Show 484, July 23, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“Authentic Hatch peppers (now in the short 6-week availability season) are a Southwestern favorite, named after the original growing area in Hatch, New Mexico. Melissa’s Hatch peppers are grown in the Mesilla Valley, just north of Las Cruces, New Mexico. They are well known, especially in the states of New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona. Researchers say the intense sunlight and cool nights in the valley result in a uniquely flavored chile. An older cousin of the fresh green Anaheim, Hatch peppers have a meaty flesh and can be very mild or have a medium to very hot bite. Hatch peppers are becoming increasingly popular every year, with local supermarkets hosting Hatch Roasts,” where you can buy your fresh Hatch peppers and have them roasted right in front of you! Once you have your roasted peppers, add them to your favorite recipe or freeze them so you have them anytime you need until next year’s harvest.” Melissa’s resident Product Guru, Robert Schueller (also known as the Prince of Produce), is our guest with all things Hatch Peppers.

Bill Scanlin’s Deer Hill Vineyards is a small, family-owned vineyard using sustainable processes and 20 plus years of experience to produce truly unique craft wines that are award-winning. The Deer Hill vineyard and tasting room is located in the East Bay area of Northern California, in the beautiful suburb of Lafayette, CA. The elegant tasting room itself is quite impressive. The Deer Hill Vineyards estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon is their specialty but they also produce several other varietals, from Sangiovese, to Chardonnay, or Pinot, Deer Hill offers different wines for any mood or occasion. Deer Hill Vineyards wines have even won awards in the San Francisco Chronicle wine competition in 2020 and 2021.” Owner / Winemaker Bill Scanlin joins with us to uncork all that is Deer Hill Vineyards with a glass of award-winning 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Lamorinda from Deer Hill Vineyards in hand.

Saffy’s on Fountain in East Hollywood is the new creation of Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, the founders of Bestia and Bavel in The Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles. Ori and Genevieve join us with all the details on Saffy’s on Fountain and the adjacent Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop. “Named after Saffron, Ori and Genevieve’s daughter, Saffy’s embodies her whimsical spirit. Next door at the just launched Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop you’ll find coffee, tea, house-baked breads, and pastries. Dinner service centers around small plates, various house-made breads, seasonal vegetables, and meats that hit the table straight off of the fire.”  

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. Clams in the West truly don’t get the respect they deserve. They can be prepared in a number of tasty ways and certainly merit equal status as oysters. Clams on pizza is a special treat. Chef Andrew shares his tips including the availability of pre-cooked, flash-frozen clams that are typically stocked in the frozen seafood section of your favorite market and priced at a great value.…

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

Show 484, July 23, 2022: Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, Saffy’s on Fountain & Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop, East Hollywood Part One

Executive Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis of Bestia, Beval and Saffy's

Saffy’s on Fountain in East Hollywood is the new creation of Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis the founders of Bestia and Bavel in The Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles. Ori and Genevieve join us with all the details on Saffy’s on Fountain and the adjacent Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop.

“Named after Saffron, Ori and Genevieve’s daughter, Saffy’s embodies her whimsical spirit.”

“Saffy’s transports the guest to another time and place, while still feeling familiar. It’s a Middle Eastern restaurant rooted in traditional flavors and executed using modern techniques. In this intimate space, you’ll be greeted by warm and energetic hospitality, flavors and dishes reminiscent of Middle-Eastern home-style cooking, and unexpected takes on classic desserts.”

“Saffy’s is your neighborhood haunt, the perfect place to walk in for a seat at the bar, grab a coffee or pastry next door, or to celebrate your next big occasion. Next door at the just launched Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop you’ll find coffee, tea, house-baked breads, and pastries. Dinner service centers around small plates, various house-made breads, seasonal vegetables, and meats that hit the table straight off of the fire.”

“The heart of Saffy’s lives in the open kitchen. Saffy’s wood fired shawarma rotisserie, wood burning oven, and hearth for grilling add their own unique character to both the food and the space. Framing the kitchen is a sixteen- seat bar, offering vibrant and refreshing cocktails to compliment the food. The wine list features coastal Mediterranean and island wines, focusing on small grower producers committed to healthy agriculture.”

Initial hours for Saffy’s are Dinner on Wednesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. For Saffy’s Coffee & Tea it’s Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“This is Saffy’s place – where you can eat with your hands, drink with your friends, and get into some mischief.”

Show 484, July 23, 2022: Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, Saffy’s on Fountain & Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop, East Hollywood Part Two

Executive Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis of Bestia, Beval and Saffy's

Saffy’s on Fountain in East Hollywood is the new creation of Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis the founders of Bestia and Bavel in The Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles. Ori and Genevieve continue with us with all the details on Saffy’s on Fountain and the adjacent Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop. Watch for expanded hours…

“Named after Saffron, Ori and Genevieve’s daughter, Saffy’s embodies her whimsical spirit.”

“Saffy’s transports the guest to another time and place, while still feeling familiar. It’s a Middle Eastern restaurant rooted in traditional flavors and executed using modern techniques. In this intimate space, you’ll be greeted by warm and energetic hospitality, flavors and dishes reminiscent of Middle-Eastern home-style cooking, and unexpected takes on classic desserts.”

“Saffy’s is your neighborhood haunt, the perfect place to walk in for a seat at the bar, grab a coffee or pastry next door, or to celebrate your next big occasion. Next door at the just launched Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop you’ll find coffee, tea, house-baked breads, and pastries. Dinner service centers around small plates, various house-made breads, seasonal vegetables, and meats that hit the table straight off of the fire.”

“The heart of Saffy’s lives in the open kitchen. Saffy’s wood fired shawarma rotisserie, wood burning oven, and hearth for grilling add their own unique character to both the food and the space. Framing the kitchen is a sixteen- seat bar, offering vibrant and refreshing cocktails to compliment the food. The wine list features coastal Mediterranean and island wines, focusing on small grower producers committed to healthy agriculture.”

Initial hours for Saffy’s are Dinner on Wednesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. For Saffy’s Coffee & Tea it’s Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“This is Saffy’s place – where you can eat with your hands, drink with your friends, and get into some mischief.”

July 23: Melissa’s Hatch Pepper Season, Deer Hill Vineyards, Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis on the opening of Saffy’s

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Hatch Pepper Season with Melissa’s Robert Schueller Part One
Segment Three: Hatch Pepper Season with Melissa’s Robert Schueller Part Two
Segment Four: Owner / Winemaker Bill Scanlin of Deer Hill Vineyards, Layfayette, CA Part One
Segment Five: Owner / Winemaker Bill Scanlin of Deer Hill Vineyards, Layfayette, CA Part Two
Segment Six: Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, Saffy’s on Fountain & Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop, East Hollywood Part One
Segment Seven: Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, Saffy’s on Fountain & Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop, East Hollywood Part Two
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House

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

“Authentic Hatch peppers (now in the short 6-week availability season) are a Southwestern favorite, named after the original growing area in Hatch, New Mexico. Melissa’s Hatch peppers are grown in the Mesilla Valley, just north of Las Cruces, New Mexico. They are well known, especially in the states of New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona. Researchers say the intense sunlight and cool nights in the valley result in a uniquely flavored chile. An older cousin of the fresh green Anaheim, Hatch peppers have a meaty flesh and can be very mild or have a medium to very hot bite. Hatch peppers are becoming increasingly popular every year, with local supermarkets hosting “Hatch Roasts,” where you can buy your fresh Hatch peppers and have them roasted right in front of you! Once you have your roasted peppers, add them to your favorite recipe or freeze them so you have them anytime you need until next year’s harvest.” Melissa’s resident Product Guru, Robert Schueller (also known as the Prince of Produce), is our guest with all things Hatch Peppers.

“Bill Scanlin’s Deer Hill Vineyards is a small, family-owned vineyard using sustainable processes and 20 plus years of experience to produce truly unique craft wines that are award-winning. The Deer Hill vineyard and tasting room is located in the East Bay area of Northern California, in the beautiful suburb of Lafayette, CA. The elegant tasting room itself is quite impressive. The Deer Hill Vineyards estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon is their specialty but they also produce several other varietals, from Sangiovese, to Chardonnay, or Pinot, Deer Hill offers different wines for any mood or occasion. Deer Hill Vineyards wines have even won awards in the San Francisco Chronicle wine competition in 2020 and 2021.” Owner / Winemaker Bill Scanlin joins with us to uncork all that is Deer Hill Vineyards with a glass of award-winning 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Lamorinda from Deer Hill Vineyards in hand.

Saffy’s on Fountain in East Hollywood is the new creation of Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, the founders of Bestia and Bavel in The Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles. Ori and Genevieve join us with all the details on Saffy’s on Fountain and the adjacent Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop. “Named after Saffron, Ori and Genevieve’s daughter, Saffy’s embodies her whimsical spirit. Next door at the just launched Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop you’ll find coffee, tea, house-baked breads, and pastries. Dinner service centers around small plates, various house-made breads, seasonal vegetables, and meats that hit the table straight off of the fire.”

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. Clams in the West truly don’t get the respect they deserve. They can be prepared in a number of tasty ways and certainly merit equal status as oysters. Clams on pizza is a special treat. Chef Andrew shares his tips…

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

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA Studio

“Authentic Hatch peppers (now in the short 6-week season of availability) are a Southwestern favorite, named after the original growing area in Hatch, New Mexico. Melissa’s Hatch peppers are grown in the Mesilla Valley, just north of Las Cruces, New Mexico. They are well known, especially in the states of New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona. Researchers say the intense sunlight and cool nights in the valley result in a uniquely flavored chile. The valley, which stretches along the Rio Grande’s southern-most bend before crossing into Texas and Mexico, is covered with row after row of green, leafy Hatch plants for most of the summer.”

“An older cousin of the fresh green Anaheim, Hatch peppers have a meaty flesh and can be very mild or have a medium to very hot bite. Hatch peppers are becoming increasingly popular every year, with local supermarkets hosting Hatch Roasts,” where you can buy your fresh Hatch peppers and have them roasted right in front of you! Once you have your roasted peppers, add them to your favorite recipe or freeze them so you have them anytime you need until next year’s harvest.”

“Melissa’s Hatch Peppers are the perfect addition to recipes to add mild to hot heat, as well as a flavor distinct to the pepper. During Hatch season, the spicy scent of peppers fills the air with food memories that tease our taste buds of what’s to come. Hatch Peppers are versatile and can be used in place of any peppers in your recipes. The Melissa’s chefs suggest using them in smoothies, desserts, casseroles, soups, salads and lots more.”

New Melissa’s products made with genuine Hatch peppers are on the market and selling like crazy! Melissa’s has introduced several new Hatch-enhanced items: Hatch popcorn, Hatch BBQ Sauce, Hatch Dijon Mustard, Hatchup (Hatch ketchup), and Hatch Clean Snax®… you won’t want to miss these. Don’t forget about Melissa’s shaker with red or green Hatch pepper powder so you can have your Hatch fix all year-round!”

Melissa’s resident Product Guru, Robert Schueller (also known as the Prince of Produce), is our guest with all things Hatch Peppers.

Bill Scanlin of Deer Hill Vineyards

“Bill Scanlin’s Deer Hill Vineyards is a small, family-owned vineyard using sustainable processes and 20 plus years of experience to produce truly unique craft wines that are award-winning.”

“The Deer Hill vineyard and tasting room is located in the East Bay area of Northern California, in the beautiful suburb of Lafayette, CA. From San Francisco it is a 40-minute drive. Schedule a tasting to try some of the Deer Hill Vineyards wine and experience the ambiance their property has to offer. The elegant tasting room itself is quite spectacular.”

“The Deer Hill Vineyards estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon is their specialty but they also produce several other varietals, from Sangiovese, to Chardonnay, or Pinot. Deer Hill strives to offer different wines for any mood or occasion. Deer Hill Vineyards wines have even won awards in the San Francisco Chronicle wine competition in 2020 and 2021.”

Owner / Winemaker Bill Scanlin joins us with a glass of award-winning 2017 Sangiovese Lamorinda in hand to pull the cork on all that is Deer Hill Vineyards.

Executive Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis of Bestia, Beval and Saffy's

Saffy’s on Fountain in East Hollywood is the new creation of Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis the founders of Bestia and Bavel in The Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles. Ori and Genevieve join us with all the details on Saffy’s on Fountain and the adjacent Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop.

“Named after Saffron, Ori and Genevieve’s daughter, Saffy’s embodies her whimsical spirit.”

“Saffy’s transports the guest to another time and place, while still feeling familiar. It’s a Middle Eastern restaurant rooted in traditional flavors and executed using modern techniques. In this intimate space, you’ll be greeted by warm and energetic hospitality, flavors and dishes reminiscent of Middle-Eastern home-style cooking, and unexpected takes on classic desserts.”

“Saffy’s is your neighborhood haunt, the perfect place to walk in for a seat at the bar, grab a coffee or pastry next door, or to celebrate your next big occasion. Next door at the just launched Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop you’ll find coffee, tea, house-baked breads, and pastries. Dinner service centers around small plates, various house-made breads, seasonal vegetables, and meats that hit the table straight off of the fire.”

“The heart of Saffy’s lives in the open kitchen. Saffy’s wood fired shawarma rotisserie, wood burning oven, and hearth for grilling add their own unique character to both the food and the space. Framing the kitchen is a sixteen- seat bar, offering vibrant and refreshing cocktails to compliment the food. The wine list features coastal Mediterranean and island wines, focusing on small grower producers committed to healthy agriculture.”

Initial hours for Saffy’s are Dinner on Wednesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. For Saffy’s Coffee & Tea it’s Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“This is Saffy’s place – where you can eat with your hands, drink with your friends, and get into some mischief.”

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm, 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.

Clams truly don’t get the respect they deserve. They can be prepared in a number of tasty ways and certainly merit equal status as oysters. Clams on pizza is a special treat. Chef Andrew shares his tips…

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Hatch Pepper Season with Melissa’s Robert Schueller Part One
Segment Three: Hatch Pepper Season with Melissa’s Robert Schueller Part Two
Segment Four: Owner / Winemaker Bill Scanlin of Deer Hill Vineyards, Layfayette, CA Part One
Segment Five: Owner / Winemaker Bill Scanlin of Deer Hill Vineyards, Layfayette, CA Part Two
Segment Six: Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, Saffy’s on Fountain & Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop, East Hollywood Part One
Segment Seven: Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, Saffy’s on Fountain & Saffy’s Coffee & Tea Shop, East Hollywood Part Two
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House

Show 299, November 24, 2018: Restaurateurs Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A.

Executive Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis of BestiaThe Proprietors of the phenomenally popular Bestia and the newly opened Bavel, Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, are no strangers to the show. Just in time for the Holidays their debut cookbook, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A., is now available.

This debut cookbook from L.A.’s phenomenally popular Bestia restaurant features rustic Italian food that is driven by intense flavors, including house-made charcuterie, pizza and pasta from scratch, and innovative desserts inspired by home-baked classics.

Since opening in downtown Los Angeles in 2012, Bestia has captivated diners with its bold, satisfying, and flavor-forward food served in a festive, communal atmosphere. Now, in this accessible and immersive debut cookbook, all of the incredible dishes that have made Bestia one of the most talked-about restaurants in the country are on full display.

Irresistible desserts such as apple cider donuts and a chocolate budino tart, from Co-owner and pastry chef Genevieve Gergis, end the concert of flavors on a high note.

Ori and Genevieve also share the uphill story of the saga of realizing Bestia. If you think it’s easy to open a restaurant in an unfashionable neighborhood (at the time) you might want to reconsider. Also profiled are the key team members that keep Bestia at the top of its game.

Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A. delivers a distinctively innovative approach to Italian-inspired cooking.

Proprietors Ori and Genevieve join us.

November 24: Ori Menashe, Genevieve Gergis, Tim Hollingsworth, Carla Hall, Josiah Citrin, Farmhouse LA, Bracken’s Kitchen, Geraldine Gilliland

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateurs Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A.
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Tim Hollingsworth, Free Play Restaurant, Bar & Arcade
Segment Four: Chef Carla Hall – Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration
Segment Five: Restaurateur & Chef Josiah Citrin
Segment Six: Restaurateur & Executive Farmer, Nathan Peitso, FARMHOUSE Los Angeles
Segment Seven: Chef Andrew Gruel, Bracken’s Kitchen’s Deck the Halls Holiday Open House Benefit
Segment Eight: Chef & Restaurateur Geraldine Gilliland, Lula Cocina Mexicana, Finn McCool’s Irish Pub, Chiquita’s Friends Animal Rescue

Now an enticing and decadent preview of this Saturday’s absolutely scrumptious show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

The Proprietors of the phenomenally popular Bestia and the newly opened Bavel, Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, are no strangers to the show. Just in time for the Holidays their debut cookbook, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A., is now available. Ori and Genevieve join us.

“Eat, Drink & Game” at Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s (Otium) new Restaurant, Bar & Arcade, Free Play, located on the 2nd level of The Fields LA Food Hall in Exposition Park adjacent to Banc of California Stadium. (“Come for the Food – Stay for the Game.”) It’s a nostalgic menu representing the different comfort foods of L.A., presented with a touch of whimsey. The buzzy central bar serves craft beer and specialty cocktails.

We’re big fans of beloved TV chef (ABC’s Emmy Award-winning The Chew and fan favorite on Bravo’s Top Chef,) Carla Hall. In her 3rd cookbook, Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration, she takes us back to her own Nashville roots to offer a fresh, lip-smackin’ look at America’s favorite comfort cuisine. We’re in the Southern kitchen with Carla.

Two-star Michelin Chef and native Angeleno, Josiah Citrin (Melisse,) has launched Openaire, a poolside oasis of green at the center of Koreatown in a glass-curtained greenhouse located on the roof of The Line Hotel on Wilshire Blvd. The ambitious menu (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) features the best of California’s ingredients from land and sea, embracing the seasons and presented in a shareable format. Simply, Openaire is a celebration of indoor/outdoor living at the center of the melting-pot that is LA.

Nathan Peitso, a second-generation farmer of Kenter Canyon Farms, is at the helm of FARMHOUSE together with Executive Chef Craig Hopson. Located on the ground floor of the refreshed Beverly Center, FARMHOUSE redefines the traditional restaurant model by placing a farmer at the forefront of the business and thus creating a new culinary movement focused on collaboration with the region’s top farmers to grow and harvest ingredients dictating the dining destination’s dishes.

Chef Bill Bracken and high profile chef friends (Bracken’s Kitchen, “Driven to combat food insecurity one tasty meal at a time”) – are gathering together for a Holiday Open House benefit on Thursday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Bracken’s new kitchen in Garden Grove to help raise awareness and funds for Bracken’s Kitchen’s mission to feed those in need. Bill Bracken is grateful to be in a new 9,000 sq. ft. kitchen, yet with the growth comes more need to do more that requires additional resources and funding. Our own Chef Andrew Gruel’s Slapfish, Two Birds and Butterleaf will be part of the festivities. Chef Andrew provides the details of what’s on the Deck The Halls (And The Kitchen!) menu.

When we spoke with celebrated Santa Monica restaurateur & philanthropist Geraldine Gilliland (Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub) last week her respected animal rescue (Chiquita’s Friends) was still displaced from her ranch in Malibu and her new rescue sanctuary, Cornell Sanctuary in Agoura. Gerri was currently encamped with 26 rescue dogs at a generous benefactor’s ranch in Lompoc. We’ll get updated on Gerri’s plight and how you can help.

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

Executive Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis of BestiaThe Proprietors of the phenomenally popular Bestia and the newly opened Bavel, Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, are no strangers to the show. Just in time for the Holidays their debut cookbook, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A., is now available.

This debut cookbook from L.A.’s phenomenally popular Bestia restaurant features rustic Italian food that is driven by intense flavors, including house-made charcuterie, pizza and pasta from scratch, and innovative desserts inspired by home-baked classics.

Since opening in downtown Los Angeles in 2012, Bestia has captivated diners with its bold, satisfying, and flavor-forward food served in a festive, communal atmosphere. Now, in this accessible and immersive debut cookbook, all of the incredible dishes that have made Bestia one of the most talked-about restaurants in the country are on full display.

Irresistible desserts such as apple cider donuts and a chocolate budino tart, from Co-owner and pastry chef Genevieve Gergis, end the concert of flavors on a high note.

Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A. delivers a distinctively innovative approach to Italian-inspired cooking.

Proprietors Ori and Genevieve join us.

Timothy Hollingsworth“Eat, Drink & Game” at Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s (Otium) new Restaurant, Bar & Arcade, Free Play, located on the 2nd level of The Fields LA Food Hall in Exposition Park adjacent to Banc of California Stadium. (“Come for the Food – Stay for the Game.”)

It’s a nostalgic menu representing the different comfort foods of L.A., presented with a touch of whimsey. Think Frito Pie with chili, cheese, pickled Fresnos and sour cream. The buzzy central bar serves craft beer and specialty cocktails like the Melon Dollar Baby (gin, sake, watermelon, hibiscus and lime.).

The playable restored, vintage pinball and video games are really “Free Play” during the daily Happy Hour of 5 to 7:00 p.m. (Wednesday through Sunday.)

Chef Tim is also a Cheftestant on Netflix’s ambitious “The Final Table” international chef competition series. Chef Tim will provide an overview.

Carla HallWe’re big fans of beloved TV chef (ABC’s Emmy Award-winning The Chew and fan favorite on Bravo’s Top Chef,) Carla Hall. In her 3rd cookbook, Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration, she takes us back to her own Nashville roots to offer a fresh, lip-smackin’ look at America’s favorite comfort cuisine.

In Carla Hall’s Soul Food, the big-hearted chef and television celebrity traces soul food’s history from Africa and the Caribbean to the American South. Carla shows us that soul food is more than barbecue and mac and cheese. Traditionally a plant-based cuisine, everyday soul food is full of veggie goodness that’s just as delicious as cornbread and fried chicken.

From Black-Eyed Pea Salad with Hot Sauce Vinaigrette to Tomato Pie with Garlic Bread Crust, the recipes in Carla Hall’s Soul Food deliver her distinctive Southern flavors using farm-fresh ingredients. The results are light, healthy, seasonal dishes with big, satisfying tastes—the mouthwatering soul food everyone will want a taste of.

“Featuring 145 original recipes, 120 color photographs, and a whole lotta love, Carla Hall’s Soul Food is a wonderful blend of the modern and the traditional—honoring soul food’s heritage and personalizing it with Carla’s signature fresh style. The result is an irresistible and open-hearted collection of recipes and stories that share love and joy, identity, and memory.”

We’re in the Southern kitchen with Carla.

Josiah CitrinTwo-star Michelin Chef and native Angeleno, Josiah Citrin (Melisse & Charcoal,) has launched Openaire, a poolside oasis of green at the center of the Koreatown in a glass-curtained greenhouse located on the roof of The Line Hotel on Wilshire Blvd.

The ambitious menu (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) features the best of California’s ingredients from land and sea, embracing the seasons and presented in a shareable format. Highlights at dinner include Tagliatelle Duck Ragout with Pistachio, and Pecorino and Suckling Pig with Ginger Rice & XO sauce. The lunch menu offers a fun section of “Hotel Classics” and an unusual Tuna Katsu Sandwich with Napa Cabbage Slaw and Black Garlic Katsu Sauce. A dessert highlight is an impressive Dark Chocolate Cake with Salted Coffee Ice Cream and Dulce De Leche sauce.

Simply, Openaire is a celebration of indoor/outdoor living at the center of the melting-pot that is LA. Josiah’s Executive Chef at Openaire is Richard Archuleta (ex-The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.)

Chef Josiah joins us.

Nathan PietsoNathan Peitso, a second-generation farmer of Kenter Canyon Farms is at the helm of FARMHOUSE together with Executive Chef Craig Hopson. Located on the ground floor of the refreshed Beverly Center, FARMHOUSE redefines the traditional restaurant model by placing a farmer at the forefront of the business and thus creating a new culinary movement focused on collaboration with the region’s top farmers to grow and harvest ingredients dictating the dining destination’s dishes.

Introducing a fresh role in the restaurant industry at Beverly Center’s FARMHOUSE restaurant, Executive Farmer Nathan Peitso calls on his extensive California farming experience cultivated since youth to fill the post organically—both literally and figuratively. Peitso brings an unprecedented level of authenticity and expertise to the industry’s heightened dedication to farm-traceable culinary programs.

“The FARMHOUSE concept hinges on getting the best produce, and preparing superior food with superior ingredients,” Peitso says. Reimagining the menu design process, Peitso plans months in advance through thoughtful collaboration with farmers on anticipated produce being planted. Once farming partnerships are in place, Peitso curates the rotating seed to plate menu highlighting peak Southern California ingredients, exclusively harvested for FARMHOUSE.

Last month FARMHOUSE debuted its inaugural Autumn Harvest Chef’s Tasting Dinner Menu from Executive Chef Craig Hopson. For $52 per person (not inclusive of tax and gratuity) guests will have their choice of three-courses inspired by six selective and locally-sourced seasonal ingredients at their peak—such as honeynut squash, Cotton Candy, Concord, and Red Flame grapes, Bermuda onions, mushrooms, pears, and Japanese sweet potato—prepared by Chef Hopson and sourced by Executive Farmer Nathan Peitso (“The Farmer & The Chef” duo).

Bill BrackenChef Bill Bracken and high- profile chef friends (Bracken’s Kitchen, “Driven to combat food insecurity one tasty meal at a time”) – are gathering together for a Holiday Open House benefit on Thursday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Bracken’s new kitchen in Garden Grove to help raise awareness and funds for Bracken’s Kitchen’s mission to feed those in need. Bill Bracken is grateful to be in a new 9,000 sq. ft. kitchen, yet with the growth comes more need to do more that requires additional resources and funding.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoAttendees will be invited to tour the various kitchens to sample signature dishes made from top chefs such as Chef Hugo Bolanos from Wolfgang Puck at the Hotel Bel Air, Avalon Grille & The Catalina Company’s Chef Roberto Hernandez, Chef Andrew Gruel from Slapfish and Two Birds and Butterleaf and Chef John Park of Toast Kitchen + Bakery, not to mention Bracken’s Kitchen’s Executive Chef Jerry and Founder & Culinary Director, Chef Bill Bracken. Master Baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Company, Pastry Chef Michael Owens of the new Left Coast Bakery, and from The Dirty Cookie, Shahira Marel will round out our pastries and dessert tasting.

Tickets for the event start at $95 and will be going directly toward Bracken’s Kitchen food recovery efforts and feeding programs.

“We are excited to be able to make a bigger impact in the communities we serve with the additional space in our new kitchen,” says Chef Bill Bracken. “Thanks to our community donors and food business partners, we are able to host events like Deck The Halls and continue to restore food and lives.”

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel’s Slapfish, Two Birds and Butterleaf will be part of the festivities. Chef Andrew provides the details of what’s on the Deck The Halls (And The Kitchen!) menu.

Geraldine GillilandWhen we spoke with celebrated Santa Monica chef, restaurateur & philanthropist Geraldine Gilliland (Lula Cocina Mexicana and Finn McCool’s Irish Pub) last week her respected animal rescue (Chiquita’s Friends) was still displaced from her ranch in Malibu and her new rescue sanctuary, Cornell Sanctuary in Agoura.

Gerri was currently encamped with 26 rescue dogs at a generous benefactor’s ranch in Lompoc. Many of these rescue canines are special needs due to being seniors or are on prescription medications.

The newly restored guest cottage at Cornell Sanctuary was tragically lost in the Woolsey fire along with all of the caretaker’s personal belongings. Miraculously all the animals (including goats and rabbits) were saved.

We’ll get updated on Gerri’s plight and how you can help. In this time of great need a contribution of any size would be greatly appreciated.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateurs Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis, Bestia – Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A.
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Tim Hollingsworth, Free Play Restaurant, Bar & Arcade
Segment Four: Chef Carla Hall – Carla Hall’s Soul Food – Everyday and Celebration
Segment Five: Restaurateur & Chef Josiah Citrin
Segment Six: Restaurateur & Executive Farmer, Nathan Peitso, FARMHOUSE Los Angeles
Segment Seven: Chef Andrew Gruel, Bracken’s Kitchen’s Deck the Halls Holiday Open House Benefit
Segment Eight: Chef & Restaurateur Geraldine Gilliland, Lula Cocina Mexicana, Finn McCool’s Irish Pub, Chiquita’s Friends Animal Rescue

Show 285, August 11, 2018: Owner / Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, Bavel, DTLA’s Arts District

Executive Chef Ori Menashe and Pastry Chef Genevieve Gergis of BestiaWhen we last spoke with Owner/Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis they had recently opened Bestia (2012) in DTLA’s emerging Arts District. Flash forward to the recent opening of their long-in-the-works Bavel (buh-vel), also in the Arts District. It’s Middle Eastern flavors with influences from Israel, Morocco, Turkey and Egypt.

“Bavel, in Downtown Los Angeles’ Arts District, is a Middle Eastern restaurant from Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis. With family roots in Israel, Morocco, Turkey, and Egypt, Ori and Genevieve have always wanted to open a restaurant that showcases the cuisines of their family lineages, bringing together the flavors and dishes they grew up with.”

With a background in the field of interior design, Genevieve played a key role in the design of both Bestia and Bavel.

“Bavel – Stems from the story of Babel, from the original Old Testament. The Hebrew letters ‘b’ – bet, and ‘v’ – vet, both look the same, except that bet has a dot in the center of it. It is theorized that when the Old Testament was translated, it was not transcribed properly and Bavel turned into Babel.”

“The name is pronounced how it was originally written – Bavel (buh-vel). The story of Bavel is from a time when the Middle East was one. The people of Babylon came together to build a tower to heaven but God did not want them to succeed. In turn, he gave the people different languages so they could no longer communicate and work together.”

“When we read this story, we liked the word Bavel, because it was written during a time when everything was one – Bavel is not specific to any one region.”

We pull them both from the bustling Bavel kitchen (incredible bread is baking) for a chat.

 

Show 137, September 5, 2015: Steve Schwartz, Master Tea Blender, Art of Tea

Steve SchwartzPremium tea is gaining traction at the better restaurants everywhere. Steve Schwartz, a Master Tea Blender, is our guest. Steve is serious about tea! He’s the incredibly knowledgeable proprietor of the locally-based, Art of Tea. For starters Art of Tea supplies Bestia, Pizzeria Mozza, Sotto, Son of a Gun, and many more fine restaurants. We’ll also learn about the intriguing 8 Minute Digital Detox with Tea.”

Art of Tea is a tea importer and wholesaler based in Los Angeles. They hand blend and custom craft the world’s finest organic teas and botanicals. The Art of Tea’s products are carefully selected directly from growers, each one offering a unique story.

The seeds that formed the foundation of Art of Tea were first planted in 1996 when Steve Schwartz began his journey of extensive study in preventative medicine at the Ayurvedic Institute in New Mexico. Since then, Art of Tea has become a leading purveyor of organic and specialty teas. Each year Steve travels extensively, returning with rare and unique teas from around the world.

Steve points out that, for now, the best tea is grown in Asia.

 

Show 107, January 24, 2015: Chefs Rory Herrmann and Timothy Hollingsworth of Sprout L.A.

Rory HerrmannChef Rory Herrmann (the opening chef at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Beverly Hills) is the Director of Culinary for the Sprout L.A. restaurant group (Properties include Republique, Bestia, and the newly launched Barrel & Ashes.) Along with Santa Anita Park they have inaugurated an exclusive Saturday Guest Chef Series in the Chandelier Room there. This is a ticketed event.

The next date is today, Saturday, Jan. 24th from 12 Noon to 5:00 p.m. The guest chefs for this Saturday are Rory Herrmann and Timothy Hollingworth, the former chef de cuisine at The French Laundry. On the extensive menu is the Raw Bar with oysters, sweet gulf shrimp and wild sea bass ceviche as well as barbecue specialties from Barrel & Ashes. The craft cocktails for the afternoon are by noted mixologist Julian Cox.

The next Guest Chef Series afternoon is Saturday, February 7th from Noon to 5:00 p.m.

Chef Herrmann and Chef Timothy Hollingsworth are live from Santa Anita with the scrumptious details.

Show 82, August 2, 2014: Javier Plascencia’s “From Farm and Vineyard to Your Table” Dinner

Every year in Northern Baja is the Fiestas de la Vendimina (The Harvest Festival) celebrating the bounty of wine and food in the region over a two-week period. The Festival gives thanks and celebrates the beginning of a (hoped for) bountiful grape harvest.

Javier PlascenciaOne of the premier single events is Chef Javier Plascencia’s (Tijuana’s Mision 19) “From Farm and Vineyard to Your Table” dinner at his ranch, Finca Altozano, in Valle de Guadalupe. It’s a 6-course, wine paired feast.

Prominent guest chefs from Southern California and Mexico are part of the culinary team. This year Ori Menashe from Bestia and Timothy Hollingsworth (The Restaurant at The Broad & ex-French Laundry chef de cuisine) will be part of Chef Javier’s high-profile guest chefs’ team.

Chef Plascencia has been featured on Food TV with both Anthony Bourdain and “Bizarre Foods’” Andrew Zimmern.

For info please contact Chef Javier’s assistant, Diana Jimenez.

Roundtrip transportation to the event is available from Romesco (Javier’s restaurant in Bonita located just South of San Diego) by luxury motor coach. Hassle-free…