Show 287, August 25, 2018: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

First our heartiest congratulations to Chef Andrew & Lauren Gruel on the arrival of (Baby) Jack Stone Gruel. Lauren, Andrew & Jack are all are doing well…

Now a tempting preview of Saturday’s properly decadent 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…
Chef Romeo Garcia of Romeo Chocolates in Downtown Long Beach is a Master Chocolatier with a global reach. In addition to decadent chocolates (artisan bars & truffles) his chocolate boutique serves a variety of appealing chocolate beverages. Think Frozen Hot Chocolate, an ice-blended beverage. He also offers creative chocolate pairings with wine and beer. Chef Romeo is our guest.

As the L.A. Times Test Kitchen director, Noelle Carter oversees the testing of all recipes that appear in The Times. She is also part of The Taste held on the Paramount Pictures Studios backlot over three nights during Labor Day Weekend. Noelle puts down her spatula for a preview.

Tuxton China Inc., a leading tabletop supplier to the foodservice industry, will again (for the 3rd year) partner with C-CAP, the Careers through Culinary Arts Program, to raise vitally needed funds. By purchasing Tuxton products during September, Tuxton will make a generous donation to help provide thousands of high school students across the United States with scholarships, training, internships and much more. Tuxton’s Vice President of Business Development, Jennifer Rolander, joins us with the details.

On the heels of its 20th anniversary, the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) will host the 3rd Annual “Tastemakers of Orange County” culinary event on Wednesday, September 5th in the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. This culinary event celebrates the Asian and Pacific Islander community, culture, and heritage by giving guests the opportunity to taste and indulge in Asian and Pacific Island-inspired cuisines and beverages from distinguished chefs throughout Orange County. Proceeds from tickets sold for this event benefit OCAPICA to support mental health, health, workforce, youth in education, and civic engagement opportunities for low income families throughout Orange County. Participants Tarit and Sora (Chair of OCAPICA) Tanjasiri of The Crema Caféand Crema Artisan Bakers provide all the tempting details.

For the entire month of August, FOODBEAST is bringing you SPAM® Restaurant Month! This month-long event showcases the versatility of SPAM® and its place on the restaurant scene nationwide, from fast-casual to fine dining concepts. Think of everything from $100 Gold SPAM® Musubis in San Francisco to SPAM® Tamales in Orlando. <strong>FOODBEAST’s Geoff Kutnick opens the tin for us on these wild chef creations.

Chef Andrew Gruel, the founder of The Slapfish Restaurant Group, joins us with another installment of “Ask the Chef.” Consider the poor, misunderstood sardine. There is actually a lot more to it than what is packed in a flat tin with olive oil, tomato sauce or mustard. Fresh sardines (when available) grilled, fried or broiled are a healthy treat.

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

Show 287, August 25, 2018: Noelle Carter, Test Kitchen Director, Los Angeles Times, The Taste

Noelle CarterAs the L.A. Times Test Kitchen director, Noelle Carter oversees the testing of all recipes that appear in The Times. She is also part of The Taste held on the Paramount Pictures Studios backlot over three nights during Labor Day Weekend.

On Sunday night of The Taste, Noelle is performing a Southern Cooking Demonstration with Chef Sean Lowenthal of Little Beast.

“This Labor Day weekend, join the Los Angeles Times for 3 evenings of amazing food, wine, spirits and chef experiences, plus unique culinary pop-ups and collaborations. Dozens of hand-picked local restaurants each evening will showcase our city’s rich and diverse culinary scene by serving you their best. Sip, savor, and celebrate Southern California’s most inspired food and drink. 21 and over only.”

In addition to her Test Kitchen duties, Noelle writes features, pens the “Culinary SOS column, and contributes daily kitchen tips, recipes and videos to Food’s Daily Dish blog, and is also a regular contributor to “The Splendid Table” radio program. A native Southern Californian, she also holds a degree in film from the University of Southern California and, when she’s not cooking, loves watching old movies.

Noelle puts down her trusty spatula for an enticing preview.

