We’re live from Westdrift Manhattan Beach – An Autograph Collection Hotel to celebrate the Saturday night finale of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine festival. Westdrift is hosting the Festival taking over the entire spacious grounds of the property. We’re chatting with a handful of the acclaimed celebrity chefs participating from both out-of-town as well as Greater Los Angeles.
“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser are responsible for the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”
Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening brings together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
We’re live from Westdrift Manhattan Beach – An Autograph Collection Hotel to celebrate the Saturday night finale of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine festival. Westdrift is hosting the Festival taking over the entire spacious grounds of the property. We’re chatting with a handful of the acclaimed celebrity chefs participating from both out-of-town as well as Greater Los Angeles.
“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser are responsible for the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”
Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular wo-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening brings together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
For Saturday night at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine she is offering “My Mini Pies.”
“Larry Schaffer, the founder and winemaker of tercero wines went back to school later in life to pursue his passion, taking classes at community colleges with kids who literally could have been his kids, and then received his MS in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis. He moved to the Santa Barbara County wine region, and that is where he has remained since 2005, starting on the winemaking team at Fess Parker Winery and then eventually branching off to start and run tercero wines. Larry is especially adept not only at winemaking but at explaining the process in a very user-friendly manner.”
Visit his tasting room in picturesque Los Olivos to see for yourself or sample his wines tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
“Celebrity Chef Ben Robinson is accomplished on both land and sea. He worked under Italian master chefs in Florence and gained an apprenticeship at three-Michelin Star restaurant The Fat Duck, based in the United Kingdom. Ben was a head chef on yachts for over ten years, including the largest sailing yacht in the world.”
“Born in Oxford, England he attended boarding school when his parents moved to the U.S. He currently resides in South Florida. You may know him from Bravo Television Network as the OG of Below Deck, Below Deck Mediterranean, and Galley Talk. He is featured on Food Network and has multiple demonstrations on the Food Network Kitchen App.”
Chef Ben’s creation for Saturday night is “Blow Torched Wagyu Kirabi.”
Chef Anthony Greco is a Corporate Regional Chef for Porto’s Bakery and culinary leader based in Los Angeles, known for building high-performing teams and strengthening kitchen systems through innovation, training, and mentorship. With a background spanning luxury hospitality and high-volume production environments, he focuses on elevating quality, developing future leaders, and creating operational consistency that protects the guest experience.
Chef Anthony’s creation for Saturday night is Havana Banana with caramelized banana jam, brown sugar pastry cream, Guittard Soleil d’Or Whipped Ganache with a butter rum toffee sauce.
“Aarón Sánchez is an award-winning chef, TV personality, author, and philanthropist. He is the host and executive producer of Talking Sabor (PepsiCo’s first ever streaming series, premiered on Hulu), El Toque de Aarón on Discovery Familia and Hogar de HGTV, served as a longtime judge on FOX’s MasterChef and MasterChef Junior, and is the chef/owner of restaurant Johnny Sánchez in New Orleans. Aarón is the founder of the Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund. He is also a partner and creative director for COCINA Media.”
Saturday night Chef Aaron is presenting Memas Albondigas with Fideos.
“Chef Jose Baca brings a deep connection to Peruvian cuisine to his work at Westdrift Manhattan Beach and the Jute Costal Bar & Kitchen, where he serves as Executive Chef. His culinary roots trace back to his Peruvian heritage, with a career focused on refining and modernizing traditional Peruvian flavors.”
For Saturday night Chef Jose is presenting Grouper Ceviche and Mushroom Ceviche (the vegan option.) Both are served with sweet potato puree and crispy onions and micro cilantro.
“Founded in 1990 by culinary educator and cookbook author Richard Grossman, and in partnership with board Co-chair Marcus Samuelsson, Culinary Careers Program (the benefiting charity for Manhattan Beach Food & Wine) is a national workforce development nonprofit dedicated to training and supporting the next generation of food and hospitality leaders.”
“C-CAP serves communities across Arizona, Baltimore, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Long Island, Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and Maryland. Their unparalleled network of industry contacts includes renowned chefs, hospitality leaders, restaurants, and hotels.”
“C-CAP’s methodology works, and to date has uplifted close to 400,000 students and awarded $73 million in college scholarships. Many of their alumni are enjoying successful careers at award-winning restaurants and 5-star hotels around the globe.”
Representing C-CAP today is Lisa Fontanesi, the National Program Director.
