Show 208, January 28, 2017: Sommelier Rachel von Sturmer, Vancouver & Okanagan Valley, B.C.

Rachel CVon SturmerThere is a burgeoning local wine industry in British Columbia. Sommelier Rachel Von Strumer is a passionate wine writer who divides her time between Vancouver and the Okanagan Valley (where 80 per cent of the wine grape plantings in B.C. are located.)

Rachel holds the WSET Diploma, is a Vinitaly Italian Wine Ambassador, a Judge of American and Canadian wines at the International Wine & Spirits Competition. She is also a trained chef.

Rachel is the author of Wine Tripping – Your Guide to the Best Wineries of British Columbia.

“Design your ultimate trip through British Columbia’s gorgeous Okanagan & Similkameen Valley wine country.

Get ready to visit the very best producers, hand-picked for you in each region from Osoyoos to Lake Country.

Explore BC’s hidden gem wineries, and glamorous modern tasting rooms.”

Rachel brought in two representative premium Okanagan wines to sample that pair well with Dim Sum.

January 28: Live from Richmond, BC and the Chinese New Year Celebration!

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Andy Harris, Co-Host & Executive Producer
Segment Two: Duane Owen, Executive Chef, Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula
Segment Three: Executive Chef Danilo Ibarra of the Marriott Vancouver Airport Hotel
Segment Four: Dominique Duby of Wild Sweets, Richmond, B.C.
Segment Five: Executive Chef Angus An, Maenam, Vancouver
Segment Six: Karsten Purbs, Director, Food & Beverage, River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond, B.C.
Segment Seven: Lee Man, Chinese Food Expert & Founding Judge, Chinese Restaurant Awards
Segment Eight: Sommelier Rachel von Sturmer, Vancouver & Okanagan Valley, B.C.

The Dumpling Trail in Richmond British Columbia“The SoCal Restaurant Show” is going international. On Saturday morning, January 28th the show is live from Richmond, B.C. (“Where the Far East Meets the Canadian West Coast”) for their festive celebration of Chinese New Year. It’s a genuine first…

Now am enticing preview of this Saturday’s fully-loaded show with Co-Host & Executive Producer Andy Harris. 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 actually a pretty good thing…

The Pechanga Resort + Casino’s executive chef, Duane Owen, is no stranger to the show. Chef Duane joins us to preview Pechanga’s upcoming Chocolate Decadence Event (February 10th) and the 9th Annual Pechanga Wine Festival on February 11th. Perfect Valentine’s Day gift…

Executive Chef Danilo Ibarra of the Marriott Vancouver Airport Hotel in Richmond. B.C. oversees The American Grille, The Lotus Land Lounge and all other food and beverage provided on-property. We’ll meet him.

Dominique and Cindy Duby are the Chief Chocolate Officers of Richmond’s one-of-a-kind boutique chocolatier, Wild Sweets. They join us in sweet conversation.

Executive Chef Angus An is the proprietor of Maenam, Vancouver Magazine’s selection as Best Thai Restaurant. He’s cooked at the James Beard Foundation in New York. We’ll talk about the flavor balance of Thai cuisine with Chef An as well as his growing restaurant empire.

A popular visitor attraction in Richmond is the River Rock Casino Resort located on the Fraser River. There are eight tempting dining options there including the fine-dining Tramonto and Chinese specialties at Sea Harbor Seafood Restaurant. Karsten Purbs, River Rock’s Food & Beverage Director, is our able guide.

Chinese, Taiwanese, Indian, Greek, Thai, Japanese, Italian – diners can enjoy authentic and delicious culinary styles from across the globe, without ever leaving Richmond. Richmond is home to more than 800 restaurants, half of them Asian and many highly acclaimed. Local food expert Lee Man, founding judge for the Chinese Restaurant Awards, joins us with commentary on Chinese New Year and the diversity of appealing cuisine in Richmond.

There is a burgeoning local wine industry in British Columbia. Sommelier Shiva Reddy, Wine Director & Assistant Manager of Royal Dinette (Vancouver Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2016), uncorks this for us. BC wines are well represented on their menu.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Duane Owen of Pechanga Casino and ResortThe Pechanga Resort + Casino’s executive chef, Duane Owen, is no stranger to the show. Chef Duane joins us to preview Pechanga’s upcoming Chocolate Decadence Event (February 10th) and the 9th Annual Pechanga Wine Festival on February 11th.

CHOCOLATE DECADENCE EVENT

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017 • 7-10PM
VIP* Ticket $75 • General Admission $55 • Designated Driver $30

Enjoy an array of chocolates and pastries while sampling a variety of wines, domestic sparkling wines, champagnes, spirits and dessert wines along with live music.

*VIP ticket includes early entry beginning at 5:30PM, upgraded souvenir wine glass, sliced seasonal fruit, international and domestic cheese and tray-passed hors d’oeuvres.

9TH ANNUAL WINE FESTIVAL

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2017 • 1-5PM
VIP* Ticket $85 • General Admission $65 • Designated Driver $40

LIVE MUSIC

The most notable wineries from Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Temecula, France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand and beyond will offer a few hundred of their finest vintages along with live music. Sip and savor as you sample a variety of distinguished dishes from the award-winning chefs of Pechanga Resort & Casino.

Combo VIP Ticket $140 • Combo General Admission Ticket $100

Danilo IbarraExecutive Chef Danilo Ibarra of the Marriott Vancouver Airport Hotel in Richmond. B.C. oversees The American Grille, The Lotus Land Lounge and all other food and beverage provided on-property. We’ll meet him.

“A world of culinary delights awaits you at The American Grille. Located in the heart of Richmond at the Vancouver Airport Marriott Hotel, it is the city’s most popular business lunch and dinner destination. Offering a comfortable business-casual setting by day and elegant candlelit dining at sunset, The American Grille is sure to wow you and your guests.”

“Our menus offer the best of the season from the Pacific Northwest, celebrating the richness and diversity of North American cuisine, while incorporating the freshest local products available. Sample one of our specialties or just relax and people watch while enjoying one of our house made desserts.”

Dominique and CIndy DubyDominique and Cindy Duby are the Chief Chocolate Officers of Richmond’s boutique chocolatier, Wild Sweets. They join us in sweet conversation.

“As Canada’s only science-based cocoa bean-to-bar chocolate-makers, we turn premium cocoa beans into ‘Haute’ chocolates, novel confections & designer pastry. Located in Richmond, Greater Vancouver Region, BC, Canada.”

Angus AnExecutive Chef Angus An is the proprietor of Maenam, Vancouver Magazine’s selection as Best Thai Restaurant. He’s cooked at the James Beard Foundation in New York. We’ll talk about the flavor balance of Thai cuisine with Chef An as well as his growing restaurant empire.

Chef Angus An is a graduate of New York’s prestigious French Culinary Institute, where he worked under the world’s culinary greats including Jacques Pépin, Alain Sailhac and André Soltner, and later apprenticed at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s legendary Jo-Jo. After graduating from the FCI, Angus trained under Chef Normand Laprise at Montréal’s Toqué before moving to London, UK, where he worked at Michelin-starred restaurants including The Ledbury and The Fat Duck. Following this he cooked at Chef David Thompson’s famed Nahm, which is also where Angus met his wife, Kate.

Upon returning to Vancouver, Kate and Angus opened their first restaurant, Gastropod. Lauded by diners and critics alike, Gastropod received several awards for cuisine and atmosphere before closing its doors in 2009.

In May of that year, Maenam was born. Serving authentic Thai dishes, the kitchen at Maenam is directed by both Angus and Thai-born Kate. Perennial winner of Vancouver Magazine’s “Best Thai” award, Maenam has also received rave reviews from The New York Times, USA Today, and Food & Wine magazine.

Karsten PurbsA popular visitor attraction in Richmond is the River Rock Casino Resort located on the Fraser River. There are eight tempting dining options there including the fine-dining Tramonto and Chinese specialties at Sea Harbor Seafood Restaurant. Karsten Purbs, River Rock’s Food & Beverage Director, is our able guide.

“Nestled along the Fraser River, in a gorgeous West Coast setting, River Rock is Western Canada’s only Four-Diamond Casino Resort, where luxury, ambiance and exceptional hospitality await. As with everything at River Rock, when it comes to accommodations, the choice is yours. Enjoy bright, contemporary, deluxe rooms at The Hotel, or relax in style and luxury in a suite at The Resort.”

“Fill your days with a variety of activities, including a visit to our first-class spa, or take a refreshing swim in the beautiful resort pool. Dine in your room or explore the resort and discover the restaurant that suits your mood. Take a stroll on the marina boardwalk, or sit back and relax on our gorgeous waterside patio at Curve Lounge. In the evening, take in a concert at the Show Theatre, and test your skill and luck at one of the largest, most dazzling casinos in Canada. At River Rock, the possibilities are truly endless.”

Lee ManChinese, Taiwanese, Indian, Greek, Thai, Japanese, Italian – diners can enjoy authentic and delicious culinary styles from across the globe, without ever leaving Richmond. Richmond is home to more than 800 restaurants, half of them Asian and many highly acclaimed.

Local food expert Lee Man, founding judge for the Chinese Restaurant Awards and contributor to Vancouver Magazine, joins us with commentary on Chinese New Year and the diversity of cuisine in Richmond. Lee is also a judge for the Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Andy Harris, Co-Host & Executive Producer
Segment Two: Duane Owen, Executive Chef, Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula
Segment Three: Executive Chef Danilo Ibarra of the Marriott Vancouver Airport Hotel
Segment Four: Dominique Duby of Wild Sweets, Richmond, B.C.
Segment Five: Executive Chef Angus An, Maenam, Vancouver
Segment Six: Karsten Purbs, Director, Food & Beverage, River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond, B.C.
Segment Seven: Lee Man, Chinese Food Expert & Founding Judge, Chinese Restaurant Awards
Segment Eight: Sommelier Rachel von Sturmer, Vancouver & Okanagan Valley, B.C.

Show 194, October 22, 2016: Sherman Chan, Sherman’s Food Adventures, British Columbia

Sherman ChanSherman Chan is a well-respected food blogger based in Vancouver, B.C. and known for integrity. His popular blog is Sherman’s Food Adventures and includes honest commentary on restaurants and great visuals.

His eventual goal is to dine in every restaurant in Vancouver and its suburbs (including Richmond.) So far it’s over 800 restaurants in Vancouver and 200 plus in Richmond. That is dining out at least once a day for the last 7 years. Understand this is a (serious) hobby for Sherman.

We shared/slurped noodles with him on our recent trip to Richmond, BC for their intensive Hole in the Wall Street Food Tour. We’ll get Sherman’s objective thoughts on the current vibrant dining scene in both Vancouver as well as in Richmond, B.C. We’ll also highlight his travels on Richmond’s new Dumpling Trail.

Sherman was recently in Boston for the first time. Look for his Boston dining adventures to be posted in December. Also, Sherman has done some dining in Los Angeles & environs a few years back. All those posts are available for the reading in the Sherman’s Food Adventures archives.

Sherman Chan of Sherman’s Food Adventures is our guest.

Show 190, September 24, 2016: “The Dumpling Trail” with Colin Wong, Director of Communications, Tourism Richmond

Colin WongOur food-loving colleagues in Richmond, British Columbia are at it again. Richmond has some of the best regional Chinese food outside of China and for all of us in SoCal it’s a whole lot closer. It also has a favorable exchange rate so the America Dollars goes further there. Just launched is “Travel the Dumpling Trail.”

“Did you know there are over 20 different types of Asian dumplings? Dumplings come in all shapes and forms, from water-boiled, to deep-fried, steamed and even dessert dumplings. In Richmond, B.C. there is no shortage of dumplings to choose from and Tourism Richmond is inviting visitors to sample some of the delicious options that the city has to offer through a new tour, the Dumpling Trail.”

“With over 800 restaurants in Richmond, dining choices can be overwhelming,” said Tracy Lakeman, CEO of Tourism Richmond. “We’ve carefully selected 15 eateries with some of the best dumplings, from upscale restaurants to hidden gems and food court stalls. These restaurants make up the Dumpling Trail, a walkable, self-guided tour that showcases Richmond as a culinary destination. Each location on the Trail offers unique varieties of dumplings and Tourism Richmond has identified some of the city’s best.”

Here’s a preview of Tourism Richmond’s top picks for dumplings:

  • Su Hang Restaurant: Xiao long bao (soup dumplings) & water-boiled dumplings
  • Shiang Garden: Har Gow (shrimp dumplings)
  • Shibuyatei Sushi & Larmen: Japanese scallop gyoza
  • Golden Sichuan Restaurant: Spicy Chinese dumplings

Colin Wong, Director of Communications for Tourism Richmond, joins us with all the crave-worthy details.

Show 181, July 23, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host. Last month in Chicago he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish.

On July 20th Chef Andrew was on ABC 7’s “Eyewitness News” with their Food Coach, Lori Corbin talking about tasty seafood alternatives to some over-fished varieties. Choose the Dish, not the Fish.”

Now a provocatively tempting preview of Saturday’s abundant show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

Richmond, British Columbia is an incorporated city of 210,000 residents just South of Vancouver. It’s known for having some of the most authentic regional Chinese cuisine outside of China. The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was recently on assignment in Richmond B.C. Joining us to further delve into the vibrant Richmond food scene is Vancouver’s acclaimed Chef Alex Chen (ex-Beverly Hills Hotel.)

The OC Fair is on now through August 14th. What’s new in Fair Food? We’ll chat with the Midway Gourmet himself, Dominic Palmieri. Think Bacon Wrapped Pork Belly Dog and Deep Fried Butter! There’s more…

Cesar’s Bistro tucked away in Long Beach is one of our discoveries from DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. Their specialty is “The New Latin American Cuisine.” Co-owner Luz Angelica Torres Vargas has all the delicious 411. Think creative Empanadas and Arepas.

Alta Baja Market, open in the 4th Street Market in Downtown Santa Ana, is the creation of Delilah Snell and Natasha Monnereau, who have invested many years into Downtown Santa Ana and the culture of the area. Their “not-the-usual” boutique market sources one-of-a-kind items from above and below the Southwestern border, including goods, specialty foods and more from California, Arizona, New Mexico and Mexico. Delilah Snell joins us to fill our virtual shopping carts.

