Show 697, September 19, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on September 21, 2026 by Adam Bell

Santa Monica’s iconic seafood destination, The Lobster, is celebrating their 27th Anniversary this year. A seafood restaurant has been in this original location for over 100 years. “This legendary seafood restaurant is an internationally recognized dining destination that is as much a part of Santa Monica’s history as it’s neighbor, the Santa Monica Pier. Situated at the intersection of Route 66 and the Pacific Ocean, The Lobster has been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors for decades, offering not only mesmerizing views of the Santa Monica Pier and Malibu coastline but also an award-winning seafood menu under the masterful guidance of acclaimed Chef Govind Armstrong. With Armstrong at the helm, The Lobster is Michelin recognized, a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence.” Chef Govind Armstrong takes a break from shucking oysters to join us.

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser are responsible for the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.” The Wife & the Somm in Glassell Park is one of the Friday night participating restaurants in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Co-owner, Wife, and Pastry Chef Christy Lucchese joins us with rolling pin in hand.

Respected winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine Co. is one of the participating boutique wineries of note in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Warson Wine is pouring both nights. Paul joins us to pop the cork on all this is Warson Wine.

“Orange County’s favorite celebration of premium spirits is back — and this year, whiskey is sharing the spotlight. The OC Whiskey Festival (& More) returns to The Park in Irvine on Thursday, October 1, bringing together an impressive collection of spirit brands, celebrated local restaurants and interactive experiences for an unforgettable evening. While whiskey remains at the heart of the festival, this year’s expanded event brings spirits of all kinds. Guests will have the opportunity to sample tequila, vodka, gin and more from brands including Teremana Tequila, Ketel One Vodka, Grey Goose Vodka, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Nolet’s Gin, with additional brands continuing to join the lineup.” Chris Daily, Beverage Director and Owner of Daily Dose Hospitality and Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer and Co-Founder of Daily Dose are our in-studio guides to The OC Whiskey Festival.

“The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America® presented by American Express and Resy brings together chefs, special guests, and diners from across the country to celebrate the local independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. The walk-around tasting at The LINE LA on Tuesday evening, October 6th will be an exciting gathering of chefs from the Los Angeles culinary community, with food stations hosted by TasteTwenty chefs Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle of Little Fish Melrose Hill, and many other local notable chefs. Each station will reflect the chef’s signature style and highlight the uniqueness of their restaurant and the Los Angeles culinary community. The tasting will also have beverage stations and other activations from James Beard’s national and local sponsors.” Melissa’s is providing all the fresh produce. Celebrity Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill), a James Beard Foundation Trustee, joins us with the salivating details of Taste America: Los Angeles.

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. Today Chef Andrew previews the upcoming California Spiny Lobster Season. Spiny’s have a different taste and texture profile from the revered Maine variety. Both, of course, are crave-worthy. That’s always some good eating!
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 697, September 19, 2026: The OC Whiskey Festival with Chris Daily and Leslie Nguyen, Daily Dose Hospitality

Posted on September 21, 2026 by Adam Bell

“While whiskey remains at the heart of the festival, this year’s expanded event brings spirits of all kinds. Guests will have the opportunity to sample tequila, vodka, gin and more from brands including Teremana Tequila, Ketel One Vodka, Grey Goose Vodka, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Nolet’s Gin, with additional brands continuing to join the lineup.”

“Whiskey lovers can look forward to pours from an outstanding collection of distilleries and labels, including Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery, WhistlePig Whiskey, Angel’s Envy Kentucky Bourbon, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester and Jim Beam, among many others.”

“Complementing the spirit tastings will be culinary samples from a growing lineup of restaurants and local favorites, including Bosscat Kitchen, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, Miss Mini Donuts, BABA G Mediterranean, Il Fornaio, Lola’s by MFK, FARMHOUSE at Roger’s Gardens, Malfi Coffee and 90 Pacifica Restaurant & Wine Bar at DoubleTree by Hilton. More restaurants, distilleries and spirit partners are being added to the bill daily.”

Chris Daily, Beverage Director and Owner of Daily Dose Hospitality and Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer and Co-Founder of Daily Dose are our guides to The OC Whiskey Festival.

September 19: The Lobster, Manhattan Beach Food + Wine with Wife and the Somm & Warson Wine, OC Whiskey Festival, Taste America with Mary Sue Milliken

Posted on September 17, 2026 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: The Lobster, Wife and the Somm
Hour Two: Warson Wine Co., OC Whiskey Festival, Mary Sue Milliken, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Executive Chef Govind Armstrong, The Lobster, Santa Monica
Segment Four: Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival Preview with Christy Lucchese of Wife and The Somm
Segment Five: 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Preview with Winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine Co.
Segment Six: The OC Whiskey Festival with Chris Daily and Leslie Nguyen, Daily Dose Hospitality
Segment Seven: The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America: Los Angeles Preview with Mary Sue Milliken, James Beasrd Foundation Trustee
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House and Show Co-host

Santa Monica’s iconic seafood destination, The Lobster, is celebrating their 27^th Anniversary this year. A seafood restaurant has been in this original location for over 100 years. “This legendary seafood restaurant is an internationally recognized dining destination that is as much a part of Santa Monica’s history as it’s neighbor, the Santa Monica Pier. Situated at the intersection of Route 66 and the Pacific Ocean, The Lobster has been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors for decades, offering not only mesmerizing views of the Santa Monica Pier and Malibu coastline but also an award-winning seafood menu under the masterful guidance of acclaimed Chef Govind Armstrong. With Armstrong at the helm, The Lobster is Michelin recognized, a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence.” Chef Govind Armstrong takes a break from shucking oysters to join us.

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser are responsible for the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.” The Wife & the Somm is one of the Friday night participating restaurants in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Co-owner, Wife, and Pastry Chef Christy Lucchese joins us with rolling pin in hand.

Respected winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine is one of the participating boutique wineries of note in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Paul joins us to pop the cork on all this is Warson Wine.

“Orange County’s favorite celebration of premium spirits is back—and this year, whiskey is sharing the spotlight. The OC Whiskey Festival (& More) returns to The Park in Irvine on Thursday, October 1, bringing together an impressive collection of spirit brands, celebrated local restaurants and interactive experiences for an unforgettable evening. While whiskey remains at the heart of the festival, this year’s expanded event brings spirits of all kinds. Guests will have the opportunity to sample tequila, vodka, gin and more from brands including Teremana Tequila, Ketel One Vodka, Grey Goose Vodka, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Nolet’s Gin, with additional brands continuing to join the lineup.” Chris Daily, Beverage Director and Owner of Daily Dose Hospitality and Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer and Co-Founder of Daily Dose are our guides to The OC Whiskey Festival.

“The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America® presented by American Express and Resy brings together chefs, special guests, and diners from across the country to celebrate the local independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. The walk-around tasting at The LINE LA on Tuesday evening, October 6^th will be an exciting gathering of chefs from the Los Angeles culinary community, with food stations hosted by TasteTwenty chefs Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle of Little Fish Melrose Hill, and many other local notable chefs. Each station will reflect the chef’s signature style and highlight the uniqueness of their restaurant and the Los Angeles culinary community. The tasting will also have beverage stations and other activations from James Beard’s national and local sponsors.” Melissa’s is providing all the fresh produce. Celebrity Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill, Alice B.), a James Beard Foundation Trustee, joins us with the details of Taste America: Los Angeles.

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. Today Chef Andrew previews the upcoming California Spiny Lobster Season. That’s some good eating!

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

Santa Monica’s iconic seafood destination, The Lobster, is celebrating their 27^th Anniversary this year. “A seafood restaurant has been in this original location for over 100 years. This legendary seafood spot is an internationally recognized dining destination that is as much a part of Santa Monica’s history as it’s next-door neighbor, the Santa Monica Pier.”

“Situated at the intersection of Route 66 and the Pacific Ocean, The Lobster has been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors for decades, offering not only mesmerizing views of the Santa Monica Pier and Malibu coastline but also an award-winning seafood menu under the masterful guidance of acclaimed Chef Govind Armstrong. With Armstrong at the helm, The Lobster is Michelin recognized, a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence.”

“At the core of its menu, fresh lobster is flown in directly from Maine six days a week with no middleman, ensuring patrons enjoy the freshest catch. The menu features some of Los Angeles’ finest California cuisine, including classic menu favorites that Chef Armstrong has added his own special touch, such as: crispy calamari and prawns with garlic anchovy aioli, ponzu and sweet chili sauce; Summer Corn & Lobster Chowder with Smoked Bacon & Croutons; steamed Maine Lobster, with Gloria’s Blue Lake green beans, Weiser Farms heirloom Potatoes and drawn butter; and grilled Maine lobster with fresh herbs, lemon and drawn garlic butter.”

Happy Hour daily from 3 to 6:00 p.m. and all-day on Friday.

Chef Govind Armstrong takes a break from shucking oysters to join us.

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser have orchestrated the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”

“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”

“Tickets are on sale now for the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine and guests are encouraged to purchase early and begin planning an unforgettable weekend of world-class culinary experiences, exceptional wines and spirits, luxury accommodations, and the relaxed sophistication of beautiful Manhattan Beach. Exclusive Hotel Packages at westdrift Manhattan Beach are also available, inviting guests to stay, sip, savor, and experience Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival all weekend long.”

The Wife & the Somm is one of the Friday night participating restaurants in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Co-owner, Wife, and Pastry Chef Christy Lucchese joins us with her rolling pin in hand.

Winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine is one of the participating wineries in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. He’s there pouring both nights. Paul joins us to pop the cork on all this is Warson Wine.

“Paul Warson grew up in Los Angeles, attended UC Davis where he eventually studied Fermentation Science. Before his final year he worked at a sparkling winery in Carneros when he decided he would spend his career doing what he did for his summer vacation. Upon completion of his degree, he was invited back to see, “the other side of things.””

“Warson Wine Company started as a need Paul felt he had to fulfill. An inner call, to again make wine on his terms, for people to enjoy, but now with the fruit he chooses. There’s so much on the horizon for Warson Wine Company and you can taste for yourself at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.”

Chris Daily, Beverage Director and Owner of Daily Dose Hospitality and Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer and Co-Founder of Daily Dose are our guides to The OC Whiskey Festival.

Mary Sue Milliken of Border Grill and Socalo

“The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America® presented by American Express and Resy brings together chefs, special guests, and diners from across the country to celebrate the local independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. A cohort of chefs, representing 20 markets across the country and known as the TasteTwenty, will host dinners and walk-around tastings spotlighting the breadth and unity of culinary creativity nationwide.”

“The walk-around tasting at The LINE LA on Tuesday evening, October 6^th will be an exciting gathering of chefs from the Los Angeles culinary community, with food stations hosted by TasteTwenty chefs Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle of Little Fish Melrose Hill, and many other local notable chefs. Each station will reflect the chef’s signature style and highlight the uniqueness of their restaurant and the Los Angeles culinary community. The tasting will also have beverage stations and other activations from the James Beard Foundation’s national and local sponsors.” Melissa’s is providing all the fresh produce.

Celebrity Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill, Alice B.), a James Beard Foundation Trustee, joins us with the details of Taste America: Los Angeles.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Calico Fish House

Today Chef Andrew previews the upcoming California Spiny Lobster Season. That’s definitely some good eating!

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: The Lobster, Wife and the Somm
Hour Two: Warson Wine Co., OC Whiskey Festival, Mary Sue Milliken, Andrew Gruel

Show 674, April 11, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on April 13, 2026 by Adam Bell

“Masters of Taste, Los Angeles’ premier outdoor luxury food and beverage festival, returns for its eagerly anticipated eighth annual event, taking place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 3 to 7:00 p.m. once again on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl Stadium. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.” Masters of Taste’s 2026 Host Chefs are the acclaimed husband-and-wife team of Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, widely recognized for their refined, ingredient-driven approach and their impact on Pasadena’s modern dining scene. Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa join us unwrapping all that is the 8th Annual Masters of Taste.

“The success of Pizza City Fest proves that Los Angeles is in fact a Pizza City. For its fourth consecutive year, the two-day pizza-focused celebration will be held atop the Event Deck at L.A. LIVE on April 25th to 26th and spotlight the best pizzerias in Los Angeles and beyond. Pizza City Fest highlights the area’s vast pizza landscape and the diverse talents of the region’s top pizza makers. Aficionados and casual pizza fans alike will have the exclusive opportunity to taste unlimited offerings from 20 premier artisans, plus a pair of dessert options, each day. The pizzerias will be serving up a variety of toppings, sauces and pizza styles including: Neapolitan, Chicago Tavern-style, New York-style, Artisan, Grandma Pie, Detroit-style, New Haven Apizza, L.A.-style and more. Founded in 2022 by three-time Emmy and 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter, Steve Dolinsky, Pizza City Fest continues to delight and unite pizza lovers with events in three major U.S. cities including Dolinsky’s native Chicago, Nashville, and Los Angeles.” Mr. Pizza City Fest himself, Steve Dolinsky, joins us with a Tavern-style slice in hand.

“The eagerly anticipated Taste of Irvine returns on Thursday, April 16, 2026, bringing together the city’s vibrant culinary scene for a night of food, drinks, music, and community. The event will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Park at LAKESHORE, offering guests an immersive evening of unlimited tastings from some of Irvine’s most beloved restaurants and beverage brands. Presented by Daily Dose Hospitality, the restaurant group behind Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, and Baba G Mediterranean, Taste of Irvine continues its mission of celebrating the diverse culinary talent that defines the city. This open-air event will feature unlimited food tastings, curated cocktail samples, craft beer, wine, live music, giveaways, cash bar and more.” Organizer Leslie Nguyen joins us with all the salivating details.

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m. Produced by The Feast of Friends, the annual event brings together many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and inventive chefs and bartenders for a one-night-only culinary showcase. Each participant debuts an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culinary talent in a single, immersive setting.” Co-creator and organizer, Eric Gladstone, joins us to unwrap all the specifics.

Thereafter we chat with Chef and Restaurateur (and Vegas native) James Trees of the Timeless Hospitality Portfolio, the Co-founder of Vegas Unstripped and a past James Beard Award nominee. His newest properties include High Steaks atop The Rio Hotel and Bar Boheme in the Downtown Arts District.

“The success of Pizza City Fest proves that Los Angeles is in fact a Pizza City. For its fourth consecutive year, the two-day pizza-focused celebration will be held atop the Event Deck at L.A. LIVE on April 25th to 26th and spotlight the best pizzerias in Los Angeles and beyond.” Truly Pizza in Dana Point (and soon Laguna Beach) is one of the acclaimed pizzerias participating in Pizza City Fest L.A. “It’s a fellowship of sharing pizza – the world’s greatest communal food. Created by Las Vegas Hospitality Veteran Donna Baldwin, Steve Muller of The Muller Company and world renowned Pizzaiolo Champions Chris Decker, John Arena and Michael Vakneen, Truly Pizza is an artful union of like-minded friends combining diverse talents, like complimentary ingredients on a great pizza. Truly Pizza’s menu showcases whole pies and pizzas by the slice including crispy-airy wood fired and 5-day rise steel pan Sicilian, salads, panini, charcuterie and cheese plates, premium soft-serve desserts, and regional craft beers and wines at approachable price points.” Chefs Chris Decker and Michael Vakneen take a break from kneading the dough in preparation for their Laguna Breach opening to join us.

For our concluding segment at 11:45 a.m. 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. There is a new Food Pyramid out from the US Department of Agriculture & the Department of Health and Human Services. Chef Andrew unwraps the complexity for us (with what we really need to know) and also provides the historical perspective. What does it all mean for how we should be eating? (Rescheduled from last week.)

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

April 11: Masters of Taste with Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, Pizza City Fest LA with Steve Dolinsky and Truly Pizza, Taste of Irvine, Vegas Unstripped

Posted on April 8, 2026 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery, Steve Dolinsky, Leslie Nguyen
Hour Two: Eric Gladstone, James Trees, Truly Pizza, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Masters of Taste Preview with Host Chefs Thomas & Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery
Segment Three: Pizza City Fest L.A. Preview with Founder Steve Dolinsky
Segment Four: Taste of Irvine Preview with Founder Leslie Nguyen
Segment Five: Vegas Unstripped Preview at Palms Casino Resort with Founder Eric Gladstone
Segment Six: Vegas Unstripped Preview at Palms Casino Resort with Celebrity Chef James Trees
Segment Seven: Pizza City Fest L.A. Preview with Pizzaiolos Chris Decker and Michael Vakneen of Truly Pizza, Dana Point
Segment Eight: Andrew Gruel, Chef, Restaurateur and Show Co-Host with “Ask the Chef”

“Masters of Taste, Los Angeles’ premier outdoor luxury food and beverage festival, returns for its eagerly anticipated eighth annual event, taking place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 3 to 7:00 p.m. once again on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl Stadium. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.” Masters of Taste’s 2026 Host Chefs are the acclaimed husband-and-wife team of Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, widely recognized for their refined, ingredient-driven approach and their impact on Pasadena’s modern dining scene. Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa join us unwrapping all that is the 8^th Annual Masters of Taste.

“The success of Pizza City Fest proves that Los Angeles is in fact a Pizza City. For its fourth consecutive year, the two-day pizza-focused celebration will be held atop the Event Deck at L.A. LIVE on April 25^th to 26^th and spotlight the best pizzerias in Los Angeles and beyond. Pizza City Fest highlights the area’s vast pizza landscape and the diverse talents of the region’s top pizza makers. Aficionados and casual pizza fans alike will have the exclusive opportunity to taste unlimited offerings from 20 premier artisans, plus a pair of dessert options, each day. The pizzerias will be serving up a variety of toppings, sauces and pizza styles including: Neapolitan, Chicago Tavern-style, New York-style, Artisan, Grandma Pie, Detroit-style, New Haven Apizza, L.A.-style and more. Founded in 2022 by three-time Emmy and 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter, Steve Dolinsky, Pizza City Fest continues to delight and unite pizza lovers with events in three major U.S. cities including Dolinsky’s native Chicago, Nashville, and Los Angeles.” Mr. Pizza City Fest himself, Steve Dolinsky, joins us with a Detroit-style slice in hand.

“The eagerly anticipated Taste of Irvine returns on Thursday, April 16, 2026, bringing together the city’s vibrant culinary scene for a night of food, drinks, music, and community. The event will take place from 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm at The Park at LAKESHORE, offering guests an immersive evening of unlimited tastings from some of Irvine’s most beloved restaurants and beverage brands. Presented by Daily Dose Hospitality, the restaurant group behind Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, and Baba G Mediterranean, Taste of Irvine continues its mission of celebrating the diverse culinary talent that defines the city. This open-air event will feature unlimited food tastings, curated cocktail samples, craft beer, wine, live music, giveaways, cash bar and more.” Organizer Leslie Nguyen joins us with all the salivating details.

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m. Produced by The Feast of Friends, the annual event brings together many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and inventive chefs and bartenders for a one-night-only culinary showcase. Each participant debuts an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culinary talent in a single, immersive setting.” Co-creator and organizer, Eric Gladstone, joins us to unwrap all the specifics.

Thereafter we chat with Chef and Restaurateur (and Vegas native) James Trees of the Timeless Hospitality Portfolio, the Co-founder of Vegas Unstripped and a past James Beard Award nominee. His newest properties include High Steaks atop The Rio Hotel and Bar Boheme in the Downtown Arts District.

For our concluding segment at 11:45 a.m. 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. There is a new Food Pyramid out from the US Department of Agriculture & The Department of Health and Human Services. Chef Andrew unwraps the complexity for us (with what we really need to know) and also provides the historical perspective. What does it all mean for how we should be eating? (Rescheduled from last week.)

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

Vanessa Tilaka Kalb and Thomas Kalb of Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery

“Masters of Taste, Los Angeles’ premier outdoor luxury food and beverage festival, returns for its eagerly anticipated eighth annual event, taking place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 3 to 7:00 p.m. once again on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl Stadium. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.”

“Masters of Taste’s 2026 Host Chefs are the acclaimed husband-and-wife team of Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, widely recognized for their refined, ingredient-driven approach and their impact on Pasadena’s modern dining scene.”

“As the founders of the celebrated Old Pasadena restaurant and cheese shop, the Tilaka Kalbs have earned critical praise and a devoted following for their elevated Californian comfort food rooted in classic American regional cooking, guided by a seasonal, farm-to-table philosophy and a deep commitment to sourcing from the region’s best farmers, makers, and producers. Celebrated for their mastery of cheese, polished technique, and exceptional hospitality, Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb bring a level of culinary excellence and leadership that makes them a natural and exciting choice to host the eighth annual Masters of Taste.”

Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa join us unwrapping all that is the 8^th annual Masters of Taste.

“Pizza City Fest highlights the area’s vast pizza landscape and the diverse talents of the region’s top pizza makers. Aficionados and casual pizza fans alike will have the exclusive opportunity to taste unlimited offerings from 20 premier artisans, plus a pair of dessert options, each day. The pizzerias will be serving up a variety of toppings, sauces and pizza styles including: Neapolitan, Chicago Tavern-style, New York-style, Artisan, Grandma Pie, Detroit-style, New Haven Apizza, L.A.-style and more.”

“Founded in 2022 by three-time Emmy and 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter, Steve Dolinsky, Pizza City Fest continues to delight and unite pizza lovers with events in three major U.S. cities including Dolinsky’s native Chicago, Nashville, and Los Angeles.”

“We’re so excited to be returning to L.A. for our fourth annual event. The pizza scene in SoCal is as robust as ever,” said Dolinsky. “We’ve added nearly a dozen new options this year covering multiple styles. From Santa Barbara to the Inland Empire and down to San Diego, we’re saving pizza fans from spending hours in their cars to try the best pizzas. Since everything is baked fresh on-site, the taste and experience is just like eating in the pizzeria.”

Mr. Pizza himself, Steve Dolinsky, joins us with a Detroit-style slice in hand.

“Presented by Daily Dose Hospitality, the restaurant group behind Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, and Baba G Mediterranean, Taste of Irvine continues its mission of celebrating the diverse culinary talent that defines the city. This open-air event will feature unlimited food tastings, curated cocktail samples, craft beer, wine, live music, giveaways, cash bar and more.”

“This year’s confirmed beverage partners include industry leaders such as Patrón Tequila, Grey Goose, Ilegal Mezcal, Jack Daniel’s, Ford’s Gin, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Lalo Tequila.”

“This year’s Taste of Irvine will welcome a standout lineup of restaurants including: Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, Puesto, Fogo De Chao, Il Fornaio, Warehouse 72, The Goldfinch, Lazy Dog, Postino and many more — creating an unforgettable evening that showcased the culinary creativity of Irvine’s thriving dining scene.”

“Taste of Irvine truly is a community celebration. This event will bring together restaurants, beverage brands, and foodies from across Orange County, San Diego and Los Angeles for an evening that will highlight the city’s culinary diversity and hospitality spirit. Attendees can expect unlimited bites and sips, engaging brand activations, live music, and exciting giveaways throughout the night.”

Organizer Leslie Nguyen joins us with all the mouthwatering details.

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m.”

“Produced by The Feast of Friends, the annual event brings together many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and inventive chefs and bartenders for a one-night-only culinary showcase. Each participant debuts an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culinary talent in a single, immersive setting.”

Co-creator and Producer Eric Gladstone joins us to unwrap all the specifics.

“This is the most exciting line up of chefs and bar stars yet,” says Gladstone. “We are truly excited to show Las Vegas the cutting edge of our culinary scene all in one place!”

“Created by Eric Gladstone and Chef James Trees in 2018 as a reaction to the Strip-focused Vegas Uncork’d event (now defunct), Vegas Unstripped initially only invited chefs working off-Strip but now welcomes Vegas chefs regardless of where they cook, offering open submissions. All necessary expenses of the independent chef / restaurateur are covered by event revenue to the extent possible, with net proceeds going to underserved local charities. To date, VU has donated nearly $70,000.”

James Trees of Ada's and Esthers Kitchen in Las Vegas

We then chat with Chef and Restaurateur James Trees of the Timeless Hospitality Portfolio, the Co-founder of Vegas Unstripped and a past James Beard Award nominee. His newest properties include High Steaks atop The Rio Hotel and Bar Boheme in the Downtown Arts District.

Chef James takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

There is a new Food Pyramid out from the US Department of Agriculture & the Department of Health and Human Services. Chef Andrew continues unwrapping the complexity for us (with what we really need to know) and also provides the historical perspective. What does it all mean for how we should be eating?

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: Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery, Steve Dolinsky, Leslie Nguyen
Hour Two: Eric Gladstone, James Trees, Truly Pizza, Andrew Gruel