May 23: Christian Page, Victor Novak, Krystyn Navarro, Eric Greenspan, Andrew Kirschner

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Chef Andrew Gruel and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Owner/Chef Christian Page, Cassell’s Hamburgers
Segment Three: Brewmaster Victor Novak, Golden Road Brewing Part One
Segment Four: Brewmaster Victor Novak, Golden Road Brewing Part Two
Segment Five: Ment’or BKB Foundation’s Young Chef Competition
Segment Six: Executive Chef/Proprietor Eric Greenspan of Mare and Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese
Segment Seven: Executive Chef/Proprietor Andrew Kirschner, Santa Monica Yacht Club and Tar & Roses, Santa Monica Part One
Segment Eight: Executive Chef/Proprietor Andrew Kirschner, Santa Monica Yacht Club and Tar & Roses, Santa Monica Part Two

Andrew GruelExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, and, now, Newport Beach is today’s special Guest Host.

Happy Memorial Day Weekend.

Now a tempting preview of Saturday’s high octane, holiday-special show.

We’re always up for a premium juicy burger on the “SoCal Restaurant Show” and May is National Burger Month. We’re celebrating with Chef Christian Page (ex- Short Order) who lovingly revived the iconic (and fondly remembered) Cassell’s Burgers in Koreatown six months ago. To commemorate National Hamburger Day on May 28th Cassell’s is hosting a Total Steer Grind.

Memorial Day Weekend is a perfect time to savor a local craft beer.

We’re tapping the keg to preview the 7th Annual Pechanga Microbrew Festival and Chili Cookoff on Saturday, June 6th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Temecula. One of the participating craft breweries is the fast-growing Golden Road Brewing in Los Angeles and with a new brewery and tap room soon to be located across the street from Angel Stadium in Anaheim. The veteran brewmaster for the future Orange County facility, Victor Novak is our guest.

Krystyn Navarro is the Chef de Partie at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Beverly Hills. Last year she won the New Orleans competition for the prestigious Ment’or BKB Foundation’s Young Chef Competition Series. She is currently completing her stagiaire at [One] in Chapel Hill, NC. Applications (due by June 1st) are now open for the 2015 competitions in Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston and New York City. Krystyn Navarro joins us with all the needed 411.

When we last spoke with Celebrity Chef Eric Greenspan he was just about to compete on Food Network’s “Chopped – All-Stars Tournament,” Part 1 against Madison Cowan, Brian Malarkey and Art Smith. We’ll get updated on the results of that intense cook-off. Chef Eric was also about to launch a mysterious new seafood concept on what was previously the hidden back patio of The Foundry. That restaurant, now open, is Mare with a focus on fresh seafood. You enter through Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese. Chef Eric is with us to provide all the needed updates.

Before he went out on his own to open the popular Tar & Roses in Santa Monica in 2012, Executive Chef Andrew Kirschner was best known as Executive Chef and partner at Wilshire, also in Santa Monica.

Now Chef Kirschner is expanding the restaurant empire with the launch of the Santa Monica Yacht Club located a short walk away from Tar & Roses. Unlike Tar & Roses with its emphasis on the wood-burning grill the focus at SMYC is on seafood with small plates. Andrew Kirschner is our guest.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Christian PageWe’re always up for a premium, juicy burger on the “SoCal Restaurant Show” and May is National Burger Month. We’re celebrating with Chef Christian Page (ex- Short Order) who lovingly revived the iconic (and fondly remembered) Cassell’s Burgers (originally established in 1948) in Koreatown six months ago. In its prime Cassell’s Hambugers was as well-known to the burger-craving, Downtown foodie crowd as The Apple Pan is to Westsiders.

The revived Cassell’s serving breakfast, lunch and dinner is located at the corner of 6th St. and Normandie Ave. on ther ground floor of the historic (and renovated) Hotel Normandie. Chef Page also provides the food for functions at the Hotel as well as room service.

“We’ve added to the original hamburger stand with a classic 50s breakfast menu, coffee bar, house made sodas and a fully stocked bar. The soul of the restaurant stays true to founder Al Cassell’s original principles of being a hamburger shop with a focus on premium beef, ground daily in-house. All of our burgers are still cooked on Al Cassell’s original crossfire broiler, ground with the original grinder and pattied with the original press.”

To commemorate National Hamburger Day on May 28th Cassell’s is hosting a Total Steer Grind.

Victor Novak of Taps Fish House and Brewery in BreaMemorial Day Weekend is a perfect time to savor a distinctive local craft beer. We’re tapping the keg to preview the 7th Annual Pechanga Microbrew Festival and Chili Cookoff on Saturday, June 6th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Temecula inside the Pechanga Grand Ballroom. The charitable beneficiary is Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley.

For one price beer enthusiasts can taste unlimited samples of craft and small production brews from San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles and Orange counties as well as selections from Northern California, the Midwest and East Coast. Ticket holders also can enjoy limitless tastes of eight varieties of homemade chili, fired-up by the award-winning chefs at Pechanga Resort & Casino. Attendees can vote for their favorite chili among the bunch.

One of the participating craft breweries is the fast-growing Golden Road Brewing in Los Angeles. Announced is a new production brewery and tap room soon to be located across the street from Angel Stadium on E. Orangewood Ave. in Anaheim.

The brewmaster for the future Orange County facility, Victor Novak, is our guest.

Microbrew Festival tickets are $50.00. Guests receive a two ounce souvenir glass to sample unlimited beer tastings. Designated driver tickets are available for $30.00. Both ticket levels let attendees taste all chili and other gourmet food samples, take in live music by two bands including iconic bassist Lee Rocker of The Stray Cats, and an extensive silent auction. Guests must be 21 or older to attend. For tickets or more information, visit www.Pechanga.com or call 877.711.2946.

One of the participating craft breweries at the Perchanga Microbrew Festival is the fast-growing Golden Road Brewing in Los Angeles and with a new brewery and tap room soon to be located across the street from Angel Stadium in Anaheim. Long-time TAPS brewmaster Victor Novak has moved to Golden Road Brewing to be the brewmaster for Orange County.

In 2011, beer enthusiasts Meg Gill and Tony Yanow founded Golden Road Brewing to bring fresh beer to the local market in the most sustainable way possible. Brewed and canned in Los Angeles, Golden Road’s year-round offerings include Point the Way IPA, Golden Road Hefeweizern, Get Up Offa That Brown and Wolf Among Weeds IPA.

Krystyn Navarro and Daniel BouludKrystyn Navarro is the Chef de Partie at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Beverly Hills. Last year she won the New Orleans competition for the prestigious Ment’or BKB Foundation’s Young Chef Competition Series. She is currently completing her stagiaire at [One] in Chapel Hill, NC. Applications (due by June 1st) are now open for the 2015 competitions in Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston and New York City.

The Los Angeles competition is set for August 27th, 2015.

“Ment’or BKB Foundation is proud to host our 2nd annual Young Chef Competition series, designed to help find up and coming culinary leaders, identify future ambassadors for the culinary arts, and showcase the skill level and cuisine in America. These public competitions will take place in four different cities across the country. Young cooks will be asked to demonstrate their technical skills and creativity in a spirited and challenging contest.”

All chefs ages 22-27 who are currently eligible to work in the Unites States, and have at least 3 years of work experience, are invited to apply for the 2015 Young Chef Competition Series on the ment’or website.

Each 1st place team will receive a $10,000 prize, which the candidate may use towards a stage.

Krystyn Navarro joins us with all the needed 411.

Eric GreenspanWhen we last spoke with the always on the go Celebrity Chef Eric Greenspan he was just about to compete on Food Network’s Chopped – All-Stars Tournament,” Part 1 against Madison Cowan, Brian Malarkey and Art Smith. We’ll get updated on the results of that intense cook-off.

Chef Eric was also about to launch a mysterious new seafood concept on what was previously the hidden back patio of The Foundry. That restaurant, now open, is Mare with a focus on fresh seafood. It’s located in the back of the Melrose Umbrella Company. You enter through Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese located next door.

Mare opens on Weeknights at 5:00 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday service starts at 3:00 p.m.

Current menu highlights are Fried Smelt with roasted lemon and Whole Branzino with fig pomegranate sauce. There is also a fun “Choose Your Own Shellfish” option (black mussels, clams or shrimp) with a “Choose Your Broth selection (leek and white wine, tomato fennel, pistou, spicy sausage romesco, or vadouvan green apple.)

Chef Eric is with us to provide all the needed updates.

Andrew KirschnerBefore he ventured out on his own to open the popular Tar & Roses in Santa Monica in 2012, Executive Chef Andrew Kirschner was best known as Executive Chef and partner at Wilshire, also in Santa Monica.

Now Chef Kirschner is expanding his restaurant empire with the launch of the Santa Monica Yacht Club located a short walk away from Tar & Roses on Santa Monica Blvd. Unlike Tar & Roses with its emphasis on the wood-burning grill the focus at SMYC is on seafood with small plates.

“With Tar & Roses Kirschner aims to share a restaurant that speaks to his travels and deeply ingredient-focused food philosophy. With influences from around the world and the rustic touch of a wood-burning oven, quality ingredients and bold flavors combine to create a menu that merges classical cuisine with modern sensibilities.”

Andrew Kirschner is our guest.

Now Chef Kirschner is expanding his restaurant empire with the launch of the Santa Monica Yacht Club located a short walk away from Tar & Roses in Santa Monica. Unlike Tar & Roses with its emphasis on the wood-burning grill the focus at SMYC is on seafood with small plates and an active bar.

Early menu highlights include Salt Cod Brandade Fritters with white anchovy and lemon mayo, BBQ Eel Lunch Box with rice, egg, togarashi, and sweet soy, and Spaghetti Bottarga with chili, garlic, and breadcrumbs.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Chef Andrew Gruel and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Owner/Chef Christian Page, Cassell’s Hamburgers
Segment Three: Brewmaster Victor Novak, Golden Road Brewing Part One
Segment Four: Brewmaster Victor Novak, Golden Road Brewing Part Two
Segment Five: Ment’or BKB Foundation’s Young Chef Competition
Segment Six: Executive Chef/Proprietor Eric Greenspan of Mare and Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese
Segment Seven: Executive Chef/Proprietor Andrew Kirschner, Santa Monica Yacht Club and Tar & Roses, Santa Monica Part One
Segment Eight: Executive Chef/Proprietor Andrew Kirschner, Santa Monica Yacht Club and Tar & Roses, Santa Monica Part Two

Show 119, April 25, 2015: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

It’s celebrity chef season on the “SoCal Restaurant Show” and we’re well-represented ! Now a preview of today’s delightfully overstuffed show.

First, a recap of “The Big Cheese” Grilled Cheese Festival & Competition held last Monday night, April 20th at Provisions Market in Orange hosted by The OC Baking Co. and Provisions Market and benefiting You Are Special, a local nonprofit that operates a food pantry to feed the hungry in the Orange Community.

One of the most exciting collections of Awards presented by the James Beard Foundation annually is the America’s Classics. This honor is given to regional establishments, often family-owned, that are treasured for their quality food, local character, and lasting appeal. One of the five recipients for 2015 is Los Angeles’ Guelaguetza located in Koreatown and founded in 1994. Representing the second generation of proud family ownership is our in-studio guest, Bricia Lopez.

A really unusual Rioja Gran Reserva Dinner featuring incredible vintage years from Spain’s Bodegas Faustino is coming up at Scott’s Restaurant in Costa Mesa on Thursday evening May 7th. This is part of the ongoing Wine Exchange’s Wine + Food series. The 2001 Gran Reserva was selected by Decanter magazine as their “Wine of the Year” in 2013. Scott’s Executive Chef Michael Doctulero has created a dazzling four-course menu especially for the evening. Chef Doctulero and Wine Exchange’s Kyle Meyer join us with all the salivating details.

Chef Jet Tila, the Emeritus Host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show,” really needs no introduction. He’s the Royal Thai Government’s official Culinary Ambassador to the United States. Jet is the most-used permanent solo judge on Food Network’s hit series, “Cutthroat Kitchen” with host Alton Brown. Jet is with us to discuss his participation in Food Network’s upcoming “Chopped All-Stars Tournament.” A cool $75,000 is on the line for the winning celebrity chef’s charity!

ou know celebrity chef Eric Greenspan from his National Geographic Channel series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry.” Chef Eric is back on Food Network with the “Chopped All-Star Tournament: Part 1.” It premiers on Tuesday, April 28th. Each celebrity chef is playing for the $75,000 grand prize for their favorite charity. In Heat 1 Chef Eric is pitted against Madison Cowan, Brian Malarkey and Art Smith.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar presents its 7th Annual “Sunday in the Vineyard” fundraiser on Sunday, May 17th, 2015 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The benefit features a wine tasting with more than 80 wines, many of which are considered unique and rare finds from boutique wineries spanning the globe. The walk-around event will be held alongside a collection of rare automobiles at the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin. It benefits the Marconi Foundation for Kids and the Eddie Guardado Foundation. The afternoon also includes a sampling of passed hors d’oeuvres by The Winery’s Executive Chef and Partner, Yvon Goetz along with live and silent auctions. Priscilla Marconi, representing The Marconi Foundation For Kids, is our guest.

San Diegans fondly remember Chef Riko Bartolome as the chef/proprietor of the highly regarded Asia –Vous in Escondido. Chef Riko is now the executive chef of Montage Kapalua Bay in Maui where he oversees all culinary experiences there including the resort’s signature restaurant, Cane & Canoe. Chef Riko joins us from Maui.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 119, April 25, 2015: Chef Eric Greenspan

Eric GreenspanYou probably recognize celebrity chef Eric Greenspan from his National Geographic Channel series, Eric Greenspan is Hungry.” Chef Eric is also the proprietor of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire, both in Los Angeles.

Chef Eric is back on Food Network with the “Chopped All-Stars Tournament: Part 1.” It premiers on Tuesday, April 28th. Each celebrity chef is playing for the $75,000 grand prize for their favorite charity. In Heat 1 Chef Eric is pitted against Madison Cowan, Brian Malarkey and Art Smith.

In the first round, a slimy ingredient provokes some disgusted reactions from the competitors and judges. In the entrée round, the beautiful fish in the basket leads the chefs to make some surprising mistakes. And when the two finalists go in totally different directions with their desserts, it’s up in the air which approach will be more pleasing to the judges. Judges for this episode are Maneet Chauhan, Scott Conant and Amanda Freitag.

Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese just finished a very well-received three-month pop-up at Westfield Century City. A sandwich created for Century City has proved so popular that it is now on the menu on Melrose. Look for expanded hours soon.

April 25: Bricia Lopez, Wine Exchange, Scott’s Restaurant, Jet Tila, Eric Greenspan, Marconi Foundation For Kids, Montage Kapalua Bay

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Bricia Lopez, Guelaguetza, Los Angeles
Segment Three: Wine Exchange’s Rioja Gran Reserva Dinner
Segment Four: Chef Jet Tila
Segment Five: Chef Eric Greenspan
Segment Six: Sunday in the Vineyard Benefit
Segment Seven: Executive Chef Riko Bartolome, Montage Kapalua Bay, Maui
Segment Eight: Bricia Lopez and Fernando Lopez, Jr, Guelaguetza

It’s celebrity chef season on the “SoCal Restaurant Show” and we’re well-represented ! Now a preview of today’s delightfully overstuffed show.

One of the most exciting collections of Awards presented by the James Beard Foundation annually is the America’s Classics. This honor is given to regional establishments, often family-owned, that are treasured for their quality food, local character, and lasting appeal. One of the five recipients for 2015 is Los Angeles’ Guelaguetza located in Koreatown and founded in 1994. Representing the second generation of proud family ownership is our in-studio guest, Bricia Lopez.

A really unusual Rioja Gran Reserva Dinner featuring incredible vintage years from Spain’s Bodegas Faustino is coming up at Scott’s Restaurant in Costa Mesa on Thursday evening May 7th. This is part of the ongoing Wine Exchange’s Wine + Food series. The 2001 Gran Reserva was selected by Decanter magazine as their “Wine of the Year” in 2013. Scott’s Executive Chef Michael Doctulero has created a dazzling four-course menu especially for the evening. Chef Doctulero and Wine Exchange’s Kyle Meyer join us with all the salivating details.

Chef Jet Tila, the Emeritus Host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show,” really needs no introduction. He’s the Royal Thai Government’s official Culinary Ambassador to the United States. Jet is the most-used permanent solo judge on Food Network’s hit series, “Cutthroat Kitchen” with host Alton Brown. Jet is with us to discuss his participation in Food Network’s upcoming “Chopped All-Stars Tournament.” A cool $75,000 is on the line for the winning celebrity chef’s charity!

ou know celebrity chef Eric Greenspan from his National Geographic Channel series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry.” Chef Eric is back on Food Network with the “Chopped All-Star Tournament : Part 1.” It premiers on Tuesday, April 28th. Each celebrity chef is playing for the $75,000 grand prize for their favorite charity. In Heat 1 Chef Eric is pitted against Madison Cowan, Brian Malarkey and Art Smith.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar presents its 7th Annual “Sunday in the Vineyard” fundraiser on Sunday, May 17th, 2015 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The benefit features a wine tasting with more than 80 wines, many of which are considered unique and rare finds from boutique wineries spanning the globe. The walk-around event will be held alongside a collection of rare automobiles at the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin. It benefits the Marconi Foundation for Kids and the Eddie Guardado Foundation. The afternoon also includes a sampling of passed hors d’oeuvres by The Winery’s Executive Chef and Partner, Yvon Goetz, along with live and silent auctions. Priscilla Marconi, representing The Marconi Foundation For Kids, is our guest.

San Diegans fondly remember Chef Riko Bartolome as the chef/proprietor of the highly regarded Asia –Vous in Escondido. Chef Riko is now the executive chef of Montage Kapalua Bay in Maui where he oversees all culinary experiences there including the resort’s signature restaurant, Cane & Canoe. Chef Riko joins us from Maui.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Bricia LopezOne of the most exciting series of Awards presented by the James Beard Foundation annually is the America’s Classics. This honor is given to regional establishments, often family-owned, that are treasured for their quality food, local character, and lasting appeal. One of the five recipients for 2015 is Los Angeles’ Guelaguetza located in Koreatown and founded in 1994. This year’s honorees will be celebrated at the 25th anniversary James Beard Foundation Awards taking place on Monday, May 4th at Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Guelaguetza, founded by Fernando Lopez in 1994, is the center of Oaxacan life in Los Angeles, and the setting for countless quinceaneras, weddings, and anniversaries. A sprawling restaurant located in Koreatown, it features live music on a bandstand every night. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant draws both homesick Oaxacans and outlanders in search of honest Oaxacan foods.

Representing the proud second generation of family ownership is our in-studio guest, Bricia Lopez.

Michael DoctuleroA really unusual Rioja Gran Reserva Dinner featuring a series of incredible vintage years from Spain’s Bodegas Faustino is coming up at Scott’s Restaurant in Costa Mesa on Thursday evening May 7th. This is part of the ongoing Wine Exchange’s Wine + Food series. Scott’s Executive Chef Michael Doctulero has created a dazzling, all-original four-course menu for the evening.

The 2001 Gran Reserva was selected by Decanter magazine as their “Wine of the Year” in 2013. The Bodegas Faustino wines show the love for the land and the expertise of a family of winemakers with a tradition of winemaking for over 150 years.

Being poured at the Scott’s evening are the 1964, ’71, ’85, ’87, ’90, ’91 and 2001 Gran Reserva vintages, as well as a preview of the heralded 2004 Gran Reserva.

Tickets are $179 per guest, all inclusive. The evening will sell-out.

Chef Doctulero and Wine Exchange’s Kyle Meyer (President and Director of Purchasing) join us with all the salivating details.

Jet Tila and a heritage pig at Cochon 555 in 2013Chef Jet Tila, the Emeritus Host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” really needs no introduction. He’s the Royal Thai Government’s official Culinary Ambassador to the United States. He’s involved with Stir Market on Beverly Blvd. Jet is the most-used permanent solo judge on Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen with host Alton Brown.

Jet is with us to discuss his participation in Food Network’s upcoming “Chopped All-Stars Tournament.” A cool $75,000 is on the line for the winning celebrity chef’s charity!

Jet’s heat is “All-Stars Tournament: Part 4” where there is just one more spot in the Grand Finale up for grabs. Competing with Chef Jet are Rocco DiSpiritio, Fabio Viviani and Lee Anne Wong. “The All-Stars open the appetizer baskets and find a succulent seafood and an Asian pastry. In the entrée round, the chefs will need to get creative in order to cook a perfect piece of beef in time. And some fish-shaped snacks meet crystals that pop in the dessert round.”

Look for Chef Jet in the new PBS series, Lucky Chow with hostess Danielle Chang the creator of the Lucky Rice festivals. Jet’s episode is celebrating Thai New Year with stops in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and in New York at the James Beard Foundation.

Eric GreenspanYou probably recognize celebrity chef Eric Greenspan from his National Geographic Channel series, Eric Greenspan is Hungry.” Chef Eric is also the proprietor of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire, both in Los Angeles.

Chef Eric is back on Food Network with the “Chopped All-Stars Tournament : Part 1.” It premiers on Tuesday, April 28th. Each celebrity chef is playing for the $75,000 grand prize for their favorite charity. In Heat 1 Chef Eric is pitted against Madison Cowan, Brian Malarkey and Art Smith.

In the first round, a slimy ingredient provokes some disgusted reactions from the competitors and judges. In the entrée round, the beautiful fish in the basket leads the chefs to make some surprising mistakes. And when the two finalists go in totally different directions with their desserts, it’s up in the air which approach will be more pleasing to the judges. Judges for this episode are Maneet Chauhan, Scott Conant and Amanda Freitag.

Priscilla MarconiThe Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar presents its 7th Annual “Sunday in the Vineyard” fundraiser on Sunday, May 17th, 2015 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The benefit features a premium wine tasting with more than 80 wines, many of which are considered unique and rare finds from boutique wineries spanning the globe.

The event will be held alongside a collection of rare automobiles at the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin. It benefits the Marconi Foundation for Kids and the Eddie Guardado Foundation. The afternoon also includes a sampling of passed hors d’oeuvres by The Winery’s Executive Chef and Partner, Yvon Goetz, along with live and silent auctions.

“This is our seventh year hosting “Sunday in the Vineyard” and, judging by the success of the first six years, during which we raised approximately $308,000, it’s well on its way to becoming an event that will continue to make a positive impact by raising significant funds for worthy organizations in our community,” commented JC Clow, Managing Partner at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. “We’re delighted to have formed a long-term partnership with the Marconi Foundation for Kids that will continue to support the efforts of nonprofits.”

Priscilla Marconi, representing The Marconi Foundation For Kids, is our guest.

Riko BartolomeSan Diegans fondly remember Chef Riko Bartolome as the chef/proprietor of the highly regarded Asia –Vous in Escondido. Chef Riko is now the executive chef of Montage Kapalua Bay in Maui where he oversees all culinary experiences there including the resort’s signature restaurant, Cane & Canoe. With extensive Hawaiian experience, Bartolome created a menu at Cane & Canoe inspired by the Island’s multicultural heritage serving modern Hawaiian fare, with Asian influences.

Known for his signature Asian fusion style Chef Riko graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, and began his career at Hyatt Regency Aventine in La Jolla, CA. Bartolome has directed culinary programs at luxury hotels including Grand Wailea Maui, Hawaii, as well as Hotel Nikko’s Pangaea (Los Angeles), Hotel Del Coronado’s Crown Room, W Hotel, and Asia-Vous, all located in the San Diego area.

Earlier in the year Chef Riko participated in the Maui Convention and Visitor’s Bureau’s “cultural chef exchanges” series. The culinary tour sent top Maui chefs to the West Coast to join chefs in their own kitchens in Los Angeles and San Francisco to create joint food experiences.

Chef Riko joins us from Maui.

Bricia LopezOne of the most exciting series of Awards presented by the James Beard Foundation annually is the America’s Classics. This honor is given to regional establishments, often family-owned, that are treasured for their quality food, local character, and lasting appeal. One of the five recipients for 2015 is Los Angeles’ Guelaguetza located in Koreatown and founded in 1994. This year’s honorees will be celebrated at the 25th anniversary James Beard Foundation Awards taking place on Monday, May 4th at Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Bricia Lopez, one of the four children of Fernando Lopez and Maria de Jesus, now runs the restaurant along with her brother, Fernando Lopez, Jr., and her sister, Paulina Lopez. They have added a mescal bar and often bring in top producers from Mexico for seminars. The real star, however, remains the soulful Oaxacan food, including enfrijolados, tamales steamed in banana leaves with mole, bowls of goat stew, and big rounds of tiayudas, baked corn tortillas topped with semi-dried beef, Oaxacan cheese, and sometimes even grasshoppers.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Bricia Lopez, Guelaguetza, Los Angeles
Segment Three: Wine Exchange’s Rioja Gran Reserva Dinner
Segment Four: Chef Jet Tila
Segment Five: Chef Eric Greenspan
Segment Six: Sunday in the Vineyard Benefit
Segment Seven: Executive Chef Riko Bartolome, Montage Kapalua Bay, Maui
Segment Eight: Bricia Lopez and Fernando Lopez, Jr, Guelaguetza

Show 106, January 17, 2015: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s rich (but mostly guilt-free) show

Chef Anthony Jacquet of the Whisper Restaurant and Lounge at The Grove in Los Angeles was one of three talented North American Chefs to be chosen by the Taiwan Tourism to participate in Taste Taiwan 2014. The lucky chefs were hosted to an exclusive eight-day culinary adventure to Taiwan. Chef Anthony was inspired to then create a dish from his trip which is highlighted on The Whisper menu as a special for this month. Diners who enjoy this dish also have the chance to win roundtrip airfare to Taiwan on EVA Air.. Chef Anthony returns with an update.

Maison Giraud in Pacific Palisades opened its doors in 2011. The unpretentious restaurant and bakery reflect the life and experiences of master French Chef Alain Giraud (ex-Michel Richard’s Citrus.) Chef Giraud welcomes his guests to dine on fine French food in a friendly, family setting. You can see him every Wednesday morning shopping at The Santa Monica Farmers Market where he is a long-time fixture. Giraud arrived in Los Angeles in 1988 and joined Michel Richard at Citrus as Chef de Cuisine. Together they elevated Citrus to the ranks of the country’s most celebrated restaurants. Chef Alain is our guest.

Troy Johnson is San Diego Magazine’s colorfully opinionated Food Critic and Editor-at Large. Troy joins us to discuss his recent cover story on “Baja. The Best Food, Wine, Beer, Music, And More.” Johnson will also update us on what’s on the horizon of significance in San Diego dining for 2015.

The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC), Golden State of Cocktails, and Dewar’s present “King Cocktail in Story and Song: Dale DeGroff in Conversation with Philip Dobard,” a very special edition of Touring the Cocktail: MOTAC Los Angeles. The presentation is set for Wednesday evening, January 28th at 6:30 p.m. at Casey’s Irish Pub in Downtown Los Angeles. Dale DeGroff is a central figure in the craft cocktail revolution of the last 25 years. Philip Dobard is Vice President of the SoFAB Institute, home of The Museum of the American Cocktail. Both Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard join us to preview the intriguing “King Cocktail in Story and Song.”

Chef Eric Greenspan of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire is back with us. We’ll get an update on the prime time run of his new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” for the National Geographic Channel which just completed its initial run and is available “On Demand” on cable. Starting on Sunday, Jan. 18th Chef Eric is launching a Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese Pop Up at Westfield Century City through the end of March 2015.In Century City there will also be some exclusive menu items for Greenspan’s first West L.A. outpost.

Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week returns with a renewed and refreshed format this winter, spanning two weeks of scrumptious dining possibilities from Monday, January 19th to Sunday, February 1st, 2015. Diners have the opportunity to enjoy special price fixed menus at lunch or dinner priced to represent a great value. Some restaurants are offering special Newport Beach Restaurant Week cocktails to pair with their special menus. Polly Peak, Director of Dine Newport Beach (the marketing arm of the Newport Beach Restaurant Association) is with us to preview all the tasty morsels.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 106, January 17, 2015: Chef Eric Greenspan

Eric GreenspanChef Eric Greenspan of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire is back with us. We’ll get an update on the prime time run of his new series, Eric Greenspan is Hungry for the National Geographic Channel, which just completed its initial run (six episodes) and is available “On Demand” on cable. We’ll also chat about his experience with the six-hour National Geographic series, “Eat – The Story of Food,” aired in 2-hour installments over 3 nights. Chef Eric was prominent in all the episodes.

Starting on Sunday, Jan. 18th Chef Eric is launching a Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese Pop Up at Westfield Century City (2nd level of the Dining Terrace) through the end of March 2015. In Century City there will also be some exclusive menu items for Greenspan’s first West L.A. outpost. Think the Westfield Melt on sourdough with Muenster cheese, red onion, short rib, tomato and garlic aioli.

January 17: Anthony Jacquet, Alain Giraud, Troy Johnson, Dale DeGroff, Eric Greenspan, Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anthony Jacquet, Executive Chef, Whisper Restaurant & Lounge
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Alain Giraud, Maison Giraud
Segment Four: Troy Johnson, Food Critic, San Diego Magazine Part One
Segment Five: Troy Johnson, Food Critic, San Diego Magazine Part Two
Segment Six: Mixologist Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard of SoFAB Institute
Segment Seven: Chef Eric Greenspan
Segment Eight: Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s rich (but mostly guilt-free) show

Chef Anthony Jacquet of the Whisper Restaurant and Lounge at The Grove in Los Angeles was one of three talented North American Chefs to be chosen by the Taiwan Tourism to participate in Taste Taiwan 2014. The lucky chefs were hosted to an exclusive eight-day culinary adventure to Taiwan. Chef Anthony was inspired to then create a dish from his trip which is highlighted on The Whisper menu as a special for this month. Diners who enjoy this dish also have the chance to win roundtrip airfare to Taiwan on EVA Air. Chef Anthony returns with an update.

Maison Giraud in Pacific Palisades opened its doors in 2011. The unpretentious restaurant and bakery reflect the life and experiences of master French Chef Alain Giraud (ex-Michel Richard’s Citrus.) Chef Giraud welcomes his guests to dine on fine French food in a friendly, family setting. You can see him every Wednesday morning shopping at The Santa Monica Farmers Market where he is a long-time fixture. Giraud arrived in Los Angeles in 1988 and joined Michel Richard at Citrus as Chef de Cuisine. Together they elevated Citrus to the ranks of the country’s most celebrated restaurants. Chef Alain is our guest.

Troy Johnson is San Diego Magazine’s colorfully opinionated Food Critic and Editor-at Large. Troy joins us to discuss his recent cover story on “Baja. The Best Food, Wine, Beer, Music, And More.” Johnson will also update us on what’s on the horizon of significance in San Diego dining for 2015.

The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC), Golden State of Cocktails, and Dewar’s present “King Cocktail in Story and Song: Dale DeGroff in Conversation with Philip Dobard,” a very special edition of Touring the Cocktail : MOTAC Los Angeles. The presentation is set for Wednesday evening, January 28th at 6:30 p.m. at Casey’s Irish Pub in Downtown Los Angeles. Dale DeGroff is a central figure in the craft cocktail revolution of the last 25 years. Philip Dobard is Vice President of the SoFAB Institute, home of The Museum of the American Cocktail. Both Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard join us to preview the intriguing “King Cocktail in Story and Song.”

Chef Eric Greenspan of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire is back with us. We’ll get an update on the prime time run of his new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” for the National Geographic Channel which just completed its initial run and is available “On Demand” on cable. Starting on Sunday, Jan. 18th Chef Eric is launching a Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese Pop Up at Westfield Century City through the end of March 2015.In Century City there will also be some exclusive menu items for Greenspan’s first West L.A. outpost.

Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week returns with a renewed and refreshed format this winter, spanning two weeks of scrumptious dining possibilities from Monday, January 19th to Sunday, February 1st, 2015. Diners have the opportunity to enjoy special price fixed menus at lunch or dinner priced to represent a great value. Some restaurants are offering special Newport Beach Restaurant Week cocktails to pair with their special menus. Polly Peak, Director of Dine Newport Beach (the marketing arm of the Newport Beach Restaurant Association) is with us to preview all the tasty morsels.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Anthony JacquetChef Anthony Jacquet of the Whisper Restaurant and Lounge at The Grove in Los Angeles was one of three talented North American Chefs to be selected by Taiwan Tourism to participate in Taste Taiwan 2014. The lucky chefs were hosted to an exclusive eight-day culinary adventure to Taiwan.

Chef Anthony was inspired to then create a dish from his trip which is highlighted on The Whisper menu as a special for this month. It’s a Berkshire Pork Belly Bun with housemade hoisin sauce, pickled Fresno peppers, five-spice candied peanuts, and a fried quail egg.

Diners who enjoy this dish at Whisper Lounge this month also have the chance to win roundtrip airfare to Taiwan on EVA Air.

The chefs’ eight-day tour of Taiwan was filmed and edited into an informative 30-minute documentary. The documentary follows the on-the-go chefs as they indulge in Taiwan’s finest restaurants and experience the island’s fresh produce markets and street foods, among other culinary adventures.

Chef Anthony returns with an update.

Alain GiraudMaison Giraud in Pacific Palisades opened its doors in 2011. The unpretentious restaurant and bakery reflect the life and experiences of master French Chef Alain Giraud (ex-Michel Richard’s Citrus.) Chef Giraud welcomes his guests to dine on fine French food in a friendly, family setting.

You can see him every Wednesday morning shopping at The Santa Monica Farmers Market where he is a long-time and familiar fixture. Giraud arrived in Los Angeles in 1988 and joined Michel Richard at Citrus as Chef de Cuisine. Together they elevated Citrus to the ranks of the country’s most celebrated restaurants.

Since then Alain has been the executive chef at Lavande, a fondly remembered French Provencal restaurant at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. He was the opening executive chef in 2002 at the high profile and much written-about Bastide on Melrose Place in West Hollywood. Before opening Maison Giraud, Alain was the opening executive chef at Anisette, an ambitious French brasserie located in the landmark Clocktower Building in Santa Monica.

Maison Giraud hosts a gourmet oyster bar on the first Thursday of each month conducted by Master Ecailler Christophe Happillion. On the fourth Thursday of each month is the Four Star Dinner (7-courses) showcasing the talents of a prominent Guest Chef.

Foie gras is back on the menu at Maison Giraud.

Chef Alain Giraud is our guest.

Troy JohnsonTroy Johnson is San Diego Magazine’s colorfully opinionated Food Critic and Editor-at Large. He also pens the San Diego Food News Blog available on San Diego Magazine’s Website. You also know him as a regular judge on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games now in Season 2.

Previously he also wrote and hosted Food Network’s “Crave.” This was a fast-moving food and travel show.

Troy joins us to discuss his recent cover story on “Baja. The Best Food, Wine, Beer, Music, And More.” Johnson will also update us on what’s on the horizon of significance in San Diego dining for 2015.

Is foie gras now returning to San Diego area restaurants as it is in Los Angeles and Orange County? We’ll get Johnson’s thoughts on foie gras.

Dale DeGroffThe Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC), Golden State of Cocktails, and Dewar’s present “King Cocktail in Story and Song: Dale DeGroff in Conversation with Philip Dobard,” a very special edition of Touring the Cocktail: MOTAC Los Angeles. The presentation is set for Wednesday evening, January 28th at 6:30 p.m. at Casey’s Irish Pub in Downtown Los Angeles.

Dale DeGroff is a central figure in the craft cocktail revolution of the last 25 years. Hear how Dale became “King Cocktail,” how he went from L.A’s Hotel Bel-Air to New York’s Rainbow Room, why he and a group of like-minded craft cocktail pioneers established MOTAC, and colorful tales of events along the way.

Philip Dobard is Vice President of the SoFAB Institute, home of The Museum of the American Cocktail.

Enjoy classic standards performed live by Dale and Philip and sip signature cocktails featuring Dewar’s True Scotch and prepared from recipes by MOTAC Advisory Board members Julian Cox, Josh Goldman, Michael Neff, and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson. Admission includes a selection of gourmet appetizers courtesy of Casey’s Irish Pub.

Both Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard join us to preview the intriguing “King Cocktail in Story and Song.”

Eric GreenspanChef Eric Greenspan of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire is back with us. We’ll get an update on the prime time run of his new series, Eric Greenspan is Hungry for the National Geographic Channel, which just completed its initial run (six episodes) and is available “On Demand” on cable. We’ll also chat about his experience with the six-hour National Geographic series, “Eat – The Story of Food,” aired in 2-hour installments over 3 nights. Chef Eric was prominent in all the episodes.

Starting on Sunday, Jan. 18th Chef Eric is launching a Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese Pop Up at Westfield Century City (2nd level of the Dining Terrace) through the end of March 2015. In Century City there will also be some exclusive menu items for Greenspan’s first West L.A. outpost. Think the Westfield Melt on sourdough with Muenster cheese, red onion, short rib, tomato and garlic aioli.

Dine Newport Beach Restaurant WeekDine Newport Beach Restaurant Week returns with a renewed and refreshed format this winter, spanning two weeks of scrumptious dining possibilities from Monday, January 19th to Sunday, February 1st, 2015. Diners have the opportunity to enjoy special price fixed menus at lunch or dinner priced to represent a great value. Some restaurants are offering special Newport Beach Restaurant Week cocktails to pair with their special menus.

New price points on menus available to offer something for everyone and every occasion. Lunch – $10, $15, $20, and $25. Dinner – $20, $30, $40, and $50.

“Newport Beach Restaurant Week will showcase a variety of unique dining experiences and cuisines ranging from American favorites to authentic ethnic fare and formal fine dining to hip and sandy-feet -casual,” notes Polly Peak, Director of Dine Newport Beach.

Polly Peak, Director of Dine Newport Beach (the marketing arm of the Newport Beach Restaurant Association) is with us to preview all the tasty morsels.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anthony Jacquet, Executive Chef, Whisper Restaurant & Lounge
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Alain Giraud, Maison Giraud
Segment Four: Troy Johnson, Food Critic, San Diego Magazine Part One
Segment Five: Troy Johnson, Food Critic, San Diego Magazine Part Two
Segment Six: Mixologist Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard of SoFAB Institute
Segment Seven: Chef Eric Greenspan
Segment Eight: Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week

Show 98, November 22, 2014: Show Preview with Producer Andy Harris

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and occasional Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s full show…

The primo attraction in California’s charmingly rural Santa Ynez Valley is the diversity of noteworthy wineries. The wine trail there includes Los Alamos, Buellton, Solvang, Ballard, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. How do you navigate the Valley? The “SoCal Restaurant Show” recently left that in the expert hands ofStagecoach Co. Wine Tours, based right there. We’ll meet the proprietor, Eric John Reynolds.

When it comes to the flavors and preparations of the authentic foods of Baja California our local expert is Chef Deborah Schneider. To keep current she now orchestrates an annual cooking research trip to different interior States in Mexico. Back in 2006 Chef Deb wrote Baja! Cooking on the Edge which is still in print and greatly admired. Her two restaurant concepts are SOL Mexican Cocina (Newport Beach and Scottsdale) and solita Tacos and Margaritas (Huntington Beach and Valencia.) The Valencia solita opened this week for dinner in the Westfield Valencia Town Center. Chef Deb is out guest.

Fine dining chef, Eric Greenspan, is all over Food Television. He impressively just vanquished the competition in Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen : Superstar Sabotage Tournament.” He came out on top against a group of seven other fiercely competitive celebrity chefs. All his winnings went to charity. Chef Eric’s new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” debuts on the National Geographic Channel on Monday, November 24th

Thanksgiving is on Chef Eric Greenspan’s mind, too. He’s teamed up with Tillamook (think cheese) for a special promotion to honor the season of gratitude. Tillamook has also added ice cream to their product line.

Ten years ago Twentieth Century-Fox released a modestly budgeted film based on a best-selling book with wine appreciation at its center. The movie was Sideways and the Santa Ynez Valley wine country, a central character in the film, was forever changed. Hitching Post II, previously famous with visitors for their tasty Santa Maria-style BBQ earned a double dose of notoriety from the film. A major character in the film, played byVirginia Madsen, is a waitress at The Hitching Post. Hitching Post wines also found their way into the film. Chef, winemaker, and Santa Ynez Valley goodwill ambassador, Frank Ostini of Hitching Post fame joins us to look back.

Stir Market, located in mid-city Los Angeles, has just launched. It’s a boutique California take on the European food hall experience that is both urban market hall and restaurant. Executive Chef Christopher Barnett (ex-The Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills) collaborates with Food Network culinary personality Chef Jet Tila on the menu of sandwiches and salads, small plates, and European-style rotisserie items.

Celebrity Cruises and their executive chef, John Suley, are always innovating when it comes to dining on Celebrity’s modern fleet of 11 cruise ships. Now the coveted white truffle, “the diamond of the kitchen,” will be featured on very special menus on select Caribbean sailings in late November and early December. Celebrity acquired two coveted white truffles (weighing 700 grams) at the recent World White Truffle Auction in Grinzane Cavour, Italy. The rare truffles are only available a few months of the year. Chef Suley returns to the show to talk about the mouthwatering dishes he’ll create which will showcase the extraordinary white truffles.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 98, November 22, 2014: Chef Eric Greenspan

Eric GreenspanFine dining chef, Eric Greenspan, is all over Food Television. He impressively just vanquished the competition in Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen : Superstar Sabotage Tournament.” He came out on top against a group of seven other fiercely competitive celebrity chefs. All his winnings went to charity. Chef Eric’s new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” debuts on the National Geographic Channel on Monday, November 24th.

Chef Eric also appears prominently in National Geographic Channel’s six-hour, three-night miniseries event, Eat : The Story of Food. Eric appears in each of the six hour. It premiered on Nation Geographic Channel on Nov. 21st, 22nd and 23rd.

Show 98, November 22, 2014: Chef Eric Greenspan Continues…

Eric GreenspanChef Eric’s new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” debuts on the National Geographic Channel on Monday, November 24th.

“Famed Los Angeles Chef and Restaurateur Eric Greenspan believes there’s no better place to experience food than at the source. So, he’s hitting the road with his best friend and trusted sidekick, Captain Mauzner, to hunt for the best dishes America has to offer. From the field to the fire, they’re hunting, cooking and learning about authentic American food served up by the people who know it best.”

Thanksgiving is on Chef Eric Greenspan’s mind, too. He’s teamed up with Tillamook (think cheese) for a special promotion to honor the season of gratitude. Tillamook has also added premium ice cream to their product line.

“If you’re like us (Tillamook) you give thanks for cheese on a daily basis, so for the season of gratitude we thought it only fitting to take our appreciation up a notch. We’ve partnered with Grilled Cheese Guru and Master of Melt, Chef Eric Greenspan, to bring you Grilled Cheesegiving, featuring special Tillamook Thanksgiving menu items available at Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese in Los Angeles.”