August 25: Romeo Chocolates, The Taste, Tuxton China, C-CAP Los Angeles, Tastemakers of OC, FoodBeast’s Spam Restaurant Month

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chocolatier Romeo Garcia, Romeo Chocolates, Long Beach
Segment Three: Noelle Carter, Test Kitchen Director, Los Angeles Times, The Taste
Segment Four: Jennifer Rolander, Tuxton China Inc.
Segment Five: “Tastemakers of Orange County” Benefiting OCAPICA
Segment Six: FOODBEAST’s SPAM Restaurant Month Part One
Segment Seven: FOODBEAST’s SPAM Restaurant Month Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Founder, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Our congratulations to Chef Andrew & Lauren Gruel on the arrival of (Baby) Jack Stone Gruel. Lauren, Andrew & Jack are all are doing well…

Now a tempting preview of this Saturday’s properly decadent 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…

Chef Romeo Garcia of Romeo Chocolates in Downtown Long Beach is a Master Chocolatier with a global reach. In addition to decadent chocolates (artisan bars & truffles) his chocolate boutique serves a variety of appealing chocolate beverages. Think Frozen Hot Chocolate, an ice-blended beverage. He also offers creative chocolate pairings with wine and beer. Chef Romeo is our guest.

As the L.A. Times Test Kitchen director, Noelle Carter oversees the testing of all recipes that appear in The Times. She is also part of The Taste held on the Paramount Pictures Studios backlot over three nights during Labor Day Weekend. Noelle puts down her spatula for a preview.

Tuxton China Inc., a leading tabletop supplier to the foodservice industry, will again (for the 3rd year) partner with C-CAP, the Careers through Culinary Arts Program, to raise vitally needed funds. By purchasing Tuxton products during September, Tuxton will make a generous donation to help provide thousands of high school students across the United States with scholarships, training, internships and much more. Tuxton’s Vice President of Business Development, Jennifer Rolander, joins us with the details.

On the heels of its 20th anniversary, the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) will host the 3rd Annual “Tastemakers of Orange County” culinary event on Wednesday, September 5th in the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. This culinary event celebrates the Asian and Pacific Islander community, culture, and heritage by giving guests the opportunity to taste and indulge in Asian and Pacific Island-inspired cuisines and beverages from distinguished chefs throughout Orange County. Proceeds from tickets sold for this event benefit OCAPICA to support mental health, health, workforce, youth in education, and civic engagement opportunities for low income families throughout Orange County. Participants Tarit and Sora Tanjasiri of The Crema Café and Crema Artisan Bakers provide all the tempting details.

For the entire month of August, FOODBEAST is bringing you SPAM® Restaurant Month! This month-long event showcases the versatility of SPAM® and its place on the restaurant scene nationwide, from fast-casual to fine dining concepts. Think $100 Gold SPAM® Musubis in San Francisco to SPAM® Tamales in Orlando. FOODBEAST’s Geoff Kutnick opens the tin for us on these wild creations.

Chef Andrew Gruel, the founder of The Slapfish Restaurant Group, joins us with another installment of “Ask the Chef.” Consider the poor, misunderstood sardine. There is actually a lot more to it than what is packed in a flat tin with olive oil, tomato sauce or mustard. Fresh sardines (when available) grilled, fried or broiled are a treat.

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

Romeo GarciaChef Romeo Garcia of Romeo Chocolates in Downtown Long Beach is a Master Chocolatier with a global reach. He is so highly regarded in Long Beach that the buildout of the retail shop was partially underwritten by a successful Kickstarter Campaign.

In addition to decadent chocolates (artisan bars & truffles) his chocolate boutique serves a variety of appealing chocolate beverages and plated desserts. Think Frozen Hot Chocolate, an incredibly rich ice-blended beverage.

Romeo Chocolates also offers creative chocolate pairings with wine and beer.

“It’s easy to fall in love with chocolate.  Romeo became enamored with the artistry of design, flavors, and the richness of the story of chocolate-making from around the world.  An avid learner and traveler, Romeo graduated from Ecole Professional School of Chocolate Arts, completed the Master Chocolatier Program in Belgium, and traveled across Europe, South Pacific, and other regions to carefully source chocolates and ingredients.  Proudly made in Long Beach, California.  Enjoy our artisanal, micro-batch chocolate bars and confections!”

Chef Romeo Garcia is our guest.

Noelle CarterAs the L.A. Times Test Kitchen director, Noelle Carter oversees the testing of all recipes that appear in The Times. She is also part of The Taste held on the Paramount Pictures Studios backlot over three nights during Labor Day Weekend.

