USA and their competitions, which opens the doors to further the careers of young chefs across the country, and the Giving Fund, which directs necessary funds to restaurant workers in times of crisis.”

Chef Timothy Hollingsworth is our guest to preview his upcoming Ment’or Virtual Cooking Class.

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

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. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants which is a genuine (and increasingly growing) concern. Restaurants in Southern California are now again allowed to operate for outside/patio dining at greatly reduced capacities with all the requisite COVID 19 safety precautions. How is it going? We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

The opportunistic fraudsters are at it again with a variation of the “Dine and Dash” scheme to rip off already beleaguered restaurants. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts.

Chef Andrew also updates us on the inspiring progress for the grass-roots, 86 Restaurant Struggle campaign to benefit out-of-work and struggling restaurant workers. Chef Andrew and his wife, Lauren, have already distributed over $380,000 in small grants to deserving restaurant workers in serious need. All applications are carefully vetted by the Gruels. The substantial need, and fundraising, continues…

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur Kate Failor of Hudson House, Redondo Beach
Segment Three: Bread Baker Bob Oswaks, Bob’s Well Bread, Los Alamos & Ballard
Segment Four: Belden Barns Winery and Farmstead with Nate and Lauren Belden Part One
Segment Five: Belden Barns Winery and Farmstead with Nate and Lauren Belden Part Two
Segment Six: Gourmandise Cooking School with Chef Clemence de Lutz
Segment Seven: Restaurateur and Chef Timothy Hollingsworth, Otium at The Broad and Free Play
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 349, November 30, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

It’s great to be back after being preempted by Notre Dame Football the last two weeks. Sorry about that and we do greatly appreciate being missed! The good news is that there are no further interruptions through year’s end.

Now an intriguing preview of Saturday’s craveable 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.

Ment’or BKB foundation, based in New York, sponsors, promotes and guides Team USA which competes biennially (every 2 years) in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international culinary competition held in Lyon, France. On November 11th at the Culinary Institute of America’s Copia campus in the Napa Valley three noteworthy finalist teams of a Head Chef & Commis competed to head Team USA 2021. Chef Jeffrey Hayashi (most recently the Chef de Cuisine at Honolulu’s Senia Restaurant) prevailed and we’ll meet him.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group was in New York last weekend as a Judge in the Oyster Sucking Championship as part of the 2nd Annual All Canadian Oyster Festival held at Manhattan’s Docks Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill. We’ll slurp with Chef Andrew as he reports on the salty festivities with a Canadian accent.

“Andrew and Annedria Beckham arrived in the Chehalem Mountains, Oregon in 2005 with the dream of purchasing land to build a studio for Andrew’s art. Immersed in the contagious passion of their pioneering neighbors and fascinated by the incredible potential beneath the surface of their high-elevation site, they started a vineyard row by row, coming home from their day jobs to plant vines all night, raising three children all the while. In 2009 they made their first wine.” Andrew Beckham pulls the cork on the unusual Beckham Estate Vineyard for us.

Hollywood producer McG and restaurateur Jordan Otterbein, River Jetty Restaurant Group partners known for acclaimed A Restaurant and A Market in Newport Beach, California, debuted their new Corona del Mar dining conceptCdM in early March. It’s dinner nightly and is already immensely popular. Corporate Executive Chef Jonathan Blackford’s creative American menu highlights unique, hand selected ingredients in each of his flavorful dishes, drawing influence from America’s melting pot of cuisines. We spirit Chef Jonathan out of his busy kitchen for an update.

Newly arrived in Downtown Los Angeles in a tastefully restored Beaux Arts building is The Hoxton hotel with sister properties in Williamsburg, Portland, Chicago and International. Their 174 rooms are spread across four different size categories from Snug to Biggy, meaning there’s something to suit everyone. Destination restaurants located at Hoxton properties are a trademark. The Hoxton DTLA has Sibling Rival, the elevated, all-day restaurant located on the ground floor, and Pilot (dinner only) on the rooftop (with eye-catching L.A. skyline views) which also includes the daytime Pilot Bar adjacent to the pool. We’ll meet Executive Chef John Taube, who oversees the ample culinary portfolio.

