Show 531, June 24, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

El Cholo, perhaps Los Angeles’ most iconic, honored and beloved Mexican Restaurant is celebrating its 100th Anniversary during 2023 under the watchful eye of Ron Salisbury, 3rd generation proprietor of The El Cholo Family of Restaurants. Ron Salisbury also celebrates his 90th Birthday during 2023.” “In conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of El Cholo, the Salisbury Family has launched their ambitious Charitable Gift Campaign Benefitting Pediatric Cancer Research with the goal of raising a cool $1 Million dollars. Monies raised through the campaign will be donated equally to L.A. Children’s Hospital and to Orange County’s Children’s Hospital / CHOC Foundation. To participate in this charitable campaign, every El Cholo customer who makes a $100- donation while visiting any one of the six Southern California El Cholos will receive a VIP NACHOS CARD by which they can enjoy Carmen’s Nacho’s free throughout the rest of 2023.” Ron also has a unique booth naming campaign in progress at the original El Cholo with the proceeds going to the charitable fundraising campaign. 3rd generation proprietor, Ron Salisbury, is our guest with a plate of Carmen’s Original Nachos in hand.

Proprietor and Chef Alfonso Curti has assembled an outstanding menu of fine Italian dishes, an extensive wine list, specialty cocktails, and original desserts, which he is offering in the cozy elegance of the Trattoria Uliveto Italian Restaurant, located in the quaint town of Old Orcutt near Santa Maria, California. Join him in the celebration of authentic Italian cuisine paired with some of the finest wines available. Trattoria Uliveto also offers catering services for wedding receptions and banquets and daily Family Meals to go.” Trattoria Uliveto is open for lunch as well as dinner. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Chef Alfonso Curti takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Executive Chef Juan Morales oversees all the distinctive dining options at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Rancho Mirage. This is the only Agua Caliente Casino in Greater Palm Springs with a Forbes 4- Star luxury hotel on the property. Chef Juan and his team are the menu makers for The Steakhouse, Waters Café, 360 Sports and the casual, quick-service Java Caliente. Chef Juan Morales takes a brief pause from his busy kitchens to join us.

Bravo’s Top Chef just concluded 20th season was “World All-Stars” set in London. The current season of the Emmy-winning series featured 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs battled it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) was one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants. Chef Amar did California proud. He almost went the distance but did get to Paris for the Finale. “Top Chef” regular, Gail Simmons, has graciously anointed Chef Amar as one of the “Top Chef Final Five.” Not bad company to be in. Chef Amar was also in the running for “Top Chef” Fan Favorite which goes along with a $10,000 cash prize. We’ll hear the official results from Chef Amar.

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. Chef Andrew has shared with us previously that the business model for 3rd party delivery services does not seem sustainable. Grubhub just laid off staff. We’ll “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew will also tell us about California Black Gill Rock Cod. It’s delicious and local…(Postponed from last week.)

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

Show 531, June 24, 2023: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part One

Amar Santana at the Finale of Top Chef

Bravo’s Top Chef just concluded 20th season was “World All-Stars” set in London. The new season of the Emmy-winning series featured 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs battled it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) was one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.

Chef Amar did California proud. He almost went the distance but did get to Paris. “Top Chef” regular, Gail Simmons has anointed Chef Amar as one of the “Top Chef Final Five.” Not bad company to be in. Chef Amar was also in the running for “Top Chef” Fan Favorite which goes along with a $10,000 cash prize. We’ll hear the results directly from Chef Amar.

Also there is a new Vaca in the works for early 2024 but it’s not in Orange County.

Chef Amar takes a break from his busy kitchens for his insider’s report on “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.

Show 531, June 24, 2023: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part Two

Amar Santana at the Finale of Top Chef

Bravo’s Top Chef just concluded 20th season was “World All-Stars” set in London. The new season of the Emmy-winning series featured 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs battled it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) was one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.

Chef Amar did California proud. He almost went the distance but did get to Paris. “Top Chef” regular, Gail Simmons has anointed Chef Amar as one of the “Top Chef Final Five.” Not bad company to be in. Chef Amar was also in the running for “Top Chef” Fan Favorite which goes along with a $10,000 cash prize. We’ll hear the official results directly from Chef Amar.

Also there is a new Vaca in the works for early 2024 but, surprisingly, it’s not in Orange County.

Chef Amar takes a further break from his busy kitchens to continue his insider’s report on “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.

June 24: El Cholo, Trattoria Uliveto Italian Restaurant, Aqua Caliente Casino Resort Rancho Mirage, Amar Santana on Top Chef World All-Stars

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ron Salisbury, El Cholo and The Restaurant Business – Raising Money for Charity while Celebrating 100 Years of El Cholo
Segment Three: Executive Chef Alfonso Curti of Trattoria Uliveto, Orcutt, CA
Segment Four: Executive Chef Juan Morales, Agua Caliente Casino Resort, Rancho Mirage Part One
Segment Five: Executive Chef Juan Morales, Agua Caliente Casino Resort, Rancho Mirage Part Two
Segment Six: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part One
Segment Seven: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef & Co-Host Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

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

“El Cholo, perhaps Los Angeles’ most iconic, honored and beloved Mexican Restaurant is celebrating its 100th Anniversary during 2023 under the watchful eye of Ron Salisbury, 3rd generation proprietor of The El Cholo Family of Restaurants. Ron Salisbury also celebrates his 90th Birthday during 2023.” “In conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of El Cholo, the Salisbury Family has launched their ambitious Charitable Gift Campaign benefitting Pediatric Cancer Research with the goal of raising a cool $1Million dollars. Monies raised through the campaign will be donated to L.A. Children’s Hospital and to Orange County’s Children’s Hospital / CHOC Foundation. To participate in this charitable campaign, every El Cholo customer who makes a $100 donation while visiting any one of the six Southern California El Cholos will receive a VIP NACHOS CARD by which they can enjoy Carmen’s Nacho’s free throughout the rest of 2023.” Ron also has a unique booth naming campaign in progress at the original El Cholo with the proceeds going to the charitable fundraising campaign. 3rd generation proprietor, Ron Salisbury, is our guest with a plate of Carmen’s Original Nachos in hand.

“Proprietor and Chef Alfonso Curti has assembled an outstanding menu of fine Italian dishes, an extensive wine list, specialty cocktails, and original desserts, which he is offering in the cozy elegance of the Trattoria Uliveto Italian Restaurant, located in the quaint town of Old Orcutt near Santa Maria, California. Join him in the celebration of authentic Italian cuisine paired with some of the finest wines available. Trattoria Uliveto also offers catering services for wedding receptions and banquets and daily Family Meals to go.” Trattoria Uliveto is open for lunch as well as dinner. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Chef Alfonso Curti takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Executive Chef Juan Morales oversees all the distinctive dining options at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Rancho Mirage. This is the only Agua Caliente Casino in Greater Palm Springs with a Forbes 4- Star luxury hotel on the property. Chef Juan and his team are the menu makers for The Steakhouse, Waters Café, 360 Sports and the casual, quick-service Java Caliente. Chef Juan Morales takes a brief pause from his busy kitchens to join us.

Bravo’s “Top Chef”just concluded 20th season was “World All-Stars” set in London. The current season of the Emmy-winning series featured 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs battled it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) was one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants. Chef Amar did California proud. He almost went the distance but did get to Paris. “Top Chef” regular, Gail Simmons, has graciously anointed Chef Amar as one of the “Top Chef Final Five.” Not bad company to be in. Chef Amar was also in the running for “Top Chef” Fan Favorite which goes along with a $10,000 cash prize. We’ll hear the official results from Chef Amar.

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. Chef Andrew has shared with us previously that the business model for 3rd party delivery services does not seem sustainable. Grubhub just laid off staff. We’ll “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew will also tell us about California Black Gill Rock Cod. It’s delicious and local…(Postponed from last week.)

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

Ron Salisbury of El Cholo

El Cholo, perhaps Los Angeles’ most iconic, honored and beloved Mexican Restaurant is celebrating its 100th Anniversary during 2023 under the watchful eye of Ron Salisbury, 3rd generation proprietor of The El Cholo Family of Restaurants. Ron Salisbury also celebrates his 90th Birthday during 2023. Mr. Salisbury has been working with the El Cholo restaurant chain for 68 years! Several of his descendants also currently work within his family’s business, including fourth, fifth and even sixth generation family members!”

In conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of El Cholo, the Salisbury Family has launched their ambitious Charitable Gift Campaign benefiting Pediatric Cancer Research with the goal of raising as cool $1 Million dollars. Monies raised through the campaign will be donated to L.A. Children’s Hospital and to Orange County’s Children’s Hospital / CHOC Foundation. To participate in this charitable campaign, every El Cholo customer who makes a $100 donation while visiting any one of the six Southern California El Cholos will receive a VIP NACHOS CARD by which they can enjoy Carmen’s Nacho’s free throughout the rest of 2023.

Ron also has a very special booth naming campaign in progress at the original El Cholo with the proceeds going to the charitable fundraising campaign.

“Says Mr. Salisbury, “Many other restaurants, when they approach 100, start slowing down or taking their eye off the ball. But we still stand firmly at the top of our game. We continue to be aggressive in providing the best Mexican restaurant experience possible – one that only El Cholo can offer. Myself, my kids, my grandkids and even my great-grandkids are proudly committed to continuing the El Cholo tradition – one that my grandparents began way back in 1923 – well into the future!””

3rd generation proprietor, Ron Salisbury, is our guest with a plate of Carmen’s Original Nachos in hand.

Alfonso Curti of Trattoria Uliveto

“Proprietor and Chef Alfonso Curti has assembled an outstanding menu of fine Italian dishes, an extensive wine list, specialty cocktails, and original desserts, which he is offering in the cozy elegance of the Trattoria Uliveto Italian Restaurant, located in the quaint town of Old Orcutt near Santa Maria, California. Join him in the celebration of authentic Italian cuisine paired with some of the finest wines available. Trattoria Uliveto also offers catering services for wedding receptions and banquets and daily Family Meals to go.” Trattoria Uliveto is open for lunch as well as dinner. Closed on Sunday and Monday.

“Business owner and restaurant afficionado Jim Spallino together with Alfonso Curti, former executive chef of Grappolo” in Santa Ynez, have a winning combination for Orcutt’s next big thing: a local Italian trattoria. Both Spallino and Curti have dreamed of having a restaurant of their own and when the opportunity to take on the Wine Cottage Bistro presented itself….they jumped!”

“Curti, a native Calabrian, moved to California from Italy a little over ten years ago and made a name for himself working at his family’s restaurant in Santa Ynez during that time. His culinary career began as a young teenager where he worked in a family bakery and later he served in the Italian Army as a Chef for troops. Perhaps his greatest teachers were his Nonna and Mamma where he learned the heart of Italian cooking.”

Chef Alfonso Curti takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Juan Morales of Agua Caliente Casinos

Executive Chef Juan Morales oversees all the distinctive dining options at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Rancho Mirage. This is the only Agua Caliente Casino in Greater Palm Springs with a Forbes 4 -Star rated luxury hotel on the property. Chef Juan and his team are the menu makers for The Steakhouse, Waters Café, 360 Sports and the casual, quick-service Java Caliente.

“The Steakhouse, at Rancho Mirage is a dining experience second to none. The stunning Rancho Mirage steakhouse is the recipient of a prestigious Travel Guide award and has been the winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence consecutively since 2007. The renowned restaurant has also earned additional accolades such as the AAA Four Diamond Award, the Palm Springs Life Best of the Best, and the OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award. At The Steakhouse, guests enjoy the finest prime steaks and fresh seafood in a sophisticated, comfortable setting, along with the first-class service.”

“A native of Los Angeles, Executive Chef Juan Morales’ fondest childhood memories are of family dinners and cooking with his mother, watching the passion and attention she gave to each item she prepared. She instilled that passion and drive into Chef Juan, which drove him to work with some talented chefs throughout his 20-year career. He was fortunate to begin his culinary journey as a chef with the Patina Group, where he learned from well-known chefs Joachim Splichal and Octavio Becerra.”

“Following Patina, he ventured to Las Vegas and Green Valley Ranch where he utilized his knowledge of the culinary industry to work with amazing teams. He brought new and exciting flavors and food concepts such as Kobe beef and Japanese A5 to various restaurants, one of which was rated a top 10 steakhouse in Las Vegas. As he learned that a good chef seeks out the guest’s initial response to a dish, he quickly became accustomed to adjusting and improving flavor profiles based on these reactions. Chef Juan enjoys introducing new flavors and textures to entrees using only the freshest produce and proteins, and there’s no better place to do that than right here in California.”

Chef Juan Morales takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Amar Santana at the Finale of Top Chef

Bravo’s Top Chef just concluded 20th season was “World All-Stars” set in London. The new season of the Emmy-winning series featured 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs battled it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) was one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.

Chef Amar did California proud. He almost went the distance but did get to Paris. “Top Chef” regular, Gail Simmons has anointed Chef Amar as one of the “Top Chef Final Five.” Not bad company to be in. Chef Amar was also in the running for “Top Chef” Fan Favorite which goes along with a $10,000 cash prize. We’ll hear the results directly from Chef Amar.

Also there is a new Vaca in the works for early 2024 but it’s not in Orange County.

Chef Amar takes a break from his busy kitchens for his insider’s report on “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

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.

Chef Andrew has shared with us previously that the business model for 3rd party delivery services for restaurants does not seem sustainable in the long term. Grubhub just laid off staff. We’ll “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew will also tell us about California Black Gill Rock Cod. It’s incredibly delicious and local… (Postponed from last week.)

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ron Salisbury, El Cholo and The Restaurant Business – Raising Money for Charity while Celebrating 100 Years of El Cholo
Segment Three: Executive Chef Alfonso Curti of Trattoria Uliveto, Orcutt, CA
Segment Four: Executive Chef Juan Morales, Agua Caliente Casino Resort, Rancho Mirage Part One
Segment Five: Executive Chef Juan Morales, Agua Caliente Casino Resort, Rancho Mirage Part Two
Segment Six: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part One
Segment Seven: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef & Co-Host Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 515, March 4, 2023: Chef Amar Santana of Vaca and Broadway. Cheftestant for Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 20 London Part One

Amar Santana at the Finale of Top Chef

Bravo’s Top Chef” debuts its 20th season with “World All-Stars” in London, on Thursday evening, March 9th. The new season of the Emmy-winning series feature 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs will battle it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) will be one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.

Chef Amar is a “Top Chef” veteran and characterized as a fierce competitor. In a spectacular and memorable finale he was judged the 1st runner up for “Top Chef” Season 13 – California narrowly missing the coveted top spot. He was then invited back for “Top Chef” Season 18 – Portland as a member of the elite judging panel.

Chef Amar takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us with a preview of “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.

Sail in style with Chef Amar on a premium Douro River Valley (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) cruise for 7 nights (starting November 5th.) around Porto, Portugal (the City of Bridges) on a Uniworld boutique river cruise. Also a visit to Spain’s glorious city of Salamanca. On-board cooking classes with Chef Amar will feature fresh, regional produce. Also learn the art of Spanish winemaking and Ports from Porto with visits to some of Chef Amar’s favorite wineries in the region featured on the Wine Lists at Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana.

Show 515, March 4, 2023: Chef Amar Santana of Vaca and Broadway. Cheftestant for Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 20 London Part Two

Amar Santana at the Finale of Top Chef

Bravo’s Top Chef” debuts its 20th season with “World All-Stars” in London, on Thursday evening, March 9th. The new season of the Emmy-winning series feature 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs will battle it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) will be one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.

Chef Amar is a “Top Chef” veteran and characterized as a fierce competitor. In a spectacular and memorable finale he was judged the 1st runner up for “Top Chef” Season 13 – California narrowly missing the coveted top spot. He was then invited back for “Top Chef” Season 18 – Portland as a member of the elite judging panel.

Chef Amar takes another break from his busy kitchens to join us with a preview of “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.

Sail in style with Chef Amar on a premium Douro River Valley (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) cruise for 7 nights (starting November 5th.) around Porto, Portugal (the City of Bridges) on a Uniworld boutique river cruise. Also a visit to Spain’s glorious city of Salamanca. On-board cooking classes with Chef Amar will feature fresh, regional produce. Also learn the art of Spanish winemaking and Ports from Porto with visits to some of Chef Amar’s favorite wineries in the region featured on the Wine Lists at Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana.

Show 454, December 4, 2021: Chef and Partner Amar Santana, Broadway by Amar Santana, Vaca and the Hall Global Eatery

Amar Santana

Orange County’s resident celebrity chef is Amar Santana of Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, Vaca in Costa Mesa, and The Hall Global Eatery at South Coast Plaza. Chef Amar is best known nationally as the runner-up in a very close competition in Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 13 and then returning as an elite judge for Season 18 in Portland. In Orange County he was the opening executive chef of the highly praised Charlie Palmer’s at Bloomingdale’s at South Coast Plaza working with GM (and now partner) Ahmed Labbate.

His first solo restaurant with business partner and restaurateur Ahmed Labbate was Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach. Just in time for the Holidays, Broadway has undergone a refurbishment and kitchen redo. “Inspired by the theaters in New York City, award-winning Chef Amar Santana alongside restauranteur Ahmed Labbate create an atmosphere at Broadway where the food becomes the main show. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by the creativity of Chef Amar Santana and his version of Modern Cuisine of The Americas. It features top quality ingredients, with a focus on local farms who can provide the menu’s seasonal requirements.” Think Grilled Smoked Pork Chop with braised collard greens, ham hock, apple butter and sauce charcuterie.

Chef Amar joins us to provide all the details on Broadway’s refurbishment and what’s in store for the Holidays at his restaurants.

Show 233, July 22, 2017: Ahmed Labbate, VACA Group, Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner at Vaca

Ahmed LabatteOn Thursday evening, August 10th Chef Amar Santana’s Vaca in Costa Mesa is hosting a sumptuous, 7-course, premium wine-paired dinner with an abundance of passed hors d’oeuvre as a festive Friends of James Beard Foundation Benefit to celebrate South Coast Plaza’s 50th Anniversary. Chef Amar is also well-known locally for Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna beach and as the runner-up from lucky Season 13 of Bravo’s “Top Chef” in what the judges noted was the tightest final competition of the series’ long history!

Santana and partner Ahmed Labbate, whose roots together at South Coast Plaza go back to 2008 when they opened Charlie Palmer, will welcome 100 discriminating guests with a love of food and wine to the Beard dinner. Santana is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America.

The festivities on August 10 will include a small silent auction during an al fresco reception. While enjoying the signature Vaca Tonic and hors d’oeuvres, guests may peruse deluxe offerings, which will include a LVMH luxury Champagne experience for 16 guests; packages from South Coast Plaza, the Montage Laguna Beach and Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, unique dining experiences, luxury travel destinations, and high-end wines.

Seats are $350 and $300 for members of the James Beard Foundation, all inclusive. If you’re celebrating something very special this is the over-the-top culinary evening experience you’ll want to be a part of!

For reservations to the Friends of James Beard Dinner at Vaca, please register online here. For more information, please contact VACA GM Ghali Benhima at 714.463.6060. A credit card will be requested to secure the reservation.

VACA Group Partner & CEO Ahmed Labbate provides the tempting preview.

Show 214, March 11, 2017: Chef Brian Huskey, Tackle Box, South Coast Plaza’s 50th Birthday

Brian HuskeyIt’s the 50th Anniversary of Costa Mesa’s celebrated South Coast Plaza. Most of the restaurants there are doing something special to celebrate during the month of March.

Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 11 alum, Chef Brian Huskey of Tackle Box (on the sand in Costa Mesa), has created the Camarena Tequila chipotle-braised carnitas taco entrée for Wahoo’s Fish Taco in South Coast Plaza.

It’s available exclusively for $5.50 at Wahoo’s SCP (2nd level of the Crate and Barrel / Macy’s Home Store Wing) for the month of March, only.

Wahoo’s 30th Anniversary will be next year in 2018!

We’ve reeled in Chef Brian to provide the lip-smacking details.

Show 180, July 16, 2016: Chef Eric Samaniego, Chef de Cuisine, Michael’s On Naples, Long Beach

Eric SamaniegoChef Eric Samaniego (Bravo TV’s “Best New Restaurant“), formerly of Little Sparrow in Santa Ana, has joined Michael’s On Naples in Long Beach as the award-winning restaurant’s chef de cuisine.

In addition to changes in the kitchen, Michael’s on Naples is experiencing an aesthetic transformation as well. The restaurant’s rooftop terrace has been under construction as it undergoes a major expansion and renovation. The Rooftop (opens July 20th) will now have its own kitchen along with a separate menu featuring more casual fare and shareable plates.

The main floor’s menu will focus on the nightly changing Chef’s Tasting Menu and the five-course Pasta Tasting. The Michael’s on Naples tradition of suggesting inspired wine and food pairings will continue.

Chef Samaniego, who began his career working for the late Charlie Trotter in Chicago, joined Michael’s On Naples in April working under the tutelage of former Corporate Executive Chef David Coleman. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Samaniego is a native of Southern California with his formative years spent in the Central Valley. His culinary credits include a seven-year stint with David Myers working at the high profile Sona and Comme Ca (both now closed) in Los Angeles.

Chef Eric Samaniego joins us.