Show 334, July 27, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Show 334, July 27, 2019: Beach City Food Tour’s (Long Beach) Founder, Layla Ali-AhmadNow an appealing preview of Saturday’s delectable show.

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

Dine LBC Long Beach Restaurant WeekIt’s a special morning as we’re broadcasting from the newly renovated Westin Long Beach at the kickoff party for DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. It launches Saturday, August 3rd running through Sunday, August 11th. Two Weekends of dining goodness! It’s a prime time to dine in a possible new restaurant discovery in Long Beach.

Navy Proof Food & Spirits, located in the Westin Long Beach, is their newly debuted destination restaurant. A concept created by Howe & Brown Hospitality, the restaurant offers locals and travelers alike new-American fare and craft cocktails with bold flavors. Inspired by the history of maritime traditions and the sea, the cuisine emphasizes technique and texture to highlight the versatility of seasonal ingredients and locally-sourced seafood and meat. We gently pull executive Chef Chris Garasic out of his busy kitchen for a chat.

Executive Chef Eric Samaniego and Michael’s on Naples on Naples Island are part of DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. Chef Eric celebrated his 3rd Anniversary with Michael’s a few months back.

We’ll get updated on Michael’s on Naples with Chef Eric and preview their DINE LBC menu.

For the 2nd year the nifty Kynbo App is available as a genuinely useful tool for effortlessly navigating DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. Kynbo is the direct access for getting up-to-date menu info and photos for DINE LBC Long Beach Restaurant Week. It’s available to download for free on either smart phone platform or via their Website. Co-Founder Thao Doan joins us with the intriguing specifics.

Terri Henry is the Founder and Organizer of DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week which debuted in 2014. Participating restaurants offer value-oriented dining menus during the nine days of the event from Saturday, August 3rd through Sunday, August 11th. We’ll meet Terri Henry.

San Pedro’s Crazy Fish Grill and Market in Garden Village center is new to DINE LBC. Crazy Fish was founded by a group of five guys who share a “crazy” passion for fresh seafood. We’ve reeled in partner Dannesh Alam to explain more…

The Westin Long Beach is celebrating the completion of an ambitious $23 million renovation which includes the debut of their destination restaurant, Navy Proof Food & Spirits. The refreshing includes a spacious lobby and revitalized guest rooms. Managing Director John Thompson (J.T.) is our hospitable guide.

A great way to be introduced to the foods of a new area is to partake of the highest rated food walking tour of that neighborhood. Beach City Food Tours has been doing that very successfully in Long Beach for the last couple of years with their flagship tour, Downtown Long Beach Walking Tour. Last year they added the irresistible East Village Craft Cocktail Tour. Proprietress Layla Ali-Ahmad joins us with all the tempting details of what’s on the menu.

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

Show 334, July 27, 2019: Executive Chef Eric Samaniego, Michael’s on Naples, Long Beach

Eric Samaniego of Michael's on NaplesExecutive Chef Eric Samaniego and Michael’s on Naples on Naples Island are part of DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. Chef Eric celebrated his 3rd Anniversary of success with Michael’s a few months back.

“Our highest priority is providing you with an unforgettable dining experience. We partner with local farms to source fresh, seasonal produce. We believe in making everything from scratch—pasta to sauces, mozzarella to gelato.”

“We know where everything on your plate came from, and we believe it’s your right to know as well. Quality is our highest priority; we don’t cut corners, and it shows. We invite you to dine with us so you can see—and taste—for yourself.”

At Michael’s Chef Samaniego offers guests the options of a Chef’s Tasting menu, a Pasta Tasting menu and an a la carte option. Brunch is available on Sunday.

We’ll get updated on Michael’s on Naples with Chef Eric and preview their DINE LBC menu.

 

July 27: Live from the Dine LBC Launch Party

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef Chris Garasic, Navy Proof Food and Spirits and The Westin Long Beach
Segment Three: Executive Chef Eric Samaniego, Michael’s on Naples, Long Beach
Segment Four: Kynbo App for Foodies with Co-Creator Thao Doan
Segment Five: Terri Henry, Founder, DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week
Segment Six: Crazy Fish Grill and Market, San Pedro
Segment Seven: John (J.T.) Thompson, Managing Director, The Westin Long Beach
Segment Eight: Beach City Food Tour’s (Long Beach) Founder, Layla Ali-Ahmad

Now an appealing preview of this Saturday’s delectable show.

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

Dine LBC Long Beach Restaurant WeekIt’s a special morning as we’re broadcasting from the newly renovated Westin Long Beach at the kickoff party for DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. It launches Saturday, August 3rd running through Sunday, August 11th. It’s a prime time to dine in a possible new restaurant discovery in Long Beach.

Navy Proof Food & Spirits, located in the Westin Long Beach, is their newly debuted destination restaurant. A concept created by Howe & Brown Hospitality, the restaurant offers locals and travelers alike new-American fare and craft cocktails with bold flavors. Inspired by the history of maritime traditions and the sea, the cuisine emphasizes technique and texture to highlight the versatility of seasonal ingredients and locally-sourced seafood and meat. We gently pull executive Chef Chris Garasic out of his busy kitchen for a chat.

