Show 551, November 11, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Steven Lee and Lynn Le are the proprietors of Chopsticks on Pho – Vietnamese Noodle House located in Surrey, British Columbia and celebrating their 11th anniversary this year. We were recently there as guests of Discover Surrey. “Born and raised from two different parts of Vietnam, North and South, Steven and Lynn fled the country by boats with their parents and siblings at a young age. Deeply grateful for the love and care of their new homeland, Canada, they settled in. Running a restaurant and taking care of guests with good food was a dream of Lynn’s. Eleven years ago that dream was finally realized with the founding of Chopsticks on Pho in Surrey.” They are widely known for their Curry Pho, and Lemongrass Chicken and BBQ Pork Banh Mi Sandwiches that come with a rich dipping broth. They have just introduced a line of jarred Curry Pho Sauces (Vegan, Chicken and Beef) along with signature O-Peanut Sauce. Steven and Lynn join us to share their realized dream.

“This Summer Dahlia, an intimate cocktail lounge serving Iberian-inspired bites, was added to Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel’s roster of dynamic dining outlets helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne of The Lucques Group. The latest outlet joins signature Portuguese-inspired restaurant Caldo Verde on the ground floor and rooftop lounge Cara Cara to complete a trifecta of distinct and immersive dining destinations. Dahlia (named after Mexico’s native flower) offers a space for hotel guests and visitors alike to enjoy elevated invocations of classic and non-alcoholic cocktails, focusing on the history and backbone of mixology but using high-end, rare and small-batch liquors. Drinks are created or finished table-side from Dahlia’s Cocktail Cart through which guests can have a bespoke experience, engaging with the “cart tender” and having access to the lounge’s range of iconic and hard to find spirits.” Chef Suzanne Goin takes a break from her busy kitchen to join us.

Madeira Wine from Portugal can be appreciated at any time. According to each type, Dry Madeiras are great with aperitifs, as well as the Medium Dry ones, which are also a wonderful complement of soups. Cheeses are perfect to pair with Medium Sweet Madeiras, while Sweet Madeiras are ideal for sweets, chocolate and with an excellent premium coffee. Food matching with Madeira Wine suggestions are endless and they can be truly surprising, offering flavors, aromas, textures, and unique sensations, You just have to dare yourself!”

Sommelier and Wines of Portugal US Brand Ambassador Eugenio Jardim is our guest to help us discover the beauty and versatility of Madeira Wine.

The 2nd year anniversary of Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app is on the horizon. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as on Neon Feast’s website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.” Al Mancini is our guest with current highlights of the Las Vegas dining scene including the high-end culinary aspects of the inaugural Las Vegas Formula 1 Grand Prix – Saturday November 18, 2023. Also, the incredible story of the new Winnie & Ethel’s coffee shop in Downtown which was a turn-key, million-dollar prize awarded to the lucky co-owners from the Developer of the revitalizing Center (Dapper Companies) they are in.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. As a working chef Andrew has plenty of experience with cooking wisely for the Holidays for both demanding guests and Family. Chef Andrew joins us with his continuing series of genuinely useful Holiday cooking tips. Have a properly sharpened chef’s knife at the ready.

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

Show 551, November 11, 2023: Executive Chef / Partner Suzanne Goin, Dahlia Lounge & Bar, Caldo Verde, Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel Part One

Suzanne Goin of the LLucques Group

“This last Summer Dahlia,an intimate cocktail lounge serving Iberian-inspired bites, was added to Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel’s roster of dynamic dining outlets helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne of The Lucques Group. The latest outlet joins signature Portuguese-inspired restaurant Caldo Verde on the ground floor and rooftop lounge Cara Cara to complete a trifecta of distinct and immersive dining destinations.”

“Dahlia (named after Mexico’s native flower) offers a space for hotel guests and visitors alike to enjoy elevated invocations of classic and non-alcoholic cocktails, focusing on the history and backbone of mixology but using high-end, rare and small-batch liquors. Drinks are created or finished table-side from Dahlia’s Cocktail Cart through which guests can have a bespoke experience, engaging with the “cart tender” and having access to the lounge’s range of iconic and hard to find spirits. Cocktails are served alongside Iberian-inspired bites such as Jamon Iberico Tartine with Braised Leeks and Rodolfe’s Butter; Tinned Ria de Arosa Mussels en Escabeche with Radish, Guindillas and Grilled AOC Boule; and a festive Fondue de Azores with Croutons, Sopressata, Apple and Fennel. The just desserts include Baked Alaska with Blood Orange and Pineapple for dessert.”

