Show 494, October 8, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“With the full-service Lola’s by MFK in the former CaliVino Wine Pub space off Katella Avenue next door to Angel Stadium, Chef Henry Pineda, 31, is celebrating his mother’s Filipino and father’s Guatemalan roots through the lens of his favorite meal serving a Modern Filipino Brunch from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., 7-days. Dinner service will eventually follow. “Every year on my birthday we don’t go to dinner, we go to breakfast,” said Pineda, who grew up in L.A and moved to Anaheim when he was six. “Breakfast was always the meal where my family ate together. My dad worked the graveyard shift and would just be coming home right before my mom was about to head out.” Chef Henry takes a break from the Brunch rush at Lola’s by MFK to join us with spatula in hand.

“Every New Yorker knows the satisfaction of biting into the perfect pickle. Whether it’s a family recipe passed down from generations, or your go-to cart in the middle of Manhattan, one never has to venture too far to find their favorite, tasty treat. After spending almost 30 years working in NYC, Scott Kaylin (aka “The Pickle Man”) found himself on the West Coast becoming his best self. However, one thing was missing: New York pickles. Well, honestly, even just an edible pickle. And that’s when Scott realized he had no choice but to make it easy for everyone, regardless of which coast they call home, to enjoy what he grew up knowing, loving, and suddenly wanting more than ever before.” Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles in the Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax Avenue was the inspired result. Scott takes a pause from his busy pickle-tasting bar at the Original Farmers Market to be our guest.

Ray Lampe (aka Dr. BBQ) grew up in Chicago and after high school spent 25 years in the family trucking business. In 2000 the trucking business had run its course, and it was time for Ray to try something new. He had been participating in BBQ cookoffs as a hobby since 1982, so he decided to take a leap and turn his hobby into a career. In 2000 Ray moved to Florida and began his career as an outdoor cooking expert. In 2018 Ray opened “Dr. BBQ” restaurant, a modern American Smokehouse, in St. Petersburg, Florida with Roger and Suzanne Perry (the proprietors of Datz Restaurant Group.)” Ray has written nine best-selling cookbooks and is currently scoping out his tenth. He’s competed in over 300 BBQ competitions and has won over 300 awards. In 2014 Ray was inducted into the prestigious BBQ Hall of Fame. Ray takes a break from the smoker to join us with tongs 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. The Season of Holiday cooking is soon on the horizon…Is it always better with butter as culinary icon Julia Child enthusiastically suggested? Chef Andrew discusses the ins and outs of using butter in cooking. With the price of butter on the rise Chef Andrew also suggests some of his preferred brands. Chef Andrew explains all things butter with his usual insight.…

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

Show 494, October 8, 2022: Chef Henry Pineda, Proprietor, Lola’s by MFK, Anaheim Part One

Henry Pineda of Lola's MFK

“With the full-service Lola’s by MFK in the former CaliVino Wine Pub space off Katella Avenue next door to Angel Stadium, Chef Henry Pineda, 31, is celebrating his mother’s Filipino and father’s Guatemalan roots through the lens of his favorite meal serving a Modern Filipino Brunch from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., 7 days. Dinner will eventually follow. Chef Henry operates Lola’s by MFK with his wife and business partner, Amanda “Panda” Pineda.

“Every year on my birthday we don’t go to dinner, we go to breakfast,” said Pineda, who grew up in L.A and moved to Anaheim when he was six. “Breakfast was always the meal where my family ate together. My dad worked the graveyard shift and would just be coming home right before my mom was about to head out.”

“Pineda has worked in restaurants since age 18 starting at Mama Cozza’s in Anaheim. He’s also cooked at Orange Hill in Orange; ADYA in Anaheim; Starfish in Laguna Beach; Shabu Shabu in Santa Ana; Smoking Ribs in Garden Grove; and The Penthouse inside The Huntley Hotel in Santa Monica. Pineda opened MFK by Aysee’s original location on the border of Anaheim and Buena Park in 2016 at age 26. That restaurant tragically burned down one night in September 2020 when a fire spontaneously broke out.”

Pineda’s Brunch classics include Lola’s Crispy Sisig, Adobo Fried Rice Omelet, Ube Pancakes, Sweet Avocado Pancakes and Ube Tres Leches French Toast. Lola’s beer and wine license just came through so Filipino craft beer (unusually on tap) and exotic fruit-based libations will soon appear on the menu.

Chef Henry takes a break from the Brunch rush to join us with spatula in hand.

Show 494, October 8, 2022: Chef Henry Pineda, Proprietor, Lola’s by MFK, Anaheim Part Two

Henry Pineda of Lola's MFK

“With the full-service Lola’s by MFK in the former CaliVino Wine Pub space off Katella Avenue next door to Angel Stadium, Chef Henry Pineda, 31, is celebrating his mother’s Filipino and father’s Guatemalan roots through the lens of his favorite meal serving a Modern Filipino Brunch from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., 7 days. Dinner will eventually follow. Chef Henry operates Lola’s by MFK with his wife and business partner, Amanda “Panda” Pineda.

“Every year on my birthday we don’t go to dinner, we go to breakfast,” said Pineda, who grew up in L.A and moved to Anaheim when he was six. “Breakfast was always the meal where my family ate together. My dad worked the graveyard shift and would just be coming home right before my mom was about to head out.”

“Pineda has worked in restaurants since age 18 starting at Mama Cozza’s in Anaheim. He’s also cooked at Orange Hill in Orange; ADYA in Anaheim; Starfish in Laguna Beach; Shabu Shabu in Santa Ana; Smoking Ribs in Garden Grove; and The Penthouse inside The Huntley Hotel in Santa Monica. Pineda opened MFK by Aysee’s original location on the border of Anaheim and Buena Park in 2016 at age 26. That restaurant tragically burned down one night in September 2020 when a fire spontaneously broke out.”

Pineda’s Brunch classics include Lola’s Crispy Sisig, Adobo Fried Rice Omelet, Ube Pancakes, Sweet Avocado Pancakes and Ube Tres Leches French Toast. Lola’s beer and wine license just came through so Filipino craft beer (unusually on tap) and exotic fruit-based libations will soon appear on the menu.

Chef Henry takes a second break from the Brunch rush to rejoin us with spatula in hand.

October 8: Lola’s by MFK, Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles, Dr. BBQ Ray Lampe

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Henry Pineda, Proprietor, Lola’s by MFK, Anaheim Part One
Segment Three: Chef Henry Pineda, Proprietor, Lola’s by MFK, Anaheim Part Two
Segment Four: Scott Kaylin, “The Pickle Man” of Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles, Original Farmers Market Part One
Segment Five: Scott Kaylin, “The Pickle Man” of Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles, Original Farmers Market Part Two
Segment Six: Pitmaster Ray Lampe, “DR. BBQ”, St. Petersburg, Florida Part One
Segment Seven: Pitmaster Ray Lampe, “DR. BBQ”, St. Petersburg, Florida Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

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

“With the full-service Lola’s by MFK in the former CaliVino Wine Pub space off Katella Avenue next door to Angel Stadium, Chef Henry Pineda, 31, is celebrating his mother’s Filipino and father’s Guatemalan roots through the lens of his favorite meal serving a Modern Filipino Brunch on from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., 7-days. Dinner service will eventually follow. “Every year on my birthday we don’t go to dinner, we go to breakfast,” said Pineda, who grew up in L.A and moved to Anaheim when he was six. “Breakfast was always the meal where my family ate together. My dad worked the graveyard shift and would just be coming home right before my mom was about to head out.” Chef Henry takes a break from the Brunch rush at Lola’s by MFK to join us with spatula in hand.

“Every New Yorker knows the satisfaction of biting into the perfect pickle. Whether it’s a family recipe passed down from generations, or your go-to cart in the middle of Manhattan, one never has to venture too far to find their favorite, tasty treat. After spending almost 30 years working in NYC, Scott Kaylin (aka “The Pickle Man”) found himself on the West Coast becoming his best self. However, one thing was missing: New York pickles. Well, honestly, even just an edible pickle. And that’s when Scott realized he had no choice but to make it easy for everyone, regardless of which coast they call home, to enjoy what he grew up knowing, loving, and suddenly wanting more than ever before.” Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles in the Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax Avenue was the inspired result. Scott takes a pause from his busy pickle-tasting bar at the Original Farmers Market to be our guest.

“Ray Lampe (aka Dr. BBQ) grew up in Chicago and after high school spent 25 years in the family trucking business. In 2000 the trucking business had run its course, and it was time for Ray to try something new. He had been participating in BBQ cookoffs as a hobby since 1982, so he decided to take a leap and turn his hobby into a career. In 2000 Ray moved to Florida and began his career as an outdoor cooking expert. In 2018 Ray opened “Dr. BBQ” restaurant, a modern American Smokehouse, in St. Petersburg, Florida with Roger and Suzanne Perry (the proprietors of Datz Restaurant Group.)” Ray has written nine best-selling cookbooks and is currently scoping out his tenth. He’s competed in over 300 BBQ competitions and has won over 300 awards. In 2014 Ray was inducted into the prestigious BBQ Hall of Fame. Ray takes a break from the smoker to join us with tongs 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. Holiday cooking is soon on the horizon. Is it always better with butter? Chef Andrew talks about the ins and outs of using butter in cooking. Where does margarine fit in if at all. What’s the use of salted butter?

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

Henry Pineda of Lola's MFK

“With the full-service Lola’s by MFK in the former CaliVino Wine Pub space off Katella Avenue next door to Angel Stadium, Chef Henry Pineda, 31, is celebrating his mother’s Filipino and father’s Guatemalan roots through the lens of his favorite meal serving a Modern Filipino Brunch from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., 7 days. Dinner will eventually follow.

“Every year on my birthday we don’t go to dinner, we go to breakfast,” said Pineda, who grew up in L.A and moved to Anaheim when he was six. “Breakfast was always the meal where my family ate together. My dad worked the graveyard shift and would just be coming home right before my mom was about to head out.”

“Pineda has worked in restaurants since age 18 starting at Mama Cozza’s in Anaheim. He’s also cooked at Orange Hill in Orange; ADYA in Anaheim; Starfish in Laguna Beach; Shabu Shabu in Santa Ana; Smoking Ribs in Garden Grove; and The Penthouse inside The Huntley Hotel in Santa Monica. Pineda opened MFK by Aysee’s original location on the border of Anaheim and Buena Park in 2016 at age 26.

That restaurant tragically burned down one night in September 2020 when a fire spontaneously broke out.”

Pineda’s Brunch classics include Lola’s Crispy Sisig, Adobo Fried Rice Omelet, Ube Pancakes, Sweet Avocado Pancakes and Ube Tres Leches French Toast.

Chef Henry takes a break from the Brunch rush to join us with spatula in hand.

Scott Kaylin of Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles

“Every New Yorker knows the satisfaction of biting into the perfect pickle. Whether it’s a family recipe passed down from generations, or your go-to cart in the middle of Manhattan, one never has to venture too far to find their favorite, tasty treat.”

“After spending almost 30 years working in NYC, Scott Kaylin (aka “The Pickle Man”) found himself on the West Coast becoming his best self. However, one thing was missing: New York pickles. Well, honestly, even just an edible pickle. And that’s when Scott realized he had no choice but to make it easy for everyone, regardless of which coast they call home, to enjoy what he grew up knowing, loving, and suddenly wanting more than ever before. Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles was the inspired result.”

“Pickles bring people happiness. Scott witnessed this first hand in the spring of 2020, one month after opening the first pickle-tasting bar at The Original Farmer’s Market at 3rd St. & Fairfax Ave. in Los Angeles. Week after week, even through a global pandemic, customers kept calling, reaching out, and coming back for their favorite flavors of spicy, sour, and sweet –– ensuring we would not only survive, but make it out on the other side. From there, the idea of Kaylin + Kaylin was solidified.” 

“Whether looking for pickles that are fermented, brined, the perfect addition to any recipe, or a salty, standalone snack, each of Kaylin + Kaylin’s flavors are crafted to cure any craving, and keep tastebuds buzzing for more. Kaylin + Kaylin brings a modern approach to a timeless food that can be enjoyed wherever, whenever, and by whomever.”

Scott takes a pause from his busy pickle-tasting bar at the Original Farmers Market to be our guest.

Ray Lampe of Dr. BBQ

Ray Lampe (aka Dr. BBQ) grew up in Chicago and after high school spent 25 years in the family trucking business. In 2000 the trucking business had run its course, and it was time for Ray to try something new. He had been participating in BBQ cookoffs as a hobby since 1982, so he decided to take a leap and turn his hobby into a career. In 2000 Ray moved to Florida and began his career as an outdoor cooking expert. In 2018 Ray opened “Dr. BBQ” restaurant, a modern American Smokehouse, in St. Petersburg, Florida with Roger and Suzanne Perry (the proprietors of Datz Restaurant Group.)”

Since 2000, Ray has been busy in the culinary world. He’s been a judge on Food Network’s “Firemasters,” “Tailgate Warriors with Guy Fieri,” and “Chopped” as well as a judge on “Smoked,” NBC’s “Food Fighters,” and on Travel Channel’s “American Grilled.” Ray is spokesperson for the National Turkey Federation and Dizzy Pig Seasoning Co. and has previously been spokesperson for the Big Green Egg Grill, Cabo Wabo Tequila, Kansas City Steak Co. and The National Pork Board.

Ray has written nine best-selling cookbooks including Slow Fire: The Beginner’s Guide to Barbecue and is currently scoping out his tenth. He has competed in over 300 BBQ competitions and has won over 300 awards. In 2014 Ray was inducted into the prestigious BBQ Hall of Fame.

Ray takes a break from the smoker to join us with tongs in hand.

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

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.

Holiday cooking is soon on the horizon…Is it always better with butter? Chef Andrew discusses the ins and outs of using butter in cooking. Where does margarine perhaps fit in if at all?  What’s the use of salted butter? Chef Andrew explains…

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Henry Pineda, Proprietor, Lola’s by MFK, Anaheim Part One
Segment Three: Chef Henry Pineda, Proprietor, Lola’s by MFK, Anaheim Part Two
Segment Four: Scott Kaylin, “The Pickle Man” of Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles, Original Farmers Market Part One
Segment Five: Scott Kaylin, “The Pickle Man” of Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles, Original Farmers Market Part Two
Segment Six: Pitmaster Ray Lampe, “DR. BBQ”, St. Petersburg, Florida Part One
Segment Seven: Pitmaster Ray Lampe, “DR. BBQ”, St. Petersburg, Florida Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 489, September 3, 2022: Zapien’s Hatch Pepper Roast with Chef Marco Zapien of Zapien’s Salsa Grill, Pico Rivera

Marco Zapien of Zapiens Salsa Grill and Taqueria

Every year Chef Marco Zapien of Zapien’s Salsa Grill and Taqueria in Pico Rivera goes all out to celebrate the short Hatch Pepper season. His concluding Hatch Chile event is Zapien’s Hatch Pepper Roast set for Saturday, September 10th from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It also includes a Hatch Brunch menu in the restaurant showcasing brunch favorites prepared with Hatch Peppers. An Action Station includes Omelettes and Eggs to Order, Hatch-Brown Sugar Glazed Bone-In Ham, and Belgian Waffles and Fresh Berries. Many of the dishes featured are from the new Melissa’s Hatch Pepper Cookbook.

This year’s Hatch Chile Roast allows patrons to pick-up on the spot freshly-roasted Melissa’s Hatch Chiles by the case and by the preferred level of spice from mild to hot. Pre-ordering is advised.

Chef Marco takes a break from his busy kitchen to provide all the savory Hatch roasting details.

Show 448, October 23, 2021: Jonathan Bardzik with Simple Summer – A Recipe for Joy and Connection (Second Edition) Part One

Jonathan Bardzik

“Now a popular chef, tv host, and storyteller, Jonathan Bardzik left a comfortable corporate position a decade ago to embark upon his culinary calling – to share food, stories, and joy with audiences everywhere. In July Jonathan celebrated his career on the tenth anniversary of his first live cooking demonstration at Washington, DC’s historic Eastern Market with the release of his new book, Simple Summer: a recipe for joy and connection (Second Edition.)”

“This new cookbook is an expanded and improved second edition of the wildly popular Simple Summer: a recipe for cooking and entertaining with ease. Each chapter highlights how to pair gorgeous food, delicious drinks, and the right music to make the most of summer. More than a collection of recipes, Simple Summer: a recipe for joy and connection allows you to indulge in rich lessons of joy and connection from Jonathan’s TedX Talk and keynote speeches while learning how to work with seasonal produce and increase your culinary skills. It is the perfect “recipe” for any great gathering — from boozy brunches and afternoons poolside, to shared plates at summer celebrations.”

“Simple Summer: a recipe for joy and connection offers 40 versatile and easy to recreate recipes along with the inspiring stories and abundant joy that Jonathan is known for. Each one is accompanied with whimsical and refreshing beverage pairings and curated music playlists. With this book as your guide, you’ll be able to prepare mouthwatering meals just like those featured on the “Jonathan’s Kitchen: Seasons to Taste” TV Series, (8 episodes) available on Revry, all season long.”

Jonathan Bardzik is our guest with a whisk at the ready.

Show 386, August 15, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Panoringan’s prior efforts includes writing about food for 8 years at the OC Weekly in which she interviewed more than 330 chefs, restauranteurs and industry professionals for her weekly “On the Line” column. Anne Marie’s work has been recognized by the Orange County Press Club. Since outside or patio dine-in is now back in Orange County she has been making the rounds to observe the “new normal” in fresh-air dining. She joins us to share how OC restaurants are adapting while creatively surmounting numerous obstacles. Along the way Anne Marie also highlights some standout Brunch spots.

Rich Mead, Owner and Executive Chef of Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens in Corona del Mar offers guests patio seating on a lush, garden setting for lunch and early dinner with an all-day menu. With over 4,000 square feet of al fresco dining, guests can relax outdoors while responsibly enjoying an award-winning cocktail or a seasonal, sustainably sourced meal. Also available is a diverse menu of takeout offerings in place including a Curbside Market with local ingredients and pantry staples, nourishing Family Meals and weekly Farmers Market Produce Boxes. Classic and signature cocktails are available for dine-in or curbside pickup courtesy of Chef de Swigs, Anthony Laborin and his team. We divert Rich Mead from his rounds at the Santa Monica Farmers Market for a chat.

Awen Winecraft officially started commercially in 2016 by winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood. They had been producing small lots of hand-crafted hobby wine for over a decade, starting in California focusing primarily on red wines. After many years of honing their winemaking skills producing 4 to 16 barrels per year, Sean and Tom decided it was time to try to make a business of their passion. Sean moved to Southern Oregon in the summer of 2011 and began experimenting with the Rogue and Applegate AVA grapes, again, exclusively focused on red wines in the region, which offers an abundance of red wine grapes that they previously hadn’t used. They moved on to white wines in 2013, and worked on creating both 100% varietals as well as blends. Finally, after commuting up from the Bay Area roughly 30 times for winemaking duties, Tom packed up his family and made Southern Oregon his home in the summer of 2016 to help start Awen Winecraft.” Proprietors and Winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood gently pull the cork on all that is Awen Winecraft for us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Dine-in is slowly, with multiple hiccups, starting to come back but with a lot of new rules that restrict guest counts. Alternately take-out/delivery when you can surely helps… The short season for fresh Hatch peppers from New Mexico’s Mesilla Valley is upon us. Hatch chiles are thick, meaty and rich in flavor. They are often called the world’s tastiest peppers and with good reason. Chef Andrew is a fan and offers some great tips for inspired cooking with Hatch chiles.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show

Show 386, August 15, 2020: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part One

Anne Marie Panoringan of Voice of OC at KLAA Studios holding a bottle of Hand Sanitizer from Blinking Owl DistilleryAnne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Panoringan’s prior efforts includes writing about food for 8 years at the OC Weekly in which she interviewed more than 330 chefs, restauranteurs and industry professionals for her weekly “On the Line” column. Anne Marie’s work has been recognized by the Orange County Press Club.

Since outside or patio dining is allowable in Orange County, Anne Marie has been making the rounds to observe the “new normal” in fresh-air dining. She joins us to share how OC restaurants are adapting while creatively surmounting numerous obstacles and still serving guests. Along the way Anne Marie also highlights some standout Brunch spots.

Anne Marie’s columns can be found on the Voice of OC’s Website. Click on the “Arts & Culture” tab on the top of the Home Page.

Show 386, August 15, 2020: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part Two

Anne Marie Panoringan of Voice of OC at KLAA Studios holding a bottle of Hand Sanitizer from Blinking Owl DistilleryAnne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Panoringan’s prior efforts includes writing about food for 8 years at the OC Weekly in which she interviewed more than 330 chefs, restauranteurs and industry professionals for her weekly “On the Line” column. Anne Marie’s work has been recognized by the Orange County Press Club.

Since outside or patio dining is allowable in Orange County, Anne Marie has been making the rounds to observe the “new normal” in fresh-air dining. She joins us to share how OC restaurants are adapting while creatively surmounting numerous obstacles and still serving guests. Along the way Anne Marie also highlights some standout Brunch spots. Anne Marie also introduces us to the Orange County Bartenders Cabinet.

Anne Marie’s columns can be found on the Voice of OC’s Website. Click on the “Arts & Culture” tab on the top of the Home Page.

August 15: Anne Marie Panoringan, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, Awen Winecraft

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part One
Segment Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part Two
Segment Four: Executive Chef Rich Mead, Proprietor, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens Part One
Segment Five: Executive Chef Rich Mead, Proprietor, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens Part Two
Segment Six: Awen Winecraft with Winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood Part One
Segment Seven: Awen Winecraft with Winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Panoringan’s prior efforts includes writing about food for 8 years at the OC Weekly in which she interviewed more than 330 chefs, restauranteurs and industry professionals for her weekly “On the Line” column. Anne Marie’s work has been recognized by the Orange County Press Club. Since outside or patio dine-in is now back in Orange County she has been making the rounds to observe the “new normal” in fresh-air dining. She joins us to share how OC restaurants are adapting while creatively surmounting numerous obstacles. Along the way Anne Marie also highlights some standout Brunch spots.

Rich Mead, Owner and Executive Chef of Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens in Corona del Mar offers guests patio seating on a lush, garden setting for lunch and early dinner with an all-day menu. With over 4,000 square feet of al fresco dining, guests can relax outdoors while responsibly enjoying an award-winning cocktail or a seasonal, sustainably sourced meal. Also available is a robust menu of takeout offerings in place including a Curbside Market with local ingredients and pantry staples, nourishing Family Meals and weekly Farmers Market Produce Boxes. Classic and signature cocktails are available for dine-in or curbside pickup courtesy of Chef de Swigs, Anthony Laborin and his team. We divert Rich Mead from an area farmers market for a chat.

“Awen Winecraft officially started commercially in 2016 by winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood. They had been producing small lots of hand-crafted hobby wine for over a decade, starting in California focusing primarily on red wines. After many years of honing their winemaking skills producing 4 to 16 barrels per year, Sean and Tom decided it was time to try to make a business of their passion. Sean moved to Southern Oregon in the summer of 2011 and began experimenting with the Rogue and Applegate AVA grapes, again, exclusively focused on red wines in the region, which offers an abundance of red wine grapes that they previously hadn’t used. They moved on to white wines in 2013, and worked on creating both 100% varietals as well as blends. Finally, after commuting up from the Bay Area roughly 30 times for winemaking duties, Tom packed up his family and made Southern Oregon his home in the summer of 2016 to help start Awen Winecraft.” Proprietors and Winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood gently pull the cork on Awen Winecraft for us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Dine-in is slowly, with multiple hiccups, starting to come back but with a lot of new rules that restrict guest counts. Alternately Take-Out / Delivery when you can surely helps… The short season for fresh Hatch Peppers from New Mexico’s Mesilla Valley is upon us. Hatch chiles are thick, meaty and rich in flavor. They are often called the world’s tastiest peppers and with good reason. Chef Andrew is a fan and offers some great tips for inspired cooking with Hatch chiles.

Anne Marie Panoringan of Voice of OC at KLAA Studios holding a bottle of Hand Sanitizer from Blinking Owl DistilleryAnne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Panoringan’s prior efforts includes writing about food for 8 years at the OC Weekly in which she interviewed more than 330 chefs, restauranteurs and industry professionals for her weekly “On the Line” column. Anne Marie’s work has been recognized by the Orange County Press Club.

Since outside or patio dining is allowable in Orange County, Anne Marie has been making the rounds to observe the “new normal” in fresh-air dining. She joins us to share how OC restaurants are adapting while creatively surmounting numerous obstacles and still serving guests. Along the way Anne Marie also highlights some standout Brunch spots. Anne Marie also introduces us to the Orange County Bartenders Cabinet.

Anne Marie’s columns can be found on the Voice of OC’s Website. Click on the “Arts & Culture” tab on the top of the Home Page.

Rich Mead of Farmhouse at Rogers GardensRich Mead, Owner and Executive Chef of Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, offers guests patio seating on a lush, garden setting for lunch and early dinner with an all-day menu. With over 4,000 square feet of al fresco dining, guests can relax outdoors while responsibly enjoying an award-winning cocktail or a seasonal, sustainably sourced meal.

Also available is a robust menu of takeout offerings including a Curbside Market with local ingredients and pantry staples, nourishing Family Meals and weekly Farmers Market Produce Boxes. Classic and signature cocktails are available for dine-in or curbside pickup courtesy of Chef de Swigs, Anthony Laborin and his team.

Please note hours for Dine-in are currently 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily and for Takeout 11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Phone is 949.640.1415 for Reservations and Takeout.

“During his 35 plus years of culinary expertise, Chef Rich Mead has cultivated relationships with the highest regarded, local sustainable farms, allowing him to create the freshest menus using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and specially grown vegetables. In 2016, after years of planning, Chef Mead unveiled a unique and sustainable field-to-fork dining experience at Farmhouse, located within Roger’s Gardens. Nestled on over 6 acres in the garden-like setting, Farmhouse features exclusive wines, craft beers, signature cocktails, artisan refreshments and a healthy inspired seasonal cuisine.”

Chef / Proprietor Rich Mead is our guest.

Tom Homewood and Sean Hopkins of Awen WinecraftAwen Winecraft officially started commercially in 2016 by winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood. They had been producing small lots of hand-crafted hobby wine for over a decade, starting in California focusing primarily on red wines. After many years of honing their winemaking skills producing 4 to 16 Barrels per year, Sean and Tom decided it was time to try to make a business of their passion. Sean moved to Southern Oregon in the summer of 2011 and began experimenting with the Rogue and Applegate AVA grapes, again, exclusively focused on red wines in the region, which offers an abundance of red wine grapes that they previously hadn’t used. They moved on to white wines in 2013, and worked on creating both 100% varietals as well as blends.”

“Additionally, Sean and Tom were given the opportunity to manage a small boutique vineyard in 2014, which allowed them to really experience home winemaking ‘grape to glass’.

“Finally, after commuting up from the Bay Area roughly 30 times for winemaking duties, Tom packed up his family and made Southern Oregon his home in the summer of 2016 to help start Awen Winecraft.”

“Awen” is a celtic/druidic symbol describing the spark of creativity or divine inspiration or illumination.

“Working with Herb Quady, Brian Gruber, and Nichole Schulte at Barrel 42, we are bridging the gap from Hobbyist to professional, and are appreciative of their mentorship. We also appreciate all of the efforts of both the master growers that we work with, as well as the help and feedback we have received from other winemakers.”

Proprietors and Winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood gently pull the cork on Awen Winecraft for us.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at the Fifth Anniversary of the SoCal Restaurant Show at Melissas World Variety ProduceOur own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Dine-in is slowly, with multiple hiccups, starting to come back but with a lot of new rules that restrict guest counts. Alternately Take-Out / Delivery when you can surely helps…

The short season for sourcing fresh Hatch peppers from New Mexico’s Mesilla Valley is upon us. Hatch Chiles are thick, meaty and rich in flavor. They are often called the world’s tastiest peppers and with good reason. Chef Andrew is a fan and offers some useful tips for inspired cooking with Hatch chiles.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part One
Segment Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part Two
Segment Four: Executive Chef Rich Mead, Proprietor, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens Part One
Segment Five: Executive Chef Rich Mead, Proprietor, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens Part Two
Segment Six: Awen Winecraft with Winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood Part One
Segment Seven: Awen Winecraft with Winemakers Sean Hopkins and Tom Homewood Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”