Executive Chef Eric Samaniego and Michael’s on Naples on Naples Island are part of DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. Chef Eric celebrated his 3rd Anniversary with Michael’s a few months back.

We’ll get updated on Michael’s on Naples with Chef Eric and preview their DINE LBC menu.

For the 2nd year the nifty KYNBO App is available as a genuinely useful tool for effortlessly navigating DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. KYNBO is the direct access for getting up-to-date menu info and photos for DINE LBC Long Beach Restaurant Week. It’s available to download for free on either smart phone platform or via their Website. Founders Thao Doan and John Doolan join us with the intriguing specifics.

Terri Henry is the Founder and Organizer of DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week which debuted in 2014. Participating restaurants offer value-oriented dining menus during the nine days of the event from Saturday, August 3rd through Sunday, August 11th. We’ll meet Terri Henry.

San Pedro’s Crazy Fish Grill and Market in Garden Village center is new to DINE LBC. Crazy Fish was founded by a group of five guys who share a “crazy” passion for fresh seafood. We’ve reeled in partner Dannesh Alam to explain more…

The Westin Long Beach is celebrating the completion of an ambitious $23 million renovation which includes the debut of their destination restaurant, Navy Proof Food & Spirits. The refreshing includes a spacious lobby and revitalized guest rooms. Managing Director John Thompson (J.T.) is our hospitable guide.

A great way to be introduced to the foods of a new area is to partake of the highest rated food walking tour of that neighborhood. Beach City Food Tours has been doing that very successfully in Long Beach for the last couple of years with their flagship tour, Downtown Long Beach Walking Tour. Last year they added the irresistible East Village Craft Cocktail Tour. Proprietress Layla Ali-Ahmad joins us with all the tempting details of what’s on the menu.

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

Chef Chris GarasicNavy Proof Food & Spirits, located in the Westin Long Beach, is their newly debuted destination restaurant. A concept created by Howe & Brown Hospitality, the restaurant offers locals and travelers alike new-American fare and craft cocktails with bold flavors. Inspired by the history of maritime traditions and the sea, the cuisine emphasizes technique and texture to highlight the versatility of seasonal ingredients and locally-sourced seafood and meat.

“Executive Chef Chris Garasic has combined the resilient spirit, sense of adventure and love with the sea, with local ingredients and modern techniques to create his beautifully plated and flavorful dishes. Highlights of the menu include Smoked and Crispy Fried Chicken, served with honey & green goddess dressing; Duck Confit Banh Mi, piled high with duck pate, pickled vegetables, and spicy aioli; and Fried Green Tomato with burrata & roasted beets for lunch.”

“Guests may enjoy a variety of entrees from the land or sea for dinner, including Dry Aged Organic Ribeye with potato rosti, black kale, and porcini jus; Roasted Zucchini Cavatelli topped with harissa, lemon, mint and creme fraiche; and Grilled Spanish Octopus accompanied by potato salad and green romesco.”

“As a graduate of Western Culinary School in Portland, Oregon, Executive Chef Chris Garasic joined Navy Proof after previously leading kitchens at Mucho Ultima, The Shade Hotel, and Malibu Farm Lido, and consulting for Rock’N Fish. Using his finely tuned culinary skills to develop menus that are both simple and unique, Chef Chris has continued to leave a lasting impression on the culinary industry for more than two decades.”

We gently pull executive Chef Chris Garasic out of his busy kitchen (Breakfast service is on…) for a chat.

Eric Samaniego of Michael's on NaplesExecutive Chef Eric Samaniego and Michael’s on Naples on Naples Island are part of DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. Chef Eric celebrated his 3rd Anniversary of success with Michael’s a few months back.

“Our highest priority is providing you with an unforgettable dining experience. We partner with local farms to source fresh, seasonal produce. We believe in making everything from scratch—pasta to sauces, mozzarella to gelato.”

“We know where everything on your plate came from, and we believe it’s your right to know as well. Quality is our highest priority; we don’t cut corners, and it shows. We invite you to dine with us so you can see—and taste—for yourself.”

We’ll get updated on Michael’s on Naples with Chef Eric and preview their DINE LBC menu.

John Dolan and Thao Dian of the Kynbo AppFor the 2nd year the nifty KYNBO App is available as a genuinely useful tool for effortlessly navigating DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week.  

KYNBO is the direct access for getting up-to-date menu info and photos for DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week participating restaurants. It’s available to download for free on either smart phone platform or via their Website.

“We are parents, high-tech professionals, and active community members with a passion for food, especially when shared with family and friends. We believe in simplicity and getting to the point as quickly as possible, and within context. Kynbo™ means “vicinity” in Japanese.”

“We built the Kynbo™ app for diners mainly for us. We want to see menus from nearby restaurants with one-click and not five. We want the ability to find exactly what we want to eat and drink way beyond Cuisine. We also want restaurants to let us know of any Specials, Events, or Rewards in real time to help us decide where to eat. Restaurants can now do this with the Kynbo™ restaurant portal.”