Chef Suzanne Goin takes a break from her busy kitchen to join us.

Show 551, November 11, 2023: Executive Chef / Partner Suzanne Goin, Dahlia Lounge & Bar, Caldo Verde, Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel Part Two

Suzanne Goin of the LLucques Group

“This last Summer Dahlia,an intimate cocktail lounge serving Iberian-inspired bites, was added to Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel’s roster of dynamic dining outlets helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne of The Lucques Group. The latest outlet joins signature Portuguese-inspired restaurant Caldo Verde on the ground floor and rooftop lounge Cara Cara to complete a trifecta of distinct and immersive dining destinations.”

“Dahlia (named after Mexico’s native flower) offers a space for hotel guests and visitors alike to enjoy elevated invocations of classic and non-alcoholic cocktails, focusing on the history and backbone of mixology but using high-end, rare and small-batch liquors. Drinks are created or finished table-side from Dahlia’s Cocktail Cart through which guests can have a bespoke experience, engaging with the “cart tender” and having access to the lounge’s range of iconic and hard to find spirits. Cocktails are served alongside Iberian-inspired bites such as Jamon Iberico Tartine with Braised Leeks and Rodolfe’s Butter; Tinned Ria de Arosa Mussels en Escabeche with Radish, Guindillas and Grilled AOC Boule; and a festive Fondue de Azores with Croutons, Sopressata, Apple and Fennel. The just desserts include Baked Alaska with Blood Orange and Pineapple for dessert.”

Chef Suzanne also previews Caldo Verde’s continuing monthly guest chef dinner series with celebrated cookbook authors and their books, and Thanksgiving Dinner at Caldo Verde with Herb-Roasted Organic Turkey or Vegan Thanksgiving Extravaganza. Both Thanksgiving dining options include a festive assortment of Thanksgiving Desserts from Pastry Chef Irene Widjaya.

Chef Suzanne Goin takes a further break from her busy kitchen to continue with us.

November 11: Chopsticks on Pho, Suzanne Goin, Madiera Wine, Al Mancini

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chopsticks on Pho, Surrey, BC with Proprietors Steven Lee and Lynn Le
Segment Three: Executive Chef / Partner Suzanne Goin, Dahlia Lounge & Bar, Caldo Verde, Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel Part One
Segment Four: Executive Chef / Partner Suzanne Goin, Dahlia Lounge & Bar, Caldo Verde, Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel Part Two
Segment Five: Madeira Wine with Sommelier and Wines of Portugal Brand Ambassador Eugenio Jardim Part One
Segment Six: Madeira Wine with Sommelier and Wines of Portugal Brand Ambassador Eugenio Jardim Part One
Segment Seven: Al Mancini, Las Vegas Food & Entertainment Journalist. Creator of Neon Feast dining App for Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.

Steven Lee and Lynn Le are the proprietors of Chopsticks on Pho – Vietnamese Noodle House located in Surrey, British Columbia and celebrating their 11th anniversary this year. We were recently there as guests of Discover Surrey. “Born and raised from two different parts of Vietnam, North and South, Steven and Lynn fled the country by boats with their parents and siblings at a young age. Deeply grateful for the love and care of their new homeland, Canada, they settled in. Running a restaurant and taking care of guests with good food was a dream of Lynn’s. Eleven years ago that dream was finally realized with the founding of Chopsticks on Pho in Surrey.” They are widely known for their Curry Pho, and Lemongrass Chicken and BBQ Pork Banh Mi Sandwiches that come with a rich dipping broth. They have just introduced a line of jarred Curry Pho Sauces (Vegan, Chicken and Beef) along with signature O-Peanut Sauce. Steven and Lynn join us to share their realized dream.

“This Summer Dahlia, an intimate cocktail lounge serving Iberian-inspired bites, was added to Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel’s roster of dynamic dining outlets helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne of The Lucques Group. The latest outlet joins signature Portuguese-inspired restaurant Caldo Verde on the ground floor and rooftop lounge Cara Cara to complete a trifecta of distinct and immersive dining destinations. Dahlia (named after Mexico’s native flower) offers a space for hotel guests and visitors alike to enjoy elevated invocations of classic and non-alcoholic cocktails, focusing on the history and backbone of mixology but using high-end, rare and small-batch liquors. Drinks are created or finished table-side from Dahlia’s Cocktail Cart through which guests can have a bespoke experience, engaging with the “cart tender” and having access to the lounge’s range of iconic and hard to find spirits.” Chef Suzanne Goin takes a break from her busy kitchen to join us.

Madeira Wine from Portugal can be appreciated at any time. According to each type, Dry Madeiras are great with aperitifs, as well as the Medium Dry ones, which are also a wonderful complement of soups. Cheeses are perfect to pair with Medium Sweet Madeiras, while Sweet Madeiras are ideal for sweets, chocolate and with an excellent premium coffee. Food matching with Madeira Wine suggestions are endless and they can be truly surprising, offering flavors, aromas, textures, and unique sensations, You just have to dare yourself!”

Sommelier and Wines of Portugal US Brand Ambassador Eugenio Jardim is our guest to help us discover the beauty and versatility of Madeira Wine.

The 2nd year anniversary of Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app is on the horizon. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as on Neon Feast’s website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.” Al Mancini is our guest with current highlights of the Las Vegas dining scene including the high-end culinary aspects of the inaugural Las Vegas Formula 1 Grand Prix – Saturday November 18, 2023. Also, the incredible story of the new Winnie & Ethel’s coffee shop in Downtown which was a turn-key, million-dollar prize awarded to the lucky co-owners from the Developer of the Center (Drapper Companies) they are in.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. As a working chef Andrew has plenty of experience with cooking wisely for the Holidays for both demanding guests and Family. Chef Andrew joins us with his continuing series of genuinely useful Holiday cooking tips. Have a properly sharpened chef’s knife at the ready.

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

Steven Lee and Lynn Le of Chopsticks on Pho

Steven Lee and Lynn Le are the proprietors of Chopsticks on Pho – Vietnamese Noodle House located in Surrey, British Columbia and celebrating their 11th anniversary this year. We were recently there as guests of Discover Surrey

“Born and raised from two different parts of Vietnam, North and South, Steven and Lynn fled the country by boats with their parents and siblings at a young age. Deeply grateful for the love and care of their new homeland, Canada, they settled in. As fate had, perhaps, already written, they met each other one day in the beautiful yet cold city of Edmonton, Alberta.”

“When they first met, Steven was a college student and Lynn was a high school teenager. He asked “What is your passion?” She replied, “People and food.” Steven nodded, “me too! and what is your dream?” Lynn answered, “Well, growing up in my mother’s kitchen and truly inspired by her cooking, I would love to run my own restaurant someday”.

“Almost two decades later together as a couple going through life, schooling, jobs, and now as parents with two little ones at the ages of four and two years old, Steven looked at Lynn and said, “ It’s time that you go after your dream! ”

“And so Chopsticks on Pho – A Vietnamese Noodle House was born.” They are widely known for their Curry Pho, and Lemongrass Chicken and BBQ Pork Banh Mi Sandwiches that come with a rich dipping broth. Chopsticks on Pho has just introduced a line of premium jarred Curry Pho Sauces (Vegan, Chicken and Beef) along with their signature O-Peanut Sauce. “All you need is love and yummy sauces.”

Steven and Lynn join us to share their realized dream.

Suzanne Goin of the LLucques Group

“This last Summer Dahlia, an intimate cocktail lounge serving Iberian-inspired bites, was added to Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel’s roster of dynamic dining outlets helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne of The Lucques Group. The latest outlet joins signature Portuguese-inspired restaurant Caldo Verde on the ground floor and rooftop lounge Cara Cara to complete a trifecta of distinct and immersive dining destinations.”

“Dahlia (named after Mexico’s native flower) offers a space for hotel guests and visitors alike to enjoy elevated invocations of classic and non-alcoholic cocktails, focusing on the history and backbone of mixology but using high-end, rare and small-batch liquors. Drinks are created or finished table-side from Dahlia’s Cocktail Cart through which guests can have a bespoke experience, engaging with the “cart tender” and having access to the lounge’s range of iconic and hard to find spirits. Cocktails are served alongside Iberian-inspired bites such as Jamon Iberico Tartine with Braised Leeks and Rodolfe’s Butter; Tinned Ria de Arosa Mussels en Escabeche with Radish, Guindillas and Grilled AOC Boule; and a festive Fondue de Azores with Croutons, Sopressata, Apple and Fennel. The just desserts include Baked Alaska with Blood Orange and Pineapple for dessert.”

Chef Suzanne Goin takes a break from her busy kitchen to join us.

Sommelier Eugenio Jardim

Madeira Wine from Portugal can be appreciated at any time. According to each type, Dry Madeiras are great with aperitifs, as well as the Medium Dry ones, which are also a wonderful complement of soups. Cheeses are perfect to pair with Medium Sweet Madeiras, while Sweet Madeiras are ideal for sweets, chocolate and with an excellent premium coffee.”

“Food matching with Madeira Wine suggestions are endless and they can be truly surprising, offering flavors, aromas, textures, and unique sensations, You just have to dare yourself!”

Sommelier and Wines of Portugal US Brand Ambassador Eugenio Jardim is our guest to help us discover the beauty and versatility of Madeira wine.

Al Mancini of Neon Feast

The 2nd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app is on the horizon. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as on Neon Feast’s website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.”

“The weekly “Food and Loathing” podcast created by Al Mancini is a savage journey into the stomach of the Las Vegas restaurant and bar scene – with occasional detours to explore some of the valley’s other decadent offerings (edible and otherwise).” Each week, veteran food writer Al Mancini offers the lowdown on what’s new, what’s hot and what’s delicious in America’s most glamorous culinary city. Al invites you into his insider conversations with the chefs, bartenders, journalists, and other experts who know where to go – and what to order when you get there.”

Al Mancini is our guest with highlights of the Las Vegas dining scene including the high-end culinary aspects of the inaugural Las Vegas Formula 1 Grand Prix – Saturday November 18, 2023. Also, the incredible story of the new Winnie & Ethel’s coffee shop in Downtown which was a turn-key, million-dollar prize awarded to the co-owners from the Developer of the Center (Dapper Companies) they are in.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. As a working chef Andrew has plenty of experience with cooking wisely for the Holidays for both demanding guests and Family. Chef Andrew is continuing his helpful series of genuinely useful Holiday cooking tips. Have a properly sharpened chef’s knife at the ready.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chopsticks on Pho, Surrey, BC with Proprietors Steven Lee and Lynn Le
Segment Three: Executive Chef / Partner Suzanne Goin, Dahlia Lounge & Bar, Caldo Verde, Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel Part One
Segment Four: Executive Chef / Partner Suzanne Goin, Dahlia Lounge & Bar, Caldo Verde, Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel Part Two
Segment Five: Madeira Wine with Sommelier and Wines of Portugal Brand Ambassador Eugenio Jardim Part One
Segment Six: Madeira Wine with Sommelier and Wines of Portugal Brand Ambassador Eugenio Jardim Part One
Segment Seven: Al Mancini, Las Vegas Food & Entertainment Journalist. Creator of Neon Feast dining App for Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 544, September 23, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Liz Scott at LA Loves Alexs in September 2019

It’s a very special, but abbreviated, show this Saturday morning (10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) as we salute the return of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Stand Culinary Cookout at UCLA benefiting the incredible work of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer. Chefs Suzanne Goin, Caroline Styne {The Lucques Group) and Chef David Lentz host L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Stand Culinary Cookout (for the 11th year) along with their Honorary Committee. It’s an extraordinary afternoon of food, wine, cocktails, music and friends benefiting pediatric cancer research. We then graciously step aside for Angels Baseball (on the road versus the Twins) at 10:30 a.m.

“Goin, Styne (The Lucques Group) and Lentz have again enlisted the support and generosity of their culinary-superstar friends around the country who donate their time and services to raise funds and awareness for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) and its mission to find better treatments and cures for all kids with cancer.”

“More than 2,500 people, including more than 100 chefs, mixologists and vintners, attended the last cookout in 2019, which raised over 1.3 million dollars. Those in attendance heard an inspiring speech by Jay and Liz Scott, Alex’s parents, and co-executive directors of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Three-time childhood cancer survivor and UCLA graduate, Alexandra Keir, also spoke, telling guests about her experience with cancer and how supporters can join her and ALSF in the fight against childhood cancer.”

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation Co-founder, Liz Scott, joins us with all the background on ALSF and their significant accomplishments over the years.

‘We’re so excited to be back and we’re in awe of the commitment and generosity of Suzanne, Caroline and David, all the participating chefs, vintners, mixologists and guests of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade,” said Liz Scott, Alex’s mom and Co-Executive Director of the Foundation. “It is so special to celebrate an entire decade of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade! Every year we move closer to achieving Alex’s vision of finding a cure for all kids with cancer!”

The event sold out a few weeks ago. If you feel so inclined contributions still are still most welcome.

Show 544, September 23, 2023: L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Culinary Cookout with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s Co-founder, Liz Scott

Liz Scott at LA Loves Alexs in September 2019

It’s a very special, but abbreviated, show this Saturday morning (10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) as we salute the return (after a 3-year hiatus) of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Stand Culinary Cookout at UCLA benefiting the incredible work of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer. Chefs Suzanne Goin, Caroline Styne and Chef David Lentz host L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Stand Culinary Cookout (for the 11th year) along with their Honorary Committee. It’s an extraordinary afternoon of food, wine, cocktails, music and friends benefiting pediatric cancer research.

“Goin, Styne (The Lucques Group) and Lentz have again enlisted the support and generosity of their culinary-superstar friends around the country who donate their time and services to raise funds and awareness for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) and its mission to find better treatments and cures for all kids with cancer.”

“More than 2,500 people, including more than 100 chefs, mixologists and vintners, attended the last cookout in 2019, which raised over 1.3 million dollars. Those in attendance heard an inspiring speech by Jay and Liz Scott, Alex’s parents, and co-executive directors of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Three-time childhood cancer survivor and UCLA graduate, Alexandra Keir, also spoke, telling guests about her experience with cancer and how supporters can join her and ALSF in the fight against childhood cancer.”

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation Co-founder, Liz Scott, continues with us providing all the inspirational background on ALSF and their significant accomplishments in battling pediatric cancer over the years.

‘We’re so excited to be back and we’re in awe of the commitment and generosity of Suzanne, Caroline and David, all the participating chefs, vintners, mixologists and guests of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade,” said Liz Scott, Alex’s mom and Co-Executive Director of the Foundation. “It is so special to celebrate an entire decade of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade! Every year we move closer to achieving Alex’s vision of finding a cure for all kids with cancer!”

The event sold out a few weeks ago. If you feel so inclined contributions still are still most welcome.

Show 432, July 3, 2021: Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group, A.O.C. Brentwood

Caroline Styne of Lucques Restaurant Group

Chef Suzanne Goin and business partner Caroline Styne, owners and operators of The Lucques Group, debuted the long-in-the-works A.O.C. Brentwood early last month. Located at 11648 San Vicente Boulevard in Brentwood, the restaurant features the small plates format that A.O.C. originated with Suzanne’s regularly changing menu inspired by California’s seasons and regional farmers’ markets which helped her win the coveted Outstanding Chef Award from the James Beard Foundation in 2016.”

“Caroline, who similarly won Outstanding Restaurateur in 2018, curates the wine program for which A.O.C. is known. Designed for discovery and exploration, the A.O.C. wine list highlights small-production wines from grapes that are either sustainably, organically or biodynamically grown and features a large selection available by the glass and carafe. The beverage program features local beer producers and a seasonal selection of market-driven cocktails.

“The decor encompasses three interior dining spaces: the main bar room with cozy velvet booths and banquettes, a long rough-hewn communal table and a spectacular charcoal wood back bar with mirror detail. A second dining room in gorgeous hues of green runs along the Darlington Avenue side of the building. And with an eye to the post-Covid future, there is an intimate private dining room perfect for gatherings of up to 40 guests. The rooms are vibrant and cozy with beautifully textured fabrics, lively yet sophisticated wallpapers and charming Nickey-Kehoe-designed lighting throughout.”

“We are incredibly excited about this as we have seen such positive response to A.O.C. at our Third Street location and feel that there is definitely a need for our small plates dining format on the Westside,” states Caroline Styne. “After the devastation and tragedy of the past year, we are beyond thrilled to reopen this restaurant with a new concept and lively, forward-looking energy. We feel so fortunate to have this moment to build on the positivity of the city and country as it comes back to life. And, more than anything, we can’t wait to get our staff back to work!”

“A.O.C. in Brentwood is now serving dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 p.m., expanding to lunch, weekend brunch and breakfast in the coming weeks with takeout and delivery options as well.”

Show 394, October 10, 2020: Restaurateur Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group Part One

Caroline Styne of Lucques Restaurant GroupJames Beard Award-winning restaurateur Caroline Styne is the Co-Proprietor (with Chef Suzanne Goin) of The Lucques Group. Caroline is an active member of the nationwide Independent Restaurant Coalition. Their primary objective is to get the Federal Restaurants Act (HR 7197)passed. The Independent Restaurant Coalition is fighting to save local restaurants affected by COVID-19.

a.o.c. in Los Angeles is back with dine-in as well as takeaway. The wholesale Larder Baking Co. has a variety of bread and pastry packages available To-Go at retail. Cassoulet Night by Lucques Catering returns on Saturday evening, October 24th for socially distanced sit-down dining in The Courtyard at Maple Drive in Beverly Hills and for takeout / delivery orders via TOCK on October 23rd or 24th.

Caroline joins us to talk about the efforts of the Independent Restaurant Coalition and what is currently available for hungry guests from the Lucques Group establishments.

Show 394, October 10, 2020: Restaurateur Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group Part Two

Caroline Styne of Lucques Restaurant GroupJames Beard Award-winning restaurateur Caroline Styne is the Co-Proprietor (with Chef Suzanne Goin) of The Lucques Group. Caroline is an active member of the nationwide Independent Restaurant Coalition. Their primary objective is to get the Federal Restaurants Act (HR 7197) passed. The Independent Restaurant Coalition is fighting to save local restaurants affected by COVID-19.

a.o.c. in Los Angeles is back with dine-in as well as takeaway. The wholesale Larder Baking Co. has a variety of bread and pastry packages available To-Go at retail. Cassoulet Night by Lucques Catering returns on Saturday evening, October 24th for socially distanced sit-down dining in The Courtyard at Maple Drive in Beverly Hills and for takeout / delivery orders via TOCK on October 23rd or 24th.

Caroline continues with us talking about the efforts of the Independent Restaurant Coalition and what is currently available for hungry guests from the Lucques Group establishments.

Show 374, May 23, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Happy Memorial Day Weekend. Let the season of inspired & relaxing grilling happily commence…

Chefs and restaurateurs are honestly the most generous people we know. In times of need they are always the very first in generously giving back and meaningfully supporting their communities. Truly remarkable…Right now restaurants urgently need our support to stay afloat. Kindly keep this in mind and please do what you possibly can (as you can afford) to support a community-focused, local restaurant….

As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without the enthusiastic encouragement of the foodie community.

When accomplished fine dining chef Ross Pangilinan left the Patina Group’s Leatherby’s Café Rouge (Segerstrom Center for the Arts) to venture out on his own he wanted to create a more personal, chef-driven concept. His vision came to be as Mix Mix Kitchen Bar located in a bit of an unlikely location in Santa Ana. In normal times it’s a globally inspired dining concept presenting dishes which see influence from traditional French and Italian to modern Filipino cuisines. During the ban on dine-in Chef Ross has shifted to preparing Tapas Family Kits (for 2 or 4 guests) for curbside pick-up. Also in Chef Ross’ family of restaurants is Terrace by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza and the newly (soft) opened ReMix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange. Chef Ross joins us with the overview.

One of our most reliable sources of significant restaurant news in fabulous Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is a staff writer for The Las Vegas Review Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. Al has been working the Vegas food scene for 19 years. He was one of the creators of the popular, and widely referenced, Eating Las Vegas restaurant guidebook series. Al joins us with a report on the return of dining in the restaurants that have been allowed to reopen in Las Vegas.

James Beard Award-winning Chef & Author Suzanne Goin is the Co-Proprietor (with Caroline Styne) of The Lucques Group. a.o.c and Tavern are back on Thursday through Sunday with take-out for pick up or delivery via TOCK. Lucques’ Sunday Suppers are newly available via Lucques Catering with curbside pick up or delivery via TOCK. Chef Suzanne Goin joins us with all the tantalizing specifics.

Previously we’ve met passionate winemaker Clarissa Nagy who has her own boutique label, c nagy, with a rustic tasting room in historic Orcutt. C nagy wines are “A pure expression of grapes from a vineyard celebrating the experience of Santa Barbara County.” Clarissa has a particular affinity for Pinot Noir but other available current releases include Syrah, Grenache, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Blanc. Winemaker Clarissa Nagy is our encore guest.

Sol Agave, the popular elevated regional Mexican restaurant in South County, operates the original location in San Juan Capistrano and the 2-year old branch in Mission Viejo in Kaleidoscope. San Juan Capistrano is open for to-go orders and Mission Viejo will soon reopen for curbside take out on June 1st. Restaurateur Jesse Galvez shares the secrets of Sol Agave’s Famous Carnitas.

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 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. Take-out/delivery when you can surely helps…Of course, the safety of restaurant employees and guests comes first. Chef Andrew will conclude his revealing commentary on 3rd Party Delivery Services and explain why he suggests you tip the delivery driver in cash. It’s the start of Summer Grilling Season. Chef Andrew has some meaty tips for the backyard master of the grill.

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