Specialty salts are appearing everywhere. There are a whole variety of salts to cook and prepare foods with. There are also now pricey finishing salts available. Let’s not forget salt substitutes. It’s all a bit confusing. Our resident chef, Andrew Gruel, is here to cook-up some clarity…

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

July 23: Boulevard Kitchen, Midway Gourmet, Cesar’s Bistro, Alta Baja Market

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Chef Alex Chen, Boulevard Kitchen, Vancouver, B.C.
Segment Three: Dominic Palmieri, The Midway Gourmet, OC Fair Part One
Segment Four: Dominic Palmieri, The Midway Gourmet, OC Fair Part Two
Segment Five: Luz Angelica Torres Vargas, Cesar’s Bistro, Long Beach
Segment Six: Delilah Snell, Co-Proprietress, Alta Baja Market, 4th Street Market, Downtown Santa Ana Part One
Segment Seven: Delilah Snell, Co-Proprietress, Alta Baja Market, 4th Street Market, Downtown Santa Ana Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group, Huntington Beach

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host. Last month in Chicago he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish.

Now a provocatively tempting preview of Saturday’s abundant show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

Richmond, British Columbia is an incorporated city of 210,000 residents just South of Vancouver. It’s known for having some of the most authentic regional Chinese cuisine outside of China. The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was recently on assignment in Richmond B.C. Joining us to further delve into the vibrant Richmond food scene is Vancouver’s acclaimed Chef Alex Chen (ex-Beverly Hills Hotel.)

The OC Fair is on now through August 14th. What’s new in Fair Food ? We’ll chat with the Midway Gourmet himself, Dominic Palmieri. Think Bacon Wrapped Pork Belly Dog and Deep Fried Butter ! There’s more…

Cesar’s Bistro tucked away in Long Beach is one of our discoveries from DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. Their specialty is “The New Latin American Cuisine.” Co-owner Luz Angelica Torres Vargas has all the delicious 411. Think creative Empanadas and Arepas.

Alta Baja Market, open in the 4th Street Market in Downtown Santa Ana, is the creation of Delilah Snell and Natasha Monnereau, who have invested many years into Downtown Santa Ana and the culture of the area. Their “not-the-usual” boutique market sources one-of-a-kind items from above and below the Southwestern border, including goods, specialty foods and more from California, Arizona, New Mexico and Mexico. Delilah Snell joins us to fill our virtual shopping carts.

Specialty salts are appearing everywhere. There are a whole variety of salts to cook and prepare foods with. There are also now pricey finishing salts available. Let’s not forget salt substitutes. It’s all a bit confusing. Our resident chef, Andrew Gruel, is here with some clarity…

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Alex Chen of Boulevard Kitchen and Oyster BarRichmond, British Columbia is an incorporated city of 210,000 residents just South of Vancouver. 65 per cent of the residents are Asian and half of that group is of Chinese ancestry. It’s known for having some of the most authentic regional Chinese cuisine outside of China.

It’s home to Vancouver International Airport and the iconic Richmond Olympic Oval. It’s nestled where the Pacific Ocean and the mighty Fraser River meet. Richmond is a thriving multicultural destination city offering a growing range of cultural, heritage, culinary and leisure experiences.

The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was recently on assignment in Richmond B.C. Joining us to further delve into the vibrant Richmond food scene is Vancouver’s acclaimed Chef Alex Chen (ex-Beverly Hills Hotel.) He is currently the greatly respected chef at Boulevard Kitchen and Oyster Bar in Vancouver.

Where does Chef Chen eat on his time away from Boulevard Kitchen? He particularly enjoys the Chinese street food in Richmond. Cantonese specialties are at the top of the list but he savors food discoveries from all eight principal culinary regions of China. They are all represented in Richmond.

We talk about some of his favorites. Pass the tea, please…

Dominic Palmieri of Midway GourmetThe OC Fair is hosting “Get Your Fair Face On!” from July 25th to August 14th in celebration of its 126th anniversary with culinary creations to suit all palates. Foodies can enjoy wild and new fare mixed in with the traditional fair food.

The word is already out on the new grilled, bacon-wrapped pork belly dog on a stick from Biggy’s. We’ll meet the creator, Dominic Palmieri, The Midway Gourmet!

Biggy’s big hit from previous years, The Big Rib, is back for an encore. It’s a 2-pound beef rib on a 17-inch bone (ala “the stick”). The weight is both the meat and the bone.

Their motto: Bringing Everything Delicious! From Gourmet Fare to Wild and Wacky Treats.

The OC Fair is hosting “Get Your Fair Face On!” from July 25th to August 14th in celebration of its 126th anniversary with culinary creations to suit all palates. Foodies can enjoy wild and new fare mixed in with the traditional fair food.

 In 2015 at the OC Fair Biggy’s Meat Market (Dominic Palmieri) sold 2,500 pounds of Bacon-Wrapped Pork Belly skewers wrapped in 1.25 miles of thick-cut honey bacon plus 600 gluten-free burgers and 22,000 pounds of sausage.

Dominic is also part of RCS, the entity that operates the popular Midway (Carnival) at the OC Fair.

Ray Cammack Shows, Inc. (RCS) has been providing carnival entertainment to fairs and guests since 1963. Each year, RCS rides over 10 million people on their amusement rides. They pride themselves in attention to detail. That detail is reflected in their safety records, RCS’s guest satisfaction, and their capability to gross maximum revenues.

Cesar’s Bistro tucked away in Long Beach is one of our discoveries from the 2016 DINE LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week. Their specialty is “The New Latin American Cuisine.”

Co-owner Luz Angelica Torres Vargas has all the delicious 411. Think creative Empanadas and Arepas.

One of their new poultry dishes is Gaucho Chicken. It’s two boneless chicken thighs marinated in house-made chimichurri sauce and garlic & onion mojo. It’s served with the house salad and rustic potatoes.

“Here at Cesar’s Bistro we select our ingredients from the best quality sources. We offer friendly and respectful attention toward our customers and partners; we provide great service in our family-friendly casual atmosphere.”

“We make good moments.” – Chef Cesar Villarreal.

Delilah SnellAlta Baja Market, open in the 4th Street Market in Downtown Santa Ana, is the creation of Delilah Snell and Natasha Monnereau, who have invested many years into Downtown Santa Ana and the culture of the area.

Their “not-the-usual” boutique market sources one-of-a-kind items from above and below the Southwestern border, including goods, specialty foods and more from California, Arizona, New Mexico and Mexico. Delilah Snell joins us to fill our virtual shopping carts.

The market is a love letter to the unique fare and rare finds from above and below the border including kitchen items, dry goods, gifts, books, wines and beers, chiles, moles, heirloom beans, spices, fresh produce, aguas frescas from backyard fruit, and gourmet meats and cheeses from California, Arizona, New Mexico, Tijuana, Ensenada, Valle De Guadalupe and beyond.

Michelada Menu at Alta Baja Market“Latinos make up a significant percentage of the population in Southern California and Orange County. Mexican food is incredibly popular and now, more than ever, the border is an important topic of conversation,” said Delilah Snell. “We will celebrate culture and bring community together by sharing, discovering and enjoying the foods that connect us.”

The market will also host cooking classes and lectures, hands-on activities, and monthly community dinners using 4th Street Market’s incubator kitchens. Guest chefs from professional and home kitchens will host pop-ups. Co-ops and artisan makers will be highlighted regularly.

“Alta Baja Market is the perfect fit for the area. Delilah is heavily immersed, involved, and most importantly, respected, in the community. The Alta Baja Market team brings a level of expertise, connectivity and programming that will take things to the next level,” said Ryan Chase, 4th Street Market owner. “This market will be an important bridge for our Latino and non-Latino communities, which is an important bridge for Downtown Santa Ana and the community as a whole.”

Andrew Gruel and his son WilliamSpecialty salts are appearing everywhere. There are a whole array of salts to cook and prepare foods with. There are also now pricey, very precious finishing salts available. Let’s not forget salt substitutes. It’s all a bit confusing. Our resident chef, Andrew Gruel, is here with some clarity…

According to the 4th Edition of Food Lover’s Companion there is table-salt, iodized salt, Kosher salt, sea salt, Celtic salt, rock salt, pickling salt, sour salt and seasoned salt. See what we mean…

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Chef Alex Chen, Boulevard Kitchen, Vancouver, B.C.
Segment Three: Dominic Palmieri, The Midway Gourmet, OC Fair Part One
Segment Four: Dominic Palmieri, The Midway Gourmet, OC Fair Part Two
Segment Five: Luz Angelica Torres Vargas, Cesar’s Bistro, Long Beach
Segment Six: Delilah Snell, Co-Proprietress, Alta Baja Market, 4th Street Market, Downtown Santa Ana Part One
Segment Seven: Delilah Snell, Co-Proprietress, Alta Baja Market, 4th Street Market, Downtown Santa Ana Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group, Huntington Beach

Show 179, July 9, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host. Last month in Chicago he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish.

Now a provocatively tempting preview of Saturday’s abundant show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

The 3rd Annual Brew Hee Haw Craft Beer Roundup is part of opening Weekend of the OC Fair from July 15th to 17th. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy unlimited tastes of more than 80 craft beers with a wide selection of styles. Trevor Walls, the Head Brewer for Pizza Port San Clemente (and a participating brewery), joins us with a thirst-quenching preview.

Ment’or BKB Foundation Chef Founders, Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller and Jerome Bocuse hosted the 2016 Young Chef Competition at the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in New York on June 8th to identify up-and-coming culinary leaders. Cesar Gutierrez, Executive Sous Chef, Café Boulud, NY (and a C-CAP graduate) finished in Second Place. We’ll meet him.

The third annual Calistoga Harvest Table® event will take place on Sunday, September 11th , under the harvest moon in wine country, Calistoga, CA. In celebration of a plentiful harvest season, 14 local restaurants and 30 wineries will welcome visitors and locals to 1,000 feet of tables in the center of the city’s picturesque downtown. Calistoga’s Mayor, Chris Canning (he’s also the Executive Director of the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce), joins us with all the crave-worthy details.

Going to the movies doesn’t have to be a lackluster experience anymore when you’re talking about premium food and beverage offerings. iPic Entertainment is redefining how people eat and drink at the movies with 13 locations Coast-to-Coast and more on the way. Adam Seger, the Corporate Sommelier and Executive Bartender for iPic Entertainment, is our guest. Cheers.

Richmond, British Columbia is an incorporated city of 210,000 residents just South of Vancouver. It’s known for having some of the most authentic regional Chinese cuisine outside of China. The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was on assignment this week in Richmond B.C. Joining us to delve into the vibrant Richmond food scene is local journalist Stephanie Yuen. She is a seasoned food and travel journalist for both English and Chinese print and online publications.

OC Meets Napa and Baja on July 16th will feature wines from premier wineries in Baja and from Napa’s own Mexican American Vintner Association (MAVA). The event will also include food from top Latin OC restaurants, live music, an exclusive wine auction and a few entertaining surprises! All proceeds from the wine tasting benefit AltaMed OC Pediatrics and Breast Cancer Screenings. Owner/Executive Chef Danny Godinez of Anapalco and Amelia Ceja of Ceja Vineyards join us with the tempting preview.

With fresh fish becoming more abundant on restaurant menus you’re seeing menu descriptors like “Fish Collar” and “Fish Cheeks.” Somewhat mysterious parts of the fish head are incredibly delicious. Chef Andrew Gruel will explain what these wonderful cuts of fish are and why you should be aware of them.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 179, July 9, 2016: Stephanie Yuen, Food & Travel Journalist, Richmond, British Columbia

TThe Meats at HK BBQ MasterRichmond, British Columbia is an incorporated city of 210,000 residents just South of Vancouver. 65 per cent of the population is of Asian ancestry.

It’s home to Vancouver International Airport and the iconic Richmond Olympic Oval. It’s nestled where the Pacific Ocean and the mighty Fraser River meet. Richmond is a thriving multicultural destination city offering a growing range of cultural, heritage, culinary and leisure experiences.

It’s known for having some of the most authentic regional Chinese cuisine outside of China. Very reasonable prices, too. The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was on assignment this week in Richmond B.C.

Stephanie YuenJoining us to delve into the vibrant Richmond food scene is local journalist and doyenne of Asian cuisine, Stephanie Yuen. She is a seasoned food and travel journalist for both English and Chinese print and online publications and a food columnist for CBC Radio (North by Northwest) and Fairchild Radio AM1470.

A self-taught chef and winner of cooking awards and recipe competitions. Stephanie loves food and considers cooking as a “delicious therapy.” As a food culture ambassador she judges both prestigious food and wine competitions regularly.

Stephanie was our guide and local commentator at a magnificent, 10-course, Hong Kong-style Chinese banquet at Hoi Tong Chinese Restaurant in Richmond on our last night of the visit. The owner/chef is Yiutong Leung (now in his 70s) who previously cooked for British Royalty and VIPs in Hong Kong during the British rule. Very special experience…

July 9: Pizza Port, Cesar Gutierrez, Chris Canning, iPic Entertainment, Hole in the Wall, Anapalco, Ceja Vineyards

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Trevor Walls, Head Brewer, Pizza Port San Clemente
Segment Three: Chef Cesar Gutierrez, Café Boulud, New York, ment’or BKB’s Young Chef Competition
Segment Four: Mayor Chris Canning, Calistoga Harvest Table
Segment Five: Adam Seger CCP, Corporate Sommelier / Executive Bartender, iPic Entertainment
Segment Six: Stephanie Yuen, Food & Travel Journalist, Richmond, British Columbia
Segment Seven: Amelia Ceja, Ceja Vineyards and Executive Chef Danny Godinez, Anepalco and El Mercado Modern Cuisine, Santa Ana
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group, Huntington Beach

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host. Last month in Chicago he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish.

Now a provocatively tempting preview of Saturday’s abundant show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

The 3rd Annual Brew Hee Haw Craft Beer Roundup is part of opening Weekend of the OC Fair from July 15th to 17th. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy unlimited tastes of more than 80 craft beers with a wide selection of styles. Trevor Walls, the Head Brewer for Pizza Port San Clemente (and a participating brewery), joins us with a thirst-quenching preview.

Ment’or BKB Foundation Chef Founders, Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller and Jerome Bocuse hosted the 2016 Young Chef Competition at the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in New York on June 8th to identify up-and-coming culinary leaders. Cesar Gutierrez, Executive Sous Chef, Café Boulud, NY (and a C-CAP graduate) finished in Second Place. We’ll meet him.

The third annual Calistoga Harvest Table® event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 11, under the harvest moon in wine country, Calistoga, CA. In celebration of a plentiful harvest season, 14 local restaurants and 30 wineries will welcome visitors and locals to 1,000 feet of tables in the center of the city’s picturesque downtown. Calistoga’s Mayor, Chris Canning (he’s also the Executive Director of the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce), joins us with all the crave-worthy details.

Going to the movies doesn’t have to be a lackluster experience anymore when you’re talking about premium food and beverage offerings. iPic Entertainment is redefining how people eat and drink at the movies with 13 locations Coast-to-Coast and more on the way. Adam Seger, the Corporate Sommelier and Executive Bartender for iPic Entertainment, is our guest. Cheers.

Richmond, British Columbia is an incorporated city of 210,000 residents just South of Vancouver. It’s known for having some of the most authentic regional Chinese cuisine outside of China. The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was on assignment this week in Richmond B.C. Joining us to delve into the vibrant Richmond food scene is local journalist Stephanie Yuen. She is a seasoned food and travel journalist for both English and Chinese print and online publications.

OC Meets Napa and Baja on July 16th will feature wines from premier wineries in Baja and from Napa’s own Mexican American Vintner Association (MAVA). The event will also include food from top Latin OC restaurants, live music, an exclusive wine auction and a few entertaining surprises! All proceeds from the wine tasting benefit AltaMed OC Pediatrics and Breast Cancer Screenings. Owner/Executive Chef Danny Godinez of Anapalco and Amelia Ceja of Ceja Vineyards join us with the preview.

With fresh fish becoming more abundant on restaurant menus you’re seeing menu descriptors like “Fish Collar” and “Fish Cheeks.” Chef Andrew Gruel will explain what these wonderful cuts of fish are and why you should be aware of them. Also food waste is a big no-no in restaurants these days. Chef Andrew will highlight what he does to turn items that were formally tossed in the garbage into practical (and tasty) menu items.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Trevor WallsThe 3rd Annual Brew Hee Haw Craft Beer Roundup is part of opening Weekend of the OC Fair from July 15th to 17th. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy unlimited tastes of more than 80 craft beers with a wide selection of styles ranging from Pale Ales, IPA’s, Stouts, Saisons, Hefeweizens and many more. The 3rd Annual Brew Hee Haw Craft Beer Roundup has moved to a new location next to the Pacific Amphitheater, offering more space and a scenic view for craft beer enthusiasts.

With the addition of a new Friday evening session, guests will have their choice of 4 tasting sessions from some of the best breweries in the country. General Admission guests will receive 3 hours of unlimited tastings and a commemorative festival glass along with music. Games and more. Each session offers a limited number of VIP passes which provides an additional, more intimate hour of tasting with rare and limited release beers, and a special VIP commemorative glass. All passes include free OC Fair admission so attendees can Come for the beer and stay for the Fair!

Trevor Walls, the Head Brewer for Pizza Port San Clemente (and a participating brewery), joins us with a thirst-quenching preview.

Cesar GutierrezMent’or BKB Foundation Chef Founders, Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller and Jerome Bocuse hosted the 2016 Young Chef Competition at the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in New York on June 8th to identify up-and-coming culinary leaders and provide them with the opportunity to work alongside Team USA 2017.

Cesar Gutierrez, Executive Sous Chef, Café Boulud, NY (and a C-CAP graduate) finished in Second Place. His assistant was Esther Ha also of Café Boulud. We’ll meet Chef Guitierrez.

The Young Chef competitors prepared one dish that featured one Veal Rack and Veal Sweetbreads and/or Veal Osso provided by Marcho Farms.

Mayor Chris CanningThe third annual Calistoga Harvest Table® event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 11, under the harvest moon in wine country, Calistoga, CA. In celebration of a plentiful harvest season, 14 local restaurants and 30 wineries will welcome visitors and locals to 1,000 feet of tables in the center of the city’s picturesque downtown.

Calistoga AVA wines will be available for purchase by glass or bottle, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6:00 p.m., beginning with a toast led by famed Chateau Montelena winemaker Bo Barrett in celebration of the Judgment of Paris 40th anniversary.

Tickets to the third annual Calistoga Harvest Table® event are limited and will go on sale July 18; prices range between $65 and $150 per person, enabling guests to enjoy the best cuisine Calistoga has to offer.

Calistoga’s Mayor, Chris Canning (he’s also the Executive Director of the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce), joins us with all the delicious details.

Adam SegerGoing to the movies doesn’t have to be a lackluster experience anymore when you’re talking about premium food and beverage offerings. iPic Entertainment is redefining how people eat and drink at the movies with 13 locations Coast-to-Coast and more on the way. Adam Seger, the Corporate Sommelier and Executive Bartender for iPic Entertainment, is our guest. Cheers.

The Tuck Room Tavern is the newly conceived destination restaurant at iPic Westwood created by James Beard Award-winning Chef Sherry Yard (ex-Spago Beverly Hills.) A serious cocktail program is part of the experience.

iPic’s answer to a concession stand –features a chef-driven menu from acclaimed Chef Sherry Yard, to be delivered to guests in Premium Plus. Freshness and quality is key followed by special attention taken to craft each dish to be in-cinema friendly for guests to enjoy in a dark cinema during the movie. iPic wouldn’t forget the classics, Chef Sherry has selected an assortment of classic candies and custom treats as well as classic and gourmet popcorn flavors to satisfy your sweet, or savory, tooth. iPic Express also offers an assortment of cocktails, beer, and wine, featuring our exclusive Cocktail Shaker.

TThe Meats at HK BBQ MasterRichmond, British Columbia is an incorporated city of 210,000 residents just South of Vancouver. 65 per cent of the population is of Asian ancestry.

It’s home to Vancouver International Airport and the iconic Richmond Olympic Oval. It’s nestled where the Pacific Ocean and the mighty Fraser River meet. Richmond is a thriving multicultural destination city offering a growing range of cultural, heritage, culinary and leisure experiences.

It’s known for having some of the most authentic regional Chinese cuisine outside of China. The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was on assignment this week in Richmond B.C.

Stephanie YuenJoining us to delve into the vibrant Richmond food scene is local journalist and doyenne of Asian cuisine, Stephanie Yuen. She is a seasoned food and travel journalist for both English and Chinese print and online publications and a food columnist for CBC Radio (North by Northwest) and Fairchild Radio AM1470.

A self-taught chef and winner of cooking awards and recipe competitions. Stephanie loves food and considers cooking as a “delicious therapy.” As a food culture ambassador she judges both prestigious food and wine competitions regularly.

Danny Godinez of AnepalcoOC Meets Napa and Baja on July 16th will feature wines from premier wineries in Baja and from Napa’s own Mexican American Vintner Association (MAVA). The event will also include food from top Latin OC restaurants, live music, an exclusive wine auction and a few entertaining surprises!

All proceeds from the wine tasting benefit AltaMed OC Pediatrics and Breast Cancer Screenings.

Owner/Executive Chef Danny Godinez of Anapalco and Amelia Ceja of Ceja Vineyards join us with the preview.

AltaMed is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, its mission is to eliminate disparities in health care access and outcomes by providing superior quality health and human services through an integrated world-class delivery system for Latino, multi-ethnic and underserved communities in Southern California.

Andrew Gruel and his son WilliamWith fresh fish becoming more abundant on restaurant menus you’re seeing menu descriptors like “Fish Collar” and “Fish Cheeks.” Chef Andrew Gruel will explain what these wonderful cuts of fish are and why you should be aware of them.

Also food waste is a bid no-no in restaurants these days. Chef Andrew will highlight what he does to turn items that were formally tossed in the garbage into practical (and tasty) menu items.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Trevor Walls, Head Brewer, Pizza Port San Clemente
Segment Three: Chef Cesar Gutierrez, Café Boulud, New York, ment’or BKB’s Young Chef Competition
Segment Four: Mayor Chris Canning, Calistoga Harvest Table
Segment Five: Adam Seger CCP, Corporate Sommelier / Executive Bartender, iPic Entertainment
Segment Six: Stephanie Yuen, Food & Travel Journalist, Richmond, British Columbia
Segment Seven: Amelia Ceja, Ceja Vineyards and Executive Chef Danny Godinez, Anepalco and El Mercado Modern Cuisine, Santa Ana
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group, Huntington Beach

Show 102, December 20, 2014: Houweling’s Tomatoes

David BellHouweling’s Tomatoes (Mastery Under Glass,) is a family-owned, world-renowned greenhouse tomato grower with facilities in Camarillo, and Delta, BC. A new facility in Mona, Utah is on the threshold of production. Founded by Cornelius Houweling as a grower of fresh flowers, it’s now led by his son, Casey.

Houweling’s is dedicated to delivering a full complement of scrumptious tomatoes year-round, while constantly innovating to reduce its environmental footprint. They are also pioneers in branding their premium tomatoes and cucumbers.

Unlike many greenhouse growers who contract product under their name from other growers in Mexico, Canada and the USA, the Houweling’s brand appears only on products they grow. At any given time you can find several fresh varieties of Houweling’s Tomatoes in the produce department at Costco or at your favorite supermarket. Houweling’s tomatoes are grown from 3rd party verified 100 per cent Non-GMO seeds.

Houweling’s Tomatoes grows year-round, sustainable greenhouse tomatoes on 175 acres in Camarillo, CA, and Delta, BC. In January of 2015, Houweling’s will begin harvesting from their new 28 acre farm in Mona, UT.

David Bell, the Chief Marketing Officer for Houwelings, joins us with the fascinating story.