Show 693, August 22, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on August 24, 2026 by Adam Bell

“Celebrating its 10th anniversary is Tastemakers of Orange County on Thursday, September 3 from 6 to 9:00 p.m. at the Julianne & George Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. This annual event, produced by and benefiting the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA), celebrates Asian and Pacific Islander-inspired cuisine created by more than two dozen distinguished Orange County chefs. Proceeds from the event support OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and protecting immigrant communities. Guests will be provided the opportunity to indulge in one-of-a-kind Asian and Pacific Island-inspired tapas dishes in an all-you-can-eat setting. While guests savor their gourmet dishes, they will also enjoy live entertainment, groovy tunes from a local DJ, and participate in an opportunity drawing to win unique items and experiences.” The restaurant and chef wrangler for Tastemakers, Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Café & Crema Artisan Bakers, joins us to preview the event followed by participating restaurateur Ed Lee of Toast Kitchen & Bakery.

You may not know the name of restaurateur Adam Weisblatt of Last Word Hospitality but if you live in the Los Angeles area you’ve heard of (or patronized) the popular restaurants he’s part of including Found Oyster, Barra Santos and Hermon’s. What’s it like to open a restaurant? Adam shares all of this in his new book, For the Love of Restaurants – An Insider’s Guide from Daydreams to Opening Night. Adam puts down his reservations tablet to join us.

“At Darkroom in Santa Ana, our goal is not just to give diners a wonderful experience — it is to change their understanding of Californian food and local farm communities.” Owner / Chefs Zach Scherer and Drew Adams. “We are using the unique and world class produce of Southern California. We are leveraging the techniques from cuisines around the world. We are changing the menu weekly so that guests will always have something new to enjoy.” “A 5-course experience in a separate, private room at Darkroom is Chrysalis tasting room celebrating California with big flavors and fun techniques.” The meal is prepared a la minute, with running commentary, by the chefs in front of the guests. Two styles of wine pairings are available as options in addition to a curated zero alcohol pairing. Chefs Zach Scherer and Drew Adams take a respite from their busy kitchen to join us in-studio.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Recent unfortunate food contamination scares with Cyclospora and Salmonella in raw produce have us thinking. Chef Andrew weighs in with his thoughts. Also, an update on supporting California avocados and the family farmers who grow them.

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

Show 693, August 22, 2026: Tastemakers or Orange County preview with Restaurateur & Baker Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Café & Crema Artisan Bakery

Posted on August 24, 2026 by Adam Bell

Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan Bakers at KLAA Studios

“I really can’t take much credit for how we all came together. I believe it speaks to the strength and generosity of our Orange County chefs and bakers, who understand the importance of supporting an organization like OCAPICA,” commented Tarit Tanjasiri, Owner of Crema Café and Co-Founding TMOC Chef. “These culinary visionaries are committed to being there for us year after year because OCAPICA’s mission and vision truly resonate with them. In fact, we’re fortunate that new chefs continue to ask if they can join the event each year, which is a testament to the impact OCAPICA has made.”

The 10th annual Tastemakers of Orange County will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Julianne & George Argyros Plaza (600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa). Tickets are available to the public for $295 for VIP, which allows early entry at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (one hour earlier than General Admission); and $225 for General Admission from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Restaurateur & Baker Tarit Tanjasiri (also the benefit’s chef & restaurant wrangler) joins us.

Show 693, August 22, 2026: Tastemakers or Orange County preview with Restaurateur Ed Lee of Toast Kitchen & Bakery

Posted on August 24, 2026 by Adam Bell

Ed Lee of Wahoo's Fish Taco and Toast Bakery

Restaurateur Ed Lee of Toast Kitchen & Bakery in Tustin is one of the long-time participating restaurants in Tastemakers. We’ll meet him.

August 22: 10th Anniversary of Tastemakers of Orange County, Adam Weisblatt, Darkroom and Chrysalis

Posted on August 20, 2026 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: Tastemakers of Orange County, Adam Weisblatt
Hour Two: Adam Weisblatt, Darkroom & Chrysalis, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Tastemakers or Orange County preview with Restaurateur & Baker Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Café & Crema Artisan Bakery
Segment Three: Tastemakers or Orange County preview with Restaurateur Ed Lee of Toast Kitchen & Bakery
Segments Four and Five: Restaurateur Adam Weisblatt of Last Word Hospitality with For the Love of Restaurants
Segments Six and Seven: Darkroom & Chrysalis, Santa Ana, with Chefs Zach Scherer and Drew Adams
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House and Show Co-host

You may not know the name of restaurateur Adam Weisblatt of Last Word Hospitality but if you live in the Los Angeles area you’ve heard of (or patronized) the popular restaurants he’s part of including Found Oyster, Barra Santos and Hermon’s. What’s it like to open a restaurant? Adam shares all of this in his new book, For the Love of Restaurants – An Insider’s Guide from Daydreams to Opening Night. Adam puts down his reservations tablet to join us.

“At Darkroom in Santa Ana, our goal is not just to give diners a wonderful experience — it is to change their understanding of Californian food and local farm communities.” Owner / Chefs Zach Scherer and Drew Adams. “We are using the unique and world class produce of Southern California. We are leveraging the techniques from cuisines around the world. We are changing the menu weekly so that guests will always have something new to enjoy.” “A 5-course experience in a separate, private room at Darkroom is Chrysalis tasting room celebrating California with big flavors and fun techniques.” The meal is prepared a la minute, with commentary, by the chefs in front of the guests. Two styles of wine pairings are available as options in addition to a curated zero alcohol pairing. Chefs Zach Scherer and Drew Adams take a respite from their busy kitchen to join us in-studio.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Recent unfortunate food contamination scares with Cyclospora and Salmonella in raw produce have us thinking. Chef Andrew weighs in with his thoughts.

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

“Guests will be provided the opportunity to indulge in one-of-a-kind Asian and Pacific Island-inspired tapas dishes in an all-you-can-eat setting. While guests savor their gourmet dishes, they will also enjoy live entertainment, groovy tunes from a local DJ, and participate in an opportunity drawing to win unique items and experiences.”

“I really can’t take much credit for how we all came together. I believe it speaks to the strength and generosity of our Orange County chefs and bakers, who understand the importance of supporting an organization like OCAPICA,” commented Tarit Tanjasiri, Owner of Crema Café and Co-Founding TMOC Chef. “These culinary visionaries are committed to being there for us year after year because OCAPICA’s mission and vision truly resonate with them. In fact, we’re fortunate that new chefs continue to ask if they can join the event each year, which is a testament to the impact OCAPICA has made.”

Restaurateur & Baker Tarit Tanjasiri (also the benefit’s chef & restaurant wrangler) joins us with a preview followed by Restaurateur Ed Lee of Toast Kitchen & Bakery in Tustin, who is one of the participating restaurants in Tastemakers. We’ll meet him as well.

“Adam’s book is a playful, soup-to-nuts guide to creating a restaurant, and a love letter to those who make the struggle palatable, the resilience possible, and the journey more fun—restaurant people.”

“There is no one secret ingredient to opening a successful restaurant—in this business everything matters.”

“It’s one thing to work in an established restaurant and a whole other beautiful challenge to turn an empty room with exposed plumbing and unpainted drywall into a stage for the complicated performance of prepping, cooking, and serving that transforms four simple walls into a living, breathing, welcoming place.”

“For the dreamers and admirers of the restaurant world who long to open their own place or simply crave a peek behind the line, For the Love of Restaurants is a multi-course romp through the processes of leasing, funding, designing, building, menu development, hiring, and opening a restaurant’s doors to the first guests.”

“Adam Weisblatt, cofounder of Last Word Hospitality and partner in its growing list of celebrated restaurants, traces the full journey from concept to opening of the company’s first spot, Found Oyster. Along the way, he shares everything he knows about imagining what future guests will love and what will make them want to return again and again.”

“For the Love of Restaurants is a curriculum-in-your-pocket for making your dream a reality and an invitation to more deeply appreciate the places you love—and the people who make them possible—each time you hear your table is ready.”

“We are using the unique and world class produce of Southern California.”

“We are leveraging the techniques from cuisines around the world.”

“We are changing the menu weekly so that guests will always have something new to enjoy.”

A 5-course experience in a separate, private room at Darkroom is Chrysalis tasting room celebrating California with big flavors and fun techniques. The meal is prepared a la minute by the chefs in front of the guests. Two styles of wine pairings are available as options in addition to a curated zero alcohol pairing.

Chefs Zach Scherer and Drew Adams take a respite from their busy kitchen to join us in-studio.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Calico Fish House

Recent, unfortunate, food contamination scares with Cyclospora and Salmonella in raw produce have us thinking. Chef Andrew weighs in with what we should know.

Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook is available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.

Podcasts

Hour One: Tastemakers of Orange County, Adam Weisblatt
Hour Two: Adam Weisblatt, Darkroom & Chrysalis, Andrew Gruel

Show 643, September 6, 2025: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on September 7, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Since 2004, Zin American Bistro in Palm Springs has been a popular spot for locals in the downtown area. Zin offers crafted cocktails, brunch, and dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients. They are proud to have received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence year-after-year for their extensive wine list which boasts over 545 selections. In addition to inside bar and table seating Zin offers an attractive heated and cooled covered patio for the best in outdoor dining.” Proprietress Mindy Reed joins us to uncork all that is Zin American Bistro.

“Moraga Vineyards is one of the most unique wine estates in California. Located at a 550-900 foot elevation in the Santa Monica Mountains in the Los Angeles community of Bel Air, the winery and vineyard is the source of remarkably refined wines that perfectly reflect a union of distinctive terroir and the gentle guidance of focused winemaking. The historic property is now owned by Rupert Murdoch. In 1959, Tom and Ruth Jones purchased the original property. After living on the estate for 20 years, Tom, the longtime CEO of Northrop Corporation, decided to plant grapevines. It was the steeply sloped hillsides and the gravelly and calcareous soils on the property that inspired them to plant vineyards as it reminded them of Bordeaux where they often travelled. The 2005 vintage marked a significant milestone in Moraga’s history. A state-of-the art winery was completed on the property just in time for the 2005 harvest. This, coupled with the barrel-ageing cave completed in 2004, established Moraga as an Estate Wine and one of the first commercial wineries to be bonded in the city of Los Angeles since Prohibition ended in 1933. Acclaimed winemaker Paul Warson (our guest) joined Moraga Vineyards in May of 2021. It is his ongoing intention to fulfill the Murdoch’s commitment to the estate and to continue to produce wine of the highest quality. In 2013, at the age of 93 and with 24 vintages under his belt, Jones sold Moraga Bel Air to Rupert Murdoch.” Moraga Bel Air is the official wine of the upcoming L.A. Chef Conference on Monday, October 6th at the Redbird and Vibiana Events Center in Downtown Los Angeles.

“Get ready to feast for a cause as the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) proudly presents the return of its beloved Tastemakers of Orange County on Wednesday, September 24, from 6 to 9:00 p.m. at the vibrant Julianne & George Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. This high-energy culinary celebration spotlights the rich and diverse flavors of Asian and Pacific Islander cuisine, crafted by more than two dozen of Orange County’s top chefs. Guests will enjoy exclusive, all-you-can-enjoy creations in a lively outdoor setting, knowing every bite supports OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education, and combating anti-Asian racism.” Restaurant Coordinator and Baker Tarit Tanjasiri (Crema Café & Crema Artisan Bakers) joins us along with Board Member Sora Tanjasiri representing OCAPICA.

Following Tarit and Sora Tanjasari is Chef Bill Bracken of Bracken’s Kitchen in Garden Grove. Chef Bill is also part of the culinary lineup for Tastemakers of Orange County. “Bracken’s Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Orange County California. Founded in 2013 their mission is simple: Through food rescue, culinary training and their community feeding program Bracken’s Kitchen is committed to rescuing, re-purposing and restoring both food and lives.” Bracken’s Kitchen’s annual fundraiser, Hungry Games 8.0, is set for the evening of Thursday, September 11th.

“LA Chef Conference 2025 at Redbird and the Vibiana Events Center in Downtown Los Angeles on Monday, October 6th is an event for the chef and restaurant industry community. The organizers, Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions Hospitality Recruitment, invite attendees to come hungry for information, inspiration, delicious food and drinks. It’s also a great opportunity to see industry friends and to meet new ones!” Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP) is the benefiting charity. Founder Brad Metzger joins us with all the specifics. Also joining us is Shane Call, District Director – Southwest for Open Table. He’s the Moderator of the “Shaping the Future: L.A.’s Rising Stars” panel with Lord Maynard Llera (Kuya Lord), Kat Turner (Highly Likely), Melissa Lopez (Barra Santos), and Byron Lazaroff-Puck (President, WP Fine Dining, Global.)

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

What happens to a successful, multi-unit restaurant concept founded by hands-on entrepreneurs when it’s sold for mad money to a private equity fund. Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.

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

Show 643, September 6, 2025: Tastemakers of Orange County Preview Benefiting OCAPICA

Posted on September 7, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Guests will enjoy exclusive, all-you-can-enjoy creations in a lively outdoor setting, knowing every bite supports OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education, and combating anti-Asian racism.”

“Tickets are available to the public for $250 for VIP, which allows early entry at 6 p.m. (one hour earlier than General Admission); and $195 for General Admission from 7 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The event will be held in the Julianne & George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts (600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa).

Restaurant Coordinator and Baker Tarit Tanjasiri (Crema Café & Crema Artisan Bakers) joins us along With Board Member Sora Tanjasiri representing OCAPICA.

September 6: Zin American Bistro, Moraga Vineyards, Tastemakers of Orange County, Bracken’s Kitchen, LA Chef Conference 2025

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: Zin American Bistro, Moraga Vineyards
Hour Two: Tastemakers of Orange County, Bracken’s Kitchen, LA Chef Conference, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction and Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Zin American Bistro, Palm Springs, with Proprietress Mindy Reed
Segments Three and Four: Moraga Vineyards, Bel Air, CA with Winemaker Paul Warson
Segment Five: Tastemakers of Orange County Preview Benefiting OCAPICA
Segment Six: Founder & Chef Bill Bracken, Bracken’s Kitchen, Garden Grove
Segment Seven: LA Chef Conference 2025 Preview with Founder Brad Metzger and Shane Call of Presenting Sponsor Open Table
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House with “Ask the Chef”

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

Since 2004, Zin American Bistro in Palm Springs has been a popular spot for locals in the downtown area. Zin offers crafted cocktails, brunch, and dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients. They are proud to have received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence year-after-year for their extensive wine list which boasts over 545 selections. In addition to inside bar and table seating Zin offers an attractive heated and cooled covered patio for the best in outdoor dining. Proprietress Mindy Reed joins us to uncork all that is Zin American Bistro.

“Moraga Vineyards is one of the most unique wine estates in California. Located at a 550-900 foot elevation in the Santa Monica Mountains in the Los Angeles community of Bel Air, the winery and vineyard is the source of remarkably refined wines that perfectly reflect a union of distinctive terroir and the gentle guidance of focused winemaking. The historic property is now owned by Rupert Murdoch. In 1959, Tom and Ruth Jones purchased the original property. After living on the estate for 20 years, Tom, the longtime CEO of Northrop Corporation, decided to plant grapevines. It was the steeply sloped hillsides and the gravelly and calcareous soils on the property that inspired them to plant vineyards as it reminded them of Bordeaux where they often travelled. The 2005 vintage marked a significant milestone in Moraga’s history. A state-of-the art winery was completed on the property just in time for the 2005 harvest. This, coupled with the barrel-ageing cave completed in 2004, established Moraga as an Estate Wine and one of the first commercial wineries to be bonded in the city of Los Angeles since Prohibition ended in 1933. Acclaimed winemaker Paul Warson (our guest) joined Moraga Vineyards in May of 2021. It is his ongoing intention to fulfill the Murdoch’s commitment to the estate and to continue to produce wine of the highest quality. In 2013, at the age of 93 and with 24 vintages under his belt, Jones sold Moraga Bel Air to Rupert Murdoch.” Moraga Bel Air is the official wine of the upcoming L.A. Chef Conference on Monday, October 6^th at the Redbird and Vibiana Events Center in Downtown Los Angeles.

Following Tarit and Sora Tanjasari is Chef Bill Bracken of Bracken’s Kitchen in Garden Grove. Chef Bill is also part of the culinary lineup for Tastemakers of Orange County. “Bracken’s Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Orange County California. Founded in 2013 their mission is simple: Through food rescue, culinary training and their community feeding program Bracken’s Kitchen is committed to rescuing, re-purposing and restoring both food and lives.” Bracken’s Kitchen’s annual fundraiser, Hungry Games 8.0, is set for the evening of Thursday, September 11^th.

“LA Chef Conference 2025 at Redbird and the Vibiana Events Center in Downtown Los Angeles on Monday, October 6th is an event for the chef and restaurant industry community. The organizers, Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions Hospitality Recruitment, invite attendees to come hungry for information, inspiration, delicious food and drinks. It’s also a great opportunity to see industry friends and to meet new ones!” Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP) is the benefiting charity. Founder Brad Metzger joins us with all the specifics. Also joining us is Shane Call, District Director – Southwest for Open Table. He’s the Moderator of the “Shaping the Future: L.A.’s Rising Stars” panel with Lord Maynard Llera (Kuya Lord), Kat Turner (Highly Lively), Melissa Lopez (Barra Santos), and Byron Lazaroff-Puck (President, WP Fine Dining, Global.)

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

What happens to a successful, multi-unit restaurant concept founded by hands-on entrepreneurs when it’s sold for mad money to a money fund. Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.

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

“Since 2004, Zin American Bistro in Palm Springs, a consistently top-rated establishment, has been a popular spot for locals in the downtown area. Zin offers crafted cocktails, brunch, and dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients.”

They are proud to have received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence year-after-year for their extensive wine list which boasts over 545 selections. In addition to inside bar and table seating Zin offers an attractive heated and cooled (depending on the season) covered patio for the best in outdoor dining.

Proprietress Mindy Reed joins us to uncork all that is Zin American Bistro.

“In 1959, Tom and Ruth Jones purchased the property with a long and colorful history. After living on the estate for 20 years, Tom, the longtime CEO of Northrop Corporation, decided to plant grapevines. It was the steeply sloped hillsides and the gravelly and calcareous soils on the property that inspired them to plant vineyards as it reminded them of Bordeaux where they often travelled.”

“Because they found their non-commercial vintages so enjoyable, the Joneses decided to officially launch Moraga Bel Air as a commercial entity. The first vintage, 1989, was produced by Bruno D’Alfonso at Sanford Winery in Santa Barbara County.”

“The 2005 vintage marked a significant milestone in Moraga’s history. A state-of-the art winery was completed on the property just in time for the 2005 harvest. This, coupled with the barrel-ageing cave completed in 2004, established Moraga as an Estate Wine and one of the first commercial wineries to be bonded in the city of Los Angeles since Prohibition ended in 1933.”

“Acclaimed winemaker Paul Warson (our guest) joined Moraga Vineyards in May of 2021. It is his ongoing intention to fulfill the Murdoch’s commitment to the estate and to continue to produce wine of the highest quality.”

“In 2013, at the age of 93 and with 24 vintages under his belt, Jones sold Moraga Bel Air to Rupert Murdoch. Mr. Murdoch is committed to carrying on the Jones’ legacy of producing top quality wine from one of California’s most unique estate wineries.”

Moraga Bel Air is the official wine of the upcoming L.A. Chef Conference on Monday, October 6^th at the Redbird and Vibiana Events Center in Downtown Los Angeles.

Winemaker Paul Warson is our guest uncorking all that is Moraga Bel Air.

Restaurant Coordinator and Baker Tarit Tanjasiri (Crema Café & Crema Artisan Bakers) joins us along With Board Member Sora Tanjasiri representing OCAPICA.

Chef Bill Bracken of Bracken’s Kitchen in Garden Grove is also one of the Tastemakers of Orange County’s celebrity chef participants on September 24^th. We’ll meet him.

“Bracken’s Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Orange County California. Founded in 2013 their mission is simple: Through food rescue, culinary training and their community feeding program Bracken’s Kitchen is committed to rescuing, re-purposing and restoring both food and lives. The heart of who Bracken’s Kitchen is can be found in a statement first uttered in 1957 by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr; “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?””

“Hungry Games 8.0 (Bracken’s Kitchen’s annual fundraiser) is back for yet another fantastic evening of food and fun for GOOD. It’s hosted at their home kitchen facility in Garden Grove on Thursday, September 11th, 2025 with doors opening at 5:30 pm. Competing popular local chefs will vie for the title of “Hungry Games Champion” while 500 guests act as judges. It’s a casual and fun evening with amazing food and great music intended to help us fund our trio of services: community feeding, food rescue, and culinary training.”

Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions

“Included in the ticket price is first come first served access to all the panel discussions and programming, all food and drinks, including coffee, bagels, and snacks, during registration hour from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., the LA Chef Con Lunch from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. the Cocktail Party from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and the Official Afterparty at Grand Central Market from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. hosted by Chef’s Warehouse.”

Founder Brad Metzger ;joins us with all the specifics.

Also joining us is Shane Call, District Director – Southwest for Open Table. He’s the Moderator of the “Shaping the Future: L.A.’s Rising Stars” panel with Lord Maynard Llera (Kuya Lord), Kat Turner (Highly Likely), Melissa Lopez (Barra Santos), and Byron Lazaroff-Puck (President, WP Fine Dining, Global.)

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

What happens to a successful, multi-unit restaurant concept founded by hands-on entrepreneurs when it’s sold for mad money to a money fund. Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.

Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook is available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.

Hour One: Zin American Bistro, Moraga Vineyards
Hour Two: Tastemakers of Orange County, Bracken’s Kitchen, LA Chef Conference, Andrew Gruel

Show 596, September 28, 2024: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on September 30, 2024 by Adam Bell

Living Roots Wine & Co. is a winery in both the Finger Lakes Region of New York (Hammondsport, Keuka Lake, Steuben County) and the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia. “Sixth generation winemaker and Adelaide native Sebastian and Rochester native Colleen Hardy make wines with regional and varietal expression, minimal inputs, and maximum quality. A new Tasting Room debuted one year ago with an incredible view of Keuka Lake and is located on the family’s Shale Creek Vineyard with an urban Tasting Room in Rochester” Proprietress Colleen Hardy joins us to uncork all that is Living Roots Wine & Co.

“Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach is a story that begins with Cafe Pierre, a restaurant birthed by Guy Gabriele in 1977 to bring a taste of France to Los Angeles’ South Bay. While Cafe Pierre was a beloved part of the community for nearly 37 years, in 2014, Guy and his daughter Sylvie Gabriele, now the owner of Love & Salt, closed the restaurant to bring new life to the iconic space.” Executive Chef Chris Feldmeier (ex- Bar Moruno) has just returned to Love & Salt to oversee the menu. It’s full circle as he was previously cooking there in 2018. Chef Chris is one of the noteworthy chefs (25 different high-profile chefs for each night) for the upcoming Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival in Manhattan Village set for the evenings of Friday, October 11th and Saturday, October 12th. We reel in Chef Chris from his busy kitchens to join us.

“The Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) brings back its always anticipated Tastemakers of Orange County fundraising event on Thursday, October 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. More than two dozen local chefs will celebrate the Asian and Pacific Islander community and culture by providing guests the opportunity to indulge in one-of-a-kind Asian and Pacific Island-inspired tapas dishes in an all-you-can-eat setting. Proceeds from tickets sold for this event go to support OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and combating anti-Asian racism.” More than two dozen area celebrity chefs will be participating ranging from Executive Chef Rich Mead of Farmhouse at Rogers Garden to Chef / Restaurateur Amar Santana of Vaca. OCAPICA’s Board Chair, Sora Park Tanjasiri, and participating chef & baker Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Cafe (Seal Beach) and Crema Artisan Bakers (Irvine) join us with all the enticing details.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. First, finishing the discussion of the cost of health care as it relates to Federal Income Taxes from last week. From there New York state is proposing the elimination of coal fired and wood fired pizza ovens. Are these really a major contributor to air pollution? Pizzaiolo Chef Andrew hand-stretches the dough on this one.

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

September 28: Living Roots Wine & Co., Love & Salt, Tastemakers of Orange County

Posted on September 26, 2024 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Living Roots Wine & Co., Keuka Lake, Hammondsport, Finger Lakes, NY with Proprietress Colleen Hardy
Segment Four: Love & Salt, Manhattan Beach, with Executive Chef Chris Feldmeier
Segments Six and Seven: Tastemakers of Orange County Benefit Supporting The Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA)
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

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

Living Roots Wine & Co. is a winery in both the Finger Lakes Region of New York (Hammondsport, Keuka Lake, Steuben County) and the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia. “Sixth generation winemaker and Adelaide native Sebastian and Rochester native Colleen Hardy make wines with regional and varietal expression, minimal inputs, and maximum quality.” A handsome new Tasting Room debuted one year ago with an incredible view of Keuka Lake and is located on the family’s Shale Creek Vineyard with an urban Tasting Room in Rochester. Proprietress Colleen Hardy joins us to uncork all that is Living Roots Wine & Co.

“Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach is a story that begins with Cafe Pierre, a restaurant birthed by Guy Gabriele in 1977 to bring a taste of France to Los Angeles’ South Bay. While Cafe Pierre was a beloved part of the community for nearly 37 years, in 2014, Guy and his daughter Sylvie Gabriele, now the owner of Love & Salt, closed the restaurant to bring new life to the iconic space. Executive Chef Chris Feldmeier (ex- Bar Moruno) has just returned to Love & Salt to oversee the revitalized menu.” It’s full circle as he was previously cooking there in 2018. Chef Chris is one of the noteworthy chefs (25 different high profile chefs for each night) for the upcoming Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival in Manhattan Village set for the evenings of Friday, October 11^th and Saturday, October 12^th. We reel in Chef Chris from his busy kitchens to join us.

“Mr.T in Hollywood serves contemporary French cuisine inspired by upscale street food dishes featuring fresh ingredients and masterful preparation by their head Chef Alisa Vannah (ex-Republique.) Indulge in unique flavors using local ingredients to create an authentic dining experience. Mr.T creates a variety of handcrafted cocktails and provides a uniquely selected wine list offering a tasteful array of wines from some of the most celebrated producers in the world. Recognizing the demand for daytime service, owner Guillaume Guedj brought renowned Parisian Pastry Chef François Daubinet (ex-Fauchon) to Mr. T to create a recently launched distinctive café and bakery experience. With a thoughtfully curated lunch, café, and bakery menu, Mr. T has quickly become the go-to destination from morning to nighttime.” Closed on Sunday and Monday. Proprietor Guillaume Guedj joins us.

“The Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) brings back its always anticipated Tastemakers of Orange County fundraising event on Thursday, October 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. More than two dozen local chefs will celebrate the Asian and Pacific Islander community and culture by providing guests the opportunity to indulge in one-of-a-kind Asian and Pacific Island-inspired tapas dishes in an all-you-can-eat setting. Proceeds from tickets sold for this event go to support OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and combating anti-Asian racism.” More than two dozen area celebrity chefs will be participating ranging from Executive Chef Rich Mead of Farmhouse at Rogers Garden to Chef/Restauranteur Amar Santana of Vaca. OCAPICA’s Executive Director, Sora Park Tanjasiri, and participating chef & baker Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Cafe and Crema Artisan Bakers join us with all the enticing details.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. First, finishing the discussion of the cost of health care from last week. From there New York state is proposing the elimination of coal fired and wood fired pizza ovens. Are these really a major contributor to air pollution? Pizzaiolo and Chef Andrew hand-stretches the dough on this one.

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

Colleen Hardy of Living Roots Wine and Company

“Living Roots Wine & Co. is a winery in both the Finger Lakes Region of New York (Hammondsport, Keuka Lake, Steuben County) and the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia. Sixth generation winemaker and Adelaide native Sebastian and Rochester native Colleen Hardy make wines with regional and varietal expression, minimal inputs, and maximum quality.”

A stylish new Tasting Room debuted one year ago with an incredible view of Keuka Lake and is located on the family’s Shale Creek Vineyard with an urban Tasting Room in Rochester.

“Some wines are made year-to-year while others are one-offs. Each vintage is an opportunity to explore new vineyards and varieties, and to highlight the terroir and natural strengths of these diverse regions.”

“The new Winery and Tasting Room in Hammondsport is located on the family’s Shale Creek Vineyard and features a large tasting bar, retail area, spacious indoor and outdoor seating, indoor fireplace and outdoor fire pits. The site is run on geothermal energy, solar panels and also offers EV chargers.”

“The estate wines include Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Cabernet Franc. Vinifera and hybrid varieties are sourced from other growers around the region. Their most popular wines from Australia are McLaren Valley Grenache, Adelaide Hills Shiraz and Red Blend.”

“Living Roots also offers a range of lower alcohol “Sessions” wines (7 to 10 % ABV), made with natural techniques and spanning from Session Sparkling White to Session Red.”

Proprietress Colleen Hardy joins us to uncork all that is Living Roots Wine & Co.

“Love & Salt is a philosophy: that food needs only two ingredients to be great. It’s a sensibility that informs the feeling in the restaurant and the dishes on the menu — Italian-inspired with Southern California soul. An approachable wine list and classic cocktail program similarly reflect the vibrant SoCal setting of the restaurant, located just steps from the Manhattan Beach pier.”

Executive Chef Chris Feldmeier (ex-Bar Moruno) has just returned to Love & Salt to oversee the menu. He was previously cooking there in 2018. Chef Chris is one of the noteworthy chefs (25 high profile chefs for each night) for the upcoming Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival in Manhattan Village set for the evenings of Friday, October 11^th and Saturday, October 12^th. We reel in Chef Chris from his busy kitchens to join us.

Guillaume Guedj of Mr T's Los Angeles and Paris

“Recognizing the demand for daytime service, owner Guillaume Guedj brought renowned Parisian Pastry Chef François Daubinet (ex-Fauchon) to Mr. T to create a recently launched distinctive café and bakery experience. With a thoughtfully curated lunch, café, and bakery menu, Mr. T has quickly become the go-to destination from morning to nighttime.” Closed on Sunday and Monday.

Chef Francois’ signature, indulgent dessert is “The Gold Digger.” It’s a hazelnut tart with milk hazelnut ganache and gold dust. Also ask about the Crooklyn. It’s part decadent cookie and equal parts rich, buttery croissant.

Proprietor Guillaume Guedj is our guest.

More than two dozen area celebrity chefs will be participating ranging from Executive Chef Rich Mead of Farmhouse at Rogers Garden to Chef / Restaurateur Amar Santana of Vaca.

“In addition to the food tastings, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy beverages by Brewery X and BondleWines. This fundraiser will feature groovy tunes from a live DJ, a silent auction with luxury experiences and unique items, and an exciting opportunity drawing. Tickets are available to the public for $250 for VIP, which allows early entry at 6 p.m.; and $195 for General Admission from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.”

OCAPICA’s Executive Director, Sora Park Tanjasiri, and participating chef Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Cafe and Crema Artisan Bakers join us with all the enticing details.

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

First, finishing the discussion of the cost of health care as it relates to the growing Federal deficit from last week. From there New York State is proposing the elimination of coal fired and wood fired pizza ovens. Are these really a major contributor to air pollution? Pizzaiolo and Chef Andrew hand-stretches the dough on this one.

Podcasts

Show 542, September 9, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on September 10, 2023 by Adam Bell

“Hungry Games 6.0 benefiting the worthy activities of Bracken’s Kitchen in Garden Grove is back better and bigger than ever before. The Hungry Games event benefits the less fortunate and food insecure in Southern California! Please join Chef Bill Bracken and Bracken’s Kitchen at their very own busy kitchen on Thursday, September 14th 2023 at 5:30 p.m. for a wonderful evening together! It will be full of great food, fun, and of course, friendly competition.” The defending champion, Chef Michael Rossi (The Beach Club, Santa Monica,) will be there. This year’s ambitious fundraising goal is a cool $500,000. “Come hungry for some yummy hors d’oeuvres, incredibly delicious meals, and beverages that you will love as the chefs battle for first place! Guests help vote for their favorites throughout the night. The Pinch Me! band returns to play some incredible live music!” Culinary Director of Bracken’s Kitchen, Bill Bracken, joins us with whisk in hand.

“Helmed by long-time Fairfield Restaurateur Molly Tou (ex-Sticky Rice) and Chef Joey Jaraba, Two60 Kitchen + Bar is a great new addition to Fairfield’s dining scene. It opened in 2020 at 260 Pittman Road. Over the last 23 years, Chef Jaraba has developed a career out of fusing his own background from the Philippines with his dishes. Two60 blends modern American cuisine with global influences to create a menu deeply rooted in sourcing ingredients from local farms. Besides traditional American fare such as hamburgers, steak and salads they feature items with Asian and Italian influences such as Shanghai Lumpia, Ahi Poke Towers and Pastas.” Restaurateur Molly Tou is our guest.

“The Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) brings back its Tastemakers of Orange County fundraising event on Wednesday, September 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. More than two dozen local chefs will celebrate the Asian and Pacific Islander community, culture, and heritage by giving guests the opportunity to indulge in one-of-a-kind Asian and Pacific Island-inspired dishes. Proceeds from tickets sold for this event benefit OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and combating anti-Asian racism throughout Orange County.” Baker Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Café and Chef Kristen Nguyen of Garlic & Chives join us with all the tasty details.“

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar presents MAUI STRONG, a fundraiser on Sunday, September 17 at its waterfront location in Newport Beach to benefit the Maui Strong Fund. Guests will have the opportunity to attend a “Maui Strong Tasting Event” from 2 to 5 p.m. and “Taste of Hawaii Dinner” from 5 to 8:30 p.m., both supporting relief efforts through the Maui Strong Fund, organized by the Hawai’i Community Foundation and committed to distributing 100% of funds donated to local aid groups who are responding to community needs.” The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar’s Managing Partner, JC Clow, is our guest providing all the details.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Has the restaurant business really fully recovered from the Pandemic? What are the present concerns of chefs and restaurateurs? Some restaurants are really struggling in urban San Francisco. We’ll “Ask the Chef”.

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