Tag Archives: Dr. Shica Little

Show 589, August 10, 2024: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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“From the time Dr. Shica (Dr. Shica’s Bakery, Los Angeles) got her first Easy-Bake Oven, she knew that she loved to bake. Growing up in South Carolina, she baked with her grandma and learned that the best desserts come from using the best ingredients. When Dr. Shica founded her bakery, she committed to using only high-quality, premium ingredients to create her gourmet signature desserts.” Dr Shica’s cookies are currently available nationwide at TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods. “Known for her optimism and warm personality, Dr. Shica’s home-baked flavor will brighten any day. Dr. Shica’s new Plant-Based cookies are dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free and low calorie but still very delicious and highly craveable. Each bag is shelf stable and resealable so you can enjoy them now or later. The product comes in 4 flavors (Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Lemon and Sugar Confetti).” Dr. Shica briefly puts down her rolling pin to join us.

“Located in Newport Beach, California on the site of the old City Hall, The Mayor’s Table is Lido House’s signature dining venue. Featuring a focus on seasonal, chef-driven cuisine, including an open action kitchen, Mayor’s Table is both a premiere dining destination and neighborhood hot spot. The ideal setting to enjoy a leisurely brunch or a memorable night out with friends, Mayor’s Table is the perfect place for celebrations large and small. In May the restaurant debuted an all-new dinner menu, complete with experiential and tableside offerings. This overhaul marks the most significant change to the Mayor’s Table menu since its inception in 2018. From the collaborative efforts of Chef-Partner Riley Huddleston, Executive Chef Jonathan de la Cruz, and Chef de Cuisine Nicholas Escobar, the Mayor’s Table culinary team proudly unveiled a bold seasonal menu showcasing their take on reimagined American cuisine.” Service is gracefully overseen by hospitality veteran and General Manager, Quentin Gravet. Executive Chef Jonathan de la Cruz and GM Quentin Gravet join us.

“A typical night out for sisters Leslie and LeAnn Jones includes great wine, great food and great friends at some of their favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. Leslie, a luxury wedding planner, and LeAnn, an attorney, were tired of going outside of their neighborhood to enjoy delicious wine and food. With Leslie’s background in hospitality and LeAnn’s knowledge and love of wine, the sisters decided to open 1010 Wine and Events in 2021. 1010 Wine is an upscale wine bar (with elevated cuisine) located in the heart of Inglewood, CA, the city that raised Leslie and LeAnn and where they still currently reside. 1010 Wine is the first and only wine bar in the City of Champions. The new, elevated dinner menu under the direction of Chef Mo Marvel features highlights such as Salmon Crudo, Piri Piri Chicken and Prime Beef Bavette.” Leslie Jones joins us to uncork all that is 1010 Wine & Events.

“Foodies already know that authentic New Mexico Hatch Peppers make everything better — burgers, pizzas, tacos, omelets, guacamole, salsa …” It’s the always anticipated fresh Hatch Chile season for the next month. Check the Melissa’s Website for the schedule of Weekend roasting near you.. “Named after the original growing area in Hatch, New Mexico, authentic Hatch Peppers are truly a Southwestern favorite. No other pepper is prized more than this variety, which grows in the Hatch Valley, just north of Las Cruces. The valley, which stretches along the Rio Grande’s southern-most bend before crossing into Texas and Mexico, is covered with row after row of these green leafy pepper plants for most of the summer. Thick, juicy, and totally delicious, Hatch Chiles come in a variety of heat levels to suit every taste.” Our well-informed, resident Prince of Produce (and an unabashed Hatch Chile Pepper-Head), Robert Schueller, joins us to turn up the heat on all things Hatch Peppers.

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

Show 589, August 10, 2024: Dr. Shica’s Bakery (Los Angeles) with Founder Dr. Shica Little

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“From the time Dr. Shica (Dr. Shica’s Bakery, Los Angeles) got her first Easy-Bake Oven, she knew that she loved to bake. Growing up in South Carolina, she baked with her grandma and learned that the best desserts come from using the best ingredients. When Dr. Shica founded her bakery, she committed to using only high-quality, premium ingredients to create her gourmet signature desserts.”

“From a small town in the South to Southern California, Dr. Shica now delivers her Southern-style treats to Hollywood executives and actors. Garnering praise from renowned chefs, producers, and on-air personalities, her rich and fudgy “Almost Famous Brownies” have created quite a stir – several producers even have a standing weekly order.”

“Dr. Shica knew she needed to expand her baked goods to meet the growing demand for vegan treats. She developed a line of mouth-watering, plant-based desserts that satisfy those sweet cravings and allow her customers to maintain their vegan lifestyles.”

Dr Shica’s cookies are currently available nationwide at TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods. Select area Costco stores for Roadshows (Culver City) are on the future horizon. Known for her optimism and warm personality, Dr. Shica’s home-baked flavor will brighten any day.

“Dr. Shica’s new Plant-Based cookies are dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free and low calorie but still very delicious and highly craveable. Each bag is shelf stable and resealable so you can enjoy them now or later. The product comes in 4 flavors (Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Lemon and Sugar Confetti).”

Dr. Shica puts down her rolling pin to join us.

August 10: Dr. Shica, The Mayor’s Table, 1010 Wine and Events, Hatch Chile Season at Melissa’s Produce

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Dr. Shica’s Bakery (Los Angeles) with Founder Dr. Shica Little
Segments Four and Five: Mayor’s Table Pacific Pub & Kitchen, Lido House, Newport Beach
Segment Six: 1010 Wine and Events, Inglewood, with Co-Proprietress Leslie Jones
Segments Seven and Eight: Hatch Chile Pepper Season with Melissa’s Robert Schueller

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

“From the time Dr. Shica (Dr. Shica’s Bakery, Los Angeles) got her first Easy-Bake Oven, she knew that she loved to bake. Growing up in South Carolina, she baked with her grandma and learned that the best desserts come from using the best ingredients. When Dr. Shica founded her bakery, she committed to using only high-quality, premium ingredients to create her gourmet signature desserts.” Dr Shica’s cookies are currently available nationwide at TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods. “Known for her optimism and warm personality, Dr. Shica’s home-baked flavor will brighten any day. Dr. Shica’s new Plant-Based cookies are dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free and low calorie but still very delicious and highly craveable. Each bag is shelf stable and resealable so you can enjoy them now or later. The product comes in 4 flavors (Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Lemon and Sugar Confetti).” Dr. Shica puts down her rolling pin to join us.

“Located in Newport Beach, California on the site of the old City Hall, The Mayor’s Table is Lido House’s signature dining venue. Featuring a focus on seasonal, chef-driven cuisine, including an open action kitchen, Mayor’s Table is both a premiere dining destination and neighborhood hot spot. The ideal setting to enjoy a leisurely brunch or a memorable night out with friends, Mayor’s Table is the perfect place for celebrations large and small. In May the restaurant debuted an all-new dinner menu, complete with experiential and tableside offerings. This overhaul marks the most significant change to the Mayor’s Table menu since its inception in 2018. From the collaborative efforts of Chef-Partner Riley Huddleston, Executive Chef Jonathan de la Cruz, and Chef de Cuisine Nicholas Escobar, the Mayor’s Table culinary team proudly unveiled a bold seasonal menu showcasing their take on reimagined American cuisine.” Service is gracefully overseen by hospitality veteran and General Manager, Quentin Gravet. Chef/Partner Riley Huddleston and GM Quentin Gravet join us.

“A typical night out for sisters Leslie and LeAnn Jones includes great wine, great food and great friends at some of their favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. Leslie, a luxury wedding planner, and LeAnn, an attorney, were tired of going outside of their neighborhood to enjoy delicious wine and food. With Leslie’s background in hospitality and LeAnn’s knowledge and love of wine, the sisters decided to open 1010 Wine and Events in 2021. 1010 Wine is an upscale wine bar (with elevated cuisine) located in the heart of Inglewood, CA, the city that raised Leslie and LeAnn and where they still currently reside. 1010 Wine is the first and only wine bar in the City of Champions. The new dinner menu under the direction of Chef Mo Marvel features highlights such as Salmon Crudo, Piri Piri Chicken and Primer Beef Bavette.” Leslie Jones joins us to uncork all that is 1010 Wine & Events.

“Foodies already know that authentic New Mexico Hatch Peppers make everything better — burgers, pizzas, tacos, omelets, guacamole, salsa …” It’s the always anticipated fresh Hatch Cile season for the next month. Check the Melissa’s Website for the schedule of Weekend roasting near you. “Named after the original growing area in Hatch, New Mexico, authentic Hatch Peppers are truly a Southwestern favorite. No other pepper is prized more than this variety, which grows in the Hatch Valley, just north of Las Cruces. The valley, which stretches along the Rio Grande’s southern-most bend before crossing into Texas and Mexico, is covered with row after row of these green leafy pepper plants for most of the summer. Thick, juicy, and totally delicious, Hatch Chiles come in a variety of heat levels to suit every taste.” Our well-informed, resident Prince of Produce (and an unabashed Hatch Chile Pepper-Head), Robert Schueller, joins us to turn up the heat on all things Hatch Peppers.

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

“From the time Dr. Shica (Dr. Shica’s Bakery, Los Angeles) got her first Easy-Bake Oven, she knew that she loved to bake. Growing up in South Carolina, she baked with her grandma and learned that the best desserts come from using the best ingredients. When Dr. Shica founded her bakery, she committed to using only high-quality, premium ingredients to create her gourmet signature desserts.”

“From a small town in the South to Southern California, Dr. Shica now delivers her Southern-style treats to Hollywood executives and actors. Garnering praise from renowned chefs, producers, and on-air personalities, her rich and fudgy “Almost Famous Brownies” have created quite a stir – several producers even have a standing weekly order.”

“Dr. Shica knew she needed to expand her baked goods to meet the growing demand for vegan treats. She developed a line of mouth-watering, plant-based desserts that satisfy those sweet cravings and allow her customers to maintain their vegan lifestyles.”

Dr Shica’s cookies are currently available nationwide at TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods. Known for her optimism and warm personality, Dr. Shica’s home-baked flavor will brighten any day.

“Dr. Shica’s new Plant-Based cookies are dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free and low calorie but still very delicious and highly craveable. Each bag is shelf stable and resealable so you can enjoy them now or later. The product comes in 4 flavors (Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Lemon and Sugar Confetti).”

Dr. Shica puts down her rolling pin to join us.

Riley Huddleston of the Mayors Table

“Located in Newport Beach, California on the site of the old City Hall, The Mayor’s Table is Lido House’s signature dining venue. Featuring a focus on seasonal, chef-driven cuisine, including an open action kitchen, Mayor’s Table is both a premiere dining destination and neighborhood hot spot. The ideal setting to enjoy a leisurely brunch or a memorable night out with friends, Mayor’s Table is the perfect place for celebrations large and small.”

“In May the restaurant debuted an all-new dinner menu, complete with experiential and tableside offerings. This overhaul marks the most significant change to the Mayor’s Table menu since its inception in 2018. From the collaborative efforts of Chef-Partner Riley Huddleston, Executive Chef Jonathan de la Cruz, and Chef de Cuisine Nicholas Escobar, the Mayor’s Table culinary team proudly unveiled a bold seasonal menu showcasing their take on reimagined American cuisine.” Service is gracefully overseen by hospitality veteran and General Manager, Quentin Gravet.

“As Executive Chef Partner of Lido House, Riley Huddleston brings a decade of culinary power to Lido House, driving the hotel’s food and beverage concepts including The Mayor’s Table restaurant, Topside rooftop bar and lounge and Crew Coffee + Cremerie.”

“Earning his chops as a chef, mixologist, pastry chef and restaurateur in elite New York and Chicago establishments, Huddleston is known for elevating fare with provenance as the starring ingredient. Huddleston’s innovative culinary style blends classic French training with modern cooking techniques. At Lido House, expect precision and playfulness from a menu that fittingly take cues from the hotel’s enviable waterfront in Newport Beach, offering a refined yet stylish celebration of Southern California’s coastal lifestyle and cuisine. The Mayor’s Table, positioned to be a Newport Beach hot spot, manifests a pacific pub-style vibe offering inventive cocktails and seafood- oriented fare including an open action kitchen.”

Chef Riley and General Manager Quentin take a break from service to join us.

Leslie Jones of 1010 Wine and Events

“A typical night out for sisters Leslie and LeAnn Jones includes great wine, great food and great friends at some of their favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. Leslie, a luxury wedding planner, and LeAnn, an attorney, were tired of going outside of their neighborhood to enjoy delicious wine and food. With Leslie’s background in hospitality and LeAnn’s knowledge and love of wine, the sisters decided to open 1010 Wine and Events in 2021.”

“1010 Wine is an upscale wine bar (with elevated cuisine) located in the heart of Inglewood, CA, the city that raised Leslie and LeAnn and where they still currently reside. 1010 Wine is the first and only wine bar in the City of Champions. The new dinner menu under the direction of Chef Mo Marvel features highlights such as Salmon Crudo, Piri Piri Chicken and Primer Beef Bavette.”

“Leslie and Le Jones have found incredible success by perfectly blending an incredible selection of wines with an elevated and delicious dining menu. The 1010 Wine beverage menu currently features more than 90% Black-owned wines not often found in local grocery stores, making 1010 Wine representing the largest selection of Black and Brown owned wineries in California.”

“Their mission is to fill a void in the industry and neighborhood and create a space for people to gather, regardless of their knowledge of wine, to eat, drink, and enjoy Black-owned wines. In addition to delicious wine and food, 1010 Wine also has great music and live performances, and an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and sophisticated at the same time.”

Leslie Jones joins us to uncork all that is 1010 Wine & Events.

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA Studio

“Foodies already know that authentic New Mexico Hatch Peppers make everything better — burgers, pizzas, tacos, omelets, guacamole, salsa … It’s the always anticipated fresh Hatch Chile season for the next month. Check the Melissa’s Website for the schedule of Weekend roasting near you.”

“Named after the original growing area in Hatch, New Mexico, authentic Hatch Peppers are truly a Southwestern favorite. No other pepper is prized more than this variety, which grows in the Hatch Valley, just north of Las Cruces. The valley, which stretches along the Rio Grande’s southern-most bend before crossing into Texas and Mexico, is covered with row after row of these green leafy pepper plants for most of the summer.”

“Thick, juicy, and totally delicious, Hatch Chiles come in a variety of heat levels to suit every taste.”

“Try New Mexican stews and casseroles, or get creative with amped up chocolate chip cookies, zippy Bloody Marys, and more.”

“Available fresh only in August and September, Hatch Chiles are so good folks load up each summer and freeze enough roasted chiles to enjoy year-round.”

We’ll also present the details of the ongoing (concludes Sept. 14th) ultimate Hatch Chile cooking competition with great prizes.

Our resident Prince of Produce (and an unabashed Hatch Chile Pepper-Head), Robert Schueller, joins us to turn up the heat on all things Hatch Peppers.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Dr. Shica’s Bakery (Los Angeles) with Founder Dr. Shica Little
Segments Four and Five: Mayor’s Table Pacific Pub & Kitchen, Lido House, Newport Beach
Segment Six: 1010 Wine and Events, Inglewood, with Co-Proprietress Leslie Jones
Segments Seven and Eight: Hatch Chile Pepper Season with Melissa’s Robert Schueller

Show 524, May 6, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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In April 2018, Huntington Beach’s award-winning riip Beer Co hired Ian McCall as their newest head brewer and to run day to day operations. That year at the Great American Beer Festival, riip was awarded its second medal, silver for black the riipper black IPA. Before the end of the year riip expanded again by dropping two more fermenters and hiring Danny Priddy as an assistant brewer.  The riip team was quickly growing and the accolades were just starting to roll in.

riip continued to grow last year as they opened a serious pizzeria with an emphasis on quality ingredients in South Huntington Beach.

2022 was also a great year for Riip beers. At the Bistro IPA Festival in Hayward Riip was awarded a Bronze medal for their 1020 West Coast IPA which was a collaboration style with Cannonball Creek of Golden, CO. At the San Diego International Beer Competition Black the Ripper (signature Black IPA) was awarded a Silver. Riip’s Ian McCall (Director of Brewing and Operations) is our guest with a mug of Dankster Squad in hand.

When we last spoke with Dr. Shica Little of Dr. Shica’s Bakery she was operating a mini retail bakery full of deliciousness out of a kiosk at Westfield Culver City. Her decadent “Almost Famous Brownies” were a signature. She was just introducing a companion line of tasty vegan desserts. Dr. Shica’s Bakery just exhibited her expanded gourmet line of plant-based vegan desserts at the Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim. The expanded line includes indulgent cookies, brownies, cheesecake and lots more. New is a vegan crunchy cookie in lemon, double chocolate chip and birthday cake plus a vegan oatmeal raisin cookie sweetened with fruit. Dr. Shica joins us with an Almost Famous Brownie plate at the ready.

A bit over two years ago Vegas Test Kitchen located in Downtown Las Vegas debuted under the direction of Vegas food entrepreneur Jolene Mannina. “It’s purpose during the pandemic was to provide a creative space for chefs to test out restaurant concepts, host popup dinners and stage events. Over 50 chefs have participated in Vegas Test Kitchen.”

Their lease is not being renewed and VTK will have a Closing Night Food Fest and Farewell Party on Saturday, June 3rd from 6 to 9:00 p.m.

VTK success stories include everything from ethereal bagels to gourmet pizza made with a sourdough starter base. Pastry Chef Andrea McLean is one of the earliest chefs with a residency at VTK with her incredibly popular PopNpies bakery. Specialties include Blueberry Crumble and Peanut Butter Chocolate pies. We’ll meet Chef Andrea as well as highlight the successes of VTK with Jolene Mannina.

PBS’s celebrity vegan chef, Laura Theodore, is back with us to celebrate the 10th Anniversary Edition of Jazzy Vegetarian – Lively Vegan Cuisine That’s Easy and Delicious. “This 10th Anniversary Edition of the cookbook features over 120 dazzling vegan recipes, including 25 new recipes from Season Ten of Laura’s popular PBS television series. With more full-color photos, modernized cooling tips, and gluten-free options, this spectacular cookbook highlights vegan recipes that are easy, nutritious, and most of all, delicious.”

Mike and Rhonda Pollard’s Honoka’a Chocolate Co. is located on the Hamakua coast of the Big Island of Hawai’i at Kahi Ola Mau Farm. Their farm has a rich history in the Hamakua district town of Honoka’a. Located mauka (towards Mauna Kea) from Honoka’a in an area known as Ahualoa, the 5 acres the Pollards call home was first purchased by the sugar plantation doctor sometime in the 1920s. They are the fourth resident and keeper of this beautiful property and have transformed it into a working farm. Two and one-half acres are planted in cacao. Starting in January 2018, Honoka’a Chocolate Co. began offering farm tours and tastings of their artisan chocolates that are made right there on the farm. In February of this year most of the production shifted to their new state of the art production facility and retail store on Mamane Street in the heart of historic Honokaa Town. Honoka’a Chocolate Co has received a total of 29 international awards for their premium chocolates over the last two years. Mike Pollard is our guest with a ripe cacao pod in hand.

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. Chefs still prefer to cook with natural gas given the state (and high cost) of the current induction range technology. Berkeley’s ban on gas lines going into new construction has been overturned in a recent Federal court ruling. Chef Andrew explains the significance and provides added background.

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

Show 524, May 6, 2023: Dr. Shica Little, Dr. Shica’s Bakery

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When we last spoke with Dr. Shica Little of Dr. Shica’s Bakery she was operating a mini retail bakery full of deliciousness out of a kiosk at Westfield Culver City. Her decadent “Almost Famous Brownies” were a signature. She was just introducing a companion line of tasty vegan desserts.

Dr. Shica’s Bakery recently exhibited her expanded gourmet line of plant-based vegan desserts at Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim. The expanded line includes indulgent cookies, brownies, cheesecake and lots more. New is a vegan crunchy cookie in lemon, double chocolate chip and birthday cake plus a vegan oatmeal raisin cookie sweetened with fruit.

Dr. Shica’s Bakery is also the Official Cookie Provider of Kevin Hart’s expanding vegan restaurant chain, Hart House. The new Hollywood location officially opens this Weekend.

Dr. Shica joins us with an Almost Famous Brownie plate at the ready.

May 6: riip Beer Co. Dr. Shica’s Bakery, Vegas Test Kitchen, Laura Theodore, Honoka’a Chocolate Co.

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ian McCall, Director of Brewing and Operations, Riip Beer Co.
Segment Three: Dr. Shica Little, Dr. Shica’s Bakery
Segment Four: Vegas Test Kitchen with Founder Jolene Mannina and Pastry Chef Andrea McLean of Pop N Pies Part One
Segment Five: Vegas Test Kitchen with Founder Jolene Mannina and Pastry Chef Andrea McLean of Pop N Pies Part Two
Segment Six: Laura Theodore, PBS’s Celebrity Vegan Chef and TV Personality. Jazzy Vegetarian Cookbook – 10th Anniversary Edition
Segment Seven: Honoka’a Chocolate Co., Hawaii, with Founder Mike Pollard
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

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

In April 2018, Huntington Beach’s award-winning riip Beer Co. hired Ian McCall as their newest head brewer and to run day to day operations. That year at the Great American Beer Festival, riip was awarded its second medal, silver for black the riipper black IPA. Before the end of the year riip expanded again by dropping two more fermenters and hiring Danny Priddy as an assistant brewer. The riip team was quickly growing and the accolades were just starting to roll in.

riip continued to grow last year as they opened a serious pizzeria with an emphasis on quality ingredients in South Huntington Beach.

2022 was also a great year for Riip beers. At the Bistro IPA Festival in Hayward Riip was awarded a Bronze medal for their 1020 West Coast IPA which was a collaboration style with Cannonball Creek of Golden, CO. At the San Diego International Beer Competition Black the Ripper (signature Black IPA) was awarded a Silver. Riip’s Ian McCall (Director of Brewing and Operations) is our guest with a mug of Dankster Squad in hand.

When we last spoke with Dr. Shica Little of Dr. Shica’s Bakery she was operating a mini retail bakery full of deliciousness out of a kiosk at Westfield Culver City. Her decadent “Almost Famous Brownies” were a signature. She was just introducing a companion line of tasty vegan desserts. Dr. Shica’s Bakery just exhibited her expanded gourmet line of plant-based vegan desserts at Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim. The expanded line includes indulgent cookies, brownies, cheesecake and lots more. New is a vegan crunchy cookie in lemon, double chocolate chip and birthday cake plus a vegan oatmeal raisin cookie sweetened with fruit. Dr. Shica joins us with an Almost Famous Brownie plate at the ready.

A bit over two years ago Vegas Test Kitchen located in Downtown Las Vegas debuted under the direction of Vegas food entrepreneur Jolene Mannina. It’s purpose during the pandemic was to provide a creative space for chefs to test out restaurant concepts, host popup dinners and stage events. Over 50 chefs have participated in Vegas Test Kitchen.

Their lease is not being renewed and VTK will have a Closing Night Food Fest and Farewell Party on Saturday, June 3rd from 6 to 9:00 p.m.

VTK success stories include everything from ethereal bagels to gourmet pizza made with a sourdough starter base. Pastry Chef Andrea McLean is one of the earliest chefs with a residency at VTK with her incredibly popular PopNpies bakery. Specialties include Blueberry Crumble and Peanut Butter Chocolate pies. We’ll meet Chef Andrea as well as highlight the successes of VTK with Jolene Mannina.

PBS’s celebrity vegan chef, Laura Theodore, is back with us to celebrate the 10th Anniversary Edition of Jazzy Vegetarian – Lively Vegan Cuisine That’s Easy and Delicious. “This 10th Anniversary Edition of the cookbook features over 120 dazzling vegan recipes, including 25 new recipes from Season Ten of Laura’s popular PBS television series. With more full-color photos, modernized cooling tips, and gluten-free options, this spectacular cookbook highlights vegan recipes that are easy, nutritious, and most of all, delicious.”

Mike and Rhonda Pollard’s Honoka’a Chocolate Co. is located on the Hamakua coast of the Big Island of Hawai’i at Kahi Ola Mau Farm. Their farm has a rich history in Hamakua district town of Honoka’a. Located mauka (towards Mauna Kea) from Honoka’a in an area known as Ahualoa, the 5 acres the Pollards call home was first purchased by the sugar plantation doctor sometime in the 1920s. They are the fourth resident and keeper of this beautiful property and have transformed it into a working farm. Two and one-half acres are planted in cacao. Starting in January 2018, Honoka’a Chocolate Co. began offering farm tours and tastings of their artisan chocolates that are made right there on the farm. In February of this year most of the production shifted to their new state of the art production facility and retail store on Mamane Street in the heart of Historic Honokaa Town. Honoka’a Chocolate Co has received a total of 29 international awards for their premium chocolates over the last two years. Mike Pollard is our guest with a ripe cacao pod in hand.

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. Chefs still prefer to cook with natural gas. Berkeley’s ban on gas lines going into new construction has been overturned in a recent Federal court ruling. Chef Andrew explains the significance and provides added background.

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

Ian McCall of Riip Beer Company

In April 2018, Huntington Beach’s award-winning riip Beer Co. hired Ian McCall as their newest head brewer and to run day to day operations. That year at the Great American Beer Festival, riip was awarded its second medal, silver for black the riipper black IPA. Before the end of the year riip expanded again by dropping two more fermenters and hiring Danny Priddy as an assistant brewer. The riip team was quickly growing and the accolades were just starting to roll in.

riip continued to grow last year as they opened a serious pizzeria with an emphasis on quality ingredients in South Huntington Beach.

2022 was an exceptional year for Riip beers. At the Bistro IPA Festival in Hayward Riip was awarded a Bronze medal for their 1020 West Coast IPA which was a collaboration style with Cannonball Creek of Golden, CO. At the San Diego International Beer Competition Black the Ripper (signature Black IPA) was awarded a Silver.

Riip’s Ian McCall (Director of Brewing and Operations) is our guest with a mug of Dankster Squad in hand.

When we last spoke with Dr. Shica Little of Dr. Shica’s Bakery she was operating a mini retail bakery full of deliciousness out of a kiosk at Westfield Culver City. Her decadent “Almost Famous Brownies” were a signature. She was just introducing a companion line of tasty vegan desserts.

Dr. Shica’s Bakery recently exhibited her expanded gourmet line of plant-based vegan desserts at Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim. The expanded line includes indulgent cookies, brownies, cheesecake and lots more. New is a vegan crunchy cookie in lemon, double chocolate chip and birthday cake plus a vegan oatmeal raisin cookie sweetened with fruit.

Dr. Shica’s Bakery is also the Official Cookie Provider of Kevin Hart’s expanding vegan restaurant chain, Hart House.

Dr. Shica joins us with an Almost Famous Brownie plate at the ready.

Food Entrepreneur Jolene Mannina

A bit over two years ago Vegas Test Kitchen located in Downtown Las Vegas debuted under the direction of Vegas food entrepreneur Jolene Mannina. “It’s purpose during the pandemic was to provide a creative space for chefs to test out restaurant concepts, host popup dinners and stage events. Over 50 chefs have participated in Vegas Test Kitchen.”

Their lease is not being renewed and VTK will have a Closing Night Food Fest and Farewell Party on Saturday, June 3rd from 6 to 9:00 p.m.

“The pandemic persuaded Jolene to launch the Vegas Test Kitchen, and now she fully appreciates its value to small businesses. VTK helped so many people kickstart their dreams. Culinary incubators are needed in all cities to help chefs take their first step in business. Within only three months of being at the Test Kitchen chefs have the ability to dive into their proposed menu, make adjustments, start recipe development, and build their brand with little out-of-pocket expenses.”

VTK success stories include everything from ethereal bagels to gourmet pizza made with a sourdough starter base.

Pastry Chef Andrea McLean is one of the earliest chefs with a residency at VTK with her incredibly popular PopNpies bakery. Specialties include Blueberry Crumble and Peanut Butter Chocolate pies. We’ll meet Chef Andrea as well as highlight the successes of VTK with Jolene Mannina.

Cookbook Author Laura Theodore

PBS’s celebrity vegan chef, Laura Theodore, is back with us to celebrate the 10th Anniversary Edition of Jazzy Vegetarian – Lively Vegan Cuisine That’s Easy and Delicious.

“This 10th Anniversary Edition of the cookbook features over 120 dazzling vegan recipes, including 25 new recipes from Season Ten of Laura’s popular PBS television series. With more full-color photos, modernized cooling tips, and gluten-free options, this spectacular cookbook highlights vegan recipes that are easy, nutritious, and most of all, delicious.”

“Jazzy Vegetarian: Lively Vegan Cuisine That’s Easy and Delicious (10th Anniversary Edition!) delivers show-stopping guidance and recipes that make it easy to embrace healthful yet sumptuous vegan dining at home!”

Mike Pollard of the Honokoa Chocolate Company

“Mike and Rhonda Pollard’s Honoka’a Chocolate Co. is located on the Hamakua coast of the Big Island of Hawai’i at Kahi Ola Mau Farm. Their farm has a rich history in Hamakua district town of Honoka’a. Located mauka (towards Mauna Kea) from Honoka’a in an area known as Ahualoa, the 5 acres the Pollards call home was first purchased by the sugar plantation doctor sometime in the 1920s. They are the fourth resident and keeper of this beautiful property and have transformed it into a working farm.” Two and one-half acres are planted in cacao.

“Starting in January 2018, Honoka’a Chocolate Co. began offering farm tours and tastings of their artisan chocolates that are made right there on the farm. In February of this year most of the production shifted to their new state of the art production facility and retail store on Mamane Street in the heart of Historic Honokaa Town. Honoka’a Chocolate Co has received a total of 29 international awards for their premium chocolates over the last two years.”

“Their current tastings on the farm include five of their signature products, including chocolates from Hawaii as well as other regions from around the world. Guests will experience how a particular region’s climate, soils and terrain affect the taste of the chocolate, “the terroir” as winemakers have so famously coined the term. The state of Hawai’i is the only place in the US where cacao grows fruitfully, some calling it the “North Pole” of the cacao growing region.”

Mike Pollard is our guide to some of the best chocolate in the World.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of 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.

Professional Chefs, in general, still overwhelmingly prefer to cook with natural gas. Berkeley’s ban on gas lines going into new residential and commercial construction has been overturned in a recent Federal court ruling by a three-judge Ninth Circuit panel. Chef Andrew explains the significance and provides the needed added background.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ian McCall, Director of Brewing and Operations, Riip Beer Co.
Segment Three: Dr. Shica Little, Dr. Shica’s Bakery
Segment Four: Vegas Test Kitchen with Founder Jolene Mannina and Pastry Chef Andrea McLean of Pop N Pies Part One
Segment Five: Vegas Test Kitchen with Founder Jolene Mannina and Pastry Chef Andrea McLean of Pop N Pies Part Two
Segment Six: Laura Theodore, PBS’s Celebrity Vegan Chef and TV Personality. Jazzy Vegetarian Cookbook – 10th Anniversary Edition
Segment Seven: Honoka’a Chocolate Co., Hawaii, with Founder Mike Pollard
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 431, June 26, 2021: Dr. Shica Little, Dr. Shica’s Bakery, Westfield Culver City Part One

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Doctor Shica Little of Dr Shica's Bakery

“Dr. Shica Little, known to many as “Southern Sweet Maker to the Stars” as she channels her love of baking and her Southern upbringing into her signature Southern sweets and custom creations, is now showcasing her Southern hospitality at her first official Dr. Shica’s Bakery retail bakery location at Westfield Culver City which opened last month. Her irresistible treats are brownies, cookies, cakes and custom creations.”

“Dr. Shica has always enjoyed her small bakery business as a fun side project in hopes that one day it would grow beyond her home kitchen. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March of 2020, Dr. Shica, a Doctor of Education and college professor in the educational services industry was laid off from her corporate job and she knew right then that it was time to turn her dream into a reality, so she created Dr. Shica’s Bakery online in Los Angeles.”

“Delivering comfort in a Bakery Box became Dr. Shica’s sole mission as everyone was trying their best to adjust to life in lockdown. Dr. Shica also discovered that growing a small business during a pandemic is chock-full of challenges and Dr Shica’s Bakery was faced with operational restrictions, slow supply lines, and a customer base with a much less disposable income, but Dr. Shica and her small team continued to push forward to overcome these challenges and they continued to deliver her delicious Southern sweets all-across the country during a most challenging time.”

“This past year Dr. Shica started selling her Red Velvet Cake (her mom’s special recipe) and her Brownies at a pop-up shop in a soul food restaurant on Melrose Avenue in Hollywood. This gained the attention of several Hollywood executives who instantly became huge fans of Dr. Shica’s Desserts, especially her brownies, giving them their name: Almost Famous Brownies. Word started spreading quickly and Dr. Shica began delivering her Bakery Boxes all over the city.”

“She then got a call from Oprah Magazine as they had heard about her desserts and Oprah and Gayle loved her cookies, and Dr. Shica’s Bakery was in the top three on Oprah’s Favorite Things out of 15,000 entries. She was then featured as a Black small business owner on GMA, and her Gourmet Dessert Boxes were featured on Tory Johnson’s ‘Deals and Steals,’ bringing a tremendous amount of visibility and recognition to Dr. Shica’s Bakery just after its inception.”

“Dr. Shica’s Bakery creates gourmet, Southern-style desserts using only the freshest premium ingredients. Dr. Shica also knew she wanted to expand her baked goods to meet the growing demand for vegan treats, so she developed and is introducing a new line of mouth-watering, plant-based Vegan Desserts that satisfy those sweet cravings and allow her plant-based customers to maintain their vegan lifestyles all while continuing to indulge and enjoy.”

“Reinventing her family’s recipes, Dr. Shica brings old favorites into the modern era featuring desserts with the taste of home and the sophistication of a gourmet bakery, including Signature Sweets such as Dr. Shica’s Cookies – Sprinkle Delight, Hot Chocolate, Gigi’s Chocolate Chip, Vegan Chocolate Chunk, Lemon Drop, Red Velvet; Cake – Debra’s Red Velvet Cake; Brownies – Almost Famous Brownies; full line of Vegan Desserts – Vegan Almost Famous Brownies, Vegan Cookies, Vegan Red Velvet Cake, and Signature Boxes including Dr. Shica’s Spring Gift Box, Gourmet Dessert Box, Vegan Gourmet Dessert Boxes, and Traditional and Vegan Birthday Boxes. Also, not to be missed are Dr. Shica’s Custom Creations as Dr. Shica’s Bakery will bring joy to any celebration and if you dream it, they will make it!”

Dr. Shica joins us with whisk in hand.

Show 431, June 26, 2021: Dr. Shica Little, Dr. Shica’s Bakery, Westfield Culver City Part Two

Posted on by
Doctor Shica Little of Dr Shica's Bakery

“Dr. Shica Little, known to many as “Southern Sweet Maker to the Stars” as she channels her love of baking and her Southern upbringing into her signature Southern sweets and custom creations, is now showcasing her Southern hospitality at her first official Dr. Shica’s Bakery retail bakery location at Westfield Culver City which opened last month. Her irresistible treats are brownies, cookies, cakes and custom creations.”

“Dr. Shica has always enjoyed her small bakery business as a fun side project in hopes that one day it would grow beyond her home kitchen. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March of 2020, Dr. Shica, a Doctor of Education and college professor in the educational services industry was laid off from her corporate job and she knew right then that it was time to turn her dream into a reality, so she created Dr. Shica’s Bakery online in Los Angeles.”

“Dr. Shica’s Bakery creates gourmet, Southern-style desserts using only the freshest premium ingredients. Dr. Shica also knew she wanted to expand her baked goods to meet the growing demand for vegan treats, so she developed and is introducing a new line of mouth-watering, plant-based Vegan Desserts that satisfy those sweet cravings and allow her plant-based customers to maintain their vegan lifestyles all while continuing to indulge and enjoy.”

“Reinventing her family’s recipes, Dr. Shica brings old favorites into the modern era featuring desserts with the taste of home and the sophistication of a gourmet bakery, including Signature Sweets such as Dr. Shica’s Cookies – Sprinkle Delight, Hot Chocolate, Gigi’s Chocolate Chip, Vegan Chocolate Chunk, Lemon Drop, Red Velvet; Cake – Debra’s Red Velvet Cake; Brownies – Almost Famous Brownies; full line of Vegan Desserts – Vegan Almost Famous Brownies, Vegan Cookies, Vegan Red Velvet Cake, and Signature Boxes including Dr. Shica’s Spring Gift Box, Gourmet Dessert Box, Vegan Gourmet Dessert Boxes, and Traditional and Vegan Birthday Boxes. Also, not to be missed are Dr. Shica’s Custom Creations as Dr. Shica’s Bakery will bring joy to any celebration and if you dream it, they will make it!”

Dr. Shica joins us with whisk in hand.