Show 545, September 30, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Congratulations on the selection of Chef Stefani De Palma and Commis Bradley Waddle to be Team USA 2025 representing the United States. They will now go on to represent the United States at the 2024 Bocuse d’Or Americas Selection. This selection event will determine the finalists for the 2025 Bocuse d’Or, the prestigious biennial international culinary competition in Lyon, France. Chef Stefani De Palma of Team USA 2025 joins us.

Michelle Grow, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce’s Director of Marketing is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” She just had the very special experience of being a part of the annual Hatch Chile Festival over Labor Day Weekend in Hatch, NM. Then she was off to Australia to learn about R2E2 and Calypso Mangoes. Michelle is our guest to recap her recent global produce adventures.

“On Monday, October 30, 2023, LA Chef Conference returns in partnership with Los Angeles Trade-Tech College (LATTC)’s Culinary Arts Pathway in Downtown Los Angeles and Presenting Sponsor OpenTable, benefitting Regarding Her, a national nonprofit dedicated to accelerating the growth of women entrepreneurs and leaders in food and beverage. The all-day event will include panel conversations led by industry experts, live cooking demos throughout the day, an after party and the LA Chef Con Food Festival Lunch spread out among the school’s five new state of the art teaching kitchens. This year’s program and panel line-up features LA-based industry professionals including Caroline Styne of AOC, James Beard Award Winner Justin Pichetrungsi, LA TimesBill Addison, Ruth Reichl, Keith Corbin of Alta Adams, and out-of-town industry notables such as 3-star Michelin Chef William Bradley (Addison Del Mar), Gavin Kaysen (Spoon and Stable) and Ti Martin of Commander’s Palace (New Orleans.)” Joining us with all the details of LA Chef Conference 2023 are Producer Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions and Chef Jerry Vachon, Chef Instructor / Department Chair – Culinary Arts and Professional Baking, Los Angeles Trade-Tech College. Also joining us is Spago Beverly Hills’ Executive Pastry Chef, Della Gosset, who is one of the Chef Mentors for the newly launched LA Chef Conference / LATTC Mentorship Program.

“Located in beautiful Suisun Valley adjacent to Fairfield, BackRoad Vines Winery and Venue is dedicated to bringing back the traditional “Old School” art form of wine making. Their approach to handcrafting unique and distinctive wines has developed through experience and taking time to smell the wines. Plan a visit to the ‘backroads’ and enjoy a glass of wine in the tasting room or lunch on the patio. BackRoad Vines specializes in Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and red blends. The winery also features two bocce ball courts and a small creek just a short walk from the tasting room. Summer and fall events are very popular and may include bocce ball league and tournaments, wood-fire pizza nights at The Landing, or live music.” Proprietress Jody Anselmo joins us to pull the cork on all that is BackRoad Vines Winery.

Charcoal SUNSET (newly launched) is an inviting neighborhood restaurant from Michelin-starred Chef and Owner Josiah Citrin that was inspired by the backyard barbecues he hosts on weekends for his friends and family. As the name suggests, everything is cooked indoors over live fire – whether over charcoal or in the coals. Citrin and Chef de Cuisine Jordan Olivo prepare a seasonal menu of craveable comfort foods featuring locally-sourced proteins and vegetables ideal for sharing family-style. Whether diving into a platter of smoky grilled chicken wings with a beer or classic cocktail at the bar, or splitting a 48 oz. dry-aged Porterhouse and a bottle of Bandol with friends, Charcoal SUNSET is an everyday dining spot. (This is the sister restaurant to the original Charcoal VENICE in Los Angeles.) Chef Josiah takes a break from tending the embers to join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew has previously discussed the Fast Act in California that regulates fast-food chains. It has been repealed but returned, rewritten and modified. Of particular concern (among other aspects) is the creation of a Fast Food Wage Council. Chef Andrew explains.

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

Show 545, September 30, 2023: Chef Stefani De Palma, Team USA for Bocuse d’Or 2025

Chef Stefani De Palma

Congratulations on the selection of Chef Stefani De Palma and Commis Bradley Waddle to be Team USA 2025 representing the United States. They will now go on to represent the United States at the 2024 Bocuse d’Or Americas Selection. This selection event will determine the finalists for the 2025 Bocuse d’Or, the prestigious biennial international culinary competition in Lyon, France.

“The selection event under the auspicious of the Ment’or Foundation was held September 3rd at The Culinary Institute of America’s Copia campus in Napa, California where three teams convened to cook for 5 hours and 30 minutes. The competition followed the Bocuse d’Or format, with the chef candidates creating two presentations, a “theme on a platter” with Snake River Farms American Kurobuta Bone-In Pork Rack, accompanied by a “starter” dish and two garnishes, as well as a “theme on a plate,” incorporating a choice of summer squash from The Chef’s Garden and zucchini or sweet corn from Cooks Company Produce. They plated ten portions on serving ware courtesy of Steelite. The chefs were evaluated on the overall harmony of flavors in the dish, the presentation of the platter and plate, the techniques employed and overall kitchen skills.”

“We witnessed the extraordinary talent of American young chefs during this competition. The winners of the National Selection begin Team USA’s road to Lyon, where they will compete at one of the most esteemed international culinary gatherings,” said Chef Thomas Keller, Ment’or co-founder and President. “We promised Chef Paul Bocuse to realize his dream of the United States placing on the podium at the Bocuse d’Or and continue that promise with Mentor’s commitment to mentoring new generations. Special thanks to all who have supported this cause, including the judges and sponsors.”

Head Chef Stephanie De Palma of Team USA 2025 joins us.

Show 545, September 30, 2023: Chef Josiah Citrin – Launch of Charcoal Sunset, West Hollywood

Josiah Citrin of Melisse

Charcoal SUNSET (newly launched) is an inviting neighborhood restaurant from Michelin-starred Chef and Owner Josiah Citrin that was inspired by the backyard barbecues he hosts on weekends for his friends and family. As the name suggests, everything is cooked indoors over live fire – whether over charcoal or in the coals. Citrin and Chef de Cuisine Jordan Olivo prepare a seasonal menu of craveable comfort foods featuring locally-sourced proteins and vegetables ideal for sharing family-style. Whether diving into a platter of smoky grilled chicken wings with a beer or classic cocktail at the bar, or splitting a 48 oz. dry-aged Porterhouse and a bottle of Bandol with friends, Charcoal SUNSET is an everyday dining spot.” (This is the sister restaurant to the original Charcoal VENICE in Los Angeles.)

Last Saturday (Sept. 23rd) Chef Josiah was one of the chefs donating their time and food to the L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Stand Culinary Cookout benefit at UCLA. He served a dirty fried chicken sandwich on a brioche bun from Rockenwagner Bakery that was a big hit.

“Josiah Citrin is a culinary expert and veteran of Los Angeles’s gourmet dining scene, with more than 30 years of experience. He is chef and owner of Santa Monica, California’s Mélisse Restaurant. In December of 2019, Chef Citrin reopened the reimagined Mélisse restaurant as two distinct concepts- Citrin, a high-end ala carte dining experience that won one Michelin Star in 2022, and Mélisse, a 14-seat tasting menu, which won two Michelin Stars in 2021 and 2022. His culinary philosophy, “In Pursuit of Excellence” sets the standard for all his concepts, whether fine-dining or casual.”

Over Labor Day Weekend at the CIA Copia Campus in Napa, Chef Citrin was a member of the distinguished jury panel of Ment’or Foundation selecting Team USA 2024 to compete in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition in Lyon, France in early 2025.

Chef Josiah takes a break from tending the embers to join us. (We’re actually talking with Chef Josiah who was in Paris, France.)

September 30: Stefani De Palma, Hatch Chile Festival, LA Chef Conference, BackRoad Vines Winery, Josiah Citrin

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Stefani De Palma, Team USA for Bocuse d’Or 2025
Segment Three: Hatch Chile Festival Recap with Michelle Grow, Marketing Director, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce
Segment Four: LA Chef Conference 2023 Preview with Brad Metzger and Chef Jerry Vachon, LATTC
Segment Five: LA Chef Conference 2023 Preview with Pastry Chef Della Gossett, Spago Beverly Hills & Producer Brad Metzger
Segment Six: Village 360 and BackRoad Vines, Suisun Valley / Fairfield with Proprietress Jody Anselmo
Segment Seven: Chef Josiah Citrin – Launch of Charcoal Sunset, West Hollywood
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.

Congratulations on the selection of Chef Stefani De Palma and Commis Bradley Waddle to be Team USA 2025 representing the United States. They will now go on to represent the United States at the 2024 Bocuse d’Or Americas Selection. This selection event will determine the finalists for the 2025 Bocuse d’Or, the prestigious biennial international culinary competition in Lyon, France. Chef Stefani De Palma of Team USA 2025 joins us.

Michelle Grow, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce’s Director of Marketing is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” She just had the very special experience of being a part of the annual Hatch Chile Festival over Labor Day Weekend in Hatch, NM. Then she was off to Australia to learn about R2E2 and Calypso Mangoes. Michelle is our guest to recap her recent global produce adventures.

On Monday, October 30, 2023, LA Chef Conference returns in partnership with Los Angeles Trade-Tech College (LATTC)’s Culinary Arts Pathway in Downtown Los Angeles and Presenting Sponsor OpenTable, benefitting Regarding Her, a national nonprofit dedicated to accelerating the growth of women entrepreneurs and leaders in food and beverage. The all-day event will include panel conversations led by industry experts, live cooking demos throughout the day, an after party and the LA Chef Con Food Festival Lunch spread out among the school’s five new state of the art teaching kitchens. This year’s program and panel line-up features LA-based industry professionals including Caroline Styne of AOC, James Beard Award Winner Justin Pichetrungsi, LA Times’ Bill Addison, Ruth Reichl, Keith Corbin of Alta Adams, and out-of-town industry notables including 3-star Michelin Chef William Bradley (Addison Del Mar), Gavin Kaysen (Spoon and Stable) and Ti Martin of Commander’s Palace (New Orleans.) Joining us with all the details of LA Chef Conference 2023 are Producer Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions and Chef Jerry Vachon, Chef Instructor / Department Chair – Culinary Arts and Professional Baking, Los Angeles Trade-Tech College. Also joining us is Spago Beverly Hills’ Executive Pastry Chef, Della Gosset, who is one of the Chef Mentors for the newly launched LA Chef Conference / LATTC Mentorship Program.

Located in beautiful Suisun Valley adjacent to Fairfield, BackRoad Vines Winery and Venue is dedicated to bringing back the traditional “Old School” art form of wine making. Their approach to handcrafting unique and distinctive wines has developed through experience and taking time to smell the wines. Plan a visit to the ‘backroads’ and enjoy a glass of wine in the tasting room or lunch on the patio. BackRoad Vines specializes in Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and red blends. The winery also features two bocce ball courts and a small creek just a short walk from the tasting room. Summer and fall events are very popular and may include bocce ball league and tournaments, wood-fire pizza nights at The Landing, or live music. Proprietress Jody Anselmo joins us to pull the cork on all that is BackRoad Vines Winery.

“Charcoal SUNSET (newly launched) is an inviting neighborhood restaurant from Michelin-starred Chef and Owner Josiah Citrin that was inspired by the backyard barbecues he hosts on weekends for his friends and family. As the name suggests, everything is cooked indoors over live fire – whether over charcoal or in the coals. Citrin and Chef de Cuisine Jordan Olivo prepare a seasonal menu of craveable comfort foods featuring locally-sourced proteins and vegetables ideal for sharing family-style. Whether diving into a platter of smoky grilled chicken wings with a beer or classic cocktail at the bar, or splitting a 48 oz. dry-aged Porterhouse and a bottle of Bandol with friends, Charcoal SUNSET is an everyday dining spot. (This is the sister restaurant to the original Charcoal VENICE in Los Angeles.) Chef Josiah takes a break from tending the embers to join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew has previously discussed the Fast Act in California that regulates fast-food chains. It has been repealed but rewritten. Of particular concern (among other aspects) is the creation of a Fast Food Wage Council. Chef Andrew explains.

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

Chef Stefani De Palma

Congratulations on the selection of Chef Stefani De Palma and Commis Bradley Waddle to be Team USA 2025 representing the United States. They will now go on to represent the United States at the 2024 Bocuse d’Or Americas Selection. This selection event will determine the finalists for the 2025 Bocuse d’Or, the prestigious biennial international culinary competition in Lyon, France.

“The selection event under the auspicious of the Ment’or Foundation was held September 3rd at The Culinary Institute of America’s Copia campus in Napa, California where three teams convened to cook for 5 hours and 30 minutes. The competition followed the Bocuse d’Or format, with the chef candidates creating two presentations, a “theme on a platter” with Snake River Farms American Kurobuta Bone-In Pork Rack, accompanied by a “starter” dish and two garnishes, as well as a “theme on a plate,” incorporating a choice of summer squash from The Chef’s Garden and zucchini or sweet corn from Cooks Company Produce. They plated ten portions on serving ware courtesy of Steelite. The chefs were evaluated on the overall harmony of flavors in the dish, the presentation of the platter and plate, the techniques employed and overall kitchen skills.”

“We witnessed the extraordinary talent of American young chefs during this competition. The winners of the National Selection begin Team USA’s road to Lyon, where they will compete at one of the most esteemed international culinary gatherings,” said Chef Thomas Keller, Ment’or co-founder and President. “We promised Chef Paul Bocuse to realize his dream of the United States placing on the podium at the Bocuse d’Or and continue that promise with Mentor’s commitment to mentoring new generations. Special thanks to all who have supported this cause, including the judges and sponsors.”

Head Chef Stefani De Palma of Team USA 2025 joins us.

Michelle Grow of Melissa's World Variety Produce

Michelle Grow, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce’s Director of Marketing is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” She just had the very special experience of being a part of the annual Hatch Chile Festival over Labor Day Weekend in Hatch, NM. Then she was off to Australia to learn about R2E2 and Honey Gold Mangoes. Michelle is our guest to recap her recent global produce adventures.

As any true New Mexican will tell you, there’s hot chile and then there’s Hatch chile, and boy is it worth celebrating! This annual harvest festival over Labor Day Weekend in the “Chile Capital of the World” (that’s Hatch, New Mexico) includes chile roasting, food and craft vendors, fun for the kids, a carnival, and entertainment provided by local businesses. Over 40,000 chile loves attend annually which is a lot bigger than the population of Hatch estimated at 1,500! Last year was the 50th Anniversary of the Hatch Chile Festival.

“The Aussies are very picky about mangos, so only the best varieties are grown. The Calypso® mango is an Australian favorite; the bright, beautiful shades of red and yellow stand out in any produce department. With a unique pink blush, smaller seed, and juicy, fiber-free flesh, Calypso® mangos are perfectly beautiful and perfectly delicious. Melissa’s brings these beauties into the states just in time for Christmas… or Chrissy, as they say in Australia.”

“You can identify R2E2s from Australia by their lemon-yellow flesh and orange-red blush. Both Calypso® and R2E2s are perfect for smoothies, salads, salsas, and treat-yourself moments”

Jerry Vachon of Los Angeles Trade Technical College

“On Monday, October 30, 2023, LA Chef Conference returns in partnership with Los Angeles Trade-Tech College (LATTC)’s Culinary Arts Pathway in Downtown Los Angeles and Presenting Sponsor OpenTable, benefitting Regarding Her, a national nonprofit dedicated to accelerating the growth of women entrepreneurs and leaders in food and beverage. The all-day event will include panel conversations led by industry experts, live cooking demos throughout the day, an after party and the LA Chef Con Food Festival Lunch spread out among the school’s five new state of the art teaching kitchens.”

“This year’s program and panel line-up features LA-based industry professionals including Caroline Styne of AOC, James Beard Award Winner Justin Pichetrungsi, LA TimesBill Addison, Ruth Reichl, Keith Corbin of Alta Adams, and out-of-town industry notables such as 3-star Michelin Chef William Bradley (Addison Del Mar), Gavin Kaysen and Ti Martin of Commander’s Palace.”

Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions

“The primary aim of this year’s 2023 LA Chef Conference is to build a bridge between students and the vibrant restaurant industry in LA. To progress towards this goal, the partnership has created the first ever LA Chef Con / LATTC Mentorship program, offering 5 students the opportunity to win $1,000 and be paired up for one year of mentorship with this year’s esteemed industry experts: Susan Feniger, Chef / Co-Owner at Border Grill, Socalo, BBQ Mexicana and Pacha Mamas; Keith Corbin, two-time James Beard nominee and Executive Chef / Owner of Alta Adams; Della Gossett, Executive Pastry Chef at Spago Beverly Hills; Ryan Wilson, CEO of Lawry’s Restaurants. Inc; or Ari Rosenson, VP Food & Beverage Operations at Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group.”

Joining us with all the details of LA Chef Conference 2023 are Producer Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions and Chef Jerry Vachon, Chef Instructor / Department Chair – Culinary Arts and Professional Baking, Los Angeles Trade-Tech College.

Then, Della Gossett, Executive Pastry Chef of Spago Beverly Hills and a chef participant in the inaugural LA Chef Con / LATTC Mentorship program joins us along with Conference Producer Brad Metzger continuing.

Jody Anselmo of Back Road Vines

“Located in beautiful Suisun Valley adjacent to Fairfield, BackRoad Vines Winery and Venue is dedicated to bringing back the traditional “Old School” art form of wine making. Their approach to handcrafting unique and distinctive wines has developed through experience and taking time to smell the wines.”

“Plan a visit to the ‘backroads’ and enjoy a glass of wine in the tasting room or lunch on the patio. BackRoad Vines specializes in Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and red blends. The winery also features two bocce ball courts and a small creek just a short walk from the tasting room. Summer and fall events are very popular and may include bocce ball league and tournaments, wood-fire pizza nights, or live music.”

The Landing restaurant at Village 360 serves Lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Think Creole Salmon with seasonal woodfired veggies, quinoa, black beans, cilantro with a honey chipotle aioli. Desserts from their accomplished in-house pastry chef (ex-Bouchon Yountville) are a bonus. Dinner is Friday only from 5 to 9:00 p.m. Sunday Brunch is served from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reservations are suggested.

Proprietress Jody Anselmo joins us to pull the cork on all that is BackRoad Vines Winery.

Josiah Citrin of Melisse

Charcoal SUNSET (newly launched) is an inviting neighborhood restaurant from Michelin-starred Chef and Owner Josiah Citrin that was inspired by the backyard barbecues he hosts on weekends for his friends and family. As the name suggests, everything is cooked indoors over live fire – whether over charcoal or in the coals. Citrin and Chef de Cuisine Jordan Olivo prepare a seasonal menu of craveable comfort foods featuring locally-sourced proteins and vegetables ideal for sharing family-style. Whether diving into a platter of smoky grilled chicken wings with a beer or classic cocktail at the bar, or splitting a 48 oz. dry-aged Porterhouse and a bottle of Bandol with friends, Charcoal SUNSET is an everyday dining spot.” (This is the sister restaurant to the original Charcoal VENICE in Los Angeles.)

“Josiah Citrin is a culinary expert and veteran of Los Angeles’s gourmet dining scene, with more than 30 years of experience. He is chef and owner of Santa Monica, California’s Mélisse Restaurant. In December of 2019, Chef Citrin reopened the reimagined Mélisse restaurant as two distinct concepts- Citrin, a high-end ala carte dining experience that won one Michelin Star in 2022, and Mélisse, a 14-seat tasting menu, which won two Michelin Stars in 2021 and 2022. His culinary philosophy, “In Pursuit of Excellence” sets the standard for all his concepts, whether fine-dining or casual.”

Over Labor Day Weekend at the CIA Copia Campus in Napa, Chef Citrin was a member of the distinguished jury panel of Ment’or Foundation selecting Team USA 2024 to compete in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition in Lyon, France in early 2025.

Chef Josiah takes a break from tending the embers to join us.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

Chef Andrew has previously discussed the Fast Act in California that regulates fast-food chains. It has been repealed but rewritten. Of particular concern (among other aspects) is the creation of a Fast Food Wage Council. Chef Andrew explains.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Stefani De Palma, Team USA for Bocuse d’Or 2025
Segment Three: Hatch Chile Festival Recap with Michelle Grow, Marketing Director, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce
Segment Four: LA Chef Conference 2023 Preview with Brad Metzger and Chef Jerry Vachon, LATTC
Segment Five: LA Chef Conference 2023 Preview with Pastry Chef Della Gossett, Spago Beverly Hills & Producer Brad Metzger
Segment Six: Village 360 and BackRoad Vines, Suisun Valley / Fairfield with Proprietress Jody Anselmo
Segment Seven: Chef Josiah Citrin – Launch of Charcoal Sunset, West Hollywood
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 539, August 19, 2023: Chef Thomas Keller, The French Laundry – 15th Anniversary of Ment’or Foundation

Thomas Keller and Young Yun of the Ment'or BKB Foundation

Ment’or, founded by chefs Daniel Boulud, Jerome Bocuse and Thomas Keller is a leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to inspiring culinary excellence in young professionals and preserving the traditions and quality of cuisine in America.” They are celebrating their 15th anniversary of achievement this year.

“Their aim is to build a sustainable community of young American professionals that are knowledgeable and confident in their career pursuits and will be life-long ambassadors of quality and excellence in the world of gastronomy. The organization is dedicated to making the careers of serious young individuals more meaningful and successful by offering them unique educational opportunities, internships, and access to a Culinary Council of established mentors.”

“Since 2008 it has been a key mission for the Foundation to enable the best young talent in America to effectively train for the privilege and honor of representing the United States as Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or in Lyon. The result of that patience and determination was realized for the first time in 2015 when Team USA stood on the podium with the Silver Bocuse, garnering the recognition and respect of the international culinary community. In January of 2017 Team USA proudly returned from Lyon with the Bocuse d’Or, having realized Monsieur Paul Bocuse’s dream of USA winning Gold.”

“Team USA is chosen through a national selection process that mimics the format and atmosphere of the competition that is held in Lyon biennially. Chefs from around the country apply to compete in the Team USA National Selection Event.”

“After the selection, the team trains full time in Napa, California during the course of a year, guided by a head coach, assistant coaches, advisors, and a designer. Throughout their training, the team receives feedback from their advisors and the Board via various tastings and coaching sessions.”

Team USA 2025 will be selected at the National Selection on Sunday, September 3, 2023 at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia campus in Napa, California.” The competition is open to the public and tickets are available.

Thomas Keller joins us to talk about 15 years of accomplishment for Ment’or.

Show 513, February 18, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Conscious Bean is a wellness-based, boutique micro roaster and caffeination design firm, focusing on cafe development, event services, custom tailored coffee subscriptions and corporate coffee programs for elite private and commercial application. Born in Los Angeles, the City of Angels, on November 11, 2011, with headquarters in Orange County, California, Conscious Bean is the brain child of founder and caffeine visionary, Matthew Evilsizor.” Conscious Coffee’s Matt Evilsizor is our guest with the perfectly brewed cup of premium coffee in hand.

“In late January Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi, Commis Franco Fugel and Head Coach Robert Sulatycky (Team USA 2023) represented their country at the world’s most prestigious cooking competition, The Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition in Lyon, France.
Teams of some of the most brilliant culinary minds from 24 countries across the world gathered in Lyon, France, where they competed in the most rigorous and celebrated cooking competition in the world.

Team USA (supported by the Ment’or Foundation) competed on Monday, January 23rd and presented their platter “Postcard From Hawaii,” an homage to Chef Hayashi’s home. Their platter presentation contained the mandatory protein of monkfish, which was roasted and featured monkfish jus, ragout of mussels, hen egg custard and avocado green goddess. To further test each country’s creative abilities, each team developed a “Feed the Kids” menu, featuring a three-course meal highlighting pumpkin and egg as the main ingredients.” Team USA’s Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel are our guests.

“Helmed by Chef-Owner Jeoffrey Offer, Butcher’s House Brasserie (Costa Mesa) is an award-winning modern brasserie centered around the antique art of butchery. The menu boasts dry-aged meats and rustic brasserie-style dishes representative of his hometown Toulouse in the south of France. From the kitchen to the bar, craftsmanship is displayed as chefs expertly trim and truss premium cuts of meat while bartenders stir and shake soju-based spirits into French-inspired elixirs. With an atmosphere of warm masculinity, the dining room at Butcher’s House allows guests to escape into a rich bottle of Bordeaux, while its sunny courtyard-facing patio presents the perfect locale for a chilled glass of rose.” Chef Jeoffrey Offer joins us with antique clever in hand.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. We were going to chat with Chef Andrew about some oddities of the current tipping situation in restaurants and added charges that, perhaps, require a bit of explanation but the ghost of cell phone drop got in the way of connecting with Chef Andrew and keeping him on the air. No fear…We’ll pick up the conversation with Chef Andrew next Saturday morning. Apologies…

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

Show 513, February 18, 2023: Team USA 2023 with Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel, Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition Part One

Jeffrey Hayashi is the head chef for the 2021 Bocuse D'Or

In late January Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi, Commis Franco Fugel and Head Coach Robert Sulatycky (Team USA 2023) represented their country at the world’s most prestigious cooking competition, The Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition in Lyon, France, where they competed in the most rigorous and celebrated cooking competition in the world.”

“Teams of some of the most brilliant culinary minds from 24 countries across the world gathered in Lyon, France, where they competed in the most rigorous and celebrated cooking competition in the world.”

“Team USA (supported by the Ment’or Foundation) competed on Monday, January 23rd and presented their platter “Postcard From Hawaii,” an homage to Chef Hayashi’s home. Their platter presentation contained the mandatory protein of monkfish, which was roasted and featured monkfish jus, ragout of mussels, hen egg custard and avocado green goddess. The platter presentations were designed by Martin Kastner of Crucial Detail, LLC. To further test each country’s creative abilities, each team developed a “Feed the Kids” menu, featuring a three-course meal highlighting pumpkin and egg as the main ingredients. Team USA artfully presented their menu, drawing inspiration from childhood fairy tales of “Cinderella,” “The Goose That Laid The Golden Eggs,” and “Snow White.””

Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi notes, “I am honored to have represented Team USA at this esteemed global culinary competition. I would not be here without the support of all the members of Team USA, but particularly that of my Commis, Franco Fugel and our Head Coach Robert Sulatycky. This was an opportunity of a lifetime for a chef and I will treasure this experience throughout my culinary journey.””

Ment’or is the non-profit organization that is responsible for recruiting, training and supporting Team USA.

Team USA placed outside of the medals round but their accomplishment in Lyon is still impressive. Our heartiest of congratulations for the extraordinary effort.

Team USA’s Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel are our guests.

Show 513, February 18, 2023: Team USA 2023 with Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel, Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition Part Two

Commis Franco Fugel

In late January Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi, Commis Franco Fugel and Head Coach Robert Sulatycky (Team USA 2023) represented their country at the world’s most prestigious cooking competition, The Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition in Lyon, France, where they competed in the most rigorous and celebrated cooking competition in the world.”

“Team USA (supported by the Ment’or Foundation) competed on Monday, January 23rd and presented their platter “Postcard From Hawaii,” an homage to Chef Hayashi’s home. Their platter presentation contained the mandatory protein of monkfish, which was roasted and featured monkfish jus, ragout of mussels, hen egg custard and avocado green goddess. The platter presentations were designed by Martin Kastner of Crucial Detail, LLC. To further test each country’s creative abilities, each team developed a “Feed the Kids” menu, featuring a three-course meal highlighting pumpkin and egg as the main ingredients. Team USA artfully presented their menu, drawing inspiration from childhood fairy tales of “Cinderella,” “The Goose That Laid The Golden Eggs,” and “Snow White.””

Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi notes, “I am honored to have represented Team USA at this esteemed global culinary competition. I would not be here without the support of all the members of Team USA, but particularly that of my Commis, Franco Fugel and our Head Coach Robert Sulatycky. This was an opportunity of a lifetime for a chef and I will treasure this experience throughout my culinary journey.””

Ment’or is the non-profit organization that is responsible for recruiting, training and supporting Team USA.

Team USA’s Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel continue as our guests.

February 18: Conscious Bean, Team USA at Bocuse d’Or, Butcher’s House Brasserie

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Matthew Evilsizor, Founder, Conscious Bean – “The Coffee Whisperer” Part One
Segment Three: Matthew Evilsizor, Founder, Conscious Bean – “The Coffee Whisperer” Part Two
Segment Four: Team USA 2023 with Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel, Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition Part One
Segment Five: Team USA 2023 with Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel, Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition Part Two
Segment Six: Butcher’s House Brasserie (Costa Mesa) with Chef-Owner Jeoffrey Offer Part One
Segment Seven: Butcher’s House Brasserie (Costa Mesa) with Chef-Owner Jeoffrey Offer Part Two

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

“Conscious Bean is a wellness-based, boutique micro roaster and caffeination design firm, focusing on cafe development, event services, custom tailored coffee subscriptions and corporate coffee programs for elite private and commercial application. Born in Los Angeles, the City of Angels, on November 11, 2011, with headquarters in Orange County, California, Conscious Bean is the brainchild of founder and caffeine visionary, Matthew Evilsizor.” Conscious Coffee’s Matt Evilsizor is our guest with the perfectly brewed cup of premium coffee in hand.

In late January Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi, Commis Franco Fugel and Head Coach Robert Sulatycky (Team USA 2023) represented their country at the world’s most prestigious cooking competition, The Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition in Lyon, France.

Teams of some of the most brilliant culinary minds from 24 countries across the world gathered in Lyon, France, where they competed in the most rigorous and celebrated cooking competition in the world.

“Team USA (supported by the Ment’or Foundation) competed on Monday, January 23rd and presented their platter “Postcard From Hawaii,” an homage to Chef Hayashi’s home. Their platter presentation contained the mandatory protein of monkfish, which was roasted and featured monkfish jus, ragout of mussels, hen egg custard and avocado green goddess. To further test each country’s creative abilities, each team developed a “Feed the Kids” menu, featuring a three-course meal highlighting pumpkin and egg as the main ingredients.” Team USA’s Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel are our guests.

“Helmed by Chef-Owner Jeoffrey Offer, Butcher’s House Brasserie (Costa Mesa) is an award-winning modern brasserie centered around the antique art of butchery. The menu boasts dry-aged meats and rustic brasserie-style dishes representative of his hometown Toulouse in the south of France. From the kitchen to the bar, craftsmanship is displayed as chefs expertly trim and truss premium cuts of meat while bartenders stir and shake soju-based spirits into French-inspired elixirs. With an atmosphere of warm masculinity, the dining room at Butcher’s House allows guests to escape into a rich bottle of Bordeaux, while its sunny courtyard-facing patio presents the perfect locale for a chilled glass of rose.” Chef Jeoffrey Offer joins us with antique clever in hand.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Some full-service restaurants are now adding a “Mandatory Service Charge” to restaurant bills for parties of less than 6 guests. Is this a tip? What about a 4 to 5 per cent surcharge added for “employee health care”? When you use a credit card some of the signature printouts give you suggested tip amounts. Some calculate the suggested tip based on the includes sales tax and others calculate net of tax. What’s right? We’ll ask the chef.

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

Matthew Evilsizor

Conscious Bean is a wellness-based, boutique micro roaster and caffeination design firm, focusing on cafe development, event services, custom tailored coffee subscriptions and corporate coffee programs for elite private and commercial application. Born in Los Angeles, the City of Angels, on November 11, 2011, with headquarters in Orange County, California. Conscious Bean is the brainchild of founder and caffeine visionary, Matthew Evilsizor.”

“Coffee to Conscious Bean, is the manifestation of love. It’s the dedication of many hands, hearts & the recurring gift of mother earth. Conscious Bean works daily to honor this gift, sharing their vision of earth’s exceptional offerings, crafted for your ritual.”

“It is dedication, vigilance, obsessive attention to detail and honest partnership. Conscious Bean’s visionary coffees are the tangible representation of owner Matthew Evilsizor and long- time friend and master roaster, Shawn Anderson of Old Town Roastery fame. Their dedicated partnership, along with a long chain of advocates, farms, importers and a few secret weapons, manifest some of the most rare and exceptional offerings from around the planet. Without the passion, vigilance, and skill of these souls, what Conscious Bean represents would not be possible.”

“Conscious Bean also handcrafts award-winning coffee in small batches for one-of-a-kind coffee subscriptions.”

“20% of Conscious Bean’s wholesale sales go to interest free loans for small coffee farms around the world.”

Conscious Coffee’s Matt Evilsizor is our guest with the perfectly brewed cup of premium coffee in hand.

Jeffrey Hayashi is the head chef for the 2021 Bocuse D'Or

In late January Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi, Commis Franco Fugel and Head Coach Robert Sulatycky (Team USA 2023) represented their country at the world’s most prestigious cooking competition, The Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition in Lyon, France.

“Teams of some of the most brilliant culinary minds from 24 countries across the world gathered in Lyon, France, where they competed in the most rigorous and celebrated cooking competition in the world.”

“Team USA (supported by the Ment’or Foundation) competed on Monday, January 23rd and presented their platter “Postcard From Hawaii,” an homage to Chef Hayashi’s home. Their platter presentation contained the mandatory protein of monkfish, which was roasted and featured monkfish jus, ragout of mussels, hen egg custard and avocado green goddess. The platter presentations were designed by Martin Kastner of Crucial Detail, LLC. To further test each country’s creative abilities, each team developed a “Feed the Kids” menu, featuring a three-course meal highlighting pumpkin and egg as the main ingredients. Team USA artfully presented their menu, drawing inspiration from childhood fairy tales of “Cinderella,” “The Goose That Laid The Golden Eggs,” and “Snow White.””

Commis Franco Fugel

Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi notes, “I am honored to have represented Team USA at this esteemed global culinary competition. I would not be here without the support of all the members of Team USA, but particularly that of my Commis, Franco Fugel and our Head Coach Robert Sulatycky. This was an opportunity of a lifetime for a chef and I will treasure this experience throughout my culinary journey.””

Ment’or is the non-profit organization that is responsible for recruiting, training and supporting Team USA.

Team USA’s Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel are our guests.

Jeoffrey Offer of Butcher's House Brasserie

Butcher’s House Brasserie, the award-winning brasserie helmed by Chef-Owner Jeoffrey Offer, celebrated its 1st Anniversary last December. In its first year, Butcher’s House garnered critical acclaim as the ‘2022 Restaurant of the Year’ by Orange Coast Magazine and earned coveted recognition in the Orange County Register’s ‘75 Best Restaurants’ list. The restaurant, now in its second year, has introduced a new menu that artfully juxtaposes the antique craft of butchery with contemporary French dining.”

“Butcher’s House celebrates cuisine du terroir, focusing on wood-fired steaks, dry-aged, and butchered in-house. Classic and contemporary converge on Offer’s new menu as time-honored techniques intersect with his inspirations from the avant-garde dining culture of modern France. The new menu is complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine program offering guests an exploration through the various growing regions of France.”

“If you were to visit France today, you’d find that restaurants shaping the modern dining scene focus on simple, good food served in a warm, inviting atmosphere. That is what we’re creating at Butcher’s House,” adds Offer. “Simply prepared dishes allow the quality and seasonality of ingredients to take center stage. There is beauty in simplicity, and my style of cooking reflects that.”

“New-to-the-menu starters include a woodfire-grilled Rustic Carpaccio with thinly sliced thyme and garlic-marinated filet with Gribiche sauce; and a Burrata with grilled acorn squash topped with basil, olive oil, and saba. Accompaniments like Ratatouille and duck-fat Roasted Potatoes serve as classic complements to Offer’s selection of Butcher’s Choice cuts, while playful options like Butcher’s Fries are topped with pork belly and melted raclette cheese. Dishes like the Merguez Boulette (beef & lamb marinated with traditional spices) and the signature Butcher’s Burger with dry-aged beef, confit onions, and Comté cheese provide a glimpse into France’s contemporary dining scene. Offer’s hometown is celebrated in traditional dishes like the Toulouse Sausage, while his classical French training shines through dishes like Duck Confit, a slow-cooked duck leg marinated in duck fat served with Cassoulet-style beans.”

“To complement his new dinner menu, Offer also launched a new wine program that expertly explores France’s most illustrious growing regions. A curated list features everything from elegant Champagnes and bold grand cru Burgundies to robust blends from the sun-drenched vineyards of the Southern Rhone.  In 2023 guests can look forward to a monthly series of multi-course wine-paired dinners exploring each growing region and its unique cuisine du terroir. Offer has tapped special co-hosts and wine experts to guide guests with tasting notes for each region.”

Butcher’s House is located at SoCo in Costa Mesa (3321 Hyland Ave. Ste. D) and is open for dinner nightly from 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. and weekend brunch from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

Some full-service restaurants are now adding a “Mandatory Service Charge” to restaurant bills for parties of less than 6 guests. Is this a tip ? What about a 4 to 5 per cent surcharge added for “employee health care”? When you use a credit card some of the signature printouts give you a range of suggested tip amounts. Some calculate the suggested tip based on the included sales tax and others calculate net of tax. What’s right? (In parts of California this can add an additional 1 per cent to the bill.) We’ll ask the chef.

Chef Andrew and Lauren Gruel have a new fast casual concept, Burger 101, coming soon to the 2-level, Kitchen United complex on the 3rd St. Promenade in Santa Monica. It’s Chef Andrew’s version of a value-priced, honest burger (and loaded fries) using quality ingredients including a premium burger patty sourced from West Coast Prime Meats. He’ll also launch a casual Mexican concept there, Lolo’s Tacos, specializing in clean and simple tacos, burritos and standout specialty sauces.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Matthew Evilsizor, Founder, Conscious Bean – “The Coffee Whisperer” Part One
Segment Three: Matthew Evilsizor, Founder, Conscious Bean – “The Coffee Whisperer” Part Two
Segment Four: Team USA 2023 with Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel, Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition Part One
Segment Five: Team USA 2023 with Head Chef Jeffery Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel, Bocuse d’Or Culinary Competition Part Two
Segment Six: Butcher’s House Brasserie (Costa Mesa) with Chef-Owner Jeoffrey Offer Part One
Segment Seven: Butcher’s House Brasserie (Costa Mesa) with Chef-Owner Jeoffrey Offer Part Two

Show 487, August 13, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

When we last spoke with culinary Team USA 2023 supported by the Ment’or BKB Foundation they were on their way to Santiago, Chile to compete in the America’s Selection for Bocuse d’Or. Teams from 8 North and South American countries battled for the right of being one of the 5 Teams selected to advance to the bi-annual Bocuse d’Or international culinary competition in Lyon, France in January. Team USA 2023 with Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel performed exceedingly well and were awarded First Place, and are now in rigorous training on the road to Lyon. Chef Gavin Kaysen, President of Ment’or BKB Foundation (and a Tasting Jury Judge in Santiago) and Ment’or Executive Director Young Yun are our guests to revisit Santiago and discuss the road ahead to Lyon for Team USA 2023.

Dono in Santa Monica is the third restaurant from Greco Entertainment Group (GEG) . Led by Chef / Partner Brendan Collins, Dono celebrates bold and passionate flavors from Spain. Long known for his deft hand with global cuisines, this foray into pan-Spanish traditions ushers in prized ingredients from the Iberian Peninsula such as Jamón Ibérico and premium conservas, melding them with farm-fresh, locally-sourced produce. The menu features a variety of tapas (small plates), as well as large-format dishes including paella, whole grilled Sea Bass, and Piri-Piri chicken. The bar showcases a variety of house-made sangrias and a craft cocktail program from industry veteran Gabriella Mlynarcyzk. Leaning into the laid-back Spanish lifestyle, expect gin & tonic riffs, as well as well-rounded classics. The Dono wine program highlights Spanish grapes from the Iberian Peninsula and California.” Executive Chef Brendan Collins takes a break from his busy kitchens and joins us.

“TV host and do-it-yourself/lifestyle expert Maria Provenzano shows readers how to turn even life’s small moments into big celebrations, with food and crafts from scratch. Life’s everyday moments are worthy of connecting people together with food and crafts. Everyday Celebrations from Scratch by Maria Provenzano is filled with impressive (yet easy) recipes, step-by-step craft tutorials, and inspiration to set the scene–all to help you create the life you want, from scratch.”
Maria Provenzano is our guest with tasting spoon in hand.

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. Chicken seems to be the current “it” protein and continuing to grow in popularity. Chef Andrew continues his conversation about the popularity of cluck and also offers some practical tips for safely handling raw chicken at home.

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

Program Note: We’re unusually preempted for Angels Baseball on Saturday, August 20th. We’re back with a new show on August 27th. See you then…