“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser have orchestrated the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”
“Tickets are on sale now for the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine and guests are encouraged to purchase early and begin planning an unforgettable weekend of world-class culinary experiences, exceptional wines and spirits, luxury accommodations, and the relaxed sophistication of beautiful Manhattan Beach. Exclusive Hotel Packages at westdrift Manhattan Beach are also available, inviting guests to stay, sip, savor, and experience Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival all weekend long.”
Special Offer: At Checkout type “Andy26” in Promo Code Box for a Discount.
The Wife & the Somm is one of the Friday night participating restaurants in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Co-owner, Wife, and Pastry Chef Christy Lucchese joins us with her rolling pin in hand.
“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser have orchestrated the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”
“Tickets are on sale now for the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine and guests are encouraged to purchase early and begin planning an unforgettable weekend of world-class culinary experiences, exceptional wines and spirits, luxury accommodations, and the relaxed sophistication of beautiful Manhattan Beach. Exclusive Hotel Packages at westdrift Manhattan Beach are also available, inviting guests to stay, sip, savor, and experience Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival all weekend long.”
Winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine is one of the participating wineries in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. He’s there pouring both nights. Paul joins us to pop the cork on all this is Warson Wine.
“Paul Warson grew up in Los Angeles, attended UC Davis where he eventually studied Fermentation Science. Before his final year he worked at a sparkling winery in Carneros when he decided he would spend his career doing what he did for his summer vacation. Upon completion of his degree, he was invited back to see, “the other side of things.””
“Warson Wine Company started as a need Paul felt he had to fulfill. An inner call, to again make wine on his terms, for people to enjoy, but now with the fruit he chooses. There’s so much on the horizon for Warson Wine Company and you can taste for yourself at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.”
Special Offer: At Checkout type “Andy26” in Promo Code Box for Discount.
Tonight is the 2nd, and concluding, night of the Festival. “This evening at Manhattan Village again brings together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurateurs, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, a curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, the BeachLife DJ Music Stage and lots more.” This morning we’ll meet some of the celebrated chefs and winemakers participating in tonight’s festivities.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely, abbreviated and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
“For travelers seeking an inspired Southern California escape, Westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection, (the official Hotel of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine) is a lifestyle hotel that captures the essence of coastal living. Guests can drift into an endless summer with experiences that balance relaxation and connection—from their nine-hole golf course and pickleball to Jute Coastal Bar, where globally inspired flavors meet a beachy, laid-back atmosphere.”
“Unlike traditional hotels, Westdrift offers an effortless blend of style, community, and California cool, making every stay feel both elevated and refreshingly local.”
Their newly arrived General Manager, Swietlana Cahill, joins us with the overview of the expansive property. She is very visible around the property greeting guests and supportively interacting with the Staff.
Sweitlana was delayed in traffic getting to the Hotel. It’s live radio… Be patient as Andy talks about Westdrift Manhattan Beach pending Ms. Cahill’s om-air arrival.
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-Host previews the show.
We’ve live from the Westdrift Manhattan Beach, An Autograph Collection Hotel, the official Hotel of the 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
Tonight is the 2nd, and concluding, night of the Festival. “This evening at Manhattan Village again brings together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurateurs, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, a curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, the BeachLife DJ Music Stage and lots more.” This morning we’ll meet some of the celebrated chefs and winemakers participating in tonight’s festivities.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely, abbreviated and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine he is serving Surf & Turf with Westholme Wagyu Tartare and Charred Octopus & Smoked Octopus with XO sauce.
“Larry Schaffer, the founder and winemaker of tercero wines went back to school later in life to pursue his passion, taking classes at community colleges with kids who literally could have been his kids, and then received his MS in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis. He moved to the Santa Barbara County wine region, and that is where he has remained since 2005, starting on the winemaking team at Fess Parker Winery and then eventually branching off to start and run tercero wines. Larry is especially adept not only at winemaking but at explaining the process in a very user-friendly manner.”
Visit his tasting room in picturesque Los Olivos to see for yourself or sample his wines tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
“The Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP), the charitable beneficiary of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, is a national workforce development nonprofit dedicated to training and supporting the next generation of food and hospitality leaders. They provide culinary arts education, job skills, apprenticeships, scholarships, and career opportunities to under-resourced high school students and adults.”
C•CAP students are working in each restaurant booth this evening at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine assisting the executive chefs from the participating restaurants.
C•CAP’s long-time Los Angeles Director, Lisa Fontanesi, joins us.
Chef Brendan Collins is perhaps best known in Los Angeles as the Chef-Owner of celebrated restaurants Waterloo & City, Larry’s, Fia, and Market Tavern where he intertwined his British culinary background with California’s bountiful produce, seducing a lively clientele. Collins’ early background includes accolades and Michelin Stars spanning from London’s Oxo Tower Restaurant to Josiah Citrin’s Melisse in Los Angeles.
“Now at BOA Steakhouse with locations in West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach and Austin, Collins’ reputation for deft execution, rich flavors, and playful dishes perfect for gathering, promises to elaborate on proprietors’ Lee Maen and Philip Cummins’s vision for the concept.” A Las Vegas location is on the horizon.
Tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Chef Brendan is serving BOA Wagyu Cigars.
Chef Christopher Feldmeier of Manhattan Beach’s Love & Salt began cooking as a child when he simply asked his mother to make breakfast. She replied by saying, “I will buy you anything you want to cook, but you are going to make it yourself.” That first breakfast sparked a passion and adoration for cooking, which grew into an undeniable desire to learn more. Feldmeier then began to cook with his grandmother who became his first mentor, and ultimately, his culinary influence.
“In September 2018 and now again in 2024, Feldmeier assumed the role of executive chef at Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach. In this role, Feldmeier works closely with Love & Salt owner Sylvie Gabriele to bring their shared vision for the Italian-inspired menu to life.”
Tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Chef Chris is preparing Arancini Bolognese and Arancini with Tomato and Basil.
“For travelers seeking an inspired Southern California escape, Westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection, (the official Hotel of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine) is a lifestyle hotel that captures the essence of coastal living. Guests can drift into an endless summer with experiences that balance relaxation and connection—from their nine-hole golf course and pickleball to Jute Coastal Bar, where globally inspired flavors meet a beachy, laid-back atmosphere.”
Unlike traditional hotels, Westdrift offers an effortless blend of style, community, and California cool, making every stay feel both elevated and refreshingly local.
Their newly arrived General Manager, Swietlana Cahill, joins us with the overview of the expansive property.
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-Host previews the show.
We’ve live from the Westdrift Manhattan Beach, An Autograph Collection Hotel, the official Hotel of the 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
Tonight is the 2nd, and concluding, night of the Festival. “This evening at Manhattan Village again brings together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurateurs, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, a curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, the BeachLife DJ Music Stage and lots more.” This morning we’ll meet some of the celebrated chefs and winemakers participating in tonight’s festivities.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely, abbreviated and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine he is serving Surf & Turf with Westholme Wagyu Tartare and Charred Octopus & Smoked Octopus with XO sauce.
“Larry Schaffer, the founder and winemaker of tercero wines went back to school later in life to pursue his passion, taking classes at community colleges with kids who literally could have been his kids, and then received his MS in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis. He moved to the Santa Barbara County wine region, and that is where he has remained since 2005, starting on the winemaking team at Fess Parker Winery and then eventually branching off to start and run tercero wines. Larry is especially adept not only at winemaking but at explaining the process in a very user-friendly manner.”
Visit his tasting room in picturesque Los Olivos to see for yourself or sample his wines tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
“The Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP), the charitable beneficiary of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, is a national workforce development nonprofit dedicated to training and supporting the next generation of food and hospitality leaders. They provide culinary arts education, job skills, apprenticeships, scholarships, and career opportunities to under-resourced high school students and adults.”
C•CAP students are working in each restaurant booth this evening at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine assisting the executive chefs from the participating restaurants.
C•CAP’s long-time Los Angeles Director, Lisa Fontanesi, joins us.
Chef Brendan Collins is perhaps best known in Los Angeles as the Chef-Owner of celebrated restaurants Waterloo & City, Larry’s, Fia, and Market Tavern where he intertwined his British culinary background with California’s bountiful produce, seducing a lively clientele. Collins’ early background includes accolades and Michelin Stars spanning from London’s Oxo Tower Restaurant to Josiah Citrin’s Melisse in Los Angeles.
“Now at BOA Steakhouse with locations in West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach and Austin, Collins’ reputation for deft execution, rich flavors, and playful dishes perfect for gathering, promises to elaborate on proprietors’ Lee Maen and Philip Cummins’s vision for the concept.” A Las Vegas location is on the horizon.
Tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Chef Brendan is serving BOA Wagyu Cigars.
Chef Christopher Feldmeier of Manhattan Beach’s Love & Salt began cooking as a child when he simply asked his mother to make breakfast. She replied by saying, “I will buy you anything you want to cook, but you are going to make it yourself.” That first breakfast sparked a passion and adoration for cooking, which grew into an undeniable desire to learn more. Feldmeier then began to cook with his grandmother who became his first mentor, and ultimately, his culinary influence.
“In September 2018 and now again in 2024, Feldmeier assumed the role of executive chef at Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach. In this role, Feldmeier works closely with Love & Salt owner Sylvie Gabriele to bring their shared vision for the Italian-inspired menu to life.”
Tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Chef Chris is preparing Arancini Bolognese and Arancini with Tomato and Basil.
“For travelers seeking an inspired Southern California escape, Westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection, (the official Hotel of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine) is a lifestyle hotel that captures the essence of coastal living. Guests can drift into an endless summer with experiences that balance relaxation and connection—from their nine-hole golf course and pickleball to Jute Coastal Bar, where globally inspired flavors meet a beachy, laid-back atmosphere.”
Unlike traditional hotels, Westdrift offers an effortless blend of style, community, and California cool, making every stay feel both elevated and refreshingly local.
Their newly arrived General Manager, Swietlana Cahill, joins us with the overview of the expansive property.
Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach and the Co-Host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” for the last eight years joins us to celebrate the 12th Anniversary of the launch of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA radio reaching all of Southern California.
All of our distinguished chef guests this morning are participants in the Festival.
For today’s very special anniversary show we’ll be joined by some of the high-profile and uber-talented chefs cooking at Manhattan Beach Food and Wine including Eric Klein, Executive Chef, Partner and Senior Vice President Culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering, Host Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird & Vibiana, The Bay Area’s Chris Cosentino and Jayro Martinez of Westwood Coast Steakhouse in Costa Mesa. Also, Lisa Fontanesi, the long-time Los Angeles Director for C-CAP, the benefiting charity of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
Special thanks to our loyal Presenting Sponsors, Melissa’s World Variety Produce and West Coast Prime Meats, for their unwavering support over the years. And to our listeners – we appreciate you tuning-in. All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
The expansive 26-acre property with a 9-hole, par 3 golf course and pickleball courts is a boutique hotel for travelers of all callings and Westdrift Manhattan Beach delivers the sophistication of a true-blue East Coast classic blended with the laid-back vibe of coastal California.
“Modern decor and sophisticated amenities combine to create Westdrift’s intimate guest spaces, sumptuously adorned for comfort with the rolling golf course views and sparkling city lights in view for that added touch of luxury.”
“Jute Coastal Bar & Kitchen, Westdrift’s signature restaurant for Breakfast, Lunch andDinner, is an indoor-outdoor enclave that features a fresh, creative and communal-focused dining experience.”
“Jute’s signature cocktails, craft beer, and wines from private labels will whisk you away on an experience slated to elevate the already vibrant Manhattan Beach culinary scene. Calling upon talents of local mixologists to evolve their ever-changing cocktail menu, Westdrift’s Mixology Lab is always testing new ingredients and innovative techniques using seasonal ingredients.”
Westdrift’s Jim McCafferty, Director of Catering & Events is our guide to all the luxe amenities of Westdrift Manhattan Beach.
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.
Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach and the Co-Host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” for the last eight years joins us to celebrate the 12th Anniversary of the launch of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA radio reaching all of Southern California.
All of our distinguished chef guests this morning are participants in the Festival.
For today’s very special anniversary show we’ll be joined by some of the high- profile chefs cooking at Manhattan Beach Food and Wine including Eric Klein, Executive Chef, Partner and Vice President Culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering, Host Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird & Vibiana, The Bay Area’s Chris Cosentino, and Jayro Martinez of Westwood Coast Steakhouse in Costa Mesa. Also Lisa Fontanesi, the Los Angeles Director for C-CAP, the benefiting charity of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Chris Cosentino is a passionate chef, author, cyclist, and philanthropist.
“A graduate of the culinary program at Johnson & Wales University in his home state of Rhode Island, Cosentino got his professional start at some of the country’s most beloved restaurants in Washington, D.C. and then the Bay Area. In his first executive chef position at Incanto, elevating a neighborhood Italian restaurant to the international scene. During his twelve-year tenure, Cosentino drew critical acclaim for his innovative Italian and whole animal cooking. Cosentino mastered the art of hand-crafted cured meats and helped raise awareness about sustainability & utilizing the entire animal. He also created Boccalone, a celebrated cured meat company, with manufacturing and retail operations in the Bay Area.”
Currently, Chef Chris is gearing up to open Koast, a celebration of local ingredients and coastal cuisine, in Wailea Village on Maui, with a hoped-for launch for late 2024.
Chef Chris Cosentino is our guest.
“Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll’s flagship restaurant Redbirdin Downtown Los Angeles features Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city – Los Angeles. As a follow up to Grace and BLD, Fraser’s menu features seasonal plates ranging from snacks or “kickshaws” to entrees meant to be enjoyed by the whole table. An extensive cocktail menu by Tobin Shea features well-balanced, bespoke renditions of the classics. Wine Director Christopher Dugan’s selections are well rounded with great finds from both established and emerging wine regions throughout the world.”
“Located in downtown Los Angeles, Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems, inside the former rectory building of Vibiana – the cathedral-turned-event-venue also owned and operated by Knoll and Fraser. Designer Robert Weimer and Knoll created a dynamic space that pays homage to the cathedral next door and the existing timeless architecture by inserting simple modern forms to complement rather than overtake the feel of the rooms. The result is a warm and comfortable considered space.”
Event Host Chef Neal Fraser is our guest discussing the salivating culinary aspects of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
“Led by chef, author and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson as national Board Co-chair, Careers C-CAP transforms the lives of underserved high school students and young people around the country by helping them pursue their culinary dreams. C-CAP prepares these talented young adults for college, and for careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry.”
Annually, C-CAP provides culinary, job and life skills to over 22,000 middle-and-high school students across the entire state of Arizona, as well as in Baltimore, Camden, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City & Long Island, Newark, Philadelphia, suburban Maryland, and Washington DC.
“Westwood Coast Steakhouse, the newest culinary venture from San Francisco-based Proof Positive, debuted in early July at Triangle Square in Costa Mesa. Proof Positive now makes its debut in Orange County with Westwood Coast Steakhouse by pairing an elevated, chef-driven steakhouse dining experience with lively country entertainment.
At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, a C-CAP graduate, who brings over a decade of culinary experience to the venture. Martinez has led as an Executive Chef in several acclaimed kitchens, including Mayfield in San Juan Capistrano, AHBA in Laguna Beach, Social in Costa Mesa, and most recently, at Dana Point’s Outer Reef and then Knife Modern Steak under the tutelage of Texas-based celebrity Chef John Tesar.
“Westwood Coast is bolstered by a team of powerhouse hospitality professionals, including General Manager Michael Ruiz of BOA Steakhouse. Westwood Coast presents a unique experience that artfully blends attentive hospitality, lively entertainment, and bold American flavors with premium cuts of meat.”
A Dinner menu highlight is the massive 40 oz. Australian Wagyu Ribeye from Margaret River. For Brunch a standout is the Crab Benedict.
Executive Chef Jayro Martinez is our guest to reveal all the diverse elements that are Westwood Coast and what he’s preparing for the Grand Tasting tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” back when he was the high-profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. In 2016 Chef Eric transitioned (with a major promotion) to Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering based at The Dolby Theater in Hollywood. Every year for over two-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the distinct honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2024 was the 30th year celebration of the Governors Ball. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. The pastry design was by Kamel Guechida and Gary Larduinat.
Most recently Wolfgang Puck Catering designed the state-of-the-art kitchen and operates the foodservice for the ambitious Los Angeles Chargers“The Bolt” training and practice facility in El Segundo. The kitchen includes a tiled, custom Italian pizza oven in the shape of a Chargers football helmet.
Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive chat.
The Westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel, is the official hotel of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
The expansive 26-acre property with a 9-hole, par 3 golf course and pickleball courts is a boutique hotel for travelers of all callings and Westdrift Manhattan Beach delivers the sophistication of a true-blue East Coast classic blended with the laid-back vibe of coastal California.
“Modern decor and sophisticated amenities combine to create Westdrift’s intimate guest spaces, sumptuously adorned for comfort with the rolling golf course views and sparkling city lights in view for that added touch of luxury.”
“Jute Coastal Bar & Kitchen, Westdrift’s signature restaurant for Breakfast, Lunch andDinner, is an indoor-outdoor enclave that features a fresh, creative and communal-focused dining experience.”
“Jute’s signature cocktails, craft beer, and wines from private labels will whisk you away on an experience slated to elevate the already vibrant Manhattan Beach culinary scene. Calling upon talents of local mixologists to evolve their ever-changing cocktail menu, Westdrift’s Mixology Lab is always testing new ingredients and innovative techniques using seasonal ingredients.”
Westdrift’s Jim McCafferty, Director of Catering & Events is our guide to all the luxe amenities of Westdrift Manhattan Beach.
