Tag Archives: dean kim

Show 511, February 4, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on by

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and Travel Costa Mesa. Anne Marie joins us in-studio for her regular bi-monthly visit to talk about her recent visit aboard Princess Cruises’ newest ship, The Discovery Princess. She was part of a select travel media group aboard previewing their newest very special VIP amenity, the fully-immersive “360: An Extraordinary Experience.” It engages all of a guest’s senses with tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of a visit to the Mediterranean showcasing the spectacular hilltops of Santorini, Almalfi Coast, Barcelona and Provence. Anne Marie also shares her most recent column suggesting where informed locals like to dine told through the eyes of master baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Company in Orange. His newest recommendable discovery is Orange’s Palm Market & Deli.

“L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants: Celebrating the Legendary Locations Where Angelenos Have Dined for Generations  follows in the footsteps of chef, baker and food historian George Geary’s now classic and critically acclaimed book, L.A.’s Legendary Restaurants.”

“L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants is an illustrated history of over 50 famous Los Angeles restaurants from throughout the 20th century that were not featured in Geary’s first book. The focus in L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants is on restaurants where Angelenos—rather than celebrities—have been dining for generations.” Food Historian and Chef George Geary joins us with a Philippe’s lamb dip sandwich in hand.

“Cheferbly, an innovative new private dining reservation platform for private chefs and caterers, has launched in Southern California. Founded last November by Orange County native Kevin Kim, the web-based platform is designed to democratize and demystify private dining while simultaneously propelling accomplished private chefs and caterers into the spotlight. Cheferbly’s mission is to provide a space that empowers consumers to explore and discover unique pop-ups and private dining possibilities, much like they would search for restaurant reservations on platforms like OpenTable or Tock. Cheferbly is a simplified booking solution that makes private dining accessible to everyone, from curious foodies to celebrating families to corporate decision-makers.” Cheferbly’s founder, Kevin Kim, joins us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behindtherecently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. How do you feel about full-service restaurants not accepting cash? How about a mandatory Service Charge added to your check. Is that considered a tip? Is it appropriate to tip at a fast- food restaurant or your neighborhood donut shop? Should the gratuity be based on the pre-tax total or the amount after sales tax has been added. Confused…? We’ll ask the chef.

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

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 511, February 4, 2023: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part One

Posted on by
Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and Travel Costa Mesa. 

Anne Marie joins us in-studio for her regular bi-monthly visit to talk about her recent visit aboard Princess Cruises’ newest ship, the Discovery Princess. She was part of a select travel media group aboard previewing their newest very special VIP amenity, the fully-immersive “360: An Extraordinary Experience.” It engages all of a guest’s senses with tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of a visit to the Mediterranean showcasing the spectacular hilltops of Santorini, Almalfi Coast, Barcelona and Provence.

Anne Marie will also share her most recent column suggesting where informed locals like to dine told through the eyes of master baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Company in Orange. His newest discovery is Orange’s Palm Market & Deli. A favorite sandwich there is the Cubini, served hot. “It’s pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles with stone ground mustard and served on potato telera bread.”

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 511, February 4, 2023: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part Two

Posted on by
Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and Travel Costa Mesa. 

Anne Marie joins us in-studio for her regular bi-monthly visit to talk about her recent visit aboard Princess Cruises’ newest ship, the Discovery Princess. She was part of a select travel media group aboard previewing their newest very special VIP amenity, the fully-immersive “360: An Extraordinary Experience.” It engages all of a guest’s senses with tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of a visit to the Mediterranean showcasing the spectacular hilltops of Santorini, Almalfi Coast, Barcelona and Provence.

