“Nestled in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, multiple James Beard Award-Winning Chef and Restaurateur Chris Bianco’sPane Bianco DTLA offers NY style pizza, sandwiches, salads, and provisions. And with Pizzeria Bianco DTLA just around the corner, Chef Chris’ full restaurant experience is now available at Row DTLA. Along with their NY Style pizzas, Pane Bianco DTLA features their incredible sandwiches, meticulously prepared on house-made breads, baked daily. Combining premium meats, artisanal cheeses, and farm-fresh vegetables, the sandwiches are handcrafted with love! For a lighter option, explore vibrant salads bursting with freshness. Perfect as a meal or a refreshing side, these salads celebrate the bounty of nature’s offerings.” Chef Chris joins us with pizza peel in hand.
“Buono’s Pizzeria, which opened as a family-owned, Italian deli and market in 1965 in San Pedro before eventually transitioning into a full-service pizzeria in 1973, is celebrating its 50th “pizza-versary” in November. The San Pedro landmark, which relocated from its original location at 15th and Gaffey in 2019 to the port town’s Little Italy district at 6th and Centre, invites the community to celebrate on November 13 and 14 with heavily discounted menu items and $50 gift cards giveaways to 50 lucky customers who dine at Buono’s on either day. Winners are selected at random. Both Long Beach locations will be celebrating as well.” Restaurateur Frank Buono joins us with a signature Pizza Buona Lisa at the ready.
Adam Bell is our accomplished, long-time Website and Social Media maven. He’s a foodie in good-standing with a particular affinity for the best in regional pizza, distinctive craft beer, and artisan coffee brewed from freshly roasted and ground, fair-trade coffee beans.
Adam was recently in Atlantic City for a few days. He avoided the heavily-hyped restaurants in the big Hotel Casino Resorts and, instead, renewed his acquaintance with the smaller establishments (representing better value) oozing with local character that the residents frequent.
Along the way Adam will profile the Mancuso Family’s Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern a locals’ hang since 1935 with a ton of history. It’s an iconic red sauce Italian spot with meatballs that still truly amaze.
“This year, the New Orleans culinary icon Commander’s Palace celebrates 130 years of restaurant history. To mark the occasion, co-proprietors Ti Adelaide Martin and Lally Brennan—alongside Executive Chef Meg Bickford and the entire Commander’s Palace family—are rolling out a yearlong calendar of anniversary programming. The legendary New Orleans dining destination, Commander’s Palace, first debuted in 1893 as a small Garden District saloon and restaurant. In 1969, pioneering female restaurateur Ella Brennan and four of her siblings took its helm, changing the landscape not only for women in hospitality, but also for what Creole cuisine and hospitality could be.” Ti Martin is our guest with a flute of celebratory Commander’s Palace Cuvee in hand.
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. Farm-raised fish produced domestically contributes to sustainability and the American economy. There are plenty of misnomers out there regarding quality and best practices. Chef Andrew shares the real facts of what you need to know.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Adam Bell is our accomplished, long-time Website and Social Media maven. He’s a foodie in good-standing with a particular affinity for the best in regional pizza, distinctive craft beer, and artisan coffee brewed from freshly roasted and ground, fair-trade coffee beans.
Adam was recently in Atlantic City for a few days. Earlier in his career he lived there for a number of years. Adam avoided the heavily-hyped restaurants in the big Hotel Casino Resorts and, instead, renewed his acquaintance with the smaller establishments (representing better value) oozing with local character that the residents frequent.
Along the way Adam will profile the Mancuso Family’s Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern a locals’ hang since 1935 with a ton of history. It’s an iconic red sauce Italian spot with meatballs that still truly amaze.
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.
“Nestled in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, multiple James Beard Award-Winning Chef and Restaurateur Chris Bianco’sPane Bianco DTLA offers NY style pizza, sandwiches, salads, and provisions. And with Pizzeria Bianco DTLA just around the corner, Chef Chris’ full restaurant experience is now available at Row DTLA. Along with their NY Style pizzas, Pane Bianco DTLA features their incredible sandwiches, meticulously prepared on house-made breads, baked daily. Combining premium meats, artisanal cheeses, and farm-fresh vegetables, the sandwiches are handcrafted with love! For a lighter option, explore vibrant salads bursting with freshness. Perfect as a meal or a refreshing side, these salads celebrate the bounty of nature’s offerings.” Chef Chris joins us with pizza peel in hand.
“Buono’s Pizzeria, which opened as a family-owned, Italian deli and market in 1965 in San Pedro before eventually transitioning into a full-service pizzeria in 1973, is celebrating its 50th “pizza-versary” in November. The San Pedro landmark, which relocated from its original location at 15th and Gaffey in 2019 to the port town’s Little Italy district at 6th and Centre, invites the community to celebrate on November 13 and 14 with heavily discounted menu items and $50 gift cards giveaways to 50 lucky customers who dine at Buono’s on either day. Winners are selected at random. Both Long Beach locations will be celebrating as well.” Restaurateur Frank Buono joins us with a signature Pizza Buona Lisa at the ready.
Adam Bell is our accomplished, long-time Website and Social Media maven. He’s a foodie in good-standing with a particular affinity for the best in regional pizza, distinctive craft beer, and artisan coffee brewed from freshly roasted and ground, fair-trade coffee beans.
Adam was recently in Atlantic City for a few days. He avoided the heavily-hyped restaurants in the big Hotel Casino Resorts and, instead, renewed his acquaintance with the smaller establishments (representing better value) oozing with local character that the residents frequent.
Along the way Adam will profile the Mancuso Family’s Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern a locals’ hang since 1935 with a ton of history. It’s an iconic red sauce Italian spot with meatballs that still truly amaze.
“This year, the New Orleans culinary icon Commander’s Palace celebrates 130 years of restaurant history. To mark the occasion, co-proprietors Ti Adelaide Martin and Lally Brennan—alongside ExecutiveChef Meg Bickford and the entire Commander’s Palace family—are rolling out a yearlong calendar of anniversary programming. The legendary New Orleans dining destination, Commander’s Palace, first debuted in 1893 as a small Garden District saloon and restaurant. In 1969, pioneering female restaurateur Ella Brennan and four of her siblings took its helm, changing the landscape not only for women in hospitality, but also for what Creole cuisine and hospitality could be.” Ti Martin is our guest with a flute of celebratory Commander’s Palace Cuvee in hand.
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. Farm-raised fish produced domestically contributes to sustainability and the American economy. There are plenty of misnomers out there regarding quality and best practices. Chef Andrew shares the real facts of what you need to know.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“Nestled in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, multiple James Beard Award-Winning Chef and Restaurateur Chris Bianco’sPane Bianco DTLA offers NY style pizza, sandwiches, salads, and provisions. And with Pizzeria Bianco DTLA just around the corner, Chef Chris’ full restaurant experience is now available at Row DTLA.” Chef Chris joins us with pizza peel in hand.
“Along with their NY Style pizzas, Pane Bianco DTLA features their incredible sandwiches, meticulously prepared on house-made breads, baked daily. Combining premium meats, artisanal cheeses, and farm-fresh vegetables, the sandwiches are handcrafted with love! For a lighter option, explore vibrant salads bursting with freshness. Perfect as a meal or a refreshing side, these salads celebrate the bounty of nature’s offerings.”
“Pane Bianco also features select provisions, including their own lineup of Bianco DiNapoli tomatoes, Bianco swag, and our Bianco extra virgin olive oil.”
Hours at the Row DTLA are Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
“When Chris Bianco started Pizzeria Biancoin the back corner of a Phoenix grocery store in 1988, he had no idea that he would become a driving force in the artisanal pizza movement. All he knew was that his food would reflect the respect and sincere intention that he brings to each of his recipes, as the result of his relationships with farmers, local producers, customers, and staff.”
“Now the chef-owner of Pizzeria Bianco, with multiple locations in Phoenix, Arizona and Los Angeles, California, Bianco has come a long way from the back corner of that grocery store.”
“Bianco first won the James Beard Award for Best Chef (Southwest) in 2003 —the first pizzaiolo to receive the honor— and helped spawn a generation of independent and artisanal pizzerias, lending his advice, wisdom, and food philosophies to dozens of fellow chefs and restaurateurs. In 2022, Chris again won a second James Beard Award for Outstanding Restauranteur.”
“Buono’s Pizzeria, which opened as a family-owned, Italian deli and market in 1965 in San Pedro before eventually transitioning into a full-service pizzeria in 1973, is celebrating its 50th “pizza-versary” in November. The San Pedro landmark, which relocated from its original location at 15th and Gaffey in 2019 to the port town’s Little Italy district at 6th and Centre, invites the community to celebrate on November 13 and 14 with heavily discounted menu items and $50 gift cards giveaways to 50 lucky customers who dine at Buono’s on either day. Winners are selected at random. Both Long Beach locations will be celebrating as well.”
“Turning 50 has never tasted so good,” said Frank Buono, who now heads operations for his family’s three locations, including downtown Long Beach and West Long Beach. “As one of the few legacy restaurants still around, this is our way of saying thank you to our many loyal guests. This milestone is as much their celebration as it is ours. We wouldn’t be here without their continued support throughout the decades.” Frank Buono joins us with a signature Pizza Buona Lisa at the ready.
“The Little Italy location spans nearly 3,000 square-feet and boasts alfresco dining available with an expansive wraparound patio. The exhibition kitchen reveals a display of culinary excellence with a gas-fired brick oven. Both Long Beach locations offer patio dining, too, with an inviting 3,000-square-foot outdoor dining space at the downtown Long Beach locale.”
Adam Bell is our accomplished, long-time Website and Social Media maven. He’s a foodie in good-standing with a particular affinity for the best in regional pizza, distinctive craft beer, and artisan coffee brewed from freshly roasted and ground, fair-trade coffee beans.
Adam was recently in Atlantic City for a few days. He avoided the heavily-hyped restaurants in the big Hotel Casino Resorts and, instead, renewed his acquaintance with the smaller establishments (representing better value) oozing with local character that the residents frequent.
Along the way Adam will profile the Mancuso Family’s Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern a locals’ hang since 1935 with a ton of history. It’s an iconic red sauce Italian spot with meatballs that still truly amaze.
“This year, the New Orleans culinary icon Commander’s Palacecelebrates 130 years of restaurant history. To mark the occasion, co-proprietors Ti Adelaide Martin and Lally Brennan — alongside ExecutiveChef Meg Bickford and the entire Commander’s Palace family — are rolling out a yearlong calendar of anniversary programming.”
“What our guests love about Commander’s Palace is our approach to service; we are striving to be both warm and meticulous,” says Co-Proprietor Lally Brennan. “I think it’s this blend of approachability and playfulness with uncompromising hospitality that keeps generation after generation joining us. It’s incredible to not only see our longtime regulars, but to also see new faces begin to join us weekly; it’s why we do what we do.”
“The legendary New Orleans dining destination, Commander’s Palace, first debuted in 1893 as a small Garden District saloon and restaurant. In 1969, pioneering female restaurateur Ella Brennan and four of her siblings took its helm, changing the landscape not only for women in hospitality, but also for what Creole cuisine and hospitality could be.”
“An impressive “who’s who” of culinary talent cut their teeth at Commander’s — from the late great chefs Paul Prudhomme and Jamie Shannon to famed chef / TV personality Emeril Lagasse and the multi-award-winning Chef Tory McPhail. Today, Executive Chef Meg Bickford — the restaurant’s first female executive chef and a longtime veteran of the Commander’s Palace kitchen (she started in 2008 as a hot appetizer cook) — continues the restaurant’s penchant for honoring and providing access to a rich, storied history, while continually exploring new frontiers in cuisine and cultural evolution.”
“At Commander’s Palace, we don’t stand still,” says Ti Martin, speaking to Chef Bickford’s New Haute Creole direction. “We’ve always pushed the boundaries of creole cooking. And right now feels like an especially exciting time in the New Orleans culinary community. Meg, alongside many of our friends in the industry, are challenging themselves to deliver new interpretations of what our food can be.”
Ti Martin is our guest with a flute of celebratory Commander’s Palace Cuvee in hand. Martin is in Los Angeles to participate in the People <Sustainability> panel at the LA Chef Conference 2023at LA Trade Tech College.
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.
Farm-raised fish produced domestically contributes to sustainability and the American economy. There are plenty of misnomers out there regarding quality and best practices. Chef Andrew shares the real facts of what you need to know.
The Gas Co’s Energy Resource Center in Downey had reopened. Chef and restaurateurs are again welcome to view and try a myriad of state-of-the-art and energy efficient restaurant kitchen equipment on display there. Rebates are available for qualified energy efficient natural gas equipment. There are also a host of informative, in-person seminars on the schedule. The Gas Co’s Gina Christian and Carmen Oliver are our guests providing all the key details.
Our bargain-loving, Social Media and Website authority, Adam Bell, was fortunate enough to spend a few glorious days in Maui in late April and early May. Maui is an ever-popular destination for Californians. Adam was based in Kihei which is near Wailea. Adam previously shared some informative trip highlights including the roundtrip experience on Hawaiian Airlines, the condo option to a hotel and a standout Dinner and Breakfast. For Adam’s concluding installment it’s the best in Hawaiian coffee and local craft beer (actually brewed in Hawaii.) Also, an overview of stationary food truck parks featuring delicious Island bites prepared with a side of Aloha.
“Mes Amis, a new generation French-inspired brasserie from celebrated Chef Lincoln Carson (Coast Range and Vaquero Bar, Solvang) and Ten Five Hospitality is now open at Thompson Hotel – A Hyatt Hotel in Hollywood’s Vinyl District, an emerging culinary destination. The restaurant draws inspiration from the golden era of Hollywood and is evocative of the neighborhood spirit of bustling cafes, bistros, and brasseries from Paris to Lyon. Decidedly approachable in its ethos, Carson and Ten Five created Mes Amis out of a desire to offer guests an effortlessly chic yet relaxed neighborhood atmosphere, where close friends and family can gather to enjoy great cooking, cocktails, and wine for any occasion or no occasion at all.” Executive Chef Lincoln Carson is our guest.
“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat once again as dozens of local restaurants and burger-centric businesses will offer unique over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the 2nd annual Long Beach Burger Week returns August 7-14, 2022. Featured Burgers are value-priced at $5, $10, $15 and $20, plus Burger/Cocktail combos at $25. There are no tickets or passes required. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups food truck to visit. Participating restaurants, food businesses and offers can be found at Long Beach Burger Week site.” The Kroft’sStephen Le and Remix Kitchen Bar’sChef Ross Pangilinan join us with all the juicy details on their respective Long Beach Burger Week specials.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruelthe Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. We all know salmon is healthy and should be part of our regular diet. It also can be kind of boring. As our resident seafood authority we have Chef Andrew to the rescue. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts on adding some excitement to that traditional salmon dish. Also some advice for jazzing up Salmon Burgers.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Our bargain-loving, Social Media and Website authority, Adam Bell, was fortunate enough to spend a few glorious days in Maui in late April and early May. Maui is an ever-popular destination for Californians. Adam was based in Kihei which is near Wailea. Adam previously shared some informative trip highlights including the roundtrip experience on Hawaiian Airlines, the condo option to a hotel and a standout Dinner and Breakfast.
For Adam’s concluding installment it’s the best in Hawaiian coffee and local craft beer (actually brewed in Hawaii.) Also, an overview of food truck parks featuring delicious Island bites prepared with a side of Aloha. Along the way Adam discovered a stationary food truck (Kitoko) unusually operated by a former fine-dining pastry chef from the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.
We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.
The Gas Co’s Energy Resource Center in Downey had reopened. Chef and restaurateurs are welcome to view and try a myriad of state-of-the-art and energy efficient restaurant kitchen equipment on display there. Rebates are available for qualified energy efficient natural gas equipment. There are also a host of informative, in-person seminars on the schedule. The Gas Co’s Gina Christian and Carmen Oliver are our guests providing all the key details.
Our bargain-loving, Social Media and Website authority, Adam Bell, was fortunate enough to spend a few glorious days in Maui in late April and early May. Maui is an ever-popular destination for Californians. Adam was based in Kihei which is near Wailea. Adam previously shared some informative trip highlights including the roundtrip experience on Hawaiian Airlines, the condo option to a hotel and a standout Dinner and Breakfast. For Adam’s concluding installment it’s the
best in Hawaiian coffee and local craft beer (actually brewed in Hawaii.) Also, an overview of food truck parks featuring delicious Island bites prepared with a side of heart.
“Mes Amis, a new generation French-inspired brasserie from celebrated chef Lincoln Carson (Coast Range and Vaquero Bar, Solvang) and Ten Five Hospitality is now open at Thompson Hotel – A Hyatt Hotel in Hollywood’s Vinyl District, an emerging culinary destination. The restaurant draws inspiration from the golden era of Hollywood and is evocative of the neighborhood spirit of bustling cafes, bistros, and brasseries from Paris to Lyon. Decidedly approachable in its ethos, Carson and Ten Five created Mes Amis out of a desire to offer guests an effortlessly chic yet relaxed neighborhood atmosphere, where close friends and family can gather to enjoy great cooking, cocktails, and wine for any occasion or no occasion at all.” Executive Chef Lincoln Carson is our guest.
“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat once again as dozens of local restaurants and burger-centric businesses will offer unique over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the 2nd annual Long Beach Burger Week returns August 7-14, 2022.
Featured Burgers are value-priced at $5, $10, $15 and $20, plus Burger/Cocktail combos at $25. There are no tickets or passes required. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups food truck to visit. Participating restaurants, food businesses and offers can be found at the Burger Week site.” The Kroft’s Stephen Le and Remix Kitchen Bar’s Chef Ross Pangilinan join us with all the juicy details on their respective Long Beach Burger Week specials.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. We all know salmon is healthy and should be part of our regular diet. It also can be kind of boring. As our resident seafood authority we have Chef Andrew to the rescue. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts on adding some excitement to that traditional salmon dish. Also some advice for jazzing up Salmon Burgers.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
The Gas Co’s Energy Resource Center in Downey had reopened. Chef and restaurateurs are welcome to view and try a myriad of state-of-the-art and energy efficient restaurant kitchen equipment on display there. Rebates are available for qualified energy efficient natural gas equipment. There are also a host of informative, in-person seminars on the schedule.
Our bargain-loving, Social Media and Website authority, Adam Bell, was fortunate enough to spend a few glorious days in Maui in late April and early May. Maui is an ever-popular destination for Californians. Adam was based in Kihei which is near Wailea. Adam previously shared some informative trip highlights including the roundtrip experience on Hawaiian Airlines, the condo option to a hotel and a standout Dinner and Breakfast. For Adam’s concluding installment it’s the best in Hawaiian coffee and local craft beer (actually brewed in Hawaii.) Also, an overview of food truck parks featuring delicious Island bites prepared with a side of Aloha.
“Mes Amis, a new generation French-inspired brasserie from celebrated chef Lincoln Carson (Coast Range and Vaquero Bar, Solvang) and Ten Five Hospitality is now open at Thompson Hotel – A Hyatt Hotel in Hollywood’s Vinyl District, an emerging culinary destination. The restaurant draws inspiration from the golden era of Hollywood and is evocative of the neighborhood spirit of bustling cafes, bistros, and brasseries from Paris to Lyon. Decidedly approachable in its ethos, Carson and Ten Five created Mes Amis out of a desire to offer guests an effortlessly chic yet relaxed neighborhood atmosphere, where close friends and family can gather to enjoy great cooking, cocktails, and wine for any occasion or no occasion at all.” Executive Chef Lincoln Carson takes a break from the kitchen and is our guest.
“Rooted in French style and technique and brought to life through local ingredients and purveyors from around the world, Carson’s broad menu is an invitation for any occasion. Carson’s contemporary take on classic brasserie fare encourages guests to convene for a casual weeknight bite, while large format entrees inspire group gatherings. Pristine offerings from an expansive raw bar include East and West Coast Oysters and Maine Scallop Crudo, with plates such as Chicory Salad with fourme d’ambert, citrus, walnut, and Steak Tartare with “everything lavash” showcasing California interpretations of traditional French dishes.”
“Entrees include Steak Frites, French Onion Burger with raclette and caramelized onions, Smoked Liberty Duck, and Niman Ranch Country Pork Chop with crispy brussels sprouts. Large format presentations such as 45-Day Dry Aged Prime Ribeye with potato-onion rolls and Whole Roasted Pasture Chicken further nod to everyday French favorites. Carson’s pastry expertise is revealed in whimsical renditions of classic French desserts including Chocolate Soufflé with chartreuse verte; Pavlova with rose geranium and Harry’s Berries strawberries; and Gateaux St. Honoré with pecan mousseline, puff pastry and caramel.”
“Designed to complement Carson’s menu, the beverage program features a comprehensive wine list of predominantly French and Californian producers, along with thoughtfully selected wines by the glass. Cocktail offerings named in honor of Mes Amis’ photography collection of Old Hollywood scenes and icons include the Safari Party with London dry gin, Lillet Blanc, Gran Classico Bitter, bubbles, lemon and thyme, as well as Happy Birthday No. 35 with rye whiskey, Dubonnet Rouge, herbs de Provence and bitters. An extensive range of classic and eclectic champagne offerings lends further levity to the Mes Amis experience with nightly selections presented tableside on a roving champagne cart.”
“Mes Amis is open for dinner service with plans to debut brunch in the months ahead. The restaurant is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. with reservations available 7 days in advance on Resy.”
“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat once again as dozens of local restaurants and burger-centric businesses will offer unique over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the 2nd annual Long Beach Burger Week returns August 7-14, 2022. Featured Burgers are value-priced at $5, $10, $15 and $20, plus Burger/Cocktail combos at $25.”
“Long Beach Burger Week is even taking “dog friendly” one step further by encouraging restaurants with patios to offer a special Burger Week Menu just for dogs for $5 each.”
“Organized by local 501(c)3 non-profit Long Beach Food & Beverage, executive director Terri Henry, who has been organizing culinary events Long Beach for almost a decade, felt that in addition to encouraging local and surrounding “foodies” to enjoy what the expanding Long Beach culinary community has to offer, events like Burger Week support the local economy and put “butts in seats” of our valued restaurants. “We may be past the pandemic stage of COVID, but restaurants are still struggling and the 2nd annual city-wide Long Beach Burger Week will help increase guest counts and sales in August,” stated Henry. “And hey, it’s summertime and who doesn’t love a good burger?”.”
“There are no tickets or passes required. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups food truck to visit. Participating restaurants, food businesses and offers can be found at the Long Beach Burger Week site.”
The Kroft in The Hangar LBX is a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. Their special is an ample Chili Cheeseburger for $15. It’s a double Chili Cheeseburger with grilled onions and secret sauce on a brioche bun with fries and a soft drink. Co-Founder Stephen Le joins us with all the juicy details.
Then RemixKitchen Bar at LBX is also a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. Their special is the Remix Burger for $20. It layered on a house-made Brioche Bun with Thyme Garlic Aioli, American Cheese, Arugula, Tomato, Shallot Jam, Bacon and served with Fries. Founder & Executive Chef Ross Pangilinan (Terrace by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza) joins us with spatula in hand.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruelthe Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House(in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.
We all know salmon is healthy and, ideally, should be part of our regular diet. It also can be kind of boring. As our resident seafood authority we have Chef Andrew to the culinary rescue. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts on easily adding some excitement to that traditional salmon dish. Also some advice for jazzing up Salmon Burgers.
Our bargain-loving, Social Media and Website authority, Adam Bell, was fortunate enough to spend a few glorious days in Maui in late April and early May. Maui is an ever-popular destination for Californians. Adam was based in Kihei which is near Wailea. Adam shares some informative trip highlights including the roundtrip experience on Hawaiian Airlines, the condo option to a hotel and a standout Dinner and Breakfast. (Think Kalua Pork Loco Moco.)
The 2nd installment, in a few weeks, will share the very best in Hawaiian coffee and local craft beer. Also, an overview of food truck parks featuring tasty local fare.
The most unusual, and personal, restaurant at the moment in Long Beach is arguably the Dinner, Lunch and Weekend Brunch residency that Chef Melissa Ortiz is orchestrating at the Pine Avenue location of Long Beach’s popular Rose Park Roasters. At present it’s an intriguing seafood and vegetable focused menu available (without reservations) on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings with Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Lunch has just been added from Tuesday thru Friday. A monthly guest chef dinner series will start later in December. Chef Melissa is a well-traveled military veteran who served a couple of tours on active duty and then a period thereafter in the reserves. She attended culinary school locally at The Art Institute of California Orange County (which has since closed.) Chef Melissa loves to travel to distant and exotic locations exploring food and most recently was the chef at the United States Embassy in Kabul. Fortunately she returned stateside earlier in the year. Chef Melissa takes a break from Brunch service and joins us.
Orange County’s resident celebrity chef is Amar Santana of Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, Vaca in Costa Mesa, and The HallGlobal Eatery at South Coast Plaza. Chef Amar is probably best known nationally as the runner-up in a very close competition in Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 13 and then returning as an elite judge for Season 18 in Portland. In Orange County he was the opening executive chef of the highly praised Charlie Palmer’s at Bloomingdale’s at South Coast Plaza working with GM (and now partner) Ahmed Labbate. His first solo restaurant with business partner and restaurateur Ahmed Labbate was Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach. Just in time for the Holidays Broadway has undergone a refurbishment and kitchen redo. “Inspired by the theaters in New York City, award-winning Chef Amar Santana alongside restauranteur Ahmed Labbate create an atmosphere at Broadway where the food becomes the main show. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by the creativity of Chef Amar Santana and his version of Modern Cuisine of The Americas. It features top quality ingredients, with a focus on local farms who can provide the menu’s seasonal requirements.” Chef Amar Santana joins us.
“Ahmed Labbate, Partner and Director of Operations for Broadway by Amar Santana, Vaca, and The Hall Global Eatery at South Coast Plaza, has a passion for fine food and hospitality, with a degree in hotel and restaurant management, he worked at some of Morocco’s most well- known hospitality corporations — Hyatt Regency, Sheraton, Safir and Sofitel — covering all the bases: concierge, front desk, dining room manager. “Labbate later joined the Charlie Palmer Group as a captain at Aureole, NY and Aureole, Las Vegas, then as General Manager at Charlie Palmer Steak at the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas. Prior to joining Broadway, Ahmed was the General Manager at the well-received Charlie Palmer at Bloomingdale’s in South Coast Plaza with Chef Amar Santana. He dreamt of eventually opening his own restaurant and is excited to now be collaborating with Chef Amar on Broadway by Amar Santana, Vaca and The Hall Global Eatery.”
Ahmed is our guest to provide an overview of Holiday celebration options at Broadway, Vaca and The Hall Global Eatery and the just completed refreshing (which he oversaw) of Broadway by Amar Santana.
Long Beach Living’s inaugural Long Beach International Tamales Festival 2021, is upon us. This all-day holiday inspired fair features a diverse selection of Latin American cuisine, from regional tamales, Latin inspired dishes, drinks, tequila tastings, a best homemade tamales contest, and a full line-up of entertainment, activities, and vendors of all kinds! The event takes place at the Scottish Rite Events Centre on Sunday, December 5th, 2021 from 12:00 p.m.– 8:00 p.m. The Homemade Tamale Contest will be judged by Long Beach City College’s Culinary Arts program’s Executive Chef Haley Nguyen and Hotel Maya’s and Fuego’s executive chef, Victor Juarez. LBCC Culinary Arts Department students will also be selling their special tamale creations including a Peruvian tamale and a Kosher vegetarian tamale (made with oil versus lard) prepared by a Jewish culinary arts student born in Mexico City. Chef Haley takes a break from supervising the tamale making and is our guest.
Adam Bell, the founder of dataTV established in 1996, is the “SoCal Restaurant Show’s” accomplished, long-time web designer, webmaster and all-around social media guru. He relocated to Los Angeles from New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. NOLA icon, Café du Monde, remains a client., remains a client. Adam was just on a cross-country business trip to Miami via airplane. This was a first for him since the start of the pandemic. We’ll get his informed insider’s perspective on the status of air travel, ethnic dining in Miami and staying at a landmark luxury hotel property which, unfortunately, delivered substandard service and accommodations.
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 (joining us from the grand opening of Raw by Slapfish in downtown Indianapolis) reveals the details of how attentive listeners can enter the contest to be awarded an incredible package of prime steaks from West Coast Prime Meats by submitting a worthy Holiday Cooking Question for “Ask the Chef” that is used on-air.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Adam Bell, the founder of dataTVestablished in 1996, is the “SoCal Restaurant Show’s” accomplished, long-time web designer, webmaster and all-around social media guru. He relocated to Los Angeles from New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. NOLA icon, Café du Monde, remains a client. Adam is well-traveled…
Adam was just on a cross-country business trip to Miami via airplane. This was a first for him since the start of the pandemic. We’ll garner his informed insider’s perspective on the status of air travel, dining in Miami and staying at a landmark luxury hotel property which, unfortunately, delivered substandard service and accommodations.
The segment provided the details of how attentive listeners can enter the contest to be awarded an incredible package of prime steaks from West Coast Prime Meats by submitting a worthy Holiday Cooking Question for Chef Andrew’s “Ask the Chef” segment that is used on-air. Check our Instagram (@SoCalRestaurantShow) for the details.
Chef Andrew was planning to join us from the opening of his Raw by Slapfish in downtown Indianapolis. At the last minute he connected with an earlier return flight and was in the air during the show. Producer Andy Harris provided the Contest details with a helpful assist from the show’s long-time Website and Social Media consultant, Adam Bell.
Adam also finished his travel commentary on his recent business trip to Miami. He shared his less than memorable experience staying at the legendary Fontainebleau Miami Beach resort there. In Adam’s observation service is clearly not up to their stellar reputation and the cleanliness of the room upon his arrival was not up to par. The upshot here is that when you make your hotel reservation find out what generally expected services there are not being offered due to the labor shortage and pandemic factors. Keep in mind there is no reduction in rates or Resort Fees to compensate for the unfortunate reduced level of service at these hotel properties.…