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

Show 349, November 30, 2019: Chef Jeffrey Hayashi, Head Chef, Team USA at 2021 Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition

Jeffrey Hayashi is the head chef for the 2021 Bocuse D'OrMent’or BKB foundation, based in New York, sponsors, guides and mentors Team USA which competes biennially (every 2 years) in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international culinary competition held in Lyon, France. On November 11th at the Culinary Institute of America’s Copia campus in the Napa Valley three noteworthy finalist teams of a Head Chef & Commis competed to head Team USA 2021. Chef Jeffrey Hayashi (most recently the Chef de Cuisine at Honolulu’s Senia Restaurant) prevailed and we’ll meet him.

“The three finalist Team USA 2021 teams competed over a five hour and 35 – minute period, following the rigorous format of the actual Bocuse d’Or competition. The platter theme was Whole Chicken, from Palisades Ranch in California, and the plated theme was Ratatouille.”

“Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis William Barrera will now begin the rigorous journey to the Bocuse d’Or as Team USA 2021, relocating closer to the training facility at Copia in Napa, California and dedicating the next fourteen months to prepare for the 2021 competition. During this crucial training period, Ment’or will support Team USA, with the Foundation’s esteemed Chef Council continuing to play an invaluable role in mentoring them.”

“I feel very fortunate for this once in a lifetime opportunity,” shares Chef Hayashi, who previously competed for Team USA in 2019. “Any one of the competing chefs could have won. To now officially be on the road to Lyon for Bocuse d’Or is surreal, and I’m incredibly thankful for all the support.”

“Hayashi, originally from Oahu, moved to Arizona at age four and spent the bulk of his upbringing on the mainland, though visited his grandparents in Hawaii throughout his childhood. While culinary arts were not his passion in his formative years, he spent his time focused on building, art, and creating things with his hands, which led him to study architecture at Arizona State University. After realizing that architecture wasn’t his path, Hayashi serendipitously was introduced to French-Australian Chef Philippe Padovani, who had made a name for himself in Hawaii. Philippe, who had learned cooking by fire in the kitchen, encouraged Hayashi to come and work for him as an apprentice, as Padovani opened his namesake, Padovani Grill. Hayashi, who had never worked in a kitchen before but liked hand crafts, worked for Padovani as an apprentice for a year and a half before moving to Vintage Cave as a commis under Chef Chris Kajioka.

“Kajioka then convinced Hayashi to join him on the team for Chef Mourad Lahlou’s new restaurant in San Francisco, Mourad, in 2014. Hayashi worked as Executive Sous Chef at Mourad for four years, at which time the restaurant earned one Michelin star, among other awards and accolades for its Moroccan fine dining cuisine. In 2018, Hayashi headed back to Hawaii to work at Senia, the elevated Hawaiian restaurant opened in 2016 by both Kajioka and Chef Anthony Rush, where Hayashi served as the Chef de Cuisine.”

November 30: Jeffrey Hayashi, Beckham Estate Vineyard, Jonathan Blackford, John Taube

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Jeffrey Hayashi, Head Chef, Team USA at 2021 Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition
Segment Three: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”
Segment Four: Winemaker and Ceramicist Andrew Beckham, Beckham Estate Vineyard, Sherwood, OR
Segment Five: Jonathan Blackford, Corporate Executive Chef, River Jetty Restaurant Group Part One
Segment Six: Jonathan Blackford, Corporate Executive Chef, River Jetty Restaurant Group Part Two
Segment Seven: Executive Chef John Taube, The Hoxton DTLA Part One
Segment Eight: Executive Chef John Taube, The Hoxton DTLA Part Two

It’s great to be back after being preempted by Notre Dame Football the last two weeks. Sorry about that and we do greatly appreciate being missed! The good news is that there are no further interruptions through year’s end.

Now an intriguing preview of this Saturday’s craveable 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.

Ment’or BKB foundation, based in New York, sponsors and guides Team USA which competes biennially (every 2 years) in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international culinary competition held in Lyon, France. On November 18th at the Culinary Institute of America’s Copia campus in the Napa Valley three noteworthy finalist teams of a Head Chef & Commis competed to head Team USA 2021. Chef Jeffrey Hayashi (most recently the Chef de Cuisine at Honolulu’s Senia Restaurant) prevailed and we’ll meet him.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group was in New York last weekend as a Judge in the Oyster Sucking Championship as part of the first ever All Canadian Oyster Festival held at Manhattan’s Docks Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill. We’ll slurp with Chef Andrew as he reports on the salty festivities with a Canadian accent.

“Andrew and Annedria Beckham arrived in the Chehalem Mountains, Oregon in 2005 with the dream of purchasing land to build a studio for Andrew’s art. Immersed in the contagious passion of their pioneering neighbors and fascinated by the incredible potential beneath the surface of their high-elevation site, they started a vineyard row by row, coming home from their day jobs to plant vines all night, raising three children all the while. In 2009 they made their first wine.” Andrew Beckham pulls the cork on the unusual Beckham Estate Vineyard for us.

Hollywood producer McG and restaurateur Jordan Otterbein, River Jetty Restaurant Group partners known for acclaimed A Restaurant and A Market in Newport Beach, California, debuted their new Corona del Mar dining concept, CdM in early March. It’s dinner nightly and is already immensely popular. Corporate Executive Chef Jonathan Blackford’s creative American menu highlights unique, hand selected ingredients in each of his flavorful dishes, drawing influence from America’s melting pot of cuisines. We spirit Chef Jonathan out of his busy kitchen for an update.

Newly arrived in Downtown Los Angeles in a tastefully restored Beaux Arts building is The Hoxton hotel with sister properties in Williamsburg, Portland, Chicago and International. Their 174 rooms are spread across four different size categories from Snug to Biggy, meaning there’s something to suit everyone. Destination restaurants located at Hoxton properties are a trademark. The Hoxton DTLA has Sibling Rival, the elevated, all-day restaurant located on the ground floor, and Pilot (dinner only) on the rooftop (with eye-catching L.A. skyline views) which also includes the daytime Pilot Bar adjacent to the pool. We’ll meet Executive Chef John Taube, who oversees the ample culinary portfolio.

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

Jeffrey Hayashi is the head chef for the 2021 Bocuse D'OrMent’or BKB foundation, based in New York, sponsors Team USA which competes biennially (every 2 years) in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international culinary competition held in Lyon, France. On November 18th at the Culinary Institute of America’s Copia campus in the Napa Valley three noteworthy finalist teams of a Head Chef & Commis competed to head Team USA 2021. Chef Jeffrey Hayashi (most recently the Chef de Cuisine at Honolulu’s Senia Restaurant) prevailed and we’ll meet him.

“The three finalist Team USA 2021 teams competed over a five hour and 35 – minute period, following the rigorous format of the actual Bocuse d’Or competition. The platter theme was Whole Chicken, from Palisades Ranch in California, and the plated theme was Ratatouille.”

“Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis William Barrera will now begin the rigorous journey to the Bocuse d’Or as Team USA 2021, relocating closer to the training facility at Copia in Napa, California and dedicating the next fourteen months to prepare for the 2021 competition. During this crucial training period, Ment’or will support Team USA, with the Foundation’s esteemed Chef Council continuing to play an invaluable role in mentoring them.”

“I feel very fortunate for this once in a lifetime opportunity,” shares Chef Hayashi, who previously competed for Team USA in 2019. “Any one of the competing chefs could have won. To now officially be on the road to Lyon for Bocuse d’Or is surreal, and I’m incredibly thankful for all the support.”

“Hayashi, originally from Oahu, moved to Arizona at age four and spent the bulk of his upbringing on the mainland, though visited his grandparents in Hawaii throughout his childhood. While culinary arts were not his passion in his formative years, he spent his time focused on building, art, and creating things with his hands, which led him to study architecture at Arizona State University. After realizing that architecture wasn’t his path, Hayashi serendipitously was introduced to French-Australian Chef Philippe Padovani, who had made a name for himself in Hawaii. Philippe, who had learned cooking by fire in the kitchen, encouraged Hayashi to come and work for him as an apprentice, as Padovani opened his namesake, Padovani Grill. Hayashi, who had never worked in a kitchen before but liked hand crafts, worked for Padovani as an apprentice for a year and a half before moving to Vintage Cave as a commis under Chef Chris Kajioka. Kajioka then convinced Hayashi to join him on the team for Chef Mourad Lahlou’s new restaurant in San Francisco, Mourad, in 2014. Hayashi worked as Executive Sous Chef at Mourad for four years, at which time the restaurant earned one Michelin star, among other awards and accolades for its Moroccan fine dining cuisine. In 2018, Hayashi headed back to Hawaii to work at Senia, the elevated Hawaiian restaurant opened in 2016 by both Kajioka and Chef Anthony Rush, where Hayashi served as the Chef de Cuisine.”

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 was in New York last weekend as a Judge in the Oyster Shucking Championship as part of the first ever All Canadian Oyster Festival held at Manhattan’s Docks Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill. We’ll slurp with Chef Andrew as he reports on the salty festivities with a Canadian accent.

The capacity crowd of 250 guests had the unusual opportunity to sniff, sip and slurp eighteen varieties of both West & East Coast Canadian Oysters.

First Place was awarded to Jose Valdesz of Empire Oyster.

Andrew Beckham of Backham Estate VIneyards“Andrew and Annedria Beckham arrived in the Chehalem Mountains, Oregon in 2005 with the dream of purchasing land to build a studio for Andrew’s art. Immersed in the contagious passion of their pioneering neighbors and fascinated by the incredible potential beneath the surface of their high-elevation site, they started a vineyard row by row, coming home from their day jobs to plant vines all night, raising three children all the while. In 2009 they made their first wine.”

“In 2012 their winemaking truly found its voice with the introduction of Andrew’s handmade amphora (clay pot) as unique aging vessels, used in conjunction with organic farming and low-intervention practices that they believe reflect their vineyard best.”

Beckham Estate Vineyards’ traditional, barrel aged wines carry the Beckham Estate label. Andrew’s amphora wines are under the moniker of A.D. Beckham (“creta” pinot noir, “50/50” noir/gris and pinot gris.)

Winemaker Andrew Beckham joins us to pull the cork on Beckham Estate Vineyard for us.

Jonathan Blackford of A Restaurant and CDM RestaurantHollywood producer McG and restaurateur Jordan Otterbein, River Jetty Restaurant Group partners known for acclaimed A Restaurant and A Market in Newport Beach, California, debuted their new Corona del Mar dining concept, CdM in early March. It’s dinner nightly and is already, consistently, a tough reservation. Corporate Executive Chef Jonathan Blackford’s creative American menu highlights unique, hand selected ingredients in each of his flavorful dishes, drawing influence from America’s melting pot of cuisines.

Think house-baked Parker House Rolls with whipped A5 tallow and Roasted Lamb Ribs with garam masala, Greek yogurt and cucumber salad.

Larger plates include Mangalitsa Pork Chop with potato pancakes, celery root puree and Hungarian braised red cabbage.

A hidden feature of CdM is “Under CdM.” It’s a speakeasy style room located downstairs from the CdM Restaurant. The cocktail list there (under the direction of Bar Manager Ravin Buzzell) is distinct from the cocktail program at the restaurant. The full CdM menu is now available at Under CdM.

Newly debuted above CdM is “The Apartment,” a private event space that can accommodate up to 20 seated guests. It, conveniently, has its own separate entrance.

We spirit Chef Jonathan out of his busy kitchen for an update.

John Taube of Sibling Rival at the Hoxton DTLANewly arrived in Downtown Los Angeles in a tastefully restored Beaux Arts building is The Hoxton with sister properties in Williamsburg, Portland, Chicago and International. Their 174 rooms are spread across four different size categories from Snug to Biggy, meaning there’s something to suit everyone. Destination restaurants located at Hoxton properties are a trademark. The Hoxton DTLA has Sibling Rival, the elevated, all-day restaurant with an open kitchen located on the ground floor and Pilot (dinner only) on the rooftop (with eye-catching L.A. skyline views) which also includes the daytime Pilot Bar (daily Happy Hour specials) adjacent to the pool.

All rooms are cleverly designed to make the most of the space, and all come with the same Hox Perks including free fast WiFi, free daily calls to anywhere in the world, coffee, tea, water and milk, and a light breakfast bag delivered to your room.

Destination restaurants located at Hoxton properties are a trademark. The Hoxton DTLA has Sibling Rival, the elevated, all-day restaurant located on the ground floor (serving an already popular Weekend Brunch) and Pilot (dinner only) on the rooftop (with eye-catching L.A. skyline views) which also includes the separate daytime Pilot Bar adjacent to the pool featuring a daily Happy Hour from 3 to 6:00 p.m..

