Show 504, December 17, 2022: Tail o’ the Pup, West Hollywood, with Proprietor Dimitri Komarov, 1933 Group Part Two

Dimitri Komarov of the 1933 Group

“The return of the iconic Tail o’ the Pup (originally located on S. La Cienega Blvd. across from the SLS Hotel) is a direct reflection of proprietor 1933 Group’s (Highland Park Bowl, The Formosa Café) dedication to preserving, protecting, and reviving Los Angeles History. Tail o’ the Pup’s giant hotdog shaped building has been attracting visitors to Hollywood since 1946. This ambitious revival isn’t just about nostalgia. The 1933 Group aims to not only celebrate Tail o’ the Pup’s past, but also pave the way for new endeavors and memories which can be celebrated for years to come.”

“The 1933 Group’s team is dedicated to creating tasty dogs, snacks, shakes, and more that satisfy modern tastes while honoring Tail o’ the Pup’s rich history. The 1933 Group works tirelessly to source high quality ingredients and develop house-made recipes with their guests in mind. They are proud to feature a surprisingly diverse menu featuring vegetarian and gluten-free options.” In the proud tradition of Tail o’ the Pup there is even a Doggy Menu where you can “Pamper Your Pup.”

Also a full liquor license with a nightly Happy Hour ($5 lagers) from 6 to 9:00 p.m.

“Formed nearly two decades ago, the 1933 Group helms a lauded portfolio of bars and restaurants in Los Angeles, including the historical restorations of Highland Park Bowl and the barrel-shaped bar Idle Hour in North Hollywood, Harlowe in West Hollywood, Sassafras in Hollywood, La Cuevita in Highland Park, Bigfoot Lodge in Los Feliz, Thirsty Crow in Silver Lake, Culver City’s Bigfoot West and Oldfield’s Liquor Room. The latest additions are the iconic Formosa Café and the restored and expanded Tail o’ the Pup. Combining design aesthetics that embrace various time periods in early America with a passion for cocktails and the revival of the art of bartending, owners Bobby Green, Dimitri Komarov, and Dmitry Liberman create imaginative libations and scenes throughout LA’s drinking landscape.”

1933 Group’s Co-Founder, Dimitri Komarov continues with us, a 1946 Pup (hotdog split & grilled on a toasted bun with grilled onions and house mustard) in hand.

Show 445, October 2, 2021: Director Patrick Trefz, “Man in The Field : The Life and Art of Jim Denevan” – Documentary

Director Patrick Tretz

If you’re a foodie in good-standing you’ve most likely heard of the ultimate outdoor dining experience, Outstanding in the Field.” These ongoing, one-of-a-kind dining spectaculars (since 1999) are the creation of artist and chef, Jim Denevan. A just released feature documentary, Man In The Field: The Life and Art of Jim Denevan, chronicles his memorable achievements.

““MAN IN THE FIELD” profiles pioneering artist and chef Jim Denevan, founder of “Outstanding in the Field,” a radical alternative to the conventional dining experience. The documentary intimately reveals Denevan’s artistic and culinary gifts with land art in epic geometric formations alongside grand dinners in beautiful natural settings. Instead of bringing the food to the restaurant, “Outstanding in the Field” has brought the restaurant to the food since 1999. Hosted at one long table, with 100 to 1000 guests dining together, Denevan has set tables in vineyards, beaches, meadows, fishing docks, and city streets. Over 120,000 lucky patrons in all 50 states and 16 countries have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime event and now Director Patrick Trefz’s film will allow audiences to experience it too.”

Five “Outstanding in the Field” dinner events will be part of the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl from October 7th to 16th. Locations are as varied as the Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, Wattles Farm in West Hollywood and the Huntington Beach Pier.

The Director of “Man in The Field,” Patrick Trefz is our guest.

Show 414, February 27, 2021: Jordan Ogron, Principal, Tesse, West Hollywood Part One

Jordan Ogron of Tesse

Tesse in West Hollywood is a French restaurant featuring the dynamic, continental-inspired cuisine of Chef Raphael Francois and Pastry Chef Sally Camacho Mueller (currently on maternity leave,) served in a chic dining room on Sunset Boulevard in the heart of West Hollywood. An extensive wine program from Jordan Ogron (Principal) is supplemented by Boutellier, an exclusive wine store adjacent to the restaurant. A French-leaning craft cocktail program designed by Nick Meyer and Julian Cox is offered at the bar.”

“The restaurant’s name is a contraction of the French delicatesse, meaning ‘delicacy’ or ‘thoughtfulness’ — it’s also used across France as a colloquial term for charcuterie. And while the iconic pâtés, terrines, rillettes and saucisses of his homeland are central to the menu, Chef Raphael also features a broad and finessed take on French classics, with meats and fish prepared on the wood-fired hearth that anchors the kitchen and lighter fare inspired by near-daily trips to LA’s outstanding Farmers Markets.” 

“Tesse’s menu is designed with wine in mind. The food pairs beautifully with a vast, interactive wine program designed by Jordan Ogron, which features nearly thirty wines by the glass and a list of more than three thousand selections. For those who prefer something a bit stronger, the craft cocktail program was designed by Nick Meyer and Julian Cox, the duo behind many of the most notable bar programs in Los Angeles.”

Tesse is open nightly for dinner with brunch on the weekends. Currently there are patio dining options available fronting Sunset Blvd. or on the south side of the building with the magnificent panoramic view of Los Angeles. Jordan’s popular, creative wine dinners will be resuming shortly.

Tesse’s Jordan Ogron provides us the overview.

Show 414, February 27, 2021: Jordan Ogron, Principal, Tesse, West Hollywood Part Two

Jordan Ogron of Tesse

Tesse in West Hollywood is a French restaurant featuring the dynamic, continental-inspired cuisine of Chef Raphael Francois and Pastry Chef Sally Camacho Mueller (currently on maternity leave,) served in a chic dining room on Sunset Boulevard in the heart of West Hollywood. An extensive wine program from Jordan Ogron (Principal) is supplemented by Boutellier, an exclusive wine store adjacent to the restaurant. A French-leaning craft cocktail program designed by Nick Meyer and Julian Cox is offered at the bar.”

“The restaurant’s name is a contraction of the French delicatesse, meaning ‘delicacy’ or ‘thoughtfulness’ — it’s also used across France as a colloquial term for charcuterie. And while the iconic pâtés, terrines, rillettes and saucisses of his homeland are central to the menu, Chef Raphael also features a broad and finessed take on French classics, with meats and fish prepared on the wood-fired hearth that anchors the kitchen and lighter fare inspired by near-daily trips to LA’s outstanding Farmers Markets.” 

“Tesse’s menu is designed with wine in mind. The food pairs beautifully with a vast, interactive wine program designed by Jordan Ogron, which features nearly thirty wines by the glass and a list of more than three thousand selections. For those who prefer something a bit stronger, the craft cocktail program was designed by Nick Meyer and Julian Cox, the duo behind many of the most notable bar programs in Los Angeles.”

Tesse is open nightly for dinner with brunch on the weekends. Currently there are patio dining options available fronting Sunset Blvd. or on the south side of the building with the magnificent panoramic view of Los Angeles. Jordan’s popular, creative wine dinners will be resuming shortly.

Tesse’s Jordan Ogron continues with us.

Show 414, February 27, 2021: The WEHO Sausage and Catering Co with Owner Peter Tulaney

The new WEHO Sausage Co. at The Citizen Public Market in Culver City is already making a name for themselves with gourmet burgers, sausage patty sandwiches and artisan charcuterie. The mission is converting burger purists into sausage patty pioneers. They also prepare appealing charcuterie plates with their house-made salamis, imported cheese and artisanal accoutrements.

“Our fresh ground sausage patty sandwiches will elevate your traditional experience of a burger joint into an algorithm of flavors and aromas.”

WEHO Sausage Co. also features 100 varietals of local, craft, domestic and imported beers and wines. They even have beer and wine pairing suggestions for each of their menu items. Dine-in, take-out, delivery and catering services are available. The WEHO Sausage Co. started as a full-service caterer.

Lunch and Dinner daily (except Monday) with Weekend Brunch from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Happy Hour with menu specials is daily (except Monday) from 4 to 6:00 p.m.

A weekend Brunch special sandwich is The (323.) It’s Applewood Smoked Salmon, Onion, Tomato, with Labneh and served on a Cranberry Walnut Loaf. A popular sandwich is The Marquis. It’s Lamb Merguez Sausage Patty with Roasted Bell Peppers, Arugula and Red Onion Salata with Harissa Aioli.

Executive Chef & Proprietor Peter Tulaney joins us to slice the house-made salamis.

Show 402, December 5, 2020: Matthew DeMarte, General Manager, Connie & Ted’s, West Hollywood

Matthew de Marte wearing a mask at Connie and Ted'sConnie and Ted’s in West Hollywood is inspired by the real Connie & Ted (the grandparents of Chef Michael Cimarusti,) their love for family, and the good times they spent together fishing off the shores of New England. At Connie and Ted’s you’ll find simply prepared fish and shellfish, inspired by the classic clam shacks, oyster bars, and fish houses, that dot the New England Seaboard and the West Coast.

General Manager Matthew DeMarte has been there since the beginning eight years ago. We reel him in to explain how Connie & Ted’s is still hospitably serving their guests (Wednesday through Sunday) with seafood specialties available for takeaway. Gift cards for Connie & Ted’s are a great item for the seafood lovers on your Holiday list.

Show 377, June 13, 2020: Matthew De Marte, General Manager, Connie & Ted’s, West Hollywood

Matthew de Marte wearing a mask at Connie and Ted'sSince partners Chef Michael Cimarusti, Donato Poto, and Craig Nickoloff opened Connie and Ted’s in West Hollywood in 2013 they have redefined the concept of a casual seafood dinner house serving premium seafood. Poised to reopen for dine-in Connie & Ted’s just celebrated their 7th Anniversary.

“At Connie and Ted’s you’ll find simply prepared fish and shellfish, inspired by the classic clam shacks, oyster bars, and fish houses, that dot the New England Seaboard and the Western Coast.”

During the ban on dine-in Connie & Ted’s has been serving guests with a full menu prepared To-Go & via delivery through TOCK.

Opening General Manager Matthew De Marte (a 3rd generation restaurant professional) provides all the tasty details.

Show 313, March 2, 2019: Wine Authority Kyle Meyer, Wine Exchange, Santa Ana – Bordeaux Tasting

Kyle Meyer of Wine ExchangeOur resident wine expert Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange joins us to talk about Bordeaux wines. The Union Des Grands Crus De Bordeaux was just in West Hollywood with a comprehensive tasting of the 2016 releases. Kyle’s assessment of the vintage is that it’s “one of the greatest.”

Bordeaux is the single most important wine region on the world so it’s taken very seriously. Contrary to popular belief there is good value to be had in the satellite appellations and not everything is crazy expensive.

This was the 14th edition of this Tasting in the United States. Kyle shares his professional insights with us and also explains how a Sommelier or Wine Merchant navigates such a vast tasting. It’s honestly real, purposeful work…Cheers!

Show 310, February 9, 2019: Jordan Ogron, Managing Partner, Tesse, Tesse Café & Bakery, Boutellier, Sunset Strip, West Hollywood

Jordan OgronThe Tesse West Hollywood creative team has rebranded and transformed the adjacent Fred Segal Café on the Sunset Strip as the more casual Tesse Café & Bakery with weekday lunch service. Distinctive desserts from partner Sally Camacho Mueller, pastry chef extraordinaire.

“After opening Tesse Restaurant last summer, and introducing Weekend Brunch last Fall, chefs Raphael Francois and Sally Camacho Mueller are excited to introduce an all new Lunch Menu and debut Tesse Café & Bakery. (formerly Fred Segal Café) Open daily from 8am to 6pm, there will be a selection of housemade pastries, coffee, tea, wine and beer available to order at the counter. Monday through Friday, a full lunch menu will be offered from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. including salads, hot sandwiches, pastas and entrees as well as plated desserts.”

“Chef Raphael has developed a menu with lighter fare such as a Shaved Fennel Salad with Citrus, Spinach and Chickpeas and Local Seabass Ceviche with Passion Fruit, Cucumber, Mirin & Celery, to heartier dishes like Croque Monsieur Classique, or Steak Frites with Skirt Steak, Pesto, Watercress and Duck Fat Fries. Desserts include Chocolate Hazelnut Profiteroles and Lemon Meringue Tart.”

Managing Partner & wine guru Jordan Ogron (Boutellier) has all the tasty details.

Show 304, December 29, 2018: Restaurateur Trisha Langer, Daughter’s Deli – A Family Tradition, West Hollywood

Tricia LangerLanger’s Deli’s pastrami is legendary in Jewish deli appreciators’ circles. In 2001 Langer’s was awarded the distinction of “America’s Classics” by The James Beard Foundation, a prestigious honor for an independent, family-owned restaurant. Trisha Langer is the granddaughter of Al Langer, the founder of Langer’s Deli located across the street from MacArthur Park in Los Angeles.

After many years learning the deli trade at Langer’s from her Grandparents and Father (Al) she has branched off on her own (with her husband) to found Daughter’s Deli – A Family Tradition in the heart of The Sunset Strip in West Hollywood.

It’s a more modest establishment in size than Langer’s but the pastrami is still outstanding and hand carved. You order at the counter and your food is delivered to your table. There is also comfortable covered patio seating with a view of the action on the Sunset Strip. It’s breakfast and lunch, 7-days.

“Growing up with a family in the Deli business exposed me to a world of tastes, smells, stories, and experiences I wouldn’t have had otherwise. My first job as a little girl was rolling swiss cheese under the supervision of my Nana because I wasn’t old or tall enough to make my own catering tray for the holidays. Years later after graduating college and realizing the restaurant business was in my blood, I went to work with my family as they taught me some of the tricks and trades of the business. I spent fourteen years being mentored by my father bonding over Family traditions and recipes created by my Nana, Papa, and himself over the years.”

“In 2015, I married a family man who had passion for the restaurant business. He insists the moment he fell in love with me is when he asked how my day was, and I told him I had to pull my hair back and hand cut pastrami that day with my dad because we were busy. Three years later after having two sons, I decided to begin a new venture with him to create something like my family had created for me. Daughter’s Deli is a place we hope will emulate the feeling of A Family Tradition while serving quality food.” – Trisha Langer

We pull Trisha away from skillfully hand-slicing the ethereal pastrami for a visit.