On Sunday night of The Taste, Noelle is performing a Southern Cooking Demonstration with Chef Sean Lowenthal of Little Beast.

“This Labor Day weekend, join the Los Angeles Times for 3 evenings of amazing food, wine, spirits and chef experiences, plus unique culinary pop-ups and collaborations. Dozens of hand-picked local restaurants each evening will showcase our city’s rich and diverse culinary scene by serving you their best. Sip, savor, and celebrate Southern California’s most inspired food and drink. 21 and over only.”

In addition to her Test Kitchen duties, Noelle writes features, pens the “Culinary SOS column, and contributes daily kitchen tips, recipes and videos to Food’s Daily Dish blog, and is also a regular contributor to “The Splendid Table” radio program. A native Southern Californian, she also holds a degree in film from the University of Southern California and, when she’s not cooking, loves watching old movies.

Noelle puts down her trusty spatula for an enticing preview.

Jennifer RolanderTuxton China Inc., a leading tabletop supplier to the foodservice industry, will again (for the 3rd year) partner with C-CAP, the Careers through Culinary Arts Program, to raise vitally needed funds. By purchasing Tuxton products during September, Tuxton will make a generous donation to help provide thousands of high school students across the Nation with scholarships, training, internships and much more.

“At Tuxton, giving back is an important part of our company’s core values, and our continuing partnership with the Careers through Culinary Arts Program gives us the opportunity to help disadvantaged high school students become part of our industry, says Vice President of Business Development Jennifer Rolander. Our continued support of this organization as one of our “Tuxton Cares” partners is a priority for us, and we are looking forward to providing funds for scholarships and their competition plates for years to come!

Tuxton’s Vice President of Business Development, Jennifer Rolander, along with C-CAP Los Angeles Director Lisa Fontanesi, joins us with the details.

Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema CafeOn the heels of its 20th anniversary, the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) will host the 3rd Annual “Tastemakers of Orange County” culinary event on Wednesday, September 5th in the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. This culinary event celebrates the Asian and Pacific Islander community, culture, and heritage by giving guests the opportunity to taste and indulge in Asian and Pacific Island-inspired cuisines and beverages from distinguished chefs throughout Orange County.

Proceeds from tickets sold for this event benefit OCAPICA to support mental health, health, workforce, youth in education, and civic engagement opportunities for low income families throughout Orange County.

The celebration at Argyros Plaza will include food tastings, fun entertainment, and silent and live auctions for guests to enjoy. Tickets are available to the public for $125 for VIP, which allows early entry at 6 p.m., and $85 for General Admission, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. More information and tickets can be found here.

Participants Tarit and Sora Park Tanjasiri of The Crema Café and Crema Artisan Bakers provide all the tempting details. (Sora is a Board Member of OCAPICA)

Geoff KutnickFor the entire month of August, FOODBEAST is bringing you SPAM® Restaurant Month! This month-long event showcases the versatility of SPAM® and its place on the restaurant scene nationwide, from fast-casual to fine dining concepts. Think $100 Gold SPAM® Musubis in San Francisco to SPAM® Tamales in Orlando.

FOODBEAST has curated an impressive lineup of concepts across the United States to share their SPAM® creations. Each item is what FOODBEAST likes to call ‘FOODBEAST Approved’ for taste, creativity and newsworthiness, pushing restaurants to unprecedented lengths of SPAM® innovation.

FOODBEAST’s Geoff Kutnick opens the tin for us on these wild creations.

Locally in Santa Ana (4th Street Market) look for Dos Chinos’ Al Pastor SPAM Papas Fritas. It’s SPAM® marinated in Al Pastor sauce topped with onions, cilantro, sour cream and pineapple served on top of fries.

Andrew and William GruelChef Andrew Gruel, the founder of The Slapfish Restaurant Group, joins us with another installment of Ask the Chef.”

Consider the poor, misunderstood sardine. There is actually a lot more to it than what is packed in a flat tin with olive oil, tomato sauce or mustard. Fresh sardines (when available) grilled, fried or broiled are a treat.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chocolatier Romeo Garcia, Romeo Chocolates, Long Beach
Segment Three: Noelle Carter, Test Kitchen Director, Los Angeles Times, The Taste
Segment Four: Jennifer Rolander, Tuxton China Inc.
Segment Five: “Tastemakers of Orange County” Benefiting OCAPICA
Segment Six: FOODBEAST’s SPAM Restaurant Month Part One
Segment Seven: FOODBEAST’s SPAM Restaurant Month Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Founder, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Show 238, August 26, 2017: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Chef Alan Greeley of The Golden Truffle in Costa Mesa is an Orange County original. The destination restaurant is in a bit of an odd location for an establishment with its reputation. After 37 years Chef Alan has closed The Golden Truffle. He’s off to Florida for the next chapter. We’ll share some memories with Chef Alan and chat about the state of the restaurant business. Along the way he’s graciously mentored many young chefs who now have successful Orange County restaurants of their own.

The California Restaurant Association Foundation is part of the annual Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo (for the restaurant trade) starting this Weekend (Sunday, Monday & Tuesday) at the Los Angeles Convention Cente. They will have a fundraising booth there but their big event is The 6th Annual Culinary Cocktail Clash on the Main Stage on Sunday afternoon. Alycia Harshfield, the Executive Director of the California Restaurant Association Foundation, joins us with a preview.

L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade, hosted by Chef Suzanne Goin, business partner Caroline Styne (LucquesA.O.C.,Tavern) along with Chef David Lentz (The Hungry Cat), returns to UCLA’s Royce Quad on Saturday, September 9, 2017 from 12:30 – 4:30 pm for its eighth highly-anticipated event. Goin, Styne and Lentz have again enlisted the support and generosity of their culinary friends around the country who graciously donate their time and services to raise funds and awareness for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) in their quest to find better treatments and cures for all kids with cancer. L.A. Benefit Co-Founder Caroline Styne and returning participating chef, Chris Bianco (Phoenix’s Pizzeria Bianco) are our guests.

The Los Angeles Times The Taste is an annual festival celebrating the flavors of the world in Southern California style. Hosted by The Times’ editorial staff and acclaimed L.A. chefs and bartenders, The Taste will transform Hollywood’s Paramount Pictures Studios into the ultimate epicurean pop-up and block party over Labor Day weekend (Sept. 1-3). Admission to each of the five events includes unlimited tastings from the city’s best kitchens and a variety of wine, beer and seasonal cocktails.  Chef highlights from the 3-day event include Sherry Yard, Jet Tila and Antonia Lofaso. Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director and Sherry Yard of Westwood’s Tuck Room Tavern join us in separate segments with all the sweet and savory details.

For the 3rd time The Olympics is returning to Los Angeles in 2028. Did Los Angeles get a good deal for 2028, or just a deal? The person to ask is our resident Olympic Games expert, Richard B. Perelman. Mr. Perelman was the youngest Vice President of The Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee (LAOOC) from 1980 to 1984. Thereafter he was the Editor of The Final Report, a massive 2-volume tome officially documenting the Games of the 23rd Olympiad (the 1984 Summer Olympics).

Our always on-the-go show Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, has been traveling extensively since he was last in-studio. The ambitious itinerary was production for Food Network, New Jersey, New York, London, Hawaii, Orlando, Washington, D.C. and now a new Slapfish opening in Sandy, Utah. He’s also appearing at the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival this weekend. We’ll reel him in from the kitchen for a visit. He’s actually back in studio on September 2nd.

Special thanks to the OC Register’s Feature Reporter, Jackie Moe. This week she recognized the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on her list of the 25 top podcasts produced in Southern California that are “some of the most interesting, educational and entertaining recordings available.” We’re with some very impressive company and are deeply honored. We’re especially proud to be the only food, restaurant and libation show originating on local radio so recognized.

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

Show 238, August 26, 2017: Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director, Co-Host of Sunday Block Party at The Taste

Noelle CarterThe Los Angeles Times The Taste is an annual festival celebrating the flavors of the world in Southern California style. Hosted by The Times’ editorial staff and acclaimed L.A. chefs and bartenders, The Taste will transform Hollywood’s Paramount Pictures Studios into the ultimate epicurean pop-up and block party over Labor Day weekend (Sept. 1-3). Admission to each of the five events includes unlimited tastings from the city’s best kitchens and a variety of wine, beer and seasonal cocktails. Chef highlights from the 3-day event include Sherry Yard, Jet Tila and Antonia Lofaso.

Sherry YardNoelle Carter and Chef Sherry Yard host the Sunday Block Party from 12 Noon to 3:00 p.m. Great food and good times are the order of the day at the block party on the backlot, where Yard will demystify pastry-baking for home cooks and David LeFevre (Manhattan Beach Post) will give a master class on making biscuits. Noelle Carter will host a talk with Chris Phelps (Salt’s Cure) about what it means to brunch at some of the most innovative spots around town, with additional panelists to be announced.

Restaurants include Cheezus, Cocobella Creamery, Dog Haus, E.A.K. Ramen, Hotville Chicken & Chops, Hummus Yummy Food Truck, MessHall, Otium, Rosaliné, Slapfish The Butcher’s Daughter, Tuck Room Tavern and more.

Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director joins us with our first installment of all the sweet and savory details.

Show 238, August 26, 2017: Chef Sherry Yard, Corporate Vice President of Culinary Direction, iPic Entertainment

Sherry YardThe Los Angeles Times The Taste is an annual festival celebrating the flavors of the world in Southern California style. Hosted by The Times’ editorial staff and acclaimed L.A. chefs and bartenders, The Taste will transform Hollywood’s Paramount Pictures Studios into the ultimate epicurean pop-up and block party over Labor Day weekend (Sept. 1-3). Admission to each of the five events includes unlimited tastings from the city’s best kitchens and a variety of wine, beer and seasonal cocktails. Chef highlights from the 3-day event include Sherry Yard, Jet Tila and Antonia Lofaso.

Noelle Carter and Chef Sherry Yard host the Sunday Block Party from 12 Noon to 3:00 p.m. Great food and good times are the order of the day at the block party on the backlot, where Yard will demystify pastry-baking for home cooks and David LeFevre (Manhattan Beach Post) will give a master class on making biscuits. Noelle Carter will host a talk with Chris Phelps (Salt’s Cure) about what it means to brunch at some of the most innovative spots around town, with additional panelists to be announced. Restaurants include Cheezus, Cocobella Creamery, Dog Haus, E.A.K. Ramen, Hotville Chicken & Chops, Hummus Yummy Food Truck, MessHall, Otium, Rosaliné, Slapfish The Butcher’s Daughter, Tuck Room Tavern and more.

Sherry Yard of Westwood’s Tuck Room Tavern joins us in this segment with more of the sweet and savory details. Sherry’s Tuck Room Tavern brunch is so popular that it’s now being done on both Saturday and Sunday.

She is just back from Dobbs Ferry, NY from the opening of the City Perch Kitchen & Bar in the new iPic theater complex there.

Show 238, August 26, 2017: Chef Andrew Gruel, Founder & CEO, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Andrew and William GruelOur always on-the-go show Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, has been on the road extensively since he was last in-studio. The ambitious itinerary was production for Food Network, New Jersey, New York, London, Orlando, Washington, D.C. and now a new Slapfish opening in Sandy, Utah.

He’s also appearing at the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival this weekend in Downtown Los Angeles on Friday night for Night Market on Grand and on Sunday afternoon for the Grand Tasting in Santa Monica. We’ll reel him in from the kitchen for a visit. He’s actually back in studio on September 2nd.

Catch Chef Andrew next at The Taste on Sunday, September 3rd at Paramount Studios. Slapfish will be at both the afternoon Sunday Block Party and the evening finale, Flavors of L.A. Just look for the booth with the long, but fast-moving, line…

August 26: Alan Greeley, Western Foodservice Expo, Caroline Styne, Chris Bianco, Noelle Carter, Sherry Yard, Rich Perelman

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur & Chef Alan Greeley, The Golden Truffle
Segment Three: Alycia Harshfield, Executive Director, California Restaurant Association Foundation
Segment Four: Restaurateur Caroline Styne and Chef Chris Bianco, L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Culinary Cookout
Segment Five: Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director, Co-Host of Sunday Block Party at The Taste
Segment Six: Chef Sherry Yard, Corporate Vice President of Culinary Direction, iPic Entertainment
Segment Seven: Richard B. Perelman, Publisher & Editor, The Sports Examiner – LA 2028
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Founder & CEO, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Chef Alan Greeley of The Golden Truffle in Costa Mesa is an Orange County original. The destination restaurant is in a bit of an odd location for an establishment with its reputation. After 37 years Chef Alan has closed The Golden Truffle. He’s off to Florida for the next chapter. We’ll share some memories with Chef Alan and chat about the state of the restaurant business. Along the way he’s graciously mentored many young chefs who now have successful Orange County restaurants of their own.

The California Restaurant Association Foundation is part of the annual Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo (for the restaurant trade) starting this Weekend (Sunday, Monday & Tuesday) at the Los Angeles Convention Center. They will have a fundraising booth there but their big event is The 6th Annual Culinary Cocktail Clash on the Main Stage on Sunday afternoon. Alycia Harshfield, the Executive Director of the California Restaurant Association Foundation, joins us with a preview.

L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade, hosted by Chef Suzanne Goin, partner Caroline Styne (Lucques, A.O.C.,Tavern) along with Chef David Lentz (The Hungry Cat), returns to UCLA’s Royce Quad on Saturday, September 9, 2017 from 12:30 – 4:30 pm for its eighth highly-anticipated event. Goin, Styne and Lentz have again enlisted the support and generosity of their culinary friends around the country who graciously donate their time and services to raise funds and awareness for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) in their quest to find better treatments and cures for all kids with cancer. L.A. Benefit Co-Founder Caroline Styne and returning participating chef, Chris Bianco (Phoenix’s Pizzeria Bianco) are our guests.

The Los Angeles Times’ The Taste is an annual festival celebrating the flavors of the world in Southern California style. Hosted by The Times’ editorial staff and acclaimed L.A. chefs and bartenders, The Taste will transform Hollywood’s Paramount Pictures Studios into the ultimate epicurean pop-up and block party over Labor Day weekend (Sept. 1-3). Admission to each of the five events includes unlimited tastings from the city’s best kitchens and a variety of wine, beer and seasonal cocktails.  Chef highlights from the 3-day event include Sherry Yard, Jet Tila and Antonia Lofaso. Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director and Sherry Yard of Westwood’s Tuck Room join us with all the sweet and savory details.

For the 3rd time The Olympics is returning to Los Angeles in 2028. Did Los Angeles get a good deal for 2028, or just a deal ? The person to ask is our resident Olympic Games expert, Richard B. Perelman. Mr. Perelman was the youngest Vice President of The Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee (LAOOC) from 1980 to 1984. Thereafter he was the Editor of The Final Report, a massive 2-volume tome officially documenting the Games of the 23rd Olympiad (the 1984 Summer Olympics).

Our always on-the-go show Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, has been on the road extensively since he was last in-studio. The ambitious itinerary was production for Food Network, New Jersey, New York, London, Hawaii, Orlando, Washington, D.C. and now a new Slapfish opening in Sandy, Utah. He’s also appearing at the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival this weekend. We’ll reel him in from the kitchen for a visit. He’s actually back in studio on September 2nd.

Special thanks to the OC Register’s Feature Reporter, Jackie Moe. This week she recognized the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on her list of the 25 top podcasts produced in Southern California that are “some of the most interesting, educational and entertaining recordings available.” We’re with some very impressive company and are deeply honored. We’re especially proud to be the only food, restaurant and libation show originating on local radio so recognized.

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

Alan GreeleyChef Alan Greeley of The Golden Truffle in Costa Mesa is an Orange County original. The destination restaurant is in a bit of an odd location for an establishment with its reputation. He’s cooked for 4 US Presidents. After 37 years Chef Alan has closed The Golden Truffle. He’s off to Florida for the next chapter.

We’ll share some memories with Chef Alan and chat about the state of the restaurant business. Along the way he’s graciously mentored many young chefs who now have successful Orange County restaurants of their own.

Think Alan’s Caribbean Topless Tamale with Chile Verde.

Alycia HarshfieldThe California Restaurant Association Foundation is part of the annual Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo (for the restaurant trade) starting this Weekend (Sunday, Monday & Tuesday) at the Los Angeles Convention Center. They will have a fundraising booth there but their big event is The 6th Annual Culinary Cocktail Clash on the Main Stage on Sunday afternoon.

The Clash is a lively cooking and craft cocktail competition between restaurant brands – all to raise money for The Foundation’s ProStart high school culinary arts program. 500 guests are expected.

“We’re cooking up stronger communities in California. We give young people the skills they need to land a job and go to college. We give current restaurant employees financial assistance and peace of mind during an unforeseen crisis.”

Alycia Harshfield, the Executive Director of the California Restaurant Association Foundation, joins us with a preview.

Caroline StyneL.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade, hosted by Chef Suzanne Goin, partner Caroline Styne (LucquesA.O.C.,Tavern) along with Chef David Lentz (The Hungry Cat), returns to UCLA’s Royce Quad on Saturday, September 9, 2017 from 12 – 4pm for its eighth highly-anticipated event. Goin, Styne and Lentz have again enlisted the support and generosity of their culinary friends around the country who graciously donate their time and services to raise funds and awareness for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) in their quest to find better treatments and cures for all kids with cancer.

Featuring fantastic food, wine and cocktails prepared by the nation’s best chefs, winemakers and mixologistsL.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade is an afternoon of fantastic fare, cocktails for a cause, children’s activities, silent and live auctions, and much more. The 2017 event is guaranteed to surpass the aspirations of previous years with returning chefs Chris Bianco, Giada De Laurentiis, Donald Link, Mary Sue Milliken, April Bloomfield, Nancy Silverton, Nancy Oakes, Zach Pollack, Michael Voltaggio, Jonathan Waxman and Marc Vetri coming together to cook for childhood cancer cures.

Chris Bianco“What we’ve accomplished in seven years is so gratifying. It’s a tremendous amount of work to produce, but the rewards of knowing that the money we’ve raised truly helps research for better treatments and cures makes it worthwhile,” said Caroline Styne. “There are so many people that come together to make this happen; they work tirelessly to come up with ideas to make this year’s celebration better than the one before. And we do this because Alex Scott’s legacy inspires us to rise to the challenge.”

L.A. Benefit Co-Founder Caroline Styne and returning participating chef, Chris Bianco (Phoenix’s Pizzeria Bianco) are our guests.

Noelle CarterThe Los Angeles Times The Taste is an annual festival celebrating the flavors of the world in Southern California style. Hosted by The Times’ editorial staff and acclaimed L.A. chefs and bartenders, The Taste will transform Hollywood’s Paramount Pictures Studios into the ultimate epicurean pop-up and block party over Labor Day weekend (Sept. 1-3). Admission to each of the five events includes unlimited tastings from the city’s best kitchens and a variety of wine, beer and seasonal cocktails. Chef highlights from the 3-day event include Sherry Yard, Jet Tila and Antonia Lofaso.

Sherry YardNoelle Carter and Chef Sherry Yard host the Sunday Block Party from 12 Noon to 3:00 p.m. Great food and good times are the order of the day at the block party on the backlot, where Yard will demystify pastry-baking for home cooks and David LeFevre (Manhattan Beach Post) will give a master class on making biscuits. Noelle Carter will host a talk with Chris Phelps (Salt’s Cure) about what it means to brunch at some of the most innovative spots around town, with additional panelists to be announced. Restaurants include Cheezus, Cocobella Creamery, Dog Haus, E.A.K. Ramen, Hotville Chicken & Chops, Hummus Yummy Food Truck, MessHall, Otium, Rosaliné, The Butcher’s Daughter, Tuck Room Tavern and more.

Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director and Sherry Yard of Westwood’s Tuck Room Tavern join us with all the sweet and savory details.

Rich PerelmanFor the 3rd time The Olympics is returning to Los Angeles in 2028. Did Los Angeles get a good deal for 2028, or just a deal? The person to ask is our resident Olympic Games expert, Richard B. Perelman. Mr. Perelman was the youngest Vice President of The Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee (LAOOC) from 1980 to 1984. He also was the Editor of The Final Report, a massive 2-volume tome mandated by the IOC officially documenting the Games of the 23rd Olympiad (the 1984 Summer Olympics).

Mr. Perelman was the youngest Vice President of The Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee (LAOOC) from1980 to 1984. He also was the Editor of The Final Report, a massive 2-volume tome mandated by the IOC officially documenting the Games of the 23rd Olympiad (the 1984 Summer Olympics).

What does Perelman know about preparing Olympic bids? He assisted with the production of the Los Angeles bids for the 2012 and 2016 Games and in the early preparations for the SCCOG’s bid for the 2024 Games. He has no role whatsoever with the LA2024 bid committee (now the LA2028 bid committee.)