Sibling Rival brings to life the timeless rivalries of weekday vs. weekend diet and East Coast vs. West Coast through innovative takes on Californian classics, served in an all-day, elevated diner setting. From quinoa bowls and fresh-pressed juices to togarashi chicken sandwiches and innovative cocktails, Sibling Rival lets guests choose their own adventure and give into whichever voice on their shoulder is most tempting.” Happy Hour Daily from 3 to 6:00 p.m.

“Pilot is a rooftop restaurant and bar inspired by the coast of the Mediterranean, situated atop The Hoxton, Downtown L.A. The menu is centered around live-fire cooking and features fresh, locally sourced seafood, seasonal vegetables, and more. Led by Executive Chef John Taube IV, in partnership with Sunday Hospitality, the dining experience is interactive with fun takes on tableside preparation and multiple large format dishes meant to be shared like the whole wood-fired fish for two. A signature dish is the Grand Aioli — a platter of the guests’ choice of vegetables and raw bar selections paired with aioli prepared to-order. Cocktails are made for warm weather drinking and presented in Sunday Hospitality’s signature whimsical and playful style, featuring Gin and Tonic variations.”

“Pilot’s airy indoor/outdoor atmosphere, designed by Ennismore Design Studio, is punctuated by bright pops of color throughout and anchored by a large display of fresh seafood and vegetables presented over ice. The restaurant extends out to the pool deck where a separate food and drink menu can be enjoyed alongside views of the Los Angeles skyline.”

“Pilot is named in tribute to The Hoxton, Downtown L.A. rooftop’s cameo in the 1921 film “Stranger than Fiction” where it served as the launch pad from which stuntman Frank Clarke and pilot Wally Timm flew their plane.”

We’ll meet Executive Chef John Taube, who oversees the ample, in-house culinary portfolio.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Jeffrey Hayashi, Head Chef, Team USA at 2021 Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition
Segment Three: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”
Segment Four: Winemaker and Ceramicist Andrew Beckham, Beckham Estate Vineyard, Sherwood, OR
Segment Five: Jonathan Blackford, Corporate Executive Chef, River Jetty Restaurant Group Part One
Segment Six: Jonathan Blackford, Corporate Executive Chef, River Jetty Restaurant Group Part Two
Segment Seven: Executive Chef John Taube, The Hoxton DTLA Part One
Segment Eight: Executive Chef John Taube, The Hoxton DTLA Part Two

Show 302, December 15, 2018: Chef Ian P. Cairns, Winner of ment’or BKB’s Young Chef Competition

Ian CairnsWe’ve been in Las Vegas this week covering ment’or BKB Foundations’ Fifth Annual Young Chef and Third Annual Commis Competition held in the new Hospitality Hall on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

The seven Candidates developed a unique recipe based on the selected protein for the competition which was one, whole Bone-In Lamb Saddle provided by Pure Bred. Each Young Chef candidate had a hand-picked assistant helping them during the competition. They had 2 hours and 35 minutes to cook and plate 10 tasting-size portions of the dish for the chef judges.

The celebrated Chef Jury included Paul Bartolotta, Gavin Kaysen, Timothy Hollingsworth, Hawaii’s Michelle Karr-Ueoka and Philip Tessier (Silver medalist for Team USA at 2015 Bocuse d’Or.)

The winners are awarded the extraordinary opportunity to travel to Lyon, France and support Team USA at the 2019 Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition Finale in January. Team USA will be defending their Gold Medal win from 2017 (an extraordinary achievement.)

Our guest, Ian P. Cairns is the talented and poised winner of the Young Chef Competition. He was sponsored by Chef Josiah Citrin of Melisse in Santa Monica. Ian has also cooked at The French Laundry.

Show 300, December 1, 2018: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now a tempting preview of this Saturday’s incredibly delectable show. We’re in the Holiday spirit…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…

Solvang, named by MSN.com as one of the “50 Best Christmas Towns in All 50 States” and “America’s 50 Most Charming Small Towns for the Holidays” as well as Time Magazine’s “Most Christmassy Towns in America” will sparkle again during the 2018 annual Solvang Julefest (pronounced Yule-Fest) from December 1, 2018 through January 4, 2019. This year will feature the return of the popular Free Nisse Adventure Hunt, the Free Candlelight Tours and the addition of new VIP Candlelight Tours. Laura Kath, SCVB’s Media Relations Director lights the tree for us.

The statistics are grim: Americans currently produce 133 pounds of food waste every year, and 40 percent of food in this country goes uneaten. For the first time ever, the USDA has set a nationwide goal to reduce food waste by 50 percent by the year 2030. Lindsay-Jean Hard’s Cooking with Scraps (Workman Publishing, $19.95, October 30, 2018) provides 85 creative, delicious, and inspired recipes to help home cooks meet this important goal. We’ll meet her.

Located in the heart of Santa Barbara County’s Santa Maria Valley, Presqu’ile (pronounced press-KEEL) is a small, family-run winery dedicated to crafting exceptional cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Made using grapes from their own sustainably certified Presqu’ile Vineyard, and from a handful of the finest winegrowing sites in the valley, Presqu’ile wines capture the essence of their vineyards and vintage, and have earned acclaim for their elegance and balance. Founding Winemaker Dieter Cronje pulls the cork for us.

We last spoke with Chef Mathew Peters early last year after he won the first ever Gold Medal for Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition, a never-before achieved highlight for the American culinary arts! Chef Peters is part of the Culinary Council of the ment’or BKB Foundation which supports Team USA. On Wednesday, December 12th in Las Vegas ment’or BKB is staging their Young Chef and Commis Competition. The food-loving public can support the non-profit ment’or BKB Foundation (and the culinary arts in the USA) and attend. Chef Matt, who will be a competition judge, joins us with all the mouthwatering details.

Twenty years ago Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar launched at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. It’s been a huge success. As they have branched over the years (now 70 US locations) a signature for them has become their carefully curated wine program. Each Fleming’s has a part of their wine list with the hand-picked selections of that location’s Operating Partner. Our guest with the well-traveled corkscrew is Stephen Blevins, Fleming’s Director of Wines who was previously the Operating Partner at the Flagship Newport Beach Fleming’s.

Frequent show guest Sherry Yard (Restaurateur & Chef and three-time James Beard Award-recipient for culinary excellence) is the Chief Operating Officer of iPic Entertainment where she oversees all theater and culinary operations for iPic. Sherry is back on Food TV as the new judge for Season 4 of ABC’s The Great American Baking Show: Holiday Edition” popping out of the oven on Thursday evening, December 6th. We’re talking baking with Sherry.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel joins us with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. With the Holidays upon us it’s great to have a real working chef in our corner providing handy advice!

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

Show 300, December 1, 2018: Chef Matthew Peters, Gold Medalist, Team USA, Bocuse d’Or 2017

Mathew PetersWe last spoke with Chef Mathew Peters early last year after he won the first ever Gold Medal for Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition, a never-before achieved highlight for the American culinary arts! He’s now Austin, Texas based and is in the process of launching his own destination restaurant there.

Chef Peters is part of the Culinary Council of the ment’or BKB Foundation which supports and funds Team USA. On Wednesday, December 12th in Las Vegas ment’or BKB is staging their Young Chef and Commis Competition. The food-loving public can support the non-profit ment’or BKB Foundation (and the culinary arts in the USA) and attend.

“All competitors in the Young Chef and Commis Competitions are paired with mentors from the Foundation’s Culinary Council or previous Bocuse d’Or Team USA representatives, in tandem with the foundation’s goal of inspiring culinary excellence and fostering a supportive community for the next generation of great chefs in America.”

“This year’s 2018 Young Chef & Commis candidates will congregate in Las Vegas from all across the country, with competitors hailing from Washington, D.C, Chicago, IL and Boston, MA all the way to Honolulu, HI.”

Following the competition, ment’or will host a 10th anniversary celebration dinner. Chefs Paul Bartolotta, Justin Cogley, Timothy Hollingsworth, Michelle Karr-Ueoka, Mathew Peters, Rich Rosendale and Philip Tessier will come together to prepare a special menu honoring the late Chef Paul Bocuse, for whom the Bocuse d’Or, the world’s most prestigious culinary competition, is named. The festivities will begin at Bouchon Las Vegas at The Venetian Resort with a 45-minute cocktail reception at 7:15pm with passed canapés, followed by a four-course menu.

Tickets for the competition and celebration dinner are available for purchase here.

Chef Matt, who will also be a competition judge, joins us with all the mouthwatering details.