Anne Marie will also share her most recent column suggesting where informed locals like to dine told through the eyes of master baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Company in Orange. His newest discovery is Orange’s Palm Market & Deli. A favorite sandwich there is the Cubini, served hot. “It’s pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles with stone ground mustard and served on potato telera bread.” Dean also frequents Brodard Vietnamese Cuisine in Fountain Valley and Hamamori Restaurant and Sushi Bar in South Coast Plaza, among other favorites.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

February 4: Anne Marie Panoringan, George Geary, Cheferbly

Posted on by

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: Chef George Geary, Food Historian. His latest title is L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants Part One
Segment Five: Chef George Geary, Food Historian. His latest title is L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants Part Two
Segment Six: Cheferbly Private Dining Platform with Founder Kevin Kim Part One
Segment Seven: Cheferbly Private Dining Platform with Founder Kevin Kim 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.

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and Travel Costa Mesa. Anne Marie joins us in-studio for her regular bi-monthly visit to talk about her recent visit aboard Princess Cruises’ newest ship, The Discovery Princess. She was part of a select travel media group aboard previewing their newest very special VIP amenity, the fully-immersive “360: An Extraordinary Experience.” It engages all of a guest’s senses with tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of a visit to the Mediterranean showcasing the spectacular hilltops of Santorini, Almalfi Coast, Barcelona and Provence. Anne Marie also shares her most recent column suggesting where informed locals like to dine told through the eyes of master baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Company in Orange. His newest recommendable discovery is Orange’s Palm Market & Deli.

“L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants: Celebrating the Legendary Locations Where Angelenos Have Dined for Generations follows in the footsteps of chef, baker and food historian George Geary’s now classic and critically acclaimed book, L.A.’s Legendary Restaurants.”

“L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants is an illustrated history of over 50 famous Los Angeles restaurants from throughout the 20th century that were not featured in Geary’s first book. The focus in L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants is on restaurants where Angelenos—rather than celebrities—have been dining for generations.” Chef George Geary joins us with a Philippe’s lamb dip sandwich in hand.

“Cheferbly, an innovative new private dining reservation platform for private chefs and caterers, has launched in Southern California. Founded last November by Orange County native Kevin Kim, the web-based platform is designed to democratize and demystify private dining while simultaneously propelling accomplished private chefs and caterers into the spotlight. Cheferbly’s mission is to provide a space that empowers consumers to explore and discover unique pop-ups and private dining possibilities, much like they would search for restaurant reservations on platforms like OpenTable or Tock. Cheferbly is a simplified booking solution that makes private dining accessible to everyone, from curious foodies to celebrating families to corporate decision-makers.” Cheferbly’s founder, Kevin Kim, joins us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. How do you feel about full-service restaurants not accepting cash? How about a mandatory Service Charge added to your check. Is that considered a tip? Is it appropriate to tip at a fast-food restaurant or your neighborhood donut shop? Should the gratuity be based on the pre-tax total or the amount after sales tax has been added. Confused…? We’ll ask the chef.

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

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and Travel Costa Mesa. 

Anne Marie joins us in-studio for her regular bi-monthly visit to talk about her recent visit aboard Princess Cruises’ newest ship, the Discovery Princess. She was part of a select travel media group aboard previewing their newest very special VIP amenity, the fully-immersive “360: An Extraordinary Experience.” It engages all of a guest’s senses with tastes, sights, sounds, touches and fragrances of a visit to the Mediterranean showcasing the spectacular hilltops of Santorini, Almalfi Coast, Barcelona and Provence.

Anne Marie will also share her most recent column suggesting where informed locals like to dine told through the eyes of master baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Company in Orange. His newest discovery is Orange’s Palm Market & Deli. A favorite sandwich there is the Cubini, served hot. “It’s pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles with stone ground mustard and served on potato telera bread.”

Cookbook Author George Geary

“L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants: Celebrating the Legendary Locations Where Angelenos Have Dined for Generations follows in the footsteps of chef, baker and food historian George Geary’s now classic and critically acclaimed book, L.A.’s Legendary Restaurants.”

“L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants is an illustrated history of over 50 famous Los Angeles restaurants from throughout the 20th century that were not featured in Geary’s first book. The focus in L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants is on restaurants where Angelenos—rather than celebrities—have been dining for generations.”

“Along with recipes made famous by each restaurant, L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants contains profiles of such legendary eateries as Cole’s, Philippe the Original, Pacific Dining Car, The Original Pantry Café, The Victor Hugo, Canter’s Delicatessen, Sportsmen’s Lodge, Mocambo, Nate ’n Al’s, The Smoke House, Tail o’ the Pup, The Apple Pan, Valentino, and dozens of other beloved establishments in this beautiful tribute to Los Angeles and its historic restaurants. Truly a love letter to Los Angeles and its world famous cuisine, L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants is sure to bring back treasured memories and knowing smiles from anyone who has dined at these fabled establishments.”

Chef George Geary joins us with a Philippe’s lamb dip sandwich in hand.

Kevin Kim of Cheferbly

“Cheferbly, an innovative new private dining reservation platform for private chefs and caterers, has launched in Southern California. Founded last November by Orange County native Kevin Kim, the web-based platform is designed to democratize and demystify private dining while simultaneously propelling private chefs and caterers into the spotlight.”

“Cheferbly’s mission is to provide a space that empowers consumers to explore and discover unique pop-ups and private dining possibilities, much like they would search for restaurant reservations on platforms like OpenTable or Tock. Cheferbly is a simplified booking solution that makes private dining accessible to everyone, from curious foodies to celebrating families to corporate decision-makers.”

“Exclusive to private dining experiences, the first-of-its-kind platform simplifies the booking process for both chef and consumer. Cheferbly’s robust reservation and guest management system is an attractive solution for private chefs and caterers by handling everything from event promotion to credit card processing. Similarly, the platform’s streamlined booking process provides clarity to consumers through a comprehensive and visual directory of local private chefs and caterers and their bookable private dining and pop-up experiences, complete with courses, pricing, and booking details.”

“The process for booking catered dinners was so complicated, time-consuming, and seemingly antiquated, given restaurant reservations can be made with the click of a button,” adds Kim. “I wanted to simplify the relationship between private chefs and consumers by creating a solution that would make their service accessible to everyone. Cheferbly was created to bridge that gap.”

“Kim has assembled an all-star roster of local culinary talent for the platform’s debut in Southern California last November. Users can peruse various multi-course private dining offerings, from opulent omakase experiences to in-depth explorations of global, regional, and seasonal cuisines.”

Cheferbly’s founder, Kevin Kim, joins us.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

How do you feel about full-service restaurants not accepting cash? How about a mandatory Service Charge added to your check? Is that considered a tip? Is it appropriate to tip at a fast-food restaurant or your neighborhood donut shop? Should the gratuity be based on the pre-tax total or the amount after sales tax has been added? Confused…? We’ll ask the chef.

Chef Andrew and Lauren Gruel have a new fast casual concept, Burger 101, coming soon to the 2-level, Kitchen United complex on the 3rd St. Promenade in Santa Monica. It’s Chef Andrew’s version of a value-priced, honest burger (and loaded fries) using quality ingredients including a premium burger patty sourced from West Coast Prime Meats. He’ll also launch a casual Mexican concept there, Lolo’s Tacos, specializing in clean and simple tacos, burritos and standout specialty sauces.

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: Chef George Geary, Food Historian. His latest title is L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants Part One
Segment Five: Chef George Geary, Food Historian. His latest title is L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants Part Two
Segment Six: Cheferbly Private Dining Platform with Founder Kevin Kim Part One
Segment Seven: Cheferbly Private Dining Platform with Founder Kevin Kim Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 402, December 5, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on by

Time for a generous serving of Holiday Cheer. …We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

“Dubbed “The Stir-Fry Guru” by the New York Times, Grace Young has devoted her career to celebrating wok cookery through her cookbooks and videos. On March 15, 2020, she began Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories, an oral history project with videographer Dan Ahn, in collaboration with Poster House, documenting the stories of how Manhattan’s Chinatown has been impacted by COVID-19. The Smithsonian National Museum of American History featured Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories in their 2020 Youth Summit for middle and high school students as an exemplar of how one person is addressing the challenging question of how we choose to strengthen a community in the middle of a pandemic.” Grace Young, a multiple James Beard Award recipient, joins us.

We’re delighted to welcome back accomplished food editor, recipe creator and food stylist, Tara Bench, discussing Holiday cooking. “Tara Bench (aka “Tara Teaspoon”) has spent more than twenty years in the food publishing industry creating recipes and articles, and food styling for various magazines, books, television, and advertising.  Working as a food editor at Martha Stewart Living, and as the food and entertaining director of Ladies’ Home Journal, she knows how to write recipes for beginners as well as real foodies. Her philosophy is that anyone can cook and enjoy their time in the kitchen, and in her first cookbook, Live Life Deliciously – Recipes for Busy Weekdays & Leisurely Weekends, she proves it.” We’re back in the kitchen cooking with Tara Bench.

Connie and Ted’s in West Hollywood is inspired by the real Connie & Ted (the grandparents of Chef & Proprietor Michael Cimarusti,) their love for family, and the good times they spent together fishing off the shores of New England. At Connie and Ted’s you’ll find simply prepared fish and shellfish, inspired by the classic clam shacks, oyster bars, and fish houses, that dot the New England Seaboard and the West Coast. General Manager Matthew DeMarte has been there since the beginning. We’ll reel him in to explain how Connie & Ted’s is now hospitably serving their guests with takeaway.

Rob Lewis is the proprietor of both Lewis Station Winery and Stable Rock Winery & Distillery in Wisconsin. He started as an accomplished  home winemaker. “Lewis Station Winery is one of Wisconsin’s unique premium urban wineries in a re-purposed gas station. They specialize in small-batch, hand crafted premium award-winning wines using a low sulfite, natural approach to wine making.  “Stable Rock Winery & Distillery is a brand new winery & distillery located in a historic stable, on the banks of the Rock River in Jefferson, Wisconsin. Stable Rock has several German influences with it’s wines and food all while guests sit at authentic German Beer Garden tables. Winemaker Rob Lewis joins us to pull the cork on the specifics of home winemaking.

“Those who want to support small businesses and get great, high-quality artisan-made food to take home, will enjoy the continuing Artisan Pop-Up, every Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at OC Baking Company (1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865). Guests can pick up with the convenience of one-stop shopping delicious fresh-baked breads from OC Baking Company; heart-warming curries from ADYA; and croissants, pastries and quiche from Crema Artisan Bakery. Other gourmet food items available, too, from local, artisan small purveyors. Artisans and offerings vary every Friday.” Many of the purveyors are cash only. Be prepared.

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 which is a genuine (and growing) concern. New restrictions for restaurants are now in effect for all of Southern California as we approach the all-important Holiday dining season. Our thoughts now turn to festive Holiday entertaining at home. Chef Andrew presented his recipe for Lobster Pot Pie (guaranteed comfort food) on the Hallmark Channel’s “Home & Family” show this week. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 402, December 5, 2020: Baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Co. and Chef Shachi Mehra of ADYA

Posted on by

Dean Kim of the OC Baking Company“Those who want to support small businesses and get great, high-quality artisan-made food to take home, will enjoy the continuing Artisan Pop-Up, every Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at OC Baking Company (1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865). Guests can pick up with the convenience of one-stop shopping delicious fresh-baked breads from OC Baking Company; heart-warming curries from ADYA; and croissants, pastries and quiche from Crema Artisan Bakery. Other gourmet food items available, too, from local, artisan small purveyors. Artisans and offerings vary every Friday.” Most purveyors accept cash only. Please be prepared.

As of Wednesday, December 16th the ongoing Artisan Foods Pop-Up at OC Baking Co. will expand to both Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

December 5: Grace Young, Tara Teaspoon, Connie & Ted’s, Lewis Station Winery, OC Baking Company

Posted on by

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Grace Young, James Beard Award-winning Author with “Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories” Part One
Segment Three: Grace Young, James Beard Award-winning Author with “Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories” Part Two
Segment Four: Tara Bench – Food Editor, Recipe Developer and Food Stylist with Live Life Deliciously
Segment Five: Matthew DeMarte, General Manager, Connie & Ted’s, West Hollywood
Segment Six: Rob Lewis, Proprietor, Lewis Station Winery and Stable Rock Winery & Distillery, Wisconsin
Segment Seven: Baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Co. and Chef Shachi Mehra of ADYA
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Time for a generous serving of Holiday Cheer. …We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

“Dubbed “The Stir-Fry Guru” by the New York Times, Grace Young has devoted her career to celebrating wok cookery through her cookbooks and videos. On March 15, 2020, she began Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories, an oral history project with videographer Dan Ahn, in collaboration with Poster House, documenting the stories of how Manhattan’s Chinatown has been impacted by COVID-19. The Smithsonian National Museum of American History featured Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories in their 2020 Youth Summit for middle and high school students as an exemplar of how one person is addressing the challenging question of how we choose to strengthen a community in the middle of a pandemic.” Grace Young, a James Beard Award recipient, joins us.

We’re delighted to welcome back food editor and recipe creator, Tara Bench, discussing Holiday cooking. “Tara Bench (aka “Tara Teaspoon”) has spent more than twenty years in the food publishing industry creating recipes and articles, and food styling for various magazines, books, television, and advertising.  Working as a food editor at Martha Stewart Living, and as the food and entertaining director of Ladies’ Home Journal, she knows how to write recipes for beginners as well as real foodies. Her philosophy is that anyone can cook and enjoy their time in the kitchen, and in her first cookbook, Live Life Deliciously – Recipes for Busy Weekdays & Leisurely Weekends, she proves it.” We’re back in the kitchen cooking with Tara Bench.

Connie and Ted’s in West Hollywood is inspired by the real Connie & Ted (the grandparents of Chef Michael Cimarusti,) their love for family, and the good times they spent together fishing off the shores of New England. At Connie and Ted’s you’ll find simply prepared fish and shellfish, inspired by the classic clam shacks, oyster bars, and fish houses, that dot the New England Seaboard and the West Coast. General Manager Matthew DeMarte has been there since the beginning. We’ll reel him in to explain how Connie & Ted’s is still hospitably serving their guests with takeaway.

Rob Lewis is the proprietor of both Lewis Station Winery and Stable Rock Winery & Distillery in Wisconsin. He started as an accomplished home winemaker. “Lewis Station Winery is one of Wisconsin’s unique premium urban wineries in a re-purposed gas station. They specialize in small-batch, hand crafted premium award-winning wines using a low sulfite, natural approach to wine making.  “Stable Rock Winery & Distillery is a brand new winery & distillery located in a historic stable, on the banks of the Rock River in Jefferson, Wisconsin. Stable Rock has several German influences with it’s wines and food all while guests sit at authentic German Beer Garden tables. Winemaker Rob Lewis joins us to pull the cork on the specifics of home winemaking.

“Those who want to support small businesses and get great, high-quality artisan-made food to take home, will enjoy the continuing Artisan Pop-Up, every Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at OC Baking Company (1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865). Guests can pick up with the convenience of one-stop shopping delicious fresh-baked breads from OC Baking Company; heart-warming curries from ADYA; and croissants, pastries and quiche from Crema Artisan Bakery. Other gourmet food items available, too, from local, artisan small purveyors. Artisans and offerings vary every Friday.” Cash only.

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 which is a genuine (and growing) concern. Our thoughts now turn to festive Holiday entertaining. What’s better on than a Lobster Pot Pie? We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

Stir Fry Queen Grace Young“Dubbed “The Stir-Fry Guru” by the New York Times, Grace Young has devoted her career to celebrating wok cookery through her cookbooks and videos. On March 15, 2020, she began Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories, an oral history project with videographer Dan Ahn, in collaboration with Poster House, documenting the stories of how Manhattan’s Chinatown has been impacted by COVID-19. The Smithsonian National Museum of American History featured Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories in their 2020 Youth Summit for middle and high school students as an exemplar of how one person is addressing the challenging question of how we choose to strengthen a community in the middle of a pandemic.”

Grace Young has partnered with the James Beard Foundation on an Instagram campaign to support Chinese restaurants all across the country. All independent restaurants are in danger of closing, and Chinese Americans have faced additional hardship as racism connected to COVID-19 rhetoric has threatened businesses even further.

“Help spread the word that Chinese restaurants are integral to America’s food culture and need our support now.”

How to participate:

  • Post a photo of your favorite dish from your local Chinese restaurant (takeout or dine-in) on Instagram with the hashtag #SaveChineseRestaurants and nominate your friends and followers to do the same.
  • Tag @beardfoundation and The James Beard Foundation will repost some of their favorites.

“In New York and San Francisco’s Chinatowns, the pandemic wiped out a steady customer base of both tourism and walk-in traffic from office workers. Now facing back rent and mounting bills, and with the onset of cold weather and limited indoor dining, barely surviving establishments are hanging on by sheer grit. We urgently need the #SaveChineseRestaurants campaign, launched together with the James Beard Foundation, which asks each of us—including family and friends—to support these restaurants just by showing up, either for takeout or dining in. This is a crisis and without steady patronage, these businesses will not survive. I truly believe if we all pitch in we can save these eateries and treasured ethnic neighborhoods everywhere.” — Grace Young

Grace is on a mission to spread the word that Chinese restaurants are integral to America’s food culture and need our support right now. She is our guest.

Tara BenchWe’re delighted to welcome back food editor and recipe creator Tara Bench discussing Holiday cooking. “Tara Bench (aka “Tara Teaspoon”) has spent more than twenty years in the food publishing industry creating recipes and articles, and food styling for various magazines, books, television, and advertising.  Working as a food editor at Martha Stewart Living, and as the food and entertaining director of Ladies’ Home Journal, she knows how to write recipes for beginners as well as real foodies. Her philosophy is that anyone can cook and enjoy their time in the kitchen, and in her first cookbook, Live Life Deliciously – Recipes for Busy Weekdays & Leisurely Weekends, she proves it.”

“Whether you’re a casual cook or a die-hard, classically-trained chef, you’ll have complete success on each and every recipe. She sets you up with flavor descriptions and tips and tricks (including an entire section on kitchen equipment, her favorite tools, and why they are so important).”

“Each chapter is from the heart and inspired by Tara’s family heritage and experiences eating at the best restaurants and tastiest dives in New York City. Create wonderful memories through food you can share with the people who love and inspire you.”

Tara will share some of her Holiday favorite recipes that are enjoyed by her own Family. You’ll be tempted with Mandarin and Prosciutto Crostini, and Moroccan Kebabs with Chermoula Sauce.

We’re happily back in the kitchen with Tara Bench.

Matthew de Marte wearing a mask at Connie and Ted'sConnie and Ted’s in West Hollywood is inspired by the real Connie & Ted (the grandparents of Chef Michael Cimarusti,) their love for family, and the good times they spent together fishing off the shores of New England. At Connie and Ted’s you’ll find simply prepared fish and shellfish, inspired by the classic clam shacks, oyster bars, and fish houses, that dot the New England Seaboard and the West Coast.

General Manager Matthew DeMarte has been there since the beginning. We reel him in to explain how Connie & Ted’s is still hospitably serving their guests with takeaway.

Rob Lewis of Lewis Station WineryRob Lewis is the proprietor of both Lewis Station Winery and Stable Rock Winery & Distillery in Wisconsin. He started as an accomplished home winemaker.

“Lewis Station Winery is one of Wisconsin’s unique premium urban wineries in a re-purposed gas station. They specialize in small-batch, hand crafted premium award-winning wines using a low sulfite, natural approach to wine making. Lewis Station also have a large variety of Wisconsin craft beers and an appealing bistro style food menu. They offer “tasting flights” to enjoy the wines of Wisconsin’s First Certified Craft Winery.”

“Stable Rock Winery & Distillery is a brand new winery & distillery located in a historic stable, on the banks of the Rock River in Jefferson, Wisconsin. Considering Jefferson’s rich German history, Stable Rock has several German influences with it’s wines and food all while guests sit at authentic German Beer Garden tables and benches obtained directly from Munich, Germany.”

All of Stable Rock’s unique wines and spirits are bottled on site.

Winemaker Rob Lewis joins us to pull the cork on the intriguing specifics of home winemaking.

Dean Kim of the OC Baking Company“Those who want to support small businesses and get great, high-quality artisan-made food to take home, will enjoy the continuing Artisan Pop-Up, every Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at OC Baking Company (1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865). Guests can pick up with the convenience of one-stop shopping delicious fresh-baked breads from OC Baking Company; heart-warming curries from ADYA; and croissants, pastries and quiche from Crema Artisan Bakery. Other gourmet food items available, too, from local, artisan small purveyors. Artisans and offerings vary every Friday.” Cash only.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant GroupOur 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 which is a genuine (and growing) concern.

Our thoughts now turn to festive Holiday entertaining at home. Chef Andrew presented his recipe for Lobster Pot Pie (guaranteed comfort food) on the Hallmark Channel’s “Home & Family” show this week. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Grace Young, James Beard Award-winning Author with “Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories” Part One
Segment Three: Grace Young, James Beard Award-winning Author with “Coronavirus: Chinatown Stories” Part Two
Segment Four: Tara Bench – Food Editor, Recipe Developer and Food Stylist with Live Life Deliciously
Segment Five: Matthew DeMarte, General Manager, Connie & Ted’s, West Hollywood
Segment Six: Rob Lewis, Proprietor, Lewis Station Winery and Stable Rock Winery & Distillery, Wisconsin
Segment Seven: Baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Co. and Chef Shachi Mehra of ADYA
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 397, October 31, 2020: Chef & Proprietor Jonathan Blackford of Fork & Knife in Costa Mesa Part Two

Posted on by

Jonathan Blackford of A Restaurant and CDM Restaurant“Led by Chef Jonathan Blackford (ex-A Restaurant and CdM Restaurant,) the newly launched Fork & Knife in Costa Mesa aims to present a menu of progressive, modern dishes that are meant to be enjoyed at home. Serving as an extension of the home kitchen, the concept presents globally inspired dishes that focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors while presenting an innovative experience.

“Fork & Knife’s honest approach to cooking comes through in seasonal, from-scratch fully prepared meals and inspired grab-and-go items that change daily, ranging from sandwiches and prepared pastas, to easy-to-eat-on-the-go dishes and desserts. The kitchen also oversees the production of house-made retail-focused items such as fresh-made pastas, jams, sauces, dressings and more.”

“Last Friday Chef Blackford introduced his signature Paella, which is offered every Friday for pick-up between 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Every week, Chef Blackford presents a different Paella, beginning initially with Seafood & Chorizo, cooked in a large traditional steel pan. The Paella is not available for pre-order, and is sold first come, first serve for $28 per order.”

Fork & Knife has created a special Cubano Sandwich that has attracted the attention of proprietor Dean Kim of the ever- popular OC Baking Co. He’s a genuine foodie. We gently ask Chef Jonathan about Baker Dean’s obsession with the sandwich. It’s apparently a daily habit.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 367, April 4, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on by

It’s a disconcerting and confusing time for all of us and our “SoCal Restaurant Show” mission, until the Covid-19 crisis is fully abated, is to provide reliable and genuinely useful information on how the restaurant business is coping with the rapidly evolving events. With an emphasis on the health, safety and well-being of our listeners we’ll be detailing what the range of services restaurants can provide to their guests. Creativity is at the forefront. There are inspiring accomplishments out there in this time of great need. We’re keeping it upbeat…

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoAlso expect more helpful cooking tips along the way from Chef Andrew Gruel because we’re all doing more meal prep at home. Chef Andrew is an incredible resource because he’s a real, working chef who cooks simply for his own family at home.

Thanks so very much for the highly positive response to last month’s restaurant guests.

Chefs and restaurateurs are the most generous people I know. In times of need they are always the very first in generously giving back and meaningfully supporting their communities. Truly remarkable…Right now restaurants urgently need our support to stay afloat. Kindly keep this in mind and please do what you possibly can as you are able to support a community-focused, local restaurant….

As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without the engaged foodie community.

After a long day at work (in normal times,) heading home to cook a fussy, complicated meal is the last thing anyone wants to do. Keeping it Simple – Easy Weeknight One-Pot Recipes by Yasmin Fahr is the ultimate collection to have on hand for these moments, featuring over 60 quick, impressive, healthyish, and delicious one-pot/pan/tray dinners that can be whipped up in the time it takes to have a glass of wine.

Food writer and recipe developer Yasmin Fahr joins us.

“Those who want to support small businesses and get great, high-quality artisan-made food to take home, will enjoy an Artisan Pop-Up, every weekday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at OC Baking Company (1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865). Guests can pick up with the convenience of one-stop shopping delicious fresh-baked breads from OC Baking Company; heart-warming curries from ADYA; wholesome stews from Break of Dawn; croissants, pastries and quiche from Crema Artisan Bakery; hot sauce and dressings from Sessions; and Italian family meals from Sessions. Artisans and offerings vary daily.”

A group of community-spirited, local chefs is offering those on the front line at local Urgent Care and Emergency Rooms a free meal to take to their family. As their way of showing appreciation, Break of Dawn Chef/Owner Dee Nguyen, OC Baking Company Baker/Owner Dean Kim, and Crema Artisan Cafe Baker/Owner Tarit Tanjasiri will offer these local heroes the opportunity to pick up home-made chicken noodle soup, a loaf of fresh-baked bread, and a decadent gourmet cookie. Pickup for local Healthcare Workers is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at OC Baking Company, 1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865. Chef Dee Nguyen of Break of Dawn joins us to explain the program.

One of our informed resident Meatheads from West Coast Prime Meats, Jay Henderson, has decades of practical experience with center plate proteins and the intricacies of serving the Hospitality Industry. Restaurants have been severely impacted by the current health crisis. Jay has some perspective on how restaurants are coping with the growing crisis. Since we’re now cooking more at home for the interim we might persuade Jay to share some practical cooking advice, too.

The Ranch Restaurant in Anaheim is, of course, not available for dine-in during the present health crisis. Executive Chef Michael Rossi has artfully shifted to a new, a la carte Curbside Pick-Up Menu including some of their signature house specialties that travel reasonably well. There are ample choices of Starters, Salads, Pasta, Sandwiches & Burgers, Steak, Fish & Chicken, and Pastry Chef David Rossi’s incredibly decadent desserts (including the award-winning Buttered Popcorn Ice Cream by the pint.) Contemplate an 8 oz. Prime Flat Iron Steak with Baby Dutch Potatoes, House-Made Pancetta, Saint Agur Blue Cheese and Wild Arugula. Executive Chef Michael Rossi joins us from curbside at The Ranch.

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 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. Of course, the safety of restaurant employees and guests comes first. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 367, April 4, 2020: Dean Kim of OC Baking Co. & Chef Dee Nguyen of Break of Dawn

Posted on by

Dean Kim of OC Baking CompanyThose who want to support small businesses and get great, high-quality artisan-made food to take home, will enjoy an Artisan Pop-Up, every weekday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at OC Baking Company (1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865).

Guests can pick up delicious fresh-baked breads from OC Baking Company; heart-warming curries from ADYA; wholesome stews from Break of Dawn; croissants, pastries and quiche from Crema Artisan Bakery ; hot sauce and dressings from Sessions; and Italian family meals from BELLO by Sandro Nardone. Artisans and offerings vary daily.

Master Baker Dean Kim of OC Baking Co.is with us along with Chef Dee Nguyen of Break of Dawn providing all the well-proofed details.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS