Show 560, January 13, 2024: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co.in Huntington Beach) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 15 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started. Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing and Tap Room.

Preen is an award-winning, international architecture and Interiors firm with twenty years of experience specializing in hospitality design. Preen offers everything needed to build a project down to the matchbook.” They are based in a historic building in Los Angeles’ Chinatown. Projects in their expansive portfolio include Pine & Crane in the South Park neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles, the Howlin’ Ray’s in Pasadena (in the fondly-remembered Adohr Milk Farm building) and Piccalilli in Culver City. Preen has also designed a few of the distinctive establishments in Chinatown’s Far East Plaza. A current effort in development is acclaimed Chef Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s Otium Las Vegas in the Waldorf Astoria in the Aria Campus (the former Mandarin Oriental hotel.) Preen’s inspirational founder, Alexis Readinger, is our guest to explore the mysterious world of restaurant design.

Our favorite globe-trotting travel journalist and TV personality, Darley Newman, is back with a new season of travel adventures. “Join multi-Emmy nominated Darley Newman for Season 11 of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY and experience an enticing blend of culture, history, and gastronomy across a captivating array of destinations in the USA (including Lafayette, Louisiana and Route 66 in Illinois) and to South Korea. Thirteen half-hour episodes debut on PBS stations starting January 11, 2024, including the launch of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY: “Revolutionary Road Trips” in the lead up to the 2026 commemorations of America’s 250th. TRAVELS WITH DARLEY invites viewers on a journey of discovery as Darley Newman explores the heart and soul of each place she visits.” Darley takes a brief detour from the road to join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. We’re continuing the spirited conversation about mandatory Service Charges of 18 to 20 per cent now being added onto restaurant checks (this is not a Tip) along with a possible 3 to 5 per cent contribution to employee health care. Adding a “Tip” above and beyond this is typically not discouraged. To make matters worse the “Service Charge” is taxable. Chef Andrew will weigh in on this highly controversial and befuddling development.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 560, January 13, 2024: ISM Brewing with Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall Part One

Ian McCall at the KLAA Studios

Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 15 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started.

Trivia Night at ISM Brewing Co. is under the banner of The Epic Pub Quiz on Monday at 7:00 p.m.

“Ian McCall has been deeply passionate about beer for nearly two decades. His journey began in 2004 at Brewbakers in Huntington Beach, where he first discovered the joys of beer making. Initially working behind the bar, Ian quickly learned the brewing process and began creating new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. This period was not just significant for his career; he also met his future wife, Lisa, during a brewing class.”

Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing and Tap Room.

Show 560, January 13, 2024: ISM Brewing with Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall Part Two

Ian McCall of Riip Beer Company

Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 15 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started.

“Ian McCall has been deeply passionate about beer for nearly two decades. His journey began in 2004 at Brewbakers in Huntington Beach, where he first discovered the joys of beer making. Initially working behind the bar, Ian quickly learned the brewing process and began creating new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. This period was not just significant for his career; he also met his future wife, Lisa, during a brewing class.”

“After leaving Brewbakers in 2009 an opportunity arose when Beachwood BBQ announced plans to open a brewery in Long Beach. Ian joined the team, working initially as a bartender. He furthered his brewing education at the Siebel Institute of Technology and started apprenticing under Julian Shrago. By 2013, Ian became Julian’s assistant brewer. During his tenure at Beachwood, the team won numerous awards, including the GABF Mid-size Brewpub and Mid-size Brewpub Brewer of the Year in 2013 and 2014, and at the World Beer Cup in 2016.”

“In 2018, Ian moved to Riip Beer Company in Huntington Beach as Head Brewer. Over five years, he enhanced the brand, assembled a skilled team, and led them to win various prestigious brewing awards, including at GABF, San Diego International, US Beer Open, LA IPA Fest, and the Bistro IPA/DIPA Fest.”

Ian McCall joins continues with us in-studio tapping the keg on all that is now Long Beach’s ISM Brewing and Tap Room on The Promenade. We’re tasting ISM’s Gulp of Mexico (Mexican Lager,) Calf Fiend (Brown Ale with Peruvian Coffee) and Western Standard Time (West Coast IPA.)

January 13: ISM Brewing, Preen, Darley Newman

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: ISM Brewing with Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall Part One
Segment Three: ISM Brewing with Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall Part Two
Segment Four: Alexis Readinger, Founder, Preen – Architecture and Interiors Firm Part One
Segment Five: Alexis Readinger, Founder, Preen – Architecture and Interiors Firm Part Two
Segment Six: “Travels with Darley” on PBS for Season 11 with Darley Newman Part One
Segment Seven: “Travels with Darley” on PBS for Season 11 with Darley Newman Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”

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

Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co.) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 13 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started. Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing and Tap Room.

Preen is an award-winning, international architecture and Interiors firm with twenty years of experience specializing in hospitality design. Preen offers everything needed to build a project down to the matchbook.” They are based in a historic building in Los Angeles’ Chinatown. Projects in their expansive portfolio include Pine & Crane in the South Park neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles, the Howlin’ Ray’s in Pasadena (in the fondly-remembered Adohr Milk Farm building) and Piccalilli in Culver City. Preen has also designed a few of the distinctive establishments in Chinatown’s Far West Plaza. A current effort in development is acclaimed Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s Otium Las Vegas in the Waldorf Astoria in the Aria Campus (the former Mandarin Oriental hotel.)Preen’s inspirational founder, Alexis Readinger, is our guest to explore the mysterious world of restaurant design.

Our favorite globe-trotting travel journalist and TV personality, Darley Newman, is back with a new season of travel adventures. “Join multi-Emmy nominated Darley Newman for Season 11 of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY and experience an enticing blend of culture, history, and gastronomy across a captivating array of destinations in the USA (including Lafayette, Louisiana and Route 66 in Illinois) and to South Korea. Thirteen half-hour episodes debut on PBS stations starting January 11, 2024, including the launch of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY: “Revolutionary Road Trips” in the lead up to the 2026 commemorations of America’s 250th. TRAVELS WITH DARLEY invites viewers on a journey of discovery as Darley Newman explores the heart and soul of each place she visits.” Darley takes a brief respite from the road to join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. We’re continuing the conversation about mandatory Service Charges of 18 to 20 per cent now being added onto restaurant checks (this is not a Tip) along with a possible 3 to 5 per cent contribution to employee health care. Adding a “Tip” above and beyond this is typically not discouraged. To make matters worse the “Service Charge” is taxable. Chef Andrew will weigh in on this highly controversial and befuddling development.

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

Ian McCall of Riip Beer Company at the KLAA Studios

Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 13 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started.

Trivia Night at ISM Brewing Co. is under the banner of The Epic Pub Quiz on Monday at 7:00 p.m.

“Ian McCall has been deeply passionate about beer for nearly two decades. His journey began in 2004 at Brewbakers in Huntington Beach, where he first discovered the joys of beer making. Initially working behind the bar, Ian quickly learned the brewing process and began creating new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. This period was not just significant for his career; he also met his future wife, Lisa, during a brewing class.”

“After leaving Brewbakers in 2009 an opportunity arose when Beachwood BBQ announced plans to open a brewery in Long Beach. Ian joined the team, working initially as a bartender. He furthered his brewing education at the Siebel Institute of Technology and started apprenticing under Julian Shrago. By 2013, Ian became Julian’s assistant brewer. During his tenure at Beachwood, the team won numerous awards, including the GABF Mid-size Brewpub and Mid-size Brewpub Brewer of the Year in 2013 and 2014, and at the World Beer Cup in 2016.”

“In 2018, Ian moved to Riip Beer Company in Huntington Beach as Head Brewer. Over five years, he enhanced the brand, assembled a skilled team, and led them to win various prestigious brewing awards, including at GABF, San Diego International, US Beer Open, LA IPA Fest, and the Bistro IPA/DIPA Fest.”

Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing and Tap Room.

Alexis Readinger of Preen

Preen is an award-winning, international architecture and Interiors firm founded by Alexis Readinger with twenty years of experience specializing in hospitality design. Preen offers everything needed to build a project down to the matchbook.” They are based in a historic building in Los Angeles’ Chinatown. Projects in their expansive portfolio include Pine & Crane in the South Park neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles, the Howlin’ Ray’s in Pasadena (in the fondly-remembered Adohr Milk Farm building) and Piccalilli in Culver City. Preen has also designed a few of the distinctive establishments in Chinatown’s Far West Plaza. A current, high-profile effort in development is acclaimed Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s Otium Las Vegas in the Waldorf Astoria in the Aria Campus (the former Mandarin Oriental hotel.)

Alexis Readinger, Founder – “I believe in the idea of whole wellness and in creating a life that is deep in abundance for self, for community and for the planet. I’ve spent over two decades in the world of hospitality, this place of great generosity. Coming from this perspective, my commitment is to create conscious spaces that inspire humanity within the human animal experience. My calling is to create space that invites connection to the infinite.”

“A Texas native, Alexis holds a Masters in Architecture from UCLA and a Bachelors from Vanderbilt University. She is a LEED certified Green Building Advisor and a member of the AIA. Alexis serves on the board of the Chinatown Business Improvement District (BID), the Chung King Road Association, and the Travel Experience and Trends Council at the Urban Land Institute (ULI). She stands for just and joyful business.”

Preen’s founder, Alexis Readinger, is our guest to explore the mysterious world of restaurant design.

Darley Newman of Travels with Darley

Our favorite globe-trotting international travel journalist and TV personality, Darley Newman, is back with a new season of traveling. “Join multi-Emmy nominated Darley Newman for Season 11 of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY and experience an enticing blend of culture, history, and gastronomy across a captivating array of destinations in the USA (including Lafayette, Louisiana and Route 66 in Illinois) and to South Korea. Thirteen half-hour episodes debut on PBS stations starting January 11, 2024, including the launch of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY: “Revolutionary Road Trips” in the lead up to the 2026 commemorations of America’s 250th.”

TRAVELS WITH DARLEY invites viewers on a journey of discovery as Darley Newman explores the heart and soul of each place she visits.”

“This season focuses on the passion of individuals, families, and communities who seek to preserve historical assets, traditions, and authentic cuisine to enable lovers of travel to take nostalgic journeys, learn from their discoveries and pass it on to the next generation,” said Darley.

“In “South Korea’s Culinary Traditions” explore with Darley Newman across the rich world of Korean cuisine, from traditional temple food to modern K-desserts, all while delving into the culture and philosophy behind these delectable dishes in Seoul and Busan. Darley films with a three-star Michelin chef and dives into cooking as a spiritual endeavor with Buddhist nun Jeong Kwan of “Chef’s Table” on Netflix fame.”

Darley takes a brief respite from the road to join us.

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

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

We’re continuing the conversation about mandatory Service Charges of 18 to 20 per cent now added onto restaurant checks (this is not a Tip) sometimes along with a 3 to 5 per cent contribution to employee health care. Adding a “Tip” above and beyond this is typically not discouraged. To make matters worse the “Service Charge” is taxable. Chef Andrew will weigh in on this highly controversial and befuddling development.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: ISM Brewing with Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall Part One
Segment Three: ISM Brewing with Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall Part Two
Segment Four: Alexis Readinger, Founder, Preen – Architecture and Interiors Firm Part One
Segment Five: Alexis Readinger, Founder, Preen – Architecture and Interiors Firm Part Two
Segment Six: “Travels with Darley” on PBS for Season 11 with Darley Newman Part One
Segment Seven: “Travels with Darley” on PBS for Season 11 with Darley Newman Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 451, November 13, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“One of the most visually stunning demonstrations of talent and creativity within the architectural and engineering communities has returned for year seven through November 14, 2021. The annual CANstruction Long Beach event provides a much-needed source of non-perishable food for Food Finders to help eliminate hunger in the Long Beach community. The 7th annual CANstruction Long Beach competition benefiting Food Finders is being held at Trademark Brewing (at 233 E. Anaheim St.) with the completed installations available for viewing through Sunday, November 14, 2021. November 4th was “build day” starting at 8 a.m. CANstruction participants had twelve hours to design and build unique structures made entirely out of canned goods. The structures may be built up to 10’ x 10’ x 10’ and are comprised of 3,000-4,000 cans each. This year’s theme is “Don’t Let Hunger DRAG-ON!”, and participating teams depicted mythical creatures in any way they chose.” Organizer Terri Henry of Terri Henry Marketing, LLC joins us with all the event details.

Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, will celebrate its third anniversary on Thursday, November 18 with a day of specials and live music from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary, Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga has cooked up new menu items influenced by Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine that combines a love for flavor with quality ingredients. Descanso Restaurant is known for the Plancha and Taco Bars, where friends and family can gather to watch the food be prepared in front of them. The restaurant also hosts weekly happenings including Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas, weekday Happy Hour, a midweek Lunch Special, and Wine Wednesdays featuring live music on the patio.” Owner Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga take a break from the anniversary festivities preparations and are our guests.

Horses is a recently launched California restaurant and drinkery in West Hollywood with a nod to the European bistro. The inspiration for Horses comes from the original Ye Coach & Horses, a long -time bar and hideout for celebrities. Famous for being the perfect no-maintenance hang, people were devastated when its doors shuttered. Keeping true to the space, Horses pays homage to the Hollywood of yesterday. Upon entrance, you pass through the original 1934 moldings, tiled cafe flooring, and the eponymous horse in the famed bar room. You will walk past the original red booths and tables where Quentin Tarentino and Tim Roth first met. In its new incarnation, the spirit and magic is still alive. Horses is your classic bistro with a menu that is timeless and inspired by the bounty and seasonality of California. Small bites, classic libations, and a jovial spirit, Managing Partners and Chefs Will Aghajanian and Liz Johnson cook for the pleasure of the guest and the classic fare that inspired them as young cooks.”

Alma Sol is a family-owned and operated, micro-boutique winery, sourcing premium fruit from both Estate and other top vineyard sites in the beautiful Paso Robles appellation. From the very beginning, the mission of Proprietors John and Lisa Cuevas Shaw has been to craft exceptional Bordeaux wines, both single varietals and special blends – though they will occasionally be inspired to produce limited releases of non-Bordeaux varietals as well.  Alma Sol hand-picks their grapes in small lots, respects the fruit, guide its natural potential, and simply focus on hands-on, artisan winemaking.” Proprietors John and Lisa Cuevas Shaw are our guests to uncork all that is Alma Sol Winery.

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

Show 451, November 13, 2021: Descanso – A Modern Taqueria’s 3rd Anniversary

Fonzy de Zuniga of Descanso Restaurant

Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, will celebrate its third anniversary on Thursday, November 18 with a day of specials and live music from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary, Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga has cooked up new menu items influenced by Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine that combines a love for flavor with quality ingredients.”

“We continue to receive so much support from our community and are very excited to celebrate three years of business,” said Descanso Owner Rob Arellano. “We aim to create flavorful dishes for our guests, inspired by our passion for authentic Mexican recipes and look forward to continuing to share the memorable Descanso experience in the years to come.”

“Descanso Restaurant is known for the Plancha and Taco Bars, where friends and family can gather to watch the food be prepared in front of them. The restaurant also hosts weekly happenings including Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas, weekday Happy Hour, a midweek Lunch Special, and Wine Wednesdays featuring live music on the patio.”

Rob Arellano of Descanso Restaurant

“The new dinner and brunch dishes created by Descanso’s Executive Chef, Fonzy de Zuniga, are available now and put a spin on traditional recipes by incorporating fresh seafood, like shrimp, red snapper and salmon. The new brunch entrée, Eggs Benito, is Zuniga’s take on a “Mexican-style” eggs benedict with achiote marinated chicken, two poached eggs, agave morita glaze, hollandaise, avocado, bell peppers, grilled corn and onions on two tostadas. Along with new menu items, Descanso has crafted new cocktails, such as the Desperado and Mango Margarita that incorporate tropical flavors to pair with the new savory and spicy entrées.”

Owner Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga take a break from the anniversary festivities preparations and are our guests.

November 13: CANstruction Long Beach, Descanso Restaurant, Horses, Alma Sol

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: CANstruction Long Beach 2021 with Producer Terri Henry
Segment Three: Descanso – A Modern Taqueria’s 3rd Anniversary
Segment Four: Chef Liz Johnson, Managing Partner, Horses Restaurant, West Hollywood Part One
Segment Five: Chef Liz Johnson, Managing Partner, Horses Restaurant, West Hollywood Part Two
Segment Six: John Shaw and Lisa Cuevas Shaw, Alma Sol Winery, Paso Robles Part One
Segment Seven: John Shaw and Lisa Cuevas Shaw, Alma Sol Winery, Paso Robles Part Two

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

“One of the most visually stunning demonstrations of talent and creativity within the architectural and engineering communities has returned for year seven through November 14, 2021. The annual CANstruction Long Beach event provides a much-needed source of non-perishable food for Food Finders to help eliminate hunger in the Long Beach community. The 7th annual CANstruction Long Beach competition benefiting Food Finders is being held at Trademark Brewing ( at 233 E. Anaheim St.) with the completed installations available for viewing through Sunday, November 14, 2021. November 4th was “build day” starting at 8 a.m. CANstruction participants had twelve hours to design and build unique structures made entirely out of canned goods. The structures may be built up to 10’ x 10’ x 10’ and are comprised of 3,000-4,000 cans each. This year’s theme is “Don’t Let Hunger DRAG-ON!”, and participating teams depicted mythical creatures in any way they chose.” Organizer Terri Henry of Terri Henry Marketing, LLC joins us with all the event details.

“Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, will celebrate its third anniversary on Thursday, November 18 with a day of specials and live music from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary, Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga has cooked up new menu items influenced by Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine that combines a love for flavor with quality ingredients. Descanso Restaurant is known for the Plancha and Taco Bars, where friends and family can gather to watch the food be prepared in front of them. The restaurant also hosts weekly happenings including Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas, weekday Happy Hour, a midweek Lunch Special, and Wine Wednesdays featuring live music on the patio.” Owner Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga take a break from the anniversary festivities preparations and are our guests.

“Horses is a recently launched California restaurant and drinkery with a nod to the European bistro. The inspiration for Horses comes from the original Ye Coach & Horses, a long-time bar and hideout for celebrities. Famous for being the perfect no-maintenance hang, people were devastated when its doors shuttered. Keeping true to the space, Horses pays homage to the Hollywood of yesterday. Upon entrance, you pass through the original 1934 moldings, tiled cafe flooring, and the eponymous horse in the famed bar room. You will walk past the original red booths and tables where Quentin Tarentino and Tim Roth first met. In its new incarnation, the spirit and magic is still alive. Horses is your classic bistro with a menu that is timeless and inspired by the bounty and seasonality of California. Small bites, classic libations, and a jovial spirit, Managing Partners and Chefs Will Aghajanian and Liz Johnson cook for the pleasure of the guest and the classic fare that inspired them as young cooks.”

Alma Sol is a family-owned and operated, micro-boutique winery, sourcing premium fruit from both Estate and other top vineyard sites in the beautiful Paso Robles appellation. From the very beginning, the mission of Proprietors John and Lisa Shaw has been to craft exceptional Bordeaux wines, both single varietals and special blends – though they will occasionally be inspired to produce limited releases of non-Bordeaux varietals as well. Alma Sol hand-picks their grapes in small lots, respects the fruit, guide its natural potential, and simply focus on hands-on, artisan winemaking.” Proprietors John and Lisa Shaw are our guests to uncork all that is Alma Sol Winery.

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

Terri Henry of Dine LBC and Terri Henry Marketing

“One of the most visually stunning demonstrations of talent and creativity within the architectural and engineering communities returned for year through November 14, 2021. The annual CANstruction Long Beach event provides a much-needed source of unperishable food for Food Finders to help eliminate hunger in the Long Beach community.”

“The 7th annual CANstruction Long Beach competition benefiting Food Finders is being held at Trademark Brewing ( at 233 E. Anaheim St.) with the completed installations available for viewing through Sunday, November 14, 2021.”

“November 4th was “build day” starting at 8 a.m., CANstruction participants had twelve hours to design and build unique structures made entirely out of canned goods. The structures may be built up to 10’ x 10’ x 10’ and are comprised of 3,000-4,000 cans each. This year’s theme is “Don’t Let Hunger DRAG-ON!”, and participating teams depicted mythical creatures in any way they chose.”

“Three skilled teams made up from local architectural and engineering firms transformed thousands of cans of food into larger-than-life artistic masterpieces. The 2021 participants are WSP Engineering, Tuchscher Engineering Group and Precision Property Measurements.”

“Food Finders is excited to again be the beneficiary of the 7th annual Long Beach CANstruction”, said Diana Lara, Executive Director of Food Finders. “Postponed in 2020 due to COVID, the 2019 event generated a 10,000 pound plus donation of canned goods, and this unique event will continue to heighten awareness of food insecurity in our community and will play an important role in helping to feed those in need in our own backyard.”

“Our three talented teams have spent months designing their structures and are allowed only 12 hours to meticulously stack and color-coordinate their cans into ingenious feats of design”, added Terri Henry of terri henry marketing LLC, who organizes the event. “The ultimate donation of thousands of cans of food to feed the food insecure in our community makes it all worthwhile to the teams.”

Terri Henry of Terri Henry Marketing, LLC joins us with all the event details.

Fonzy de Zuniga of Descanso Restaurant

Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, will celebrate its third anniversary on Thursday, November 18 with a day of specials and live music from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary, Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga has cooked up new menu items influenced by Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine that combines a love for flavor with quality ingredients.”

“We continue to receive so much support from our community and are very excited to celebrate three years of business,” said Descanso Owner Rob Arellano. “We aim to create flavorful dishes for our guests, inspired by our passion for authentic Mexican recipes and look forward to continuing to share the memorable Descanso experience in the years to come.”

“Descanso Restaurant is known for the Plancha and Taco Bars, where friends and family can gather to watch the food be prepared in front of them. The restaurant also hosts weekly happenings including Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas, weekday Happy Hour, a midweek Lunch Special, and Wine Wednesdays featuring live music on the patio.”

“The new dinner and brunch dishes created by Descanso’s Executive Chef, Fonzy de Zuniga, are available now and put a spin on traditional recipes by incorporating fresh seafood, like shrimp, red snapper and salmon. The new brunch entrée, Eggs Benito, is Zuniga’s take on a “Mexican-style” eggs benedict with achiote marinated chicken, two poached eggs, agave morita glaze, hollandaise, avocado, bell peppers, grilled corn and onions on two tostadas. Along with new menu items, Descanso has crafted new cocktails, such as the Desperado and Mango Margarita that incorporate tropical flavors to pair with the new savory and spicy entrées.”

Owner Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga take a break from the anniversary festivities preparations and are our guests.

Liz Johnson of Horses Restaurant

Horses is a recently launched California restaurant and drinkery with a nod to the European bistro. The inspiration for Horses comes from the original Ye Coach & Horses, a long-time bar and hideout for celebrities. Famous for being the perfect no-maintenance hang, people were devastated when its doors shuttered.”

“Keeping true to the space, Horses pays homage to the Hollywood of yesterday. Upon entrance, you pass through the original 1934 moldings, tiled cafe flooring, and the eponymous horse in the famed bar room. You will walk past the original red booths and tables where Quentin Tarentino and Tim Roth first met. In its new incarnation, the spirit and magic is still alive.”

“Horses is your classic bistro with a menu that is timeless and inspired by the bounty and seasonality of California. Small bites, classic libations, and a jovial spirit, Managing Partners and Chefs Will Aghajanian and Liz Johnson cook for the pleasure of the guest and the classic fare that inspired them as young cooks.”

“Horses is the first solo venture, and the most important work to date, for Chefs Will Aghajanian and Liz Johnson. As the visionaries behind the project, the duo is responsible for concept creation, interior design, menu development, as well as the day-to-day operations of the restaurant.”

“Running the kitchen, Aghajanian and Johnson have tapped Brittany Ha and Lee Pallerino as Co-Executive Chefs of Horses. Ha began her culinary career at Roberta’s in New York City. During those three years at an ambitious, creative and wild restaurant, she serendipitously met Lee Pallerino, who was the sous chef at the Michelin star Brooklyn eatery. Their journey continued together through restaurant openings, busy services, cross country moves, and now as co-chefs.”

Chef and Managing Partner Liz Johnson takes a break from her busy kitchen and joins us.

John Shaw of Alma Sol Winery

Alma Sol is a family-owned and operated, micro-boutique winery, sourcing premium fruit from both Estate and other top vineyard sites in the beautiful Paso Robles appellation. From the very beginning, the mission has been to craft exceptional Bordeaux wines, both single varietals and special blends – though they will occasionally be inspired to produce limited releases of non-Bordeaux varietals as well. Alma Sol hand-picks their grapes in small lots, respects the fruit, guide its natural potential, and simply focus on hands-on, artisan winemaking.”

“It all began in 2002, during weekend trips to the family’s vineyard in Paso Robles and spending more time with the family business. In Paso Robles, they found the winemakers and winery owners highly accessible and approachable – so much so, that they came to know the area and the industry extremely well in little time. It started with learning about vineyard practices, the kinds of varietals that grow well in the area, and then gradually extended into learning about the entire winemaking operation.”

“John and Lisa became officially licensed in 2009 under the name of Alma Sol, which brings together two critical elements needed to craft exceptional wines – “soul” and “sun”. While Paso is well-known for its Zinfandel – and more recently, award-winning Rhone varietals and blends – John and Lisa decided that they wanted to make the best Cabernet Sauvignon they could by using Paso Robles fruit, to prove that a great Bordeaux could be realized in the Central Coast. Their first commercial vintage was in 2009. The inaugural releases received numerous accolades, including 90 Pts from Wine Enthusiast.”

“John and Lisa run the entire operation on their own. On the operations side, this includes overseeing the Alma Sol estate vineyard, scouting and selecting fruit sources beyond the estate vineyard, harvesting and processing the fruit, selecting and managing the barrel program to draw out distinctive flavor profiles, designing and creating the wine label and packaging, bottling, warehousing, and marketing and selling. All of this is done with a primary goal of sharing and distributing these hand-crafted wines among local communities in Southern California and beyond.”

Proprietors John and Lisa Shaw are our guests to uncork all that is Alma Sol Winery.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: CANstruction Long Beach 2021 with Producer Terri Henry
Segment Three: Descanso – A Modern Taqueria’s 3rd Anniversary
Segment Four: Chef Liz Johnson, Managing Partner, Horses Restaurant, West Hollywood Part One
Segment Five: Chef Liz Johnson, Managing Partner, Horses Restaurant, West Hollywood Part Two
Segment Six: John Shaw and Lisa Cuevas Shaw, Alma Sol Winery, Paso Robles Part One
Segment Seven: John Shaw and Lisa Cuevas Shaw, Alma Sol Winery, Paso Robles Part Two

Show 394, October 10, 2020: Rob Arellano, Managing Partner, Descanso Restaurant, Costa Mesa

Rob Arellano of Descanso RestaurantDescanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa delivers a unique Mexican dining experience as a modern taqueria that celebrates authentic Mexican flavors and recipes executed on a traditional Plancha and prepared a la minute in front of the guest. With new Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga at the helm, the full-service restaurant is committed to providing only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and does not believe in cooking with lard or using can openers. Drawing guests into the cooking experience as classic Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is made to order, the restaurant’s lively setting celebrates tradition while bringing in the music, smells, and energy of a busy Mexican town.”

Descanso Restaurant has just resumed midweek lunch service. Featuring all-new items, the menu of Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is available inside, to-go and al fresco on the restaurant’s 1,500 square-foot patio.

“The modern taqueria’s fresh and vibrant menu introduces the Mexibol, a new offering filled with bold flavors and nourishing ingredients including refried pinto beans, Mexican fried rice, pico de gallo, avocado toreado salsa, salsa frita, tortilla chips and a choice of protein or vegetables.”

Descanso hosts weekly Wine Wednesday from 3 to 9:00 p.m. The bonus is live music on the patio with TIAN playing acoustic Latin hits and modern favorites with a Latin twist. Five Dollar wines by the glass are available plus half-off on select bottles.

Managing Partner and Concept Creator Rob Arellano joins us with all the details of what Descanso has available for the hungry dining public right now.