“Our goal is for Kynbo™ to be helpful and accessible by anyone, anywhere, and at any time. The Kynbo™ app for diners is free, and it is also free for restaurants to be on Kynbo™. We want diners to search and find whatever food or drink they crave at any price point. As food lovers, we love the hole in the wall Pho place as much as the French Laundry. Kynbo™ will forever change how diners and restaurants interact, for the better. We hope you join us in this needed disruptive change.”

Founders Thao Doan and John Doolan join us with the intriguing specifics.

Terri Henry of Dine LBC and Terri Henry MarketingTerri Henry is the Founder and Organizer of DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week which debuted in 2014. Participating restaurants offer value-oriented dining menus during the nine days of the event from Saturday, August 3rd through Sunday, August 11th.

“Experience the diverse cuisine that delights the palate and defines the art of dining in Long Beach. Held annually, DINE LBC features value-oriented two or three course menus from dozens of Long Beach’s best restaurants located in twelve unique neighborhoods throughout the City.”

Each participating restaurant offers a three-course menu priced at $15, $25, $35, $45, $55 or $65 per guest with wine pairing options at select fine dining locations OR dinner for two priced at $25, $35, $45, $55 or $65, where diners share an appetizer, each enjoy their own entree, then share a dessert at more casual establishments.”

“The only meal planning you’ll need to worry about during Dine LBC week is which restaurant to try every night of the week.”

We’ll meet Terri Henry.

Dannesh Alam of Crazy Fish Grill and MarketSan Pedro’s Crazy Fish Grill and Market in Garden Village center is new to DINE LBC. Crazy Fish was founded by a group of five guys who share a “crazy” passion for fresh seafood.

“We decided to take our passion for seafood and provide a fast casual restaurant that promotes sustainability without reducing affordability. We know that the City of San Pedro (Los Angeles) shares this passion with us, so we look forward to serving you fresh fish daily for years to come.”

We’ve reeled in partner Dannesh Alam to explain more…

John Thompson of the Westin Long BeachThe Westin Long Beach is celebrating the completion of an ambitious $23 million renovation which includes the launch of their destination restaurant, Navy Proof Food & Spirits. The refreshing includes a spacious lobby and revitalized guest rooms. The refurbished spaces reflect a modern, sophisticated style reflecting the property’s vibrant California coastline setting.

“This is such an exciting time to be in Long Beach. There is an abundance of growth as well as an overall elevation of our city, and we are thrilled to be able to contribute by offering Long Beach a chic and welcoming revamped destination in the heart of downtown,” said John Thompson, Westin Long Beach Managing Director. “Transformations like the one we are currently going through bring a new, fresh dynamic to the overall cityscape of Long Beach but also instill a sense of pride for our loyal team members who have been with us from the beginning. For the community and guests alike, the Westin’s new spaces will set the tone for an innovative way to gather, interact and connect.”

Managing Director John Thompson is our hospitable guide.

Layla Ali Ahmad of Beach City Food ToursA great way to be introduced to the foods of a new area is to partake of the highest rated food walking tour of that neighborhood. Beach City Food Tours has been doing that very successfully in Long Beach for the last couple of years with their flagship tour, Downtown Long Beach Walking Tour. Last year they added the irresistible East Village Craft Cocktail Tour.

Proprietress Layla Ali-Ahmad joins us with all the details of what’s on the menu.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef Chris Garasic, Navy Proof Food and Spirits and The Westin Long Beach
Segment Three: Executive Chef Eric Samaniego, Michael’s on Naples, Long Beach
Segment Four: Kynbo App for Foodies with Co-Creator Thao Doan
Segment Five: Terri Henry, Founder, DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week
Segment Six: Crazy Fish Grill and Market, San Pedro
Segment Seven: John (J.T.) Thompson, Managing Director, The Westin Long Beach
Segment Eight: Beach City Food Tour’s (Long Beach) Founder, Layla Ali-Ahmad

Show 246, November 4, 2017: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now an enticing preview of Saturday’s mouthwatering show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

Earlier in the year we introduced you to the pride of southern BBQ, the Heirloom Market BBQ in Atlanta. The youthful owner/ chefs are Cody Taylor and Jiyeon Lee. They are featured in the “Smokehouse Stories and Recipes” section of Matt Moore’s The South’s Best Butts – Pitmaster Secrets for Southern Barbecue Perfection.

Executive Producer Andy Harris recently made the pilgrimage to Heirloom. It was as good as Matt promised and an experience. Chefs Cody and Jiyeon are our guests.

Executive Producer Andy Harris was in Roswell, GA (an incorporated City of 95,000 in the greater Atlanta area with a lot of living Civil War history) in early October with fellow members of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA.) In this show we continue our coverage of the best of Roswell with a chat with Chris Nelson, the new Executive Director of the 120,000 member Chattahoochee Nature Center.

The much-honored Ranch Restaurant in Anaheim was the recipient this year of The Golden Foodie Award for the Best Entrée in Orange County. That is Executive Chef Michael Rossi’s signature Cowboy Ribeye. That’s a 58oz. bone-in rib chop with Grafton Farms white cheddar scalloped potatoes and Sauce Bordelaise. Oh yea…We’ll get Chef Michael out of the kitchen to chat about the extraordinary project that is The Ranch Restaurant.

