Show 671, March 21, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on March 23, 2026 by Adam Bell

Chef George Geary’s latest is Citrus Illustrated from Chronicle Books, a brightly illustrated guide to all things citrus! “Learn about these beautiful and practical fruits, why to cherish them, and how to put them to good use, including 35 sensational recipes. From the ubiquitous navel orange to the lesser-known Fukushu kumquat to the straight-up-funky Buddha’s hand citron, citrus comes in many forms. Knowing exactly how and when to best harness their bright essences can be a challenge—until now. This handy little cookbook offers a fascinating exploration of over 25 citrus varieties and their many uses, from enriching simple dishes to the oils of the peel and juice of the fruit.” Chef George Geary joins us to “Squeeze the Day!”

“Founded in 2024, The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes is a one-of-a-kind tasting event dedicated to celebrating the diversity of California wine through its lesser-known grape varieties. Featuring 60+ producers and more than 100 unique grapes, the festival is a destination for wine lovers eager to explore beyond the familiar. It returns on Saturday, March 28th to Mica Studios in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles.” VIP access is at Noon and General Admission starts at 2:00 p.m. Founder Allison Levine joins us pulling the cork on all that is “The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes.”

Hitching Post Wines in Buellton, