April 30: Live from Redbird and Jet Tila’s “101 Thai Dishes” Cookbook Launch Party

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Lisa Fontanesi, L.A. Director, Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP)
Segment Three: Chef Lasheeda Perry of Queen of Flavor
Segment Four: Chef Neal Fraser
Segment Five: Chef Tad Weyland Fukumoto, Co-Author, 101 Thai Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die
Segment Six: Chef Jet Tila, Food TV Personality, Author and Restaurateur Part One
Segment Seven: Chef Jet Tila, Food TV Personality, Author and Restaurateur Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef & Co-Host Andrew Gruel of Slapfish with “Ask the Chef”

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

101 Thai Dishes You Need To Try Before You Die

It’s a very special show as we’re broadcasting from Redbird at the historic Vibiana events center in Downtown Los Angeles. We’re celebrating the publication of Chef Jet Tila’s 3rd cookbook, 101 Thai Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die. Following the show today Chef Jet is conducting a ticketed book-signing and meet-and-greet (with food and beverage sampling from the cookbook) at Redbird’s garden as a benefit for the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.)

“Long co-chaired by chef Marcus Samuelsson, Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is a workforce development nonprofit that provides underserved teens a pathway to success through jobs in the food sector. Annually, C-CAP provides culinary, job and life skills to over 15,000 middle-and-high school students in six cities/regions across the United States: New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington DC/Maryland and Arizona, including 7 Navajo Reservation schools.” On April 17th at the Annual Awards Breakfast at Jonathan Club, C-CAP Los Angeles awarded $607,711 in Scholarships to 34 outstanding L.A. area High School Seniors. C-CAP L.A.’s Program Director Lisa Fontanesi is our guest.

Lasheeda Perry, a distinguished C-CAP Alum, is a trained pastry chef and the owner of Queen of Flavor, LLC, a company that specializes in everything from revamping restaurant menus to helping a restaurant design and execute a dream dessert for a special event. Now based in Long Beach Chef Lasheeda has previously worked across America as an Executive Pastry Chef at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts (including Beverly Hills’ The Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel) and for Bon Appetit Management Co. at LinkedIn. She also teaches fun and entertaining pastry classes on the Food Network App. Chef Lasheeda joins us rolling pin in hand.

“Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll Fraser’s flagship restaurant Redbird features Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city – Los Angeles. As a follow up to Grace and BLD, Fraser’s menu features seasonal plates ranging from snacks or “kickshaws” to entrees meant to be enjoyed by the whole table.

Located in downtown Los Angeles, Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems, inside the former rectory building of Vibiana – the cathedral-turned-event-venue also owned and operated by the Frasers. (They also have Fritzi Coop in the Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax.) The dynamic space pays homage to the historic cathedral building next door and the existing timeless architecture by inserting simple modern forms to complement rather than overtake the feel of the rooms.”

Tad Weyland Fukumoto (Jet Tila’s collaborator on of 101 Thai Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die) is a nationally recognized chef, culinary producer and consultant. He was born and raised in Hawaii to a long line of great cooks surrounded by rich culinary cultures including Chinese, Japanese and Okinawan cuisines. After attending university in Northern California, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his passion for music while always having a hand in the L.A. food scene His culinary CV includes acclaimed restaurants such as Wazuzu at Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, Grace, BLD, Chinois on Main and Sqirl. Tad and Jet have been friends and collaborators for more than 20 years.”

Chef Tad is our guest with chopsticks at the ready.

“Celebrity Chef Jet Tila is a James Beard Award-nominated chef. He’s made appearances as a celebrity chef on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” “The Best Thing I Ever Ate,” “Cutthroat Kitchen,” “Guy’s Grocery Games,” “Tournament of Champions III” and more.

Jet is Culinary Vice President for Pei-Wei Restaurant Group and co-owns Dragon Tiger Noodle Co. (multiple locations) in Las Vegas. Jet grew up at his Family’s famed Bangkok Market in Los Angeles – the first Thai market in the United States. Jet also serves as the Culinary Ambassador of Thai Cuisine for the Royal Thai government.” Chef Jet is with us Thai Fish Sauce in hand.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is part of the distinguished culinary team presenting an epic meal featuring sustainably caught fresh seafood on the iconic Huntington Beach Pier on Thursday, May 12th under the umbrella of Outstanding in the Field as part of the L.A. Times Food Bowl. This grand event was rescheduled from last year. Chef Andrew offers a tantalizing preview.

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

Lisa Fontanesi of C-CAP Los Angeles

“Long co-chaired by chef Marcus Samuelsson, Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is a workforce development nonprofit that provides underserved teens a pathway to success through jobs in the food sector. Annually, C-CAP provides culinary, job and life skills to over 15,000 middle-and-high school students in six cities/regions across the United States: New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington DC/Maryland and Arizona, including 7 Navajo Reservation schools.”

“Founder & Chairman Emeritus Richard Grausman launched this nonprofit in 1991 to help further food and social justice, as well as equity and inclusion by providing tools for job success. Starting in middle schools, C-CAP provides culinary-and-wellness curriculum, and in high schools also provides an integrated approach to employment in the food sector via internships/apprenticeships, job shadows, mentorship, work opportunities, college and career advising, and higher-education scholarships, along with product and food donations.”

“The success of C-CAP’s alumni—from winery CEOs to chef-owner restaurateurs—is proof of their methodology. To date, C-CAP has worked with 350,000 students and awarded $62 million in scholarships. C-CAP has transformed thousands of lives in a meaningful way. The urgency to help these diverse communities has never been more critical.”

On April 17th at the Annual Awards Breakfast at Jonathan Club, C-CAP Los Angeles awarded $607,711 in Scholarships to 34 outstanding L.A. area High School Seniors.

C-CAP L.A.’s Program Director Lisa Fontanesi is our guest.

Lasheeda Perry of Queen of Flavor

Lasheeda Perry, a C-CAP Alum, is a trained pastry chef and the owner of Queen of Flavor, LLC, a company that specializes in everything from revamping restaurant menus to helping a restaurant design and execute a dream dessert for a special event.”

“Lasheeda has always has a passion for the Culinary Arts, and luckily for the sweet tooth everywhere, this love has materialized into a successfully rewarding career. She received her culinary education from Johnson & Wales, and has studied abroad in Ireland, Australia and China to enhance her culinary skills.”

“Now based in Long Beach Chef Lasheeda has previously worked across America as an Executive Pastry Chef at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts (including The Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel) and for Bon Appetit Management Co. at LinkedIn. She also teaches fun and entertaining pastry classes on the Food Network App.”

Chef Lasheeda joins us with rolling pin in hand.

Neal Fraser of Redbird

Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll Fraser’s flagship restaurant Redbird features Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city – Los Angeles. As a follow up to Grace and BLD, Fraser’s menu features seasonal plates ranging from snacks or “kickshaws” to entrees meant to be enjoyed by the whole table.”

“An extensive cocktail menu by Tobin Shea features well-balanced, bespoke renditions of the classics. Wine Director Matt Fosket’s selections are well rounded with great finds from both established and emerging wine regions throughout the world and the list has received many awards including “Top 100 wine restaurants in the United States” by Wine Enthusiast and the “Best of Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator.”

“Located in downtown Los Angeles, Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems, inside the former rectory building of Vibiana – the cathedral-turned-event-venue also owned and operated by the Frasers. (They also have Fritzi Coop in the Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax.) Designer Robert Weimer and Amy Knoll Fraser created a dynamic space that pays homage to the cathedral next door and the existing timeless architecture by inserting simple modern forms to complement rather than overtake the feel of the rooms. The result is a warm and comfortable considered space.”

“Redbird | Vibiana received the Los Angeles Conservancy’s 2019 Preservation Award Chair’s Award. The Chair’s Award is the LA Conservancy’s highest recognition celebrating the persistence, creativity and ultimate success of the revitalization for adaptive reuse of the cathedral, rectory building and surrounding property.”

Chef Neal takes a break from his busy kitchens and is our guest.

Tad Weyland Fukumoto

Tad Weyland Fukumoto (Jet Tila’s collaborator on of 101 Thai Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die) is a nationally recognized chef, culinary producer and consultant. He was born and raised in Hawaii to a long line of great cooks surrounded by rich culinary cultures including Chinese, Japanese and Okinawan cuisines. After attending university in Northern California, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his passion for music while always having a hand in the L.A. food scene.”

“After a few years spending his days in music and nights cooking in some of L.A.’s best restaurants, the kitchen lured Tad to switch careers.”

“His culinary CV includes acclaimed restaurants such as Wazuzu at Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, Grace, BLD, Chinois on Main and Sqirl. Tad and Jet have been friends and collaborators for more than 20 years.”

Jet Tila at Cochon 555

“Celebrity Chef Jet Tila is a James Beard Award-nominated chef. He’s made appearances as a celebrity chef on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” “The Best Thing I Ever Ate,” “Cutthroat Kitchen,” “Guy’s Grocery Games,” “Tournament of Champions III” and more.”

“Jet is Culinary Vice President for Pei-Wei Restaurant Group and co-owns Dragon Tiger Noodle Co. (multiple locations) in Las Vegas. Jet grew up at his Family’s famed Bangkok Market in Los Angeles – the first Thai market in the United States. Jet also serves as the Culinary Ambassador of Thai Cuisine for the Royal Thai government.”

Chef Jet is one of the three chef mentors (along with Bobby Flay) for Food Network’s eight-part “BBQ Brawl” competition series (Season 3) launching on May 9th.

Chef Jet is our guest with authentic Thai Fish Sauce in hand.

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

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

Chef Andrew is part of the distinguished culinary team presenting an epic meal featuring sustainably caught fresh seafood on the iconic Huntington Beach Pier on Thursday, May 12th under the umbrella of Outstanding in the Field as part of the L.A. Times Food Bowl. This grand event was rescheduled from last year. Chef Andrew offers a tantalizing preview.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Lisa Fontanesi, L.A. Director, Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP)
Segment Three: Chef Lasheeda Perry of Queen of Flavor
Segment Four: Chef Neal Fraser
Segment Five: Chef Tad Weyland Fukumoto, Co-Author, 101 Thai Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die
Segment Six: Chef Jet Tila, Food TV Personality, Author and Restaurateur Part One
Segment Seven: Chef Jet Tila, Food TV Personality, Author and Restaurateur Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef & Co-Host Andrew Gruel of Slapfish with “Ask the Chef”

Show 438, August 14, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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

Saso in Pasadena, (launched earlier this year) draws inspirations from three coast regions treasured by Chef/Partner Dominique Crisp: his home in Los Angeles, his upbringing in the Pacific Northwest, and his travels within Basque Country. Throughout the menu, his dedication to the slow-food movement shines with hyper-local ingredients and French-taught cooking techniques.” “At Saso, a passion for coastal cuisine is met with Dominique’s deep appreciation and understanding of farming. Born on his family’s vineyard in Wren, Oregon – raising livestock, fishing, and harvesting has always been an essential part of his life. A respect for the land, sea, and supporting those who are sustainably harvesting the bounty is an integral ethos that flows through Saso.” Chef Dom takes a break from prep in his busy kitchen to join us.

“Professional chef, TV personality and working mom of three, Katie Chin, introduces her newest cookbook, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook – Internationally-Inspired Recipes Your Friends and Family Will Love! With 170 globally-inspired recipes, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook, celebrates diversity and multiculturalism including Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Greek, Korean, Jewish, Thai dishes and more!  The book also includes cultural celebrations featuring Jeannie Mai and her mom The Mama Mai (Lunar New Year), Debbie Matenopoulos (Greek Easter), Nate Berkus, Jeremiah Brent and Faye Levy (Hanukkah) and Chef Jeffrey Saad (Cinco de Mayo).” (Cinco de Mayo). Chef Katie is our guest, tongs in hand.

How does one of the premier wine retailers on the West Coast, Wine Exchange, operate during the pandemic? How do the principals continue to taste and buy wine with all the restrictions? What happens to the in-store experience? Wine Exchange, based in Santa Ana by the 55 Freeway, carries premium imported wines from Europe and abroad (as well as domestic.) Typically the partners travel abroad annually to do barrel tastings that future buying decisions revolve around. How did they navigate the crazy on-again and off-again tariffs? The Wine Exchange’s Chief Operating Officer, Tristen Beamon, joins us with his informed perspective.

Celebrity Chef, Food TV Personality and Author Jet Tila needs no introduction to listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” The same holds true for Ali Tila, Jet’s wife and business partner. She is also an accomplished pastry chef and author. Their latest collaboration is as the judges (along with Chris Rivard, a Ben & Jerry’s flavor expert) on Food Network’s “Ben & Jerry’s: Clash of the Cones.” The four-episode series hosted by Molly Yeh debuts on Monday, August 16th. We’re talking about decadent ice cream, the perfect Summer treat, with Jet & Ali Tila.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery. Genuine concerns remain… Chicken is ever popular as a practical and versatile menu item for dining at home. There are some cautions in the home kitchen in handling raw chicken. The possibility of cross-contamination without taking proper precautions is a health concern. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

Show 438, August 14, 2021: Chef Jet Tila & Ali Tila, “Ben & Jerry’s: Clash of the Cones”

Jet Tila at Cochon 555

Celebrity Chef, Food TV Personality and Author Jet Tila needs no introduction to listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” The same holds true for Ali Tila, Jet’s wife and business partner. She is also an accomplished pastry chef and cookbook author.

Their latest collaboration is as the esteemed judges (along with Chris Rivard, a Ben & Jerry’s flavor expert) on Food Network’s “Ben & Jerry’s: Clash of the Cones.” The four-episode limited series hosted by Molly Yeh debuts on Monday, August 16th.

“Six ice cream masters from across the country have been hand-picked for a once in a lifetime opportunity: to create an original Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavor of their own.”

“Over four episodes, host Molly Yeh challenges the ice cream makers to capture the essence of a celebrity or pop culture icon in a new and innovative ice cream flavor, inspired by the direction given from the celebrity themselves.”

Chef Jet and Ali also update us on the status of their new Thai cookbook (101 Thai Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die) set to launch in January of 2022. Available for pre-order on Amazon.

Chef Jet and Ali Tila are our guests.

August 14: Saso, Katie Chin, Wine Exchange, Jet & Ali Tila

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef & Partner Dominique Crisp, Saso, Pasadena Part One
Segment Three: Chef & Partner Dominique Crisp, Saso, Pasadena Part Two
Segment Four: Chef Katie Chin, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook Part One
Segment Five: Chef Katie Chin, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook Part Two
Segment Six: Tristen Beamon, Chief Operating Officer, Wine Exchange, Santa Ana
Segment Seven: Chef Jet Tila & Ali Tila, “Ben & Jerry’s : Clash of the Cones”
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

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

Saso in Pasadena, (launched earlier this year) draws inspirations from three coast regions treasured by Chef/Partner Dominique Crisp: his home in Los Angeles, his upbringing in the Pacific Northwest, and his travels within Basque Country. Throughout the menu, his dedication to the slow-food movement shines with hyper-local ingredients and French-taught cooking techniques.” “At Saso, a passion for coastal cuisine is met with Dominique’s deep appreciation and understanding of farming. Born on his family’s vineyard in Wren, Oregon – raising livestock, fishing, and harvesting has always been an essential part of his life. A respect for the land, sea, and supporting those who are sustainably harvesting the bounty is an integral ethos that flows through Saso.” Chef Dom takes a break from prep in his busy kitchen to join us.

Professional chef, TV personality and working mom of three, Katie Chin, introduces her newest cookbook, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook – Internationally-Inspired Recipes Your Friends and Family Will Love! With 170 globally-inspired recipes, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook, celebrates diversity and multiculturalism including Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Greek, Korean, Jewish, Thai dishes and more! The book also includes cultural celebrations featuring Jeannie Mai and her mom The Mama Mai (Lunar New Year), Debbie Matenopoulos (Greek Easter), Nate Berkus, Jeremiah Brent and Faye Levy (Hanukkah) and Chef Jeffrey Saad (Cinco de Mayo). Chef Katie is our guest, tongs in hand.

How does one of the premier wine retailers on the West Coast, Wine Exchange, operate during the pandemic? How do the principals continue to taste and buy wine with all the restrictions? What happens to the in-store experience? Wine Exchange, based in Santa Ana by the 55 Freeway, carries premium imported wines from Europe and abroad. Typically the partners travel abroad annually to do barrel tastings that future buying decisions revolve around. How did they navigate the crazy on-again and off-again tariffs? The Wine Exchange’s Chief Operating Officer, Tristen Beamon, joins us with his informed perspective.

Celebrity Chef, Food TV Personality and Author Jet Tila needs no introduction to listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” The same holds true for Ali Tila, Jet’s wife and business partner. She is also an accomplished pastry chef and author. Their latest collaboration is as the judges (along with Chris Rivard, a Ben & Jerry’s flavor expert) on Food Network’s “Ben & Jerry’s : Clash of the Cones.” The four-episode series hosted by Molly Yeh debuts on Monday, August 16th. We’re talking about decadent ice cream, the perfect Summer treat, with Jet & Ali Tila.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery. Genuine concerns remain… Chicken is ever popular as a practical and versatile menu item for dining at home. There are some cautions in the home kitchen in handling raw chicken. The possibility of cross-contamination without taking proper precautions is a health concern. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

Dominique Crisp of Saso

Saso in Pasadena, (launched earlier this year) draws inspirations from three coast regions treasured by Chef Dominique Crisp: his home in Los Angeles, his upbringing in the Pacific Northwest, and his travels within Basque Country. Throughout the menu, his dedication to the slow-food movement shines with hyper-local ingredients and French-taught cooking techniques. Previously he helmed the kitchens at the beloved seafood restaurants, L&E Oyster Bar in Silver Lake, CA and Blue Plate Oysterette in Santa Monica, CA.”

“At Saso, a passion for coastal cuisine is met with Dominique’s deep appreciation and understanding of farming. Born on his family’s vineyard in Wren, Oregon – raising livestock, fishing, and harvesting has always been an essential part of his life. A respect for the land, sea, and supporting those who are sustainably harvesting the bounty is an integral ethos that flows through Saso.”

“I want coastal cuisine from Baja to Alaska to shine by showcasing farmers, fishermen and butchers we work with,” says Dominique Crisp. “We need to reconnect with food as much as we need to reconnect with each other.”

“Dominique’s goal is to emphasize the relationships he’s built with artisanal purveyors to continually develop Saso’s narrative. Not entirely a “Basque restaurant,” Saso aims to bring the energetic nature of Basque Country dining to Los Angeles with a foundation of sustainable Pacific coastal cuisine.”

“Diners can expect rotating local whole fish options, a variety of niche oysters, dramatic bar creations, flaming Spanish coffees, and an extensive reserve wine list sourced from all over the globe.”

A charcoal Josper oven imported from Barcelona gives life to dishes such as a Navarra-style Bone-in Wagyu Tomahawk and Alaskan Mussels with fennel, charred leek, and chistorra. The ‘Rolls Royce of charcoal ovens,’ the Josper features a unique enclosed-bbq design, which offers varied levels of heat and char for a distinct wood-fired flavor without sacrificing moisture.

“Saso’s bar program features a wine list highlighting rare txakolinas from the Basque Country alongside natural wines from Lumos Wine Company (the vineyard where Dominique was born). Guests are in for a spectacular happy hour with top notch imported ciders, wine and beers on draught along with a blend of classic and signature cocktails drawing inspiration from Los Angeles to Portland to San Sebastián.”

“Housed in the century-old Pasadena Playhouse, Saso’s dining room and lounge area add a contemporary touch to the building’s historic architecture, including a large-scale, custom 40ft mural from renowned LA-based artist Tim Biskup.”

On the patio diners can enjoy a breezy, socially distanced meal in a courtyard shared with the Pasadena Playhouse, adorned with string lights and an ornate water fountain.

Chef Dom takes a break from prep in his busy kitchen to join us.

Katie Chin

Professional chef, TV personality and working mom of three, Katie Chin, introduces her newest cookbook, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook – Internationally-Inspired Recipes Your Friends and Family Will Love! With 170 globally-inspired recipes, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook,celebrates diversity and multiculturalism including Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Greek, Korean, Jewish, Thai dishes and more! The book also includes cultural celebrations featuring Jeannie Mai and her mom The Mama Mai (Lunar New Year), Debbie Matenopoulos (Greek Easter), Nate Berkus, Jeremiah Brent and Faye Levy (Hanukkah) and Chef Jeffrey Saad (Cinco de Mayo).”

“Everyday family-favorite recipes include: · Thai Curry Meatball Subs · Mexican Chimichurri Burgers · Chinese Sesame Peanut Noodles · Chicken Tikka Masala Pizza · Miso Deviled Eggs, and more.”

“Katie learned to cook alongside her mother (Restaurateur Leeann Chin) and it’s an experience she now loves to share with her daughter. She hopes to inspire other families to have fun in the kitchen together with these recipes.”

“Katie Chin co-hosted the national PBS cooking series “Double Happiness,” has been a guest judge on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America” and appeared as a contestant on “Cutthroat Kitchen” and “Beat Bobby Flay.” Recently, Katie and her kids teamed up for the online series “Cooped Up Cooking with Katie” — meant to inspire people stuck at home during COVID-19 to get creative in the kitchen. She is the author of Everyday Thai Cooking and Katie Chin’s Everyday Chinese Cookbook and the Culinary Ambassador for The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.”

Chef Katie Chin joins us.

Tristan Beamon of the Wine Exchange

“In 2015 Steve and Craig Zanotti (the original founders of Wine Exchange in 1982,) Tristen Beamon and Kyle Meyer came full circle with the Best Wines Group purchase of Wine Exchange and winex.com. The team, back together again, have now created their idea of the perfect wine sales and education platform including their state-of-the-art website, brand new wine showroom, irreverent but timely daily missives, a healthy social media following with over 500,000 views on their YouTube channel, The Extract, a progressive Pre-Arrivals offering system and, of course, those same rock-bottom prices.”

How does one of the premier wine retailers on the West Coast operate (and survive) during the pandemic? How do the principals continue to taste and buy with all the restrictions? How does the guest experience in-store evolve? Wine Exchange carries premium wines from Europe and abroad. Typically the partners travel abroad annually to do barrel tastings that key buying decisions revolve around. How did they navigate the crazy on-again and off-again tariffs?

The Wine Exchange’s Chief Operating Officer, Tristen Beamon, joins us with his informed perspective.

Jet Tila at Cochon 555

Celebrity Chef, Food TV Personality and Author Jet Tila needs no introduction to listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” The same holds true for Ali Tila, Jet’s wife and business partner. She is also an accomplished pastry chef and cookbook author.

Their latest collaboration is as the esteemed judges (along with Chris Rivard, a Ben & Jerry’s flavor expert) on Food Network’s “Ben & Jerry’s: Clash of the Cones.” The four-episode limited series hosted by Molly Yeh debuts on Monday, August 16th.

“Six ice cream masters from across the country have been hand-picked for a once in a lifetime opportunity: to create an original Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavor of their own.”

“Over four episodes, host Molly Yeh challenges the ice cream makers to capture the essence of a celebrity or pop culture icon in a new and innovative ice cream flavor, inspired by the direction given from the celebrity themselves.”

Chef Jet and Ali will also update us on the status of their new Thai cookbook set to launch in January.

Chef Jet and Ali Tila are our guests.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery with the new concerns about the Delta variant. Genuine concerns remain…

Chicken is ever popular as a practical and versatile menu item for dining at home. There are some cautions in the home kitchen in handling raw chicken. Cross-contamination without proper precautions is a genuine health concern. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef & Partner Dominique Crisp, Saso, Pasadena Part One
Segment Three: Chef & Partner Dominique Crisp, Saso, Pasadena Part Two
Segment Four: Chef Katie Chin, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook Part One
Segment Five: Chef Katie Chin, Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook Part Two
Segment Six: Tristen Beamon, Chief Operating Officer, Wine Exchange, Santa Ana
Segment Seven: Chef Jet Tila & Ali Tila, “Ben & Jerry’s : Clash of the Cones”
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 422, April 24, 2021: Chef Jet Tila, Cookbook Author, Culinary Educator and Food TV Personality Part One

Jet Tila and a heritage pig at Cochon 555 in 2013

Celebrity Chef, Author and Food TV Personality, Jet Tila, needs no introduction to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” With his wife, Ali, he has written the best-selling 101 Asian Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die and,most recently, 101 Epic Dishes. Jet’s latest cookbook will be out in January of 2022. It’s a comprehensive guide to Thai cooking at home made easy.

On Food Network Chef Jet was one of the 3 regular judges for the entire run of “Cutthroat Kitchen with Alton Brown” and the knowledgeable Floor Reporter on the most recent season of the refreshed “Iron Chef America.” Earlier in his career he crossed knives with Iron Chef Masaharu Moromoto (an original Iron Chef from the predecessor Japanese version) on “Iron Chef America” in “Battle Seaweed.” In addition to other worthy accomplishments Chef Jet holds the most Guinness World Records for creating large format food.

Just concluded on Sunday nights was Chef Jet competing on Food Network’s “Tournament of Champions” bracket competition series hosted by Guy Fieri. After winning his first round (Number 3 seed) Chef Jet was matched against the highly competitive Antonio Lofaso (Number 2 seed.) For the first time in Tournament history the judges ranked them a tie with the same scores in all three categories. They then competed head-to-head again to determine which cheftestant earned the final spot in the West Coast bracket to go up against (Number 1 seed) Brooke Williamson. How did Chef Jet do ? We’ll find out…

Chef Jet has an exclusive partnership with Pei Wei to bring his creative dishes to you exclusively at your local Pei Wei fast casual restaurant. Southern California locations are in Valencia, Tustin and San Diego’s Mission Valley. For Spring 2021 Chef Jet’s new seasonal creations are House Special Chicken and Mongolian Green Beans.

House Special Chicken features lightly battered chicken with pineapple, ginger, garlic and mint, tossed in a tangy caramel sauce and served over a bed of rice sticks and topped with an Asian slaw of cucumbers, red bell peppers, carrots, cilantro, and onions in a Vietnamese vinaigrette.”

Chef Jet was in Las Vegas last weekend to launch the first two locations of his new fast casual concept, Dragon Tiger Noodle Co. The current operating locations are Southern Highlands and Henderson. A future location will launch in the Rainbow Commons retail center in Spring Valley (Summerlin.)

“At the Dragon Tiger Noodle Co., the choice is yours! You choose the noodle; ramen to low carb, You choose the broth; Tonkotsu to Chinese Chicken Soup, You choose the protein and vegetables; thinly sliced beef to corn. Served fast with only the freshest ingredients.”

Chef Jet Tila is our special guest chopsticks at the ready.

Show 422, April 24, 2021: Chef Jet Tila, Cookbook Author, Culinary Educator and Food TV Personality Part Two

Jet Tila and a heritage pig at Cochon 555 in 2013

Celebrity Chef, Author and Food TV Personality, Jet Tila, needs no introduction to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” With his wife, Ali, he has written the best-selling 101 Asian Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die and,most recently, 101 Epic Dishes. Jet’s latest cookbook will be out in January of 2022. It’s a comprehensive guide to Thai cooking at home made easy.

On Food Network Chef Jet was one of the 3 regular judges for the entire run of “Cutthroat Kitchen with Alton Brown” and the knowledgeable Floor Reporter on the most recent season of the refreshed “Iron Chef America.” Earlier in his career he crossed knives with Iron Chef Masaharu Moromoto (an original Iron Chef from the predecessor Japanese version) on “Iron Chef America” in “Battle Seaweed.” In addition to other worthy accomplishments Chef Jet holds the most Guinness World Records for creating large format food.

Just concluded on Sunday nights was Chef Jet competing on Food Network’s “Tournament of Champions” bracket competition series hosted by Guy Fieri. After winning his first round (Number 3 seed) Chef Jet was matched against the highly competitive Antonio Lofaso (Number 2 seed.) For the first time in Tournament history the judges ranked them a tie with the same scores in all three categories. They then competed head-to-head again to determine which cheftestant earned the final spot in the West Coast bracket to go up against (Number 1 seed) Brooke Williamson. How did Chef Jet do ? We’ll find out…

Chef Jet has an exclusive partnership with Pei Wei to bring his creative dishes to you exclusively at your local Pei Wei fast casual restaurant. Southern California locations are in Valencia, Tustin and San Diego’s Mission Valley. For Spring 2021 Chef Jet’s new seasonal creations are House Special Chicken and Mongolian Green Beans.

House Special Chicken features lightly battered chicken with pineapple, ginger, garlic and mint, tossed in a tangy caramel sauce and served over a bed of rice sticks and topped with an Asian slaw of cucumbers, red bell peppers, carrots, cilantro, and onions in a Vietnamese vinaigrette.”

Chef Jet was in Las Vegas last weekend to launch the first two locations of his new fast casual concept, Dragon Tiger Noodle Co. The current operating locations are Southern Highlands and Henderson. A future location will launch in the Rainbow Commons retail center in Spring Valley (Summerlin.)

“At the Dragon Tiger Noodle Co., the choice is yours! You choose the noodle; ramen to low carb, You choose the broth; Tonkotsu to Chinese Chicken Soup, You choose the protein and vegetables; thinly sliced beef to corn. Served fast with only the freshest ingredients.”

Chef Jet Tila continues with us chopsticks at the ready.

Show 375, May 30, 2020: Chef Jet Tila Part One

Jet Tila and a heritage pig at Cochon 555 in 2013Food Network’s Chef Jet Tila is well-known to the “SoCal Restaurant Show’s” listeners. He co-hosted (and co-created) the radio show for the initial 2 years. You’ve seen him on “Iron Chef America” as Alton Brown’s well-informed Floor Reporter, “Cutthroat Kitchen,” “Guy’s Grocery Games,” “Beat Bobby Flay” and more popular shows.

Ready Jet Cook – How to Make Pad Thai with Jet Tila” airing on FoodNetwork.com and YouTube was nominated for a prestigious James Beard Foundation Award this year. The series “Ready Jet Cook” is also up for a Daytime Emmy Award. Jet will bring us up-to-date on the plans for Season 2 of “Ready Jet Cook.”

Chef Jet is about to launch an unusual 4-part interactive cooking class series for charity on the Zoom platform.

He’s also creating new dishes for Pei Wei. The first creation is Spicy Thai Basil Cashew Chicken.

We’re in the kitchen with Chef Jet.

Show 344, October 12, 2019: Kyra’s Bake Shop with Proprietress Kyra Bussanich Part One

Kyra Bussanich of Kyra's Bake ShopKyra’s Bake Shop with locations in Oregon’s Lake Oswego and now in Portland is a popular, gluten-free bakery presenting outstanding scones, cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, doughnuts, muffins, vegan bagels, wedding cakes & pastries with inventive flavors. Proprietress and Baker Kyra Bussanich proves daily that her celiac safe creations can taste just as delicious as the traditional delights containing gluten. Her motto is “Keep Portland Sweet.”

Kyra enjoys the distinction of being the only baker to be a 4 Time Winner on Food Network’s’ Cupcake Wars.” Keep in mind that’s with gluten-free baked goods. Kyra joins us.

Show 344, October 12, 2019: Kyra’s Bake Shop with Proprietress Kyra Bussanich Part Two

Kyra Bussanich of Kyra's Bake ShopKyra’s Bake Shop with locations in Oregon’s Lake Oswego and now in Portland is a popular, gluten-free bakery presenting outstanding scones, cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, doughnuts, muffins, vegan bagels, wedding cakes & pastries with inventive flavors. Proprietress and Baker Kyra Bussanich proves daily that her celiac safe creations can taste just as delicious as the traditional delights containing gluten. Her motto is “Keep Portland Sweet.”

Kyra enjoys the distinction of being the only baker to be a 4 Time Winner on Food Network’s’ Cupcake Wars.”

“After being disappointed in the gluten-free products that were available on the market, I thought I’d have to live without birthday cakes and scones and doughnuts. I attended the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu patisserie program, which gave me a solid foundation of knowledge about classical French baking techniques, which I applied toward baking gluten-free. By craving, and by necessity, I began experimenting with alternative flours and developed a handful of cake recipes that taste as good, if not better, than traditional wheat-filled cakes.” – Kyra Bussanich

Kyra Bussanich continues with us.

Show 341, September 21, 2019: Proprietress & Chef Shachi Mehra of Adya

Shachi Mehra of ADYAOur heartiest congratulations to Chef Shachi Mehra, the Co-owner of the Adya restaurants in the Anaheim Packing House and in Irvine at University Center. To the best of our knowledge Chef Shachi is the first Orange County chef to compete on Food Network’s Chopped and win the fierce competition.

It’s a great year for Chef Shachi as she is also one of the three nominees for “Rising Star Chef of the Year” at the 2019 Golden Foodie Awards being celebrated at a gala on Sept. 29th at the Marriott Newport Beach.

Once a month Chef Shachi hosts an interactive cooking class in the Boxcar Patio at ADYA Anaheim. Today’s class is “The Perfect Cup of Chai & Indian Tea Sandwiches.”

Chef Shachi is our guest.