Salt & Straw Ice Cream is a family-run, chef-driven ice cream company with kitchens and scoop shops in Portland, San Francisco and Los Angeles that partners with local artisans, producers and farmers to serve unusually creative and absolutely delicious ice cream. Co-Founder and Head Ice Cream Maker Tyler Malek is our guest.

2017 marks twenty-three years of the Festival Gourmet International in Puerto Vallarta. In 1995 Chefs Thierry Blouet and Heinz Reize came up with the idea of ​​promoting and elevating the culinary level of this region to competitive international standards, interacting with new methods and the creativity of highly qualified Chefs from around the globe. The goal of this 10-day, great party was to strengthen the gastronomy of Puerto Vallarta as an exemplary showcase and to promote the destination through the excellence of the good table. Chef Thierry Blouet joins us from his sister Café des Artistes in Los Cabos.

Raise a Glass For Wine Country Benefit

Long Beach’s Chianina Steakhouse and Michael’s On Naples Ristorante are joining together the evening of Wednesday, November 15th to raise money to support the Sonoma County Resilience Fund and The Napa Valley Community Disaster Relief Fund. The only expense deduction from the $175 ticket price is for the servers’ gratuity. All other monies are being donated so you know your dollars are really going to support the relief effort! For Tickets to this event, you can order here or also from here.

Bocuse d’Or Team USA Update

Team USA wins Hold at the 2017 Bocuse D'orEarlier in the year in Lyon, France Team USA led by Chef Mathew Peters earned the Gold statue in the prestigious, biannual Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition. It was a proud first for USA in the long history of the Bocuse d’Or.

In Las Vegas on Thursday, November 9th at The Palazzo Ballroom at the Palazzo & Venetian Resorts in Las Vegas 3 chefs will compete for the right to represent Team USA 2019 in Lyon. It’s an all-day event and spectator tickets are available. The day before in Las Vegas is the 2017 Ment’or Young Chef & Commis Competitions. Also a fun spectator event.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Show 224, May 20, 2017: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now a tempting preview of this Saturday’s drool-worthy show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing…

From perhaps the foremost authority on vegetarian cooking and one of the most trusted voices in food comes a carefully curated and updated collection of 100 favorite and most inspired recipes, reflecting how Deborah Madison loves to cook now. Her new book is In My Kitchen – A Collection of New and Favorite Vegetarian Recipes. We grab Deborah from her New Mexico garden for a chat.

In 1981, Ron and Diane Miller established Silverado Vineyards to make wine from the six historic vineyards of their estate. Napa pioneers first planted these ranches to vines between 1865 and 1895. Silverado Vineyards long-time President and General Manager, Russ Weis, is our guest.

Journalist Al Mancini is well-known in Las Vegas hospitality circles. He’s been reviewing restaurants there for over 15 years. In 2011 he co-created the definitive Las Vegas dining guideEating Las Vegas – The 50 Essential Restaurants. He recently joined the Las Vegas Review-Journal as a staff writer primarily covering the food, restaurant and libations beat. We’ll meet him.

Executive Chef Eric Samaniego (ex-Little Sparrow) is hosting an unusual 5-course collaboration dinner with Taco Maria’s (SoCo in Costa Mesa) acclaimed chef/proprietor Carlos Salgado on May 24th at Michael’s on Naples in Long Beach. This is part of Michael’s on Naples ongoing monthly “Guest Chef’ing” series. Chef Samaniego joins us for an enticing preview.

Co-host Andy Harris has an arresting airline main cabin food story to share. It’s just for laughs…Frustration and bewilderment with the lack of planning only goes so far! Other food news of note, too, as time permits.

All of this and generous heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Show 224, May 20, 2017: Eric Samaniego, Executive Chef, Michael’s on Naples, Long Beach

Eric SamaniegoExecutive Chef Eric Samaniego (ex-Little Sparrow) is hosting an unusual 5-course collaboration dinner with Taco Maria’s (SoCo in Costa Mesa) acclaimed chef/proprietor Carlos Salgado on May 24th at Michael’s on Naples in Long Beach. This is part of Michael’s on Naples ongoing monthly “Guest Chef’ing” series.

Among the many accomplishments of Chef Salgado is being named one of Food & Wine’s Best Chefs of 2015. Taco Maria is known for Alta California cuisine, an intriguing fusion of Mexican and American flavors and cultures.

Chef Samaniego never reveals in advance what he and his guest chef will prepare simply because he’s not quite sure himself. The evening tends to be spontaneous, much like going to a friend’s home for dinner and leaving the menu up to the host. Both chefs will shop the local farmers’ markets and visit Farm Lot 59, the local urban farm, for ingredients just days before, which will drive the creativity of their five-course dinner.

“I really like collaborating with other chefs,” said Samaniego. “I love to try new techniques and experiment with new ideas in the kitchen. It’s even more fun when you’re cooking with someone you have tremendous respect for and consider a friend. I’m looking forward to having Chef Salgado join me on May 24.”

Chefs Samaniego joins us for an enticing preview.

May 20: Deborah Madison, Silverado Vineyards, Al Mancini, Eric Samaniego, Carlos Salgado

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Deborah Madison, Icon of Vegetarian Cuisine Part One
Segment Three: Deborah Madison, Icon of Vegetarian Cuisine Part Two
Segment Four: Russ Weis, President & General Manager, Silverado Vineyards
Segment Five: Al Mancini, Staff Writer, Las Vegas Review-Journal Part One
Segment Six: Al Mancini is a Staff Writer at the Las Vegas Review-Journal Part Two
Segment Seven: Eric Samaniego, Executive Chef, Michael’s on Naples, Long Beach
Segment Eight: Co-Host Andy Harris with an airline food story…

Now a tempting preview of this Saturday’s drool-worthy show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing…

From perhaps the foremost authority on vegetarian cooking and one of the most trusted voices in food comes a carefully curated and updated collection of 100 favorite and most inspired recipes, reflecting how Deborah Madison loves to cook now. Her new book is In My Kitchen – A Collection of New and Favorite Vegetarian Recipes. We grab Deborah from her New Mexico garden for a chat.

In 1981, Ron and Diane Miller established Silverado Vineyards to make wine from the six historic vineyards of their estate. Napa pioneers first planted these ranches to vines between 1865 and 1895. Silverado Vineyards long-time President and General Manager, Russ Weis, is our guest.

Journalist Al Mancini is well-known in Las Vegas hospitality circles. He’s been reviewing restaurants there for over 15 years. In 2011 he co-created the definitive Las Vegas dining guide – Eating Las Vegas – The 50 Essential Restaurants. He recently joined the Las Vegas Review-Journal as a staff writer primarily covering the food, restaurant and libations beat. We’ll meet him.

Executive Chef Eric Samaniego (ex-Little Sparrow) is hosting an unusual 5-course collaboration dinner with Taco Maria’s (SoCo in Costa Mesa) acclaimed chef/proprietor Carlos Salgado on May 24th at Michael’s on Naples in Long Beach. This is part of Michael’s on Naples ongoing monthly “Guest Chef’ing” series. Chefs Samaniego and Salgado join us for an enticing preview.

Co-host Andy Harris has an airline main cabin food story to share. It’s just for laughs…Frustration and bewilderment with the lack of planning only goes so far! Other food news of note, too, as time permits.

Deborah MadisonFrom perhaps the foremost authority on vegetarian cooking and one of the most trusted voices in food comes a carefully curated and updated collection of 100 favorite and most inspired recipes, reflecting how Deborah Madison loves to cook now. Her new book is In My Kitchen – A Collection of New and Favorite Vegetarian Recipes.

Deborah Madison’s newest book shares 100 beloved and innovative recipes from her vast repertoire, all pared down to the key ingredients needed to achieve delicious, nuanced flavor, with simplified preparations.

In My Kitchen is a vegetable-forward cookbook organized alphabetically and featuring recipes like Roasted Jerusalem Artichoke Soup with Sunflower Sprouts; Fennel Shaved with Tarragon and Walnuts; and Olive Oil, Almond, and Blood Orange Cake. With dozens of tips for building onto, scaling back, and creating menus around, Deborah’s recipes have a modular quality that makes them particularly easy to use.

Deborah Madison, the founding chef of San Francisco’s popular Greens restaurant, is the author of nine highly regarded cookbooks. Deborah Madison’s The Savory Way, Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone and Local Flavors have all received James Beard Foundation Awards.

A cooking teacher for two decades, a contributor to many magazines, and long involved in the local food and farming movement, Madison is the recipient of many other awards, including the MFK Fisher Mid-Career Award.

We grab Deborah from her New Mexico garden for a chat.

In My Kitchen is Deborah’s most personal cookbook. It takes you inside her home, reflecting how she cooks and eats today – with sophisticated and layered recipes that have been pared down and perfected after years of refinement. The more than one hundred recipes included here showcase Deborah’s style of carefully considered, forgiving, and endlessly adaptable recipes – perfect as they are, but also ripe for modification and improvisation.

Russ WeisIn 1981, Ron and Diane Miller established Silverado Vineyards to make wine from the six historic vineyards of their estate. Napa pioneers first planted these ranches to vines between 1865 and 1895.

Each vineyard played an important role in establishing the reputation of their growing area : Carneros, Coombsville, Yountville, Soda Creek Canyon and Stags Leap District. The beautiful fruit from these six vineyards is the exclusive source of Silverado Vineyards’ Estate and Single Vineyard wines – the Miller family’s highest expression of the Napa Valley they love and admire.

“The beginning of vine planting is like the beginning of mining for precious metals: the winegrower also ‘prospects’.”

– Robert Louis Stevenson,
The Silverado Squatters, 1880

A century later, the Miller family began the journey Stevenson described, establishing Silverado Vineyards in 1981. “It was beautiful land, and it was land that was working,” observed the late Diane Miller of their first vineyards, purchased in the 1970s. Diane and Ron sold their grapes to some of Napa’s best vintners, who made award winning wines from them year after year. Encouraged, they struck out on their own with the goal of making the best wines the estate could produce at a fair price. This has remained the guiding philosophy over the years.

The winery’s name, Silverado, comes from the abandoned mining town at the top of the Napa Valley, where Stevenson stayed so many years ago. It is an appropriate symbol: three generations of the Miller family are still “prospecting” for wine, staying true to the idea of coaxing something precious from the soils we are privileged to care for.

Silverado Vineyards long-time President and General Manager, Russ Weis, is our guest.

Al ManciniJournalist Al Mancini is well-known in Las Vegas hospitality circles and beyond. He’s been reviewing restaurants there for over 15 years. In 2011 he co-created the definitive Las Vegas dining guideEating Las Vegas – The 50 Essential Restaurants. He recently joined the Las Vegas Review-Journal as a staff writer primarily covering the food, restaurant and libations beat. We’ll meet him>.

Al discovered his passion for food while living in New York City, where he attended law school by day, tended bar and made pizza at the infamous punk club CBGB by night, and explored the Big Apple’s dynamic dining scene during every spare moment in between.

Eric SamaniegoExecutive Chef Eric Samaniego (ex-Little Sparrow) is hosting an unusual 5-course collaboration dinner with Taco Maria’s (SoCo in Costa Mesa) acclaimed chef/proprietor Carlos Salgado on May 24th at Michael’s on Naples in Long Beach. This is part of Michael’s on Naples ongoing monthly “Guest Chef’ing” series.

Among the many accomplishments of Chef Salgado is being named one of Food & Wine’s Best Chefs of 2015. Taco Maria is known for Alta California cuisine, an intriguing fusion of Mexican and American flavors and cultures.

Chef Samaniego never reveals in advance what he and his guest chef will prepare simply because he’s not quite sure himself.  The evening tends to be spontaneous, much like going to a friend’s home for dinner and leaving the menu up to the host. Both chefs will shop the local farmers’ markets and visit Farm Lot 59, the local urban farm, for ingredients just days before, which will drive the creativity of their five-course dinner.

“I really like collaborating with other chefs,” said Samaniego.  “I love to try new techniques and experiment with new ideas in the kitchen. It’s even more fun when you’re cooking with someone you have tremendous respect for and consider a friend.  I’m looking forward to having Chef Salgado join me on May 24.”

Chefs Samaniego and Salgado join us for an enticing preview.

Collier Cook of Santa Catalina Island Company and Andy HarrisCo-host Andy Harris has an airline main cabin food story to share. It’s just for laughs…Frustration and bewilderment with the lack of planning on the part of a major air carrier only goes so far! Other fresh food news of note, too, as time permits.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Deborah Madison, Icon of Vegetarian Cuisine Part One
Segment Three: Deborah Madison, Icon of Vegetarian Cuisine Part Two
Segment Four: Russ Weis, President & General Manager, Silverado Vineyards
Segment Five: Al Mancini, Staff Writer, Las Vegas Review-Journal Part One
Segment Six: Al Mancini is a Staff Writer at the Las Vegas Review-Journal Part Two
Segment Seven: Eric Samaniego, Executive Chef, Michael’s on Naples, Long Beach
Segment Eight: Co-Host Andy Harris with an airline food story…

Show 180, July 16, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel

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, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host. Last month in Chicago he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish.

Now a (hopefully) tantalizing preview of Saturday’s overloaded show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

The Ranch Restaurant in Anaheim has a tremendous commitment to using fresh fruit and vegetables in all their preparations. They incredibly have their own farm in Orange where they grow many of the fruits and vegetables used at the bar and on the dinner menu. Executive Chef Michael Rossi actually checks the farm daily to see what can be used fresh from the field on that day’s menu. Restaurant Manager & Mixologist Dan Minjares has recently introduced their new Summer Cocktails. Included is a selection of “Farm Inspired Summer Cocktails.” Dan is with us to explain all the refreshing specifics.

George Motz is an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, founder of the Food Film Festival, and author of the well-received Hamburger America. He’s a well-traveled “accidental” burger authority with impeccable credentials. Motz’s newest offering is The Great American Burger Book – How to Make Authentic Regional Hamburgers at Home. George puts his well-used spatula down briefly to join us with the hot & juicy details.

The classic Casa Vega is a family-owned Mexican restaurant that has been a Sherman Oaks landmark for 60 years. They are celebrating their 60th Anniversary in style with cocktails and a special seven-course menu this Saturday night, July 16th. It’s a benefit for the L.A. Regional Food Bank. The celebrity guest chef is Baja’s Javier Plascencia. 2nd generation proprietress Christy Vega is our guest.

Chef Eric Samaniego (Bravo TV’s “Best New Restaurant“), formerly of Little Sparrow in Santa Ana, has joined Michael’s On Naples in Long Beach as the award-winning restaurant’s chef de cuisine. In addition to changes in the kitchen, Michael’s on Naples is experiencing an aesthetic transformation as well. The restaurant’s rooftop terrace has been under construction as it undergoes a major expansion and renovation. Chef Eric joins us.

Food waste is inexcusable in restaurants these days. It’s a matter of principle in addition to being part of the green movement. Our own Chef Andrew Gruel will highlight what he does to turn usable items that were formally tossed in the garbage into practical (and tasty) menu items.

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

Show 180, July 16, 2016: Chef Eric Samaniego, Chef de Cuisine, Michael’s On Naples, Long Beach

Eric SamaniegoChef Eric Samaniego (Bravo TV’s “Best New Restaurant“), formerly of Little Sparrow in Santa Ana, has joined Michael’s On Naples in Long Beach as the award-winning restaurant’s chef de cuisine.

In addition to changes in the kitchen, Michael’s on Naples is experiencing an aesthetic transformation as well. The restaurant’s rooftop terrace has been under construction as it undergoes a major expansion and renovation. The Rooftop (opens July 20th) will now have its own kitchen along with a separate menu featuring more casual fare and shareable plates.

The main floor’s menu will focus on the nightly changing Chef’s Tasting Menu and the five-course Pasta Tasting. The Michael’s on Naples tradition of suggesting inspired wine and food pairings will continue.

Chef Samaniego, who began his career working for the late Charlie Trotter in Chicago, joined Michael’s On Naples in April working under the tutelage of former Corporate Executive Chef David Coleman. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Samaniego is a native of Southern California with his formative years spent in the Central Valley. His culinary credits include a seven-year stint with David Myers working at the high profile Sona and Comme Ca (both now closed) in Los Angeles.

Chef Eric Samaniego joins us.

July 17: The Ranch, George Motz, Casa Vega, Eric Samaniego, Andrew Gruel

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Dan Minjares, Restaurant Manager and Mixologist, The Ranch Restaurant Part One
Segment Three: Dan Minjares, Restaurant Manager and Mixologist, The Ranch Restaurant Part Two
Segment Four: Burger Authority and filmmaker George Motz, The Great American Burger Book Part One
Segment Five: Burger Authority and filmmaker George Motz, The Great American Burger Book Part Two
Segment Six: Christy Vega, Proprietress Casa Vega, Sherman Oaks, CA
Segment Seven: Chef Eric Samaniego, Chef de Cuisine, Michael’s On Naples, Long Beach
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group, Huntington Beach

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, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host. Last month in Chicago he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish.

Now a (hopefully) tantalizing preview of Saturday’s overloaded show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

The Ranch Restaurant in Anaheim has a tremendous commitment to using fresh fruit and vegetables in all their preparations. They incredibly have their own farm in Orange where they grow many of the fruits and vegetables used at the bar and on the dinner menu. Executive Chef Michael Rossi actually checks the farm daily to see what can be used fresh from the field on that day’s menu. Restaurant Manager & Mixologist Dan Minjares has recently introduced their new Summer Cocktails. Included is a selection of “Farm Inspired Summer Cocktails.” Dan is with us to explain all the refreshing specifics.

George Motz is an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, founder of the Food Film Festival, and author of the well-received Hamburger America. He’s a well-traveled “accidental” burger authority with impeccable credentials. Motz’s newest offering is The Great American Burger Book – How to Make Authentic Regional Hamburgers at Home. George puts his well-used spatula down briefly to join us with the hot & juicy details.

The classic Casa Vega is a family-owned Mexican restaurant that has been a Sherman Oaks landmark for 60 years. They are celebrating their 60th Anniversary in style with cocktails and a special seven-course menu this Saturday night, July 16th. It’s a benefit for the L.A. Regional Food Bank. The celebrity guest chef is Baja’s Javier Plascencia. 2nd generation proprietress Christy Vega is our guest.

Chef Eric Samaniego (Bravo TV’s “Best New Restaurant), formerly of Little Sparrow in Santa Ana, has joined Michael’s On Naples in Long Beach as the award-winning restaurant’s chef de cuisine. In addition to changes in the kitchen, Michael’s on Naples is experiencing an aesthetic transformation as well. The restaurant’s rooftop terrace has been under construction as it undergoes a major expansion and renovation. Chef Eric joins us.

Food waste is inexcusable in restaurants these days. It’s a matter of principle in addition to being part of the green movement. Our own Chef Andrew Gruel will highlight what he does to turn usable items that were formally tossed in the garbage into practical (and tasty) menu items.

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

Dan MinjaresThe Ranch Restaurant in Anaheim has a tremendous commitment to using fresh fruit and vegetables in all their preparations. They incredibly have their own farm (The Farm) in Orange on over two acres of land where they grow many of the fruits and vegetables used at the bar and on the dinner menu. Executive Chef Michael Rossi actually checks the farm daily to see what can be used fresh from the field on that day’s menu.

Restaurant Manager & Mixologist Dan Minjares has recently introduced their new Summer Cocktails. Included is a selection of appealing “Farm Inspired Summer Cocktails” that use citrus, watermelon and strawberries from the farm.

Their Watermelon Mint Mule is watermelon infused Purity Vodka, fresh lime juice, mint leaves and Fever Tree Ginger Beer. It’s served in a properly chilled copper mug.

Dan is with us to explain all the refreshing specifics. Cheers.

The “Best of Award Excellence” (Wine Spectator Magazine) wine program at The Ranch includes a 500 plus bottle list with rare and reserve wines featuring over 30 wines-by-the-glass selections. They feature hand-crafted cocktails, barrel aged cocktails and, when in season, farm-to-glass cocktails from their own heirloom vegetable farm on Edwards Ranch Estates. Draft and bottle beer selections are available as well as specialty martinis, select whiskey, rye, tequila and after dinner drink libations.

George MotzGeorge Motz is an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, founder of the Food Film Festival, and author of the well-received Hamburger America. He’s a well-traveled “accidental” burger authority with impeccable credentials. Motz’s newest offering is The Great American Burger Book – How to Make Authentic Regional Hamburgers at Home. The Foreward is by Travel Channel’s Chef Andrew Zimmern.

The Great American Burger Book is the first book to showcase a wide range of regional hamburger styles and cooking methods. Author and burger expert George Motz covers traditional grilling techniques as well as how to smoke, steam, poach, and deep-fry burgers based on signature recipes from around the country.

Each colorful chapter is dedicated to a specific regional burger, from the tortilla burger of New Mexico to the classic New York–style pub burger, and from the fried onion burger of Oklahoma to Hawaii’s Loco Moco. Motz provides expert instruction, tantalizing recipes, and vibrant color photography to help you create unique variations on America’s favorite dish in your own home.

George puts his well-used spatula down briefly to join us with the juicy details.

Before George embarks on his cross-country regional burger tour in The Great American Burger Book he shares the recipes for “The Basics.” These include The Griddle-Smashed Classic Cheeseburger, The Flame-Grilled Burger, The Thick Pub Classic Burger and The Patty Melt.

Did you know The Pastrami Burger started right here in Southern California? It’s now a Regional Favorite in Utah. It’s the Greek Connection…Perhaps George will explain.

George Motz, Emmy Award–winning filmmaker and founder of the Food Film Festival, is also the author of Hamburger America and was hailed by the New York Times as a leading authority on hamburgers. His media credits include hosting Burger Land and Made in America (Travel Channel), and he has been a guest on Inside Edition, CBS, CNN, Fox News, and PBS, among others. He lives in Brooklyn.

Christy VegaThe classic Casa Vega is a family-owned Mexican restaurant that has been a Sherman Oaks landmark for 60 years. They are celebrating their 60th Anniversary in style with cocktails and a special seven- course menu this Saturday night, July 16th. It’s a benefit for the L.A. Regional Food Bank.

The celebrity guest chef is Baja’s Javier Plascencia (Bracero.) He will alternate courses with the Casa Vega culinary team. Think Evo Poached Baja Hiramassa with guacachile, yuzu, crunchy eggplant, and yellow tomato tartar.

Casa Vega is a family-owned Mexican restaurant that has been a Los Angeles landmark for 60 years. Opened in 1956 by Rafael “Ray” Vega, Casa Vega serves authentic Mexican food and drinks in a warm, festive atmosphere. Today Ray’s daughter, Christina “Christy” Vega (as seen on Food Network’s “Guy’s Grocery Games,” NBC’s “TODAY” Show, CBS’s “This Morning,” ABC’s “The View,” and more) is at the helm of the time-honored restaurant. From crowd-pleasing dishes such as traditional chicken mole, burritos, enchiladas, and tostadas, to tasty house-made margaritas and mojitos, Casa Vega features an extensive and time-tested menu.

2nd generation proprietress Christy Vega is our guest.

Eric SamaniegoChef Eric Samaniego (Bravo TV’s “Best New Restaurant“), formerly of Little Sparrow in Santa Ana, has joined Michael’s On Naples in Long Beach as the award-winning restaurant’s chef de cuisine.

In addition to changes in the kitchen, Michael’s on Naples is experiencing an aesthetic transformation as well. The restaurant’s rooftop terrace has been under construction as it undergoes a major expansion and renovation. The Rooftop will now have its own kitchen along with a separate menu featuring more casual fare and shareable plates.

Chef Samaniego, who began his career working for the late Charlie Trotter in Chicago, joined Michael’s On Naples in April working under the tutelage of former Corporate Executive Chef David Coleman. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Samaniego is a native of Southern California with his formative years spent in the Central Valley. His culinary credits include a seven-year stint with David Myers working at the high profile Sona and Comme Ca (both now closed) in Los Angeles.

Chef Eric Samaniego joins us.

Andrew Gruel and his son WilliamFood waste is inexcusable in restaurants these days. It’s a matter of principle in addition to being part of the green movement. Our own Chef Andrew Gruel will highlight what he does to turn usable food items that were formally tossed in the garbage into practical (and tasty) menu items.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Dan Minjares, Restaurant Manager and Mixologist, The Ranch Restaurant Part One
Segment Three: Dan Minjares, Restaurant Manager and Mixologist, The Ranch Restaurant Part Two
Segment Four: Burger Authority and filmmaker George Motz, The Great American Burger Book Part One
Segment Five: Burger Authority and filmmaker George Motz, The Great American Burger Book Part Two
Segment Six: Christy Vega, Proprietress Casa Vega, Sherman Oaks, CA
Segment Seven: Chef Eric Samaniego, Chef de Cuisine, Michael’s On Naples, Long Beach
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group, Huntington Beach