Andrew and William GruelOur always on-the-go show Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, has been on the road extensively since he was last in-studio. The ambitious itinerary was production for Food Network, New Jersey, New York, London, Orlando, Washington, D.C. and now a new Slapfish opening in Sandy, Utah.

He’s also appearing at the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival this weekend in Downtown Los Angeles on Friday night for Night Market on Grand and on Sunday afternoon for the Grand Tasting in Santa Monica. We’ll reel him in from the kitchen for a visit. He’s actually back in studio on September 2nd.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur & Chef Alan Greeley, The Golden Truffle
Segment Three: Alycia Harshfield, Executive Director, California Restaurant Association Foundation
Segment Four: Restaurateur Caroline Styne and Chef Chris Bianco, L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Culinary Cookout
Segment Five: Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director, Co-Host of Sunday Block Party at The Taste
Segment Six: Chef Sherry Yard, Corporate Vice President of Culinary Direction, iPic Entertainment
Segment Seven: Richard B. Perelman, Publisher & Editor, The Sports Examiner – LA 2028
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Founder & CEO, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Show 187, September 3, 2016: Chef Andrew Gruel, Chief Seafood Officer, Slapfish Restaurant Group

Lobster Burger from SlapfishOur Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel of The Slapfish Restaurant Group, will be at the Los Angeles Times The Taste” this weekend at Paramount Pictures Studios historic lot in Hollywood. “Flavors of L.A.” hosted by Jonathan Gold. He gives us a preview of his food station (an incredible, messy premium surf & turf burger creation that’s quite a mouthful.)

Also on the menu is some tasty and nutritious conversation about the appeal of fresh sardines. Bait fish no more…Respect the humble sardine. In a can or fresh It’s high in nutrition and value priced.

Show 186, August 27, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

A preview of today’s show and what you need to know for a chance for a free, premium fried chicken sandwich on August 31st to celebrate the last day of National Sandwich Month!

The largest annual gathering of foodservice executives, chefs and restaurateurs in the West is the 2016 Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo on August 28th to 30th at the Los Angeles Convention Center. It’s for the trade, only. Ron Mathews, Vice President of the Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo joins us with a preview.

Prominent chefs from across the country are set to return to Los Angeles for the 7th Annual LA Loves Alex’s Lemonade culinary cookout benefiting Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and the fight against childhood cancer on Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 12-4pm at UCLA’s Royce Quad. The event — hosted by Chef Suzanne Goin, business partner Caroline Styne (Lucquesa.o.c.,Tavern) along with Chef David Lentz (The Hungry Cat) – will offer fantastic food, wine and cocktails prepared by the nation’s best chefs, winemakers and mixologists, all to fight childhood cancer. Lucques Restaurant Group’s Caroline Styne joins us with an enticing preview.

He’s back…Meathead Goldwyn is the founder, barbecue and grilling whisperer, and hedonism evangelist behind AmazingRibs.com. the world’s most popular outdoor cooking website. His new book is MEATHEAD: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling. Just in time for Labor Day cookouts…

Tuxton China Company started business in 1999, but it has a long family history which has contributed to its success.  Three generations of the founding Lam family continue to run Lynn’s and Tuxton China, and with the addition of William Burden (former owner of Burden China Co., Inc.) who became Tuxton’s President in 2001, Tuxton has become one of the top suppliers in the foodservice industry.  In September Tuxton is donating a percentage of their total sales to support the Careers through Culinary Arts Program C-CAP, Tuxton’s Marketing Director, Jennifer Rolander, joins us with all the needed 411.

The Los Angeles Times’ The Taste is back Labor Day Weekend on the backlot at Paramount Pictures Studios in Hollywood. It’s perhaps the ultimate Summer epicurean pop-up and block party featuring the talents of the area’s best chefs, bartenders and restaurateurs. Our guests are Sunday Block Party’s Host, Noelle Carter, Times Test Kitchen Director, and Michael Flood of the L.A. Regional Food Bank.

Chef Curtis Stone’s Maude in Beverly Hills features monthly changing prix fixe menus with the courses designed around a key ingredient. For one very special night San Francisco’s Dominique Crenn (Atelier Crenn and Petit Crenn) is cooking a special benefit menu to support Young Farmers at Maude with Chef Curtis. Curtis Stone and Dominique Crenn join us with the details fresh from an expedition at the Santa Monica Farmers Market.

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

Happy Labor Day Weekend !