Show 450, November 6, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

The One-Pan College Cookbook: 80 Easy Recipes for Quick, Good Food is from Orange County-based recipe developer and culinary instructor MJ Hong. “Graduate from instant ramen and make delicious one-pan meals. Cooking can be a great way to explore new foods, develop new kitchen skills, and save yourself time and money. With The One-Pan College Cookbook, any college student or beginner cook can make nutritious, easy one-pan recipes―no prerequisite required. These dorm-friendly dishes also provide the cooking skills and tips every student will use well beyond undergrad. In addition to easy recipes all made in one pan, you’ll find meal planning tips and creative ideas to make the most out of ingredients and leftovers to save time and money.” MJ Hong joins us with a skillet securely in hand.

“The California Restaurant Foundation (CRF), a nonprofit that invests in and empowers California’s restaurant workforce, invites all Californians to participate in its second annual ‘The Grateful Table® Dine Out event, happening all November long! Back in its ‘dine out’ format by popular demand, The Grateful Table® Dine Out encourages Californians to “Dine Out to Help Out” at any restaurant throughout the state as a show of support for local restaurant owners and employees who worked tirelessly to keep doors open over the last year and a half.”
California Restaurant Foundation’s Executive Director, Alycia Harshfield, is our guest with all the details.

“Back in July nationally acclaimed and James Beard award-winning Chef Stephanie Izard and James Beard award-winning Restaurateurs Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm of BoKa Restaurant Group, debuted the long-awaited West Coast version of the popular Chicago restaurant, Girl & the Goat, to Downtown Los Angeles. Since the restaurant’s expansion announcement in 2018, Angelenos and Izard fans have been anticipating the Arts District opening and with the recent resurgence and lifted restrictions within the city, Girl & the Goat has now enthusiastically joined the Los Angeles restaurant community. True to the restaurant’s midwestern roots and Izard’s signature, globally-inspired culinary style, Girl & the Goat’s West Coast menu is a combination of both signature dishes from the Chicago location and new, seasonal dishes that heavily rely on California’s bountiful produce and local ingredients.” We spirit Chef Stephanie out from her busy kitchens for a chat.

Chef Michael Doctulero is the Chef/Proprietor of Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike located on the lower level of Collage at Bloomingdale’s at South Coast Plaza. Chef Mike is best known locally for his years of seafood creativity at the landmark (and long-running) Scott’s Seafood adjacent to South Coast Plaza and (now the site of a huge Water Grill restaurant.) We reel Chef Mike in for a chat about his dream restaurant inspired by growing up in San Francisco and the game of Mah Jong.

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. Veterans Day is Thursday, November 11th. Chef Andrew is a big supporter of the non-profit, Save The Brave assisting Veterans in need. Bastards American Canteen with locations in Downey and Temecula (newly opened) is Veteran owned & operated, and also raises funds for Save The Brave. Chef Andrew will provide an inspirational overview.

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

Show 450, November 6, 2021: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

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.

Veteran’s Day is Thursday, November 11th. Chef Andrew is a big supporter of the non-profit Save The Brave assisting Veterans in need. Bastards American Canteen with locations in Downey and Temecula (newly opened) is Veteran owned & operated, and also raises funds for Save The Brave. Two seasonally changing items on the Temecula menu are exclusive Slapfish creations from Chef Andrew (Surf N Turf Burger & Traditional Lobster Roll) with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Save the Brave. Chef Andrew will provide an inspirational overview.

November 6: MJ Hong, The Grateful Table, Stephanie Izard, Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: MJ Hong, Culinary Instructor & Recipe Developer – The One-Pan College Cookbook
Segment Three: California Restaurant Foundation’s “The Grateful Table® Dine Out“
Segment Four: Chef Stephanie Izard, Girl & The Goat Los Angeles Part One
Segment Five: Chef Stephanie Izard, Girl & The Goat Los Angeles Part Two
Segment Six: Chef Michael Doctulero – Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike Part One
Segment Seven: Chef Michael Doctulero – Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

The One-Pan College Cookbook: 80 Easy Recipes for Quick, Good Food is from Orange County-based recipe developer and culinary instructor MJ Hong. “Graduate from instant ramen and make delicious one-pan meals. Cooking can be a great way to explore new foods, develop new kitchen skills, and save yourself time and money. With The One-Pan College Cookbook, any college student or beginner cook can make nutritious, easy one-pan recipes―no prerequisite required. These dorm-friendly dishes also provide the cooking skills and tips every student will use well beyond undergrad. In addition to easy recipes all made in one pan, you’ll find meal planning tips and creative ideas to make the most out of ingredients and leftovers to save time and money.” MJ Hong joins us with a skillet securely in hand.

“The California Restaurant Foundation (CRF), a nonprofit that invests in and empowers California’s restaurant workforce, invites all Californians to participate in its second annual ‘The Grateful Table® Dine Out event, happening all November long! Back in its ‘dine out’ format by popular demand, The Grateful Table® Dine Out encourages Californians to “Dine Out to Help Out” at any restaurant throughout the state as a show of support for local restaurant owners and employees who worked tirelessly to keep doors open over the last year and a half.”

California Restaurant Foundation’s Executive Director, Alycia Harshfield, is our guest with all the details.

Back in July nationally acclaimed and James Beard award-winning Chef Stephanie Izard and James Beard award-winning Restaurateurs Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm of BoKa Restaurant Group, debuted the long-awaited West Coast version of the popular Chicago restaurant, Girl & the Goat, to Downtown Los Angeles. Since the restaurant’s expansion announcement in 2018, Angelenos and Izard fans have been anticipating the Arts District opening and with the recent resurgence and lifted restrictions within the city, Girl & the Goat has now enthusiastically joined the Los Angeles restaurant community. True to the restaurant’s midwestern roots and Izard’s signature, globally-inspired culinary style, Girl & the Goat’s West Coast menu is a combination of both signature dishes from the Chicago location and new, seasonal dishes that heavily rely on California’s bountiful produce and local ingredients. We spirit Chef Stephanie out from her busy kitchens for a chat.

Chef Michael Doctulero is the Chef/Proprietor of Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike located on the lower level of Collage at Bloomingdale’s at South Coast Plaza. Chef Mike is best known locally for his years of seafood creativity at the landmark (and long-running) Scott’s Seafood adjacent to South Coast Plaza and (now the site of a huge Water Grill restaurant.) We reel Chef Mike in for a chat about his dream restaurant inspired by growing up in San Francisco and the game of Mah Jong.

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. Veterans Day is Thursday, November 11th. Chef Andrew is a big supporter of the non-profit, Save The Brave assisting Veterans in need. Bastards American Canteen with locations in Downey and Temecula (newly opened) is Veteran owned & operated, and raises funds for Save The Brave. Chef Andrew will provide an inspirational overview.

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

Cookbook Author MJ Hong

The One-Pan College Cookbook: 80 Easy Recipes for Quick, Good Food is from recipe developer and culinary instructor MJ Hong. “Graduate from instant ramen and make delicious one-pan meals. Cooking can be a great way to explore new foods, develop new kitchen skills, and save yourself time and money.”

“With The One-Pan College Cookbook, any college student or beginner cook can make nutritious, easy one-pan recipes―no prerequisite required. These dorm-friendly dishes also provide the cooking skills and tips every student will use well beyond undergrad. In addition to easy recipes all made in one pan, you’ll find meal planning tips and creative ideas to make the most out of ingredients and leftovers to save time and money.”

“Save money and shop smart with guidance for stretching your dollar and navigating the grocery store like a pro. Each chapter includes a few recipes that serve one, but most of the recipes produce two servings, either for two people or to have leftovers. And occasionally a recipe makes enough for four people, making it perfect for sharing with friends (not to mention making great leftovers).”

The recipes are a mix of lighter dishes as well as some more filling comfort foods including: Breakfast; Snacks and Small Bites; Burgers, Sandwiches and Other Handhelds; Meatless Mains; Seafood and Poultry; Pork and Beef and Desserts.

MJ Hong joins us with a skillet securely in hand.

Alycia Harshfield of the California Restaaurant Association

“The California Restaurant Foundation (CRF), a nonprofit that invests in and empowers California’s restaurant workforce, invites all Californians to participate in its second annual ‘The Grateful Table® Dine Out event, happening all November long! Back in its ‘dine out’ format by popular demand, The Grateful Table® Dine Out encourages Californians to “Dine Out to Help Out” at any restaurant throughout the state as a show of support for local restaurant owners and employees who worked tirelessly to keep doors open over the last year and a half.”

“Those wanting to go the extra mile and financially support California’s restaurant workforce can visit select featured restaurants and donate to CRF’s Restaurants Care®, a nonprofit program that provides restaurant workers facing hardships with relief grants for basic living needs like groceries, utilities, diapers, clothing, gas and rent.”

“For 18 months, California’s restaurant workforce has shown remarkable resilience, arriving to work daily – ready to serve guests through the ups and downs of dine-in, to-go and delivery. Sometimes, these dedicated individuals have been the only humans we interact with outside our homes,” said Alycia Harshfield, Executive Director of CRF. “Our Dine Out event is intended to show appreciation and gratitude for California’s resilient restaurant workforce simply by showing up, dining out and, if you’re able, offering financial support to the chefs, bussers, servers and more who need our help.”

“As an added incentive, Restaurants Care is hosting social media giveaways on Instagram and Twitter to encourage Californians to dine out. Each week in November, diners can enter to win a $200 gift card to the restaurant of their choice by following Restaurants Care on Instagram and Twitter and tagging a restaurant in the comments along with a friend with whom they want to dine!”

Stephanie Izard of the Boka Restaurant Group

“Back in July nationally acclaimed and James Beard award-winning Chef Stephanie Izard and James Beard award-winning Restaurateurs Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm of BoKa Restaurant Group, debuted the long-awaited West Coast version of the popular Chicago restaurant, Girl & the Goat, to Downtown Los Angeles. Since the restaurant’s expansion announcement in 2018, Angelenos and Izard fans have been anticipating the Arts District opening and with the recent resurgence and lifted restrictions within the city, Girl & the Goat has now enthusiastically joined the Los Angeles restaurant community. True to the restaurant’s midwestern roots and Izard’s signature, globally-inspired culinary style, Girl & the Goat’s West Coast menu is a combination of both signature dishes from the Chicago location and new, seasonal dishes that heavily rely on California’s bountiful produce and local ingredients.”

“Located within the new Mateo complex in the Arts District, Girl & the Goat is the first restaurant outside of Chicago for both Izard and BoKa Restaurant Group. As Executive Chef and Owner, Izard leads the restaurant’s menu development and creation, while overseeing front and back of house operations. For this expansion, the opening team includes a mix of both veteran BoKa team members and local hospitality professionals. Jason Beliveau, a longstanding BoKa team member, serves as Chef de Cuisine. Behind the bar, Mike Zell, who worked at a handful of Izard’s concepts in Chicago, is charged with creating and executing the seasonal cocktails, while Wine Director Ken Fredrickson leads the wine list development.”

“Served family-style, Girl & the Goat’s Los Angeles menu is a combination of dishes that have become staples at the Chicago restaurant as well as new, undeniably-California dishes. Fans of Izard will recognize signature Girl & the Goat dishes, such as Wood Grilled Broccoli, Sautéed Green Beans, Goat Empanadas, and Chickpea Fritters. Along with the classics, new dishes exclusive to the West Coast include Pork Belly Salad, Roasted Beet Salad, Goat Curry, and Pan Seared Opah. For dessert, Izard’s playful and nostalgic dishes include Choco Choco Choco Taco, “Garretts” Popcorn, and Tres Leches. For weekend brunch, standout dishes include Potato “Banh Xeo,” Everything Crumpets, Parathas, and PB & J Pancakes.”

“Izard plans to regularly update the menu and showcase the abundance of seasonal produce through new relationships with local vendors and purveyors. The focus on seasonality extends to the cocktail list, where fresh interpretations of popular cocktails, such as a bee’s knees and spicy margarita, make an appearance. With a focus on sustainable and organically made wines, the 80-label list includes a mix of wines from around the world including selections from California, Oregon, and France. An approachable 24-label by-the-glass list encourages guests to have fun and experiment with different, and perhaps new to them, selections on the wine list.”

We spirit Chef Stephanie out from her busy kitchens for a chat.

Michael Doctulero of Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike

Chef Michael Doctulero is the Chef/Proprietor of Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike located on the lower level of Collage at Bloomingdale’s at South Coast Plaza.

“Why Mah Jong’s? By definition Mah Jong’s is a Chinese social game often accompanied with the theme of gambling. Over many years it has been played in the “benevolent society / clubs” in the depths of Chinatowns across the globe, as well as in homes and public parks everywhere.”

“Chef Mike grew up in the Cow Hallow district of San Francisco in a two-story Victorian house where he lived with his grandparents, mom, and two older sisters. They were one of the five minority families living in the predominately Italian – Irish Catholic neighborhood. His family was definitely on the lower end on economic income growing up, so his grandparents decided to boost family income by renting the extra bedrooms to merchant marines and U.S. Navy sailors who were on leave but traveled to various parts of Asia while on duty.”

“So, ingeniously, Grandma would host Mah Jong games in the kitchen on Wednesday nights, and Pinocle card games on Thursday nights. Chef Mike’s grandfather would come home after work, as the personal chef for the Presidio Army Base Commander, and cook food into the late night for the gamblers. Chef Mike, at nine years old, would make whiskey highballs for his new “uncles”, and they would tip him twenty-five cents a drink. The Chinese laundry at the end of the block would have “numbers gambling” on Fridays, also. Thus, the origins of Mah Jong’s restaurant dream.”

“Executive Chef Mike Doctulero first fell in love with the kitchen when he began cooking with his grandfather at a very early age. His fondest childhood memories are those of he and his grandfather spreading newspaper on the kitchen table and devouring fresh-caught Dungeness crab they caught off the San Francisco Marina pier. Chef Mike began his culinary journey as a line cook at Rosellini’s Other Place in Seattle where he further discovered his passion for seafood. After ten years of honing his craft in Seattle, he returned to his hometown of San Francisco to open Monsoon restaurant under the teaching of Bruce Cost, fortifying his knowledge in Pacific Rim cuisine.”

“Fast forward to Orange County, where he has worked for over the past thirty years, primarily at Scott’s Seafood (now the site of Water Grill adjacent to South Coast Plaza.) Chef Mike has been creating sustainable dishes before they were industry catchwords. His cooking style reflects a philosophy that is timeless and approachable, yet also inventive and progressive. He is also known for his “Omakase style” (Trust the Chef), weaving instantaneous six to seven courses to delight his guests. He is the only Orange County Chef to receive the Golden Foodie Award for Best Seafood two years consecutively.”

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

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.

Veteran’s Day is Thursday, November 11th. Chef Andrew is a big supporter of the non-profit Save The Brave assisting Veterans in need. Bastards American Canteen with locations in Downey and Temecula (newly opened) is Veteran owned & operated, and raises funds for Save The Brave. Chef Andrew will provide an inspirational overview.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: MJ Hong, Culinary Instructor & Recipe Developer – The One-Pan College Cookbook
Segment Three: California Restaurant Foundation’s “The Grateful Table® Dine Out“
Segment Four: Chef Stephanie Izard, Girl & The Goat Los Angeles Part One
Segment Five: Chef Stephanie Izard, Girl & The Goat Los Angeles Part Two
Segment Six: Chef Michael Doctulero – Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike Part One
Segment Seven: Chef Michael Doctulero – Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 445, October 2, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Andy Harris at the KLAA Studios

It’s the 9th Anniversary of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA. Thanks to all our loyal listeners over the years for being part of the Saturday morning fun. More years of food fun ahead…

We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high- profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later Chef Eric transitioned with a promotion to Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering based at the Dolby Theater (Hollywood & Highland) in Hollywood. Every year for over two-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. Talk about great expectations…Chef Eric Klein takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Buellton’s celebrated Chef and Winemaker Frank Ostini is the grill master at Hitching Post 2 Restaurant and the Co-Winemaker at Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Wines (with Gray Hartley.) We’re talking Santa Barbara County wine and Santa Maria BBQ with Chef Frank Ostini.

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

Luchador Brewing Co. is the first craft brewery in the city of Chino Hills. Co-owners Brent Miller & Jaime Benson have put blood, sweat, tears, and LOTS of beers into making Luchador Brewing Company a reality. Brewmaster Paul Marquez heads up their custom brew system, made up of eight, five-barrel brew tanks. Eventually Luchador will have 20 of their own brewed cervezas in addition to a few rotating guest tap handles. The in-house food truck, El Camion, is always cooking to make sure guests enjoy some delicious Mexican street food while beer-tasting. Proprietor Brent Miller joins us to tap the keg of all things Luchador Brewing Co.

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 details his volunteer efforts in support of Bastards American Canteen (Veteran Owned and Operated) with a location in Downey and soon to open in an expanded space in Temecula. They are sponsors of Save The Brave.

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

Show 445, October 2, 2021: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

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 details his volunteer efforts in support of Bastards American Canteen (Veteran Owned and Operated) with a location in Downey and soon to open on a grander scale in Temecula. They are sponsors of the non-profit Save The Brave.

October 2: 9th Anniversary Show with Eric Klein, Hitching Post II, Patrick Tretz, Luchador Brewing Company

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President Culinary-Partner, Wolfgang Puck Catering
Segment Three: Chef and Winemaker Frank Ostini, Hitching Post 2 and Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Wines Part One
Segment Four: Chef and Winemaker Frank Ostini, Hitching Post 2 and Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Wines Part Two
Segment Five: Director Patrick Trefz, “Man in The Field: The Life and Art of Jim Denevan” – Documentary
Segment Six: Restaurateur Brent Miller , Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills Part One
Segment Seven: Restaurateur Brent Miller , Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

Andy Harris at the KLAA Studios

It’s the 9th Anniversary of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA. Thanks to all our loyal listeners over the years for being part of the Saturday morning fun.

We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high- profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later Chef Eric transitioned with a 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 honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. Talk about great expectations…Chef Eric Klein takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Buellton’s celebrated Chef and Winemaker Frank Ostini is the grill master at Hitching Post 2 Restaurant and the Co-Winemaker at Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Wines (with Gray Hartley.) We’re talking Santa Barbara County wine and Santa Maria BBQ with Chef Frank Ostini.

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

Luchador Brewing Co. is the first craft brewery in the city of Chino Hills! Co-owners Brent Miller & Jaime Benson have put blood, sweat, tears, and LOTS of beers into making Luchador Brewing Company a reality. Brewmaster Paul Marquez heads up their custom brew system, made up of eight, five-barrel brew tanks. Eventually Luchador will have 20 of their own brewed cervezas in addition to a few rotating guest tap handles. The in-house food truck, El Camion, is always cooking to make sure guests enjoy some delicious Mexican street food while beer-tasting. Proprietor Brent Miller joins us to tap the keg of all things Luchador Brewing Co.

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 details his volunteer efforts in support of Bastards American Canteen (Veteran Owned and Operated) with a location in Downey and soon to open in an expanded space in Temecula. They are sponsors of Save The Brave.

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

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck Catering

We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high- profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later 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 honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony.

They are the official caterers for the newly opened Academy Museum of Motion Pictures ($484 million) at Wilshire Blvd. and Fairfax Avenue. Last Saturday night they catered the glitzy, star-studded Opening Gala for The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. Talk about pressure!

Starting on Monday they are responsible for the transplanted Spago restaurant at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

Chef Eric Klein takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Frank Ostini of Hitching Post II

Buellton’s celebrated Chef and Winemaker Frank Ostini is the grill master at Hitching Post 2 Restaurant and the Co-Winemaker at Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Wines (with Gray Hartley.) We’re talking Santa Barbara County wine and classic Santa Maria BBQ with Chef Frank Ostini.

“On the Central Coast of California BBQ has always meant grilling over an open fire of red oak, a style of cooking that is native to the area and goes back to the days of the Spanish Rancheros. By combining the old and the new, Hitching Post 2 has created an exciting cuisine with outstanding steaks, ribs and chicken, along with fresh fish and seafood and vegetarian options. They also create their own (world class) wines, Hartley – Ostini Hitching Post Wines, for sale and enjoyment in the restaurant and to the wider public.”

“Hitching Post Wines strives to create flavorful handcrafted wines that possess poise and balance, putting a slice of Santa Barbara in each glass, and a piece of their soul in every bottle of Hitching Post. The spacious Hitching Post Wines Tasting Room is located adjacent to Hitching Post 2 restaurant on Highway 246 and has ample parking.”

The Traditional Tasting at Hitching Post Wines priced at $15 per guest offers a flight of five Hitching Post Wines consisting of Pinks 2017; Hometown Pinot Noir 2016; Cork Dancer Pinot Noir 2015; Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir 2015; and Gen Red 2016.

A Reserve Tasting, priced at $20, includes five wines – Highliner Pinot Noir 2015; Perfect Set Pinot Noir 2015; Bien Nacido Pinot Noir 2015; Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir 2015; and Four Top 2012. The caveat of the Reserve Tasting will be its ever-changing menu featuring rare single-vineyard bottlings and special older vintages of Hitching Post.

“Hitching Post Wines Tasting Room would not be complete without the added flavor of Hitching Post 2’s Santa Maria Style BBQ food pairings to enjoy while tasting. Classic crowd-pleasing favorites served from the restaurant for Lunch (mid to late afternoon menu of appetizers & snacks, too) include HP Burgers; Triple-Fried French Fries; Santa Maria BBQ Artichokes; and Grilled Corn Quesadillas.”

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 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.”

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

Brent Miller of Luuchador Brewing

Luchador Brewing Co. is the first craft brewery in the city of Chino Hills! “Co-owners Brent Miller & Jaime Benson have put blood, sweat, tears, and LOTS of beers into making Luchador Brewing Company a reality. Brewmaster Paul Marquez heads up their custom brew system, made up of eight five-barrel brew tanks. Eventually Luchador will have 20 of their own brewed cervezas in addition to a few rotating guest tap handles”

The in-house food truck, El Camion, is always cooking to make sure guests enjoy some delicious Mexican street food while beer-tasting. Think Carne Asada Fries with crinkle cut fries, carne asada, queso sauce, pico de gallo and crema ; Gorditas with a handmade masa shell, refried beans, shredded lettuce, queso fresca stuffed with the guest’s choice of Carne Asada, Pollo Asado, Carnitas, Al Pastor or Picadillo; Taco de Pescado with Mahi-Mahi fried or grilled, cabbage, lime-crema and pico de gallo; and Poblano Gordo with a roasted poblano chile, picadillo, rice, queso, tomato-serrano sauce and served with fresh chips.

Growlers & crowlers are available for take-out. Think Los Banditos Hazy DIPA with Amarillo, Cascade and NZH hops and Nutty Samoan Nut Brown Ale with macadamias and toasted coconut.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

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 details his volunteer efforts in support of Bastards American Canteen (Veteran Owned and Operated) with a location in Downey and soon to open on a grander scale in Temecula. They are sponsors of Save The Brave.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President Culinary-Partner, Wolfgang Puck Catering
Segment Three: Chef and Winemaker Frank Ostini, Hitching Post 2 and Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Wines Part One
Segment Four: Chef and Winemaker Frank Ostini, Hitching Post 2 and Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Wines Part Two
Segment Five: Director Patrick Trefz, “Man in The Field: The Life and Art of Jim Denevan” – Documentary
Segment Six: Restaurateur Brent Miller , Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills Part One
Segment Seven: Restaurateur Brent Miller , Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”