Show 325, May 25, 2019: Chef Ricardo Zarate of Studio City’s Los Balcones

Restauteur Ricardo M ZarateAs part of the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl embrace Latin cuisine with Latin Roots: Food & Wine With Passion showcasing a four-course meal created by chef Ricardo Zarate and featuring wine pairings by Bibiana González Rave of Cattleya Winery. (This is the evening of May 26th at Los Balcones in Studio City.)

The theme of the meal is Latin Roots, and each course will be a blend of Peruvian and Colombian cuisine, with the spirit of Los Balcones Studio City’s “mestizo style” of cooking (a blend of Spanish and other European influences). All four courses will celebrate the flavors of Colombia, Peru, Europe and California.

“This project (Los Balcones Studio City) has been ten years in the making for both Jorge Rodriguez and Ricardo Zarate. Being long-time friends and committed restaurateurs in the Los Angeles restaurant scene, both have spoken about working together for quite awhile and now the birth of Los Balcones in Studio City is complete.”

“Jorge, owner of the iconic Peruvian restaurant, Los Balcones in Hollywood and Ricardo ‘the godfather of Peruvian cuisine’ both wanted to explore Mestizo cuisine and put a spotlight on Spanish and Peruvian flavors. Both being from Peru, Los Balcones in Studio City is extremely personal and highlights the several ingredients they both grew up surrounded by and enjoying every day.”

“With signature dishes such as their Seco de Pato, Quinotto and Costilla Short Ribs, Jorge and Ricardo want guests to explore the flavors of Mestizo cuisine together.”

Los Balcones serves Dinner Tuesday through Saturday and Brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Closed on Monday.

Chef Ricardo Zarate escapes his busy kitchens and is our guest.

Show 324, May 18, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now a tempting preview of this Saturday’s salivating 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 that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience.

Our Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, the Founder of The Slapfish Restaurant Group, rejoins us from the road where he is in the process of opening 3 new Slapfish restaurants. We’re resuming “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew discusses what it’s like to take an American restaurant concept overseas. Does everything translate well?

The James Beard America’s Classics Award is given to locally owned restaurants that have timeless appeal and are cherished for quality food reflecting the character of their community. The Tran Family’s Pho 79 (Garden Grove) is a 2019 Honoree as an America’s Classics. This prestigious honor represents the first James Beard Foundation Award ever presented to an Orange County Restaurant or Chef! We’ll meet Tran Family member, John Nguyen..

One of the attractions at Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden in Corona del Mar is the Farmhouse Bar under the direction of Anthony Laborin, head of Cocktail R & D. He shops weekly for seasonal ingredients at the Wednesday morning Farmers Market in Santa Monica with Owner/Executive Chef Rich Mead. He has 13 new cocktails on the Spring Menu. Also just introduced is Laborin’s Counterfeit Cocktail menu with a tempting selection of four non-alcoholic specialty beverages.

As part of the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl embrace Latin cuisine with Latin Roots: Food & Wine With Passion showcasing a four-course meal created by chef Ricardo Zarate and featuring wine pairings by Bibiana González Rave of Cattleya Winery. (This is the evening of May 26th at Los Balcones in Studio City.) The theme of the meal is Latin Roots, and each course will be a blend of Peruvian and Colombian cuisine, with the spirit of Los Balcones Studio City’s “mestizo style” of cooking (a blend of Spanish and other European influences). All four courses will celebrate the flavors of Colombia, Peru, Europe and California.

The April issue of Orange Coast Magazine is Orange County’s Best New Restaurants of 2019. Restaurant of the Year is Chef Zachary Geerson’s Journeyman’s Food & Drink in Fullerton. Orange Coast’s long-time Restaurant Critic and Contributing Editor, Gretchen Kurz, is our guide.

La Maison Palm Springs Hotel is an award-winning boutique hotel property in Palm Springs. They are a member of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. This carefully-maintained boutique hotel is a Mediterranean-inspired property, complete with clay tile roofs, terracotta floors, and a walled garden, offering a tranquil place for guests to unwind. The unique ambiance combines the relaxing colors and warmth of Provence with the vibrant energy of Palm Springs. Our host is Proprietor Richard Slosky (who operates the property with his wife, Cornelia Schuster.)

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. With the Summer grilling season on the horizon it’s great to have a real working chef in our corner always providing handy and practical advice! Raw oysters have been in the news of late. Chef Andrew serves up what we need to know about continuing to enjoy them free of worry.

We’re live with an overstuffed show on the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend. Please do join us…

Show 324, May 18, 2019: Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave of Cattleya Winery with a Preview of a Latin Roots Collaboration Dinner with Ricardo Zarate

Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez RaveAs part of the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl embrace Latin cuisine with Latin Roots: Food & Wine With Passion showcasing a four-course meal created by chef Ricardo Zarate and featuring wine pairings by Bibiana González Rave of Cattleya Winery. (This is the evening of May 26th at Los Balcones in Studio City.)

The theme of the meal is Latin Roots, and each course will be a blend of Peruvian and Colombian cuisine, with the spirit of Los Balcones Studio City’s “mestizo style” of cooking (a blend of Spanish and other European influences). All four courses will celebrate the flavors of Colombia, Peru, Europe and California.

Bibiana joins us to share her incredible journey and preview Latin Roots: Food & Wine with Passion.” In 2015 she was named “Winemaker of the Year” by the San Francisco Chronicle.

May 18: Pho 79, Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden, Cattleya Winery, Orange Coast Magazine and Chef Andrew Gruel returns!

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Founder of Slapfish Restaurant Group
Segment Three: John Nguyen, Garden Grove’s Pho 79, 2019 Recipient of James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classics Award
Segment Four: Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden’s Anthony Laborin, Head of Cocktail R & D
Segment Five: Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave of Cattleya Winery with a Preview of a Latin Roots Collaboration Dinner with Ricardo Zarate
Segment Six: Orange Coast Magazine’s Dining Critic Gretchen Kurz on 2019’s Best New Restaurants Issue
Segment Seven: Innkeeper Richard Slosky, La Maison Palm Springs Hotel
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Founder of Slapfish Restaurant Group – “Ask the Chef”

Now a tempting preview of this Saturday’s salivating 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 that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience.

Our Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, the Founder of The Slapfish Restaurant Group, rejoins us from the road where he is in the process of opening 3 new Slapfish restaurants. We’re resuming “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew discusses what it’s like to take an American restaurant concept overseas. Does everything translate well?

The James Beard America’s Classics Award is given to locally owned restaurants that have timeless appeal and are cherished for quality food reflecting the character of their community. The Tran Family’s Pho 79 (Garden Grove) is a 2019 Honoree as an America’s Classics. This prestigious honor represents the first James Beard Foundation Award ever presented to an Orange County Restaurant or Chef! We’ll meet Tran Family member, John Nguyen.

One of the attractions at Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden in Corona del Mar is the Farmhouse Bar under the direction of Anthony Laborin, head of Cocktail R & D. He shops weekly for seasonal ingredients at the Wednesday morning Farmers Market in Santa Monica with Owner/Executive Chef Rich Mead. He has 13 new cocktails on the Spring Menu. Also just introduced is Laborin’s Counterfeit Cocktail menu with a tempting selection of four non-alcoholic specialty beverages.

As part of the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl embrace Latin cuisine with Latin Roots : Food & Wine With Passion showcasing a four-course meal created by chef Ricardo Zarate and featuring wine pairings by Bibiana González Rave of Cattleya Winery. (This is the evening of May 26th at Los Balcones in North Hollywood.) The theme of the meal is Latin Roots, and each course will be a blend of Peruvian and Colombian cuisine, with the spirit of Los Balcones Studio City’s “mestizo style” of cooking (a blend of Spanish and other European influences). All four courses will celebrate the flavors of Colombia, Peru, Europe and California.

The April issue of Orange Coast Magazine is Orange County’s Best New Restaurants of 2019. Restaurant of the Year is Chef Zachary Geerson’s Journeyman’s Food & Drink in Fullerton. Orange Coast’s long-time Restaurant Critic and Contributing Editor, Gretchen Kurz, is our guide.

La Maison Palm Springs Hotel is an award-winning boutique hotel property in Palm Springs. They are a member of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. This boutique hotel is a Mediterranean-inspired property, complete with clay tile roofs, terracotta floors, and a walled garden, offering a tranquil place for guests to unwind. The unique ambiance combines the relaxing colors and warmth of Provence with the vibrant energy of Palm Springs. Our host is Proprietor Richard Schuster (who operates the property with his wife, Cornelia.)

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. With the Summer grilling season on the horizon it’s great to have a real working chef in our corner always providing handy and practical advice! Raw oysters have been in the news of late. Chef Andrew serves up what we need to know about continuing to enjoy them free of worry.

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

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoOur Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, the Founder of The Slapfish Restaurant Group, rejoins us from the road where he is in the process of opening 3 new Slapfish restaurants. We’re resuming Ask the Chef.”

Chef Andrew discusses what it’s like to take an established & successful American restaurant concept overseas. Does everything typically translate well?

John Nguyen of Pho79The James Beard America’s Classics Award is given to locally owned restaurants that have timeless appeal and are cherished for quality food reflecting the character of their community. The five 2019 honorees join the ranks of over 100 restaurants from across the country that have received the award since the category was introduced in 1998.

The Tran Family’s Pho 79 is a 2019 Honoree as an America’s Classics. This honor represents the first James Beard Foundation Award ever presented to an Orange County Restaurant or Chef!

“Orange County, California, claims one of the most vibrant Vietnamese-American communities in the country. Pho 79 was founded by Thọ Trần and Liễu Trần who opened in 1982, when it was among the area’s very first restaurants of its kind, introducing Americans to bowls of slippery rice noodles in beefy broth, topped with eye of round steak, brisket, tripe, meatballs, or the restaurant’s justifiably legendary oxtails. With chef Lieu Trần in the kitchen, Pho 79 helped pave the way for southern California’s Little Saigon to become the dynamic hub of Vietnamese cuisine it is today. The next generation of the Trần family continues to operate the restaurant, as well as others in the area including Pho 101. The family’s story is as much about intrepid entrepreneurship and excellent cooking as it is about a community that rose from war and displacement to forever change American cuisine.”

We’ll meet Tran Family member, John Nguyen.

Anthony Laborin of Farmhouse at Rogers GardenOne of the special attractions at Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden in Corona del Mar is the Farmhouse Bar under the direction of Anthony Laborin, head of Cocktail R & D. He shops weekly for seasonal ingredients at the Wednesday morning Farmers Market in Santa Monica with Owner/Executive Chef Rich Mead.

He has 13 new cocktails on the Spring Menu. Among Anthony’s latest creations is Scandalous Scandinavian Panamanian Daiquiri with lime, Swedish Punsch and Panama Pacific Rum.

Also just introduced is Laborin’s Counterfeit Cocktail menu with a tempting selection of four non-alcoholic specialty beverages. Think The Green with cucumber water, pineapple, citrus, wild honey and seedlip.

“The kitchen table is where problems are solved. This is something that Anthony Laborin, head of Cocktail R&D at Farmhouse learned at an early age as he helped his mother and aunts in the kitchen. Since those early days, Anthony has loved the social aspect of the culinary experience. Inherently friendly and genuinely interested in people, he values the interaction with guests that tending bar gives him. Special moments come from listening to guests, learning what kind of drinks and flavor profiles they enjoy and then using that information to introduce them to a specially made, handcrafted cocktail that they never would have thought to order. “When I can convince a guest to try something new and they like it, it brightens my day,” shares Laborin.”

Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez RaveAs part of the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl embrace Latin cuisine with Latin Roots: Food & Wine With Passion showcasing a four-course meal created by chef Ricardo Zarate and featuring wine pairings by Bibiana González Rave of Cattleya Winery. (This is the evening of May 26th at Los Balcones in Studio City.)

The theme of the meal is Latin Roots, and each course will be a blend of Peruvian and Colombian cuisine, with the spirit of Los Balcones Studio City’s “mestizo style” of cooking (a blend of Spanish and other European influences). All four courses will celebrate the flavors of Colombia, Peru, Europe and California.

Bibiana joins us to share her incredible journey and preview Latin Roots: Food & Wine with Passion.” In 2015 she was named “Winemaker of the Year” by the San Francisco Chronicle.

Orange Coast Best RestaurantsThe April issue of Orange Coast Magazine is Orange County’s Best New Restaurants of 2019. Restaurant of the Year is Chef Zachary Geerson’s Journeyman’s Food & Drink in Fullerton.

‘Eat, write, repeat’ summarizes the notable career of Gretchen Kurz, who is Contributing Editor at Orange Coast Magazine and its Dining Critic since 2004. She was also the Zagat Local Editor for Orange County for 13 years. A native of southern California, she first fell under the spell of restaurant writing as a journalism student and freelancer for San Jose Magazine. Her very first writing gig: sewing names on mouse ear hats at Disneyland.

Orange Coast’s long-time Restaurant Critic and Contributing Editor, Gretchen Kurz, is our appropriately opinionated guide.

Richard SchusterLa Maison Palm Springs Hotel is an award-winning boutique hotel property in Palm Springs. They are a member of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. This boutique hotel is a Mediterranean-inspired property, complete with clay tile roofs, terracotta floors, and a walled garden, offering a tranquil place for guests to unwind. The unique ambiance combines the relaxing colors and warmth of Provence with the vibrant energy of Palm Springs.

“Indulge in lavender scones and handcrafted lattes each morning. Spend the day lounging by the pool in our charming inner courtyard. At night, enjoy the most peaceful sleep on your feather bed dressed in imported luxury linens.”

“Here at La Maison Palm Springs Hotel, we know that every detail is important. All 13 guest rooms surround the pool and lush gardens. Each room is individually decorated and includes either a queen or king feather bed with luxury linens, seasonal down comforters and a small guest fridge. Our bathrooms have marble or granite accents, L’Occitane bath amenities, plush bathrobes and rain showerheads. The pièce de résistance? A complimentary lavender sachet on your pillow at night.”

Our gracious host is Proprietor Richard Slosky (who operates the property with his wife, Cornelia Schuster.)

Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group at the AM830 KLAA StudiosOur own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. With the Summer grilling season on the horizon it’s great to have a real working chef in our corner always providing handy and practical advice!

Raw oysters have been in the news of late. Chef Andrew serves up what we need to know about continuing to enjoy them free of worry.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Founder of Slapfish Restaurant Group
Segment Three: John Nguyen, Garden Grove’s Pho 79, 2019 Recipient of James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classics Award
Segment Four: Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden’s Anthony Laborin, Head of Cocktail R & D
Segment Five: Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave of Cattleya Winery with a Preview of a Latin Roots Collaboration Dinner with Ricardo Zarate
Segment Six: Orange Coast Magazine’s Dining Critic Gretchen Kurz on 2019’s Best New Restaurants Issue
Segment Seven: Innkeeper Richard Slosky, La Maison Palm Springs Hotel
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Founder of Slapfish Restaurant Group – “Ask the Chef”

Show 320, April 20, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now an enticing preview of Saturday’s delectable 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… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience.

The Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is presenting their 2nd Annual Full Circle Benefit Dinner at Neal Fraser’s Redbird in Downtown Los Angeles on Thursday evening, April 25th featuring a culinary brigade of celebrity guest chefs. C-CAP Council L.A.’s Chairperson, Barbara Fairchild (former Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appetit Magazine,) joins us with all the salivating details of the Cocktail Reception and seated Dinner & Live Auction.

Born and raised in Columbia, Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave had little exposure to wine culture but, by the age of 14, she knew she would become a winemaker. Bibiana joins us to share her incredible journey. In 2015 she was named “Winemaker of the Year” by the San Francisco Chronicle.

For most it wasn’t so much the actual cooking that was a problem: it was the hour plus of organization, prepping and cleaning up. So, a teacher at heart, Carla Snyder wrote One Pan Two Plates: More than 70 complete weeknight meals for two, a guide to a delicious, healthy, hot meal for two in under 45 minutes with easy prep and one pan cleanup. Carla’s most recent release is One Pan Whole Family: More than 70 complete weeknight mealsThis is a book for families who would like to embrace a diet of wholesome meats, poultry, fish, vegetables and grains. Carla escapes the kitchen and is our guest.

Robert Biebrich is the Executive Chef for Legends here at Angel Stadium. Chef Robert is with us in-studio to highlight what’s new in Angel Stadium food and beverage for the 2019 season. He’s particularly proud of the Big A Burger which is a luxe burger creation as well as a new food outlet. Did we hear “Secret Menu”? Joining Chef Robert is his Executive Sous Chef Omar Almaraz and Executive Pastry Chef Tracy Felipe.

Chef Thomas Ortega (Playa Amor Mexican Cocina and Amor Y Tacos Mexican Kitchen & Cantina) recently launched his fourth restaurant in SoCal, and this time it’s his first fast-casual concept: AMORCITO Urban Taqueria. Credited as one of the innovators of the Modern Mexican and pocho cuisine food movements, Ortega’s goal is to bring more quality Modern Mexican/ pocho cuisine to the Southland at an affordable price point with his new interpretation of the urban taqueria in Long Beach at Hangar at Long Beach Exchange. We’ll meet Chef Thomas.

Easter and Passover good wishes to all.

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

Program Note: Next Saturday, April 20th, is our annual visit to The Big Island Chocolate Festival at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort. Pure local chocolate decadence. Please do join us.

 

Show 320, April 20, 2019: Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave

Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez RaveBorn and raised in Columbia, acclaimed Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave had little exposure to wine culture but, by the age of 14, she knew she would become a winemaker.

“So I packed my bags and left for France. And in that moment I set the course of my life, a never-ending journey pursuing inspirational wines. During the summer of 2001, I immersed myself in all things wine, ultimately earning a BTS degree in Viticulture and Enology from Cognac followed by a degree in Enology from the University of Bordeaux, graduating with honors.”

‘Driven by the tenacity which first took me to France, I pruned vines during ice-cold winters, trimmed shoots in sweltering summers, and tended to the vines that cling to the sheer slopes of Côte-Rôtie—first at Domaine Stéphane Ogier, then at Domaine Clusel-Roch. At the famed estates of Château Haut-Brion & La Mission Haut-Brion, I completed research for my thesis. This hard work paid off – I had the privilege to work among other family-owned wine producers in Burgundy, Alsace, and Cognac. My passion for wine whisked me around the globe, sending me between California, South Africa, and France for several years before I decided to call California my home.”

“By the end of 2011, after many harvests perfecting the craft of making wine, I set upon my own adventure—a label known today as CATTLEYA WINES. Meanwhile, I became a viticulturist and winemaker consultant; focused on vineyard optimization to produce exceptional wines from Sonoma and Napa Valley.”

Bibiana joins us to share her incredible journey. In 2015 she was named “Winemaker of the Year” by the San Francisco Chronicle.

April 20: Barbara Fairchild, Bibiana Gonzalez Rave, Carla Snyder, Angels Baseball Food, Thomas Ortega

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Preview of C-CAP’s 2nd Annual Full Circle Benefit at Redbird with Barbara Fairchild
Segment Three: Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave
Segment Four: Author Carla Snyder with One Pan, Whole Family: More Than 70 Complete Weeknight Meals
Segment Five: Executive Chef Robert Biebrich & the Culinary Team for Legends at Angel Stadium Part One
Segment Six: Executive Chef Robert Biebrich & the Culinary Team for Legends at Angel Stadium Part Two
Segment Seven: Chef Thomas Ortega of Amorcito Urban Taqueria, Long Beach Exchange in the Hangar Part One
Segment Eight: Chef Thomas Ortega of Amorcito Urban Taqueria, Long Beach Exchange in the Hangar Part Two

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s delectable 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… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience.

The Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is presenting their 2nd Annual Full Circle Benefit dinner at Neal Fraser’s Redbird in Downtown Los Angeles on Thursday evening, April 25th featuring a culinary brigade of celebrity guest chefs. C-CAP Council L.A.’s Chairperson, Barbara Fairchild (former Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appetit Magazine,) joins us with all the salivating details of the Cocktail Reception and seated Dinner & Live Auction.

Born and raised in Columbia, Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave had little exposure to wine culture but, by the age of 14, she knew she would become a winemaker. Bibiana joins us to share her incredible journey. In 2015 she was named “Winemaker of the Year” by the San Francisco Chronicle.

For most it wasn’t so much the actual cooking that was a problem: it was the hour plus of organization, prepping and cleaning up. So, a teacher at heart, Carla Snyder wrote One Pan Two Plates: More than 70 complete weeknight meals for two, a guide to a delicious, healthy, hot meal for two in under 45 minutes with easy prep and one pan cleanup. Carla’s most recent release is One Pan Whole Family: More than 70 complete weeknight meals. This is a book for families who would like to embrace a diet of wholesome meats, poultry, fish, vegetables and grains. Carla escapes the kitchen and is our guest.

Robert Biebrich is the Executive Chef for Legends here at Angel Stadium. Chef Robert is with us in-studio to highlight what’s new in Angel Stadium food and beverage for the 2019 season. He’s particularly proud of the Big A Burger which is a luxe burger creation as well as a new food outlet. Did we hear “Secret Menu”? Joining Chef Robert is his Executive Sous Chef Omar Almaraz and Executive Pastry Chef Tracy Felipe.

Chef Thomas Ortega (Playa Amor Mexican Cocina and Amor Y Tacos Mexican Kitchen & Cantina) recently launched his fourth restaurant in SoCal, and this time it’s his first fast-casual concept: AMORCITO Urban Taqueria. Credited as one of the innovators of the Modern Mexican and pocho cuisine food movements, Ortega’s goal is to bring more quality Modern Mexican/ pocho cuisine to the Southland at an affordable price point with his new interpretation of the urban taqueria in Long Beach at Hangar at Long Beach Exchange. We’ll meet Chef Thomas

Easter and Passover good wishes to all.

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

Barbara FairchildThe Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is presenting their 2nd Annual Full Circle Benefit dinner at Neal Fraser’s Redbird in Downtown Los Angeles on Thursday evening, April 25th featuring a culinary brigade of celebrity guest chefs.

“Celebrating our C-CAP students and the wonderful chefs who mentor and inspire them, giving them the tools and experience they need to succeed and come Full Circle.”

The evening is hosted and coordinated by Chef Neal Fraser and featuring celebrated chefs Monti Carlo (Food Network personality,) Josiah Citrin (Openaire and Charcoal Venice,) Sandra Cordero (Gasolina,) Duff Goldman (Charm City Cakes,) C-CAP alumnus Anthony Greco (Lukshon & Father’s Office,) Kyle Johnson (Bourbon Steak), Antonia Lofaso (Scopa, Black Market and Dama), Nicole Rucker (Fiona,) C-CAP alumnus Dustin Trani (J. Trani’s Ristorante,) and more.

C-CAP Council L.A.’s Chairperson, Barbara Fairchild (former Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appetit Magazine,) joins us with all the salivating details of the Cocktail Reception in the calming lower gardens at Redbird and seated Dinner & Live Auction upstairs at Redbird.

Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez RaveBorn and raised in Columbia, acclaimed Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave had little exposure to wine culture but, by the age of 14, she knew she would become a winemaker.

“So I packed my bags and left for France. And in that moment I set the course of my life, a never-ending journey pursuing inspirational wines. During the summer of 2001, I immersed myself in all things wine, ultimately earning a BTS degree in Viticulture and Enology from Cognac followed by a degree in Enology from the University of Bordeaux, graduating with honors.”

‘Driven by the tenacity which first took me to France, I pruned vines during ice-cold winters, trimmed shoots in sweltering summers, and tended to the vines that cling to the sheer slopes of Côte-Rôtie—first at Domaine Stéphane Ogier, then at Domaine Clusel-Roch. At the famed estates of Château Haut-Brion & La Mission Haut-Brion, I completed research for my thesis. This hard work paid off – I had the privilege to work among other family-owned wine producers in Burgundy, Alsace, and Cognac. My passion for wine whisked me around the globe, sending me between California, South Africa, and France for several years before I decided to call California my home.”

“By the end of 2011, after many harvests perfecting the craft of making wine, I set upon my own adventure—a label known today as CATTLEYA WINES. Meanwhile, I became a viticulturist and winemaker consultant; focused on vineyard optimization to produce exceptional wines from Sonoma and Napa Valley.”

Bibiana joins us to share her incredible journey. In 2015 she was named “Winemaker of the Year” by the San Francisco Chronicle.

Chef Carla SnyderFor most it wasn’t so much the actual cooking that was a problem: it was the hour plus of organization, prepping and cleaning up. So, a teacher at heart, Carla Snyder wrote One Pan Two Plates: More than 70 complete weeknight meals for two, a guide to a delicious, healthy, hot meal for two in under 45 minutes with easy prep and one pan cleanup. Carla’s most recent release is One Pan Whole Family: More than 70 complete weeknight meals. This is a book for families who would like to embrace a diet of wholesome meats, poultry, fish, vegetables and grains.

“The recipes in this invaluable guide are geared to appeal to kids and adults with one pan clean-up and all meals ready in 45 minutes or less. With suggestions for Extra Hungry Kids and Adult Taste Buds, Carla makes it easy to please everyone at the table along with wine suggestions and even sips for the kids.”

“One Pan Whole Family is a guide to smart, thoughtful, contemporary cooking and eating with most ingredients found in the average grocery. The book is divided into four chapters, Veggie Good or vegetarian dinners, Winner Winner Chicken Dinner, Let’s Eat Meat, and Go Fish. There’s even an index listing seasonal meals, dairy free and gluten free. Recipes like Stovetop Lasagna with Spinach, Chicken Pot Pie on the Fly, and Super Burgers with Cheddar, Mushrooms and Onion prove that an enticing meal can appeal to kids and adults alike.”

“Carla says “My mission as a cooking school teacher has always been to help students learn the skills they need to operate efficiently and enjoyably in the quest to feed themselves and others. I hope this book helps reset the game by offering an easy-to-follow plan to feed hungry families in a healthy and less stressful way.””

“Carla Snyder has spent the past 30 years in the food world as a caterer, artisan baker, cooking school teacher, culinary team building company owner, freelance food writer and co-author with Meredith Deeds of 6 cook books including the 2007 James Beard nominated The Big Book of Appetizers (Chronicle Books, 2006.)”

Learn more about Carla: at ravenouskitchen.com where she blogs about everything from cooking for two to easy weekend entertaining for a crowd.

Carla briefly escapes the kitchen and is our guest.

Robert BiebrichRobert Biebrich is the accomplished Executive Chef for Legends here at Angel Stadium. Chef Robert is with us in-studio to highlight what’s new in Angel Stadium food and beverage for the 2019 season.

He’s particularly proud of the Big A Burger which is a luxe burger creation as well as a new food outlet. Did we hear “Secret Menu”? We’ll ask about “Light It Up Fries.”

There are new items in the Saint Archer Brewing Co. along with special limited production craft beers. Think Thai Sticky Ribs with Pork Spare Ribs, Onion and Cilantro Salad.

Chef Robert is in his sixth full season at Angel Stadium, working alongside Regional Executive Chef Gretchen Beaumarchais and Executive Sous Chef Omar Almaraz. Chef Biebrich leads a team of talented culinary artists, who are constantly developing new food concepts and fulfilling the ever-changing menus for more than three million guests each season at The Big A.

Joining Chef Robert is his Executive Sous Chef Omar Almaraz and Executive Pastry Chef Tracy Felipe.

Tracy Felipe of Legends at Angel Stadium in AnaheimAlso new for this year are the delicious & easy-to-eat Bamboo Bowls located on the Terrace & View Level. Think Chicken Teriyaki Bowl with Steamed Rice, Broccoli, Grilled Chicken Thigh with Teriyaki Sauce.

Now in its 2nd year Change Up Kitchen has a host of new treats. The Empanadas with Spiced Beef, Puff Pastry and Salsa Chilena are a standout.

Executive Pastry Chef Tracy continues to impress. Her rich, giant round Brownie is meant to be shared and the Red Velvet Whoopie Pie is ever popular. There is also a worthy Chocolate Cake.

Chef Thomas OrtegaChef Thomas Ortega (Playa Amor Mexican Cocina and Amor Y Tacos Mexican Kitchen & Cantina) recently launched his fourth restaurant in SoCal, and this time it’s his first fast-casual concept: AMORCITO Urban Taqueria. Credited as one of the innovators of the Modern Mexican and pocho cuisine food movements, Ortega’s goal is to bring more quality Modern Mexican/ pocho cuisine to the Southland at an affordable price point with his new interpretation of the urban taqueria in Long Beach at Hangar at Long Beach Exchange. We’ll meet Chef Thomas

“Ortega stays true to his pocho cuisine-roots by bringing his playful yet gourmet approach to his newest restaurant at The Hanger food hall at the Long Beach Exchange. Most items are priced at under $10, with tacos starting at $2.95, and other standouts like the New Mexico Hatch Chile Cheeseburger and Al Pastor Fries are priced $6.75 and $8, respectively. Amorcito also offers eight various burritos priced at $8.50, among other items. Amorcito is open for normal business hours — Mon–Sat: 11am-8pm / Sun: 11am-6pm — where you’ll find various new items from Ortega that are more in tune with the grab n’ go-patron, yet still maintain his signature quality flavors at a very affordable price point.”

“For starters, Ortega has hired a designated tortilla-maker to make fresh corn and flour tortillas daily – something you don’t usually see at any fast-casual restaurant. As customers wait, they can even watch the tortillas being made through a window that overlooks the tortilla-making station. “I’m looking to bring quality Modern Mexican flavors to a larger audience without the intimidating price points and without compromising the use of quality ingredients at my first ever fast–casual space,” states Ortega. “Ideally, we’d love to bring our revered approach to pocho cuisine to more of LA and OC by opening several more Amorcitos down the line.””

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Preview of C-CAP’s 2nd Annual Full Circle Benefit at Redbird with Barbara Fairchild
Segment Three: Winemaker Bibiana Gonzalez Rave
Segment Four: Author Carla Snyder with One Pan, Whole Family: More Than 70 Complete Weeknight Meals
Segment Five: Executive Chef Robert Biebrich & the Culinary Team for Legends at Angel Stadium Part One
Segment Six: Executive Chef Robert Biebrich & the Culinary Team for Legends at Angel Stadium Part Two
Segment Seven: Chef Thomas Ortega of Amorcito Urban Taqueria, Long Beach Exchange in the Hangar Part One
Segment Eight: Chef Thomas Ortega of Amorcito Urban Taqueria, Long Beach Exchange in the Hangar Part Two

Show 316, March 23, 2019: Winemaker Jeff Pisoni, Pisoni Vineyards, Lucia and Lucy Part Two

Jeff PisoniWinemaker Jeff Pisoni continues…

The Pisoni family’s goal: grow exceptional grapes to make exceptional wine. Wines made by the Pisoni family are bottled under the Pisoni Estate and Lucia labels. Gary and his two sons, Mark and Jeff, farm and produce Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah from their three vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands: Pisoni, Garys’ and Soberanes vineyards. These vineyards and wines represent an extreme commitment to farming and classical winemaking.

Lucy is the charismatic younger sister of Lucia Wines, a celebrated label that represents a collection of vineyards run by the renown Pisoni Family. In 2003, making her limited debut in just two precious barrels, winemaker Jeff Pisoni immediately knew he had crafted something exceptional. More than a decade later, the tradition of providing the utmost care and attention to the exquisite rose’ carries on. Only a limited amount is produced each year, and $1 per bottle is donated to breast cancer research.”

Jeff’s vivacious wife, Bibiana Gonzalez Rave, is also an acclaimed winemaker. Her labels are Alma de Cattleya and Cattleya Wines. We’ll meet her on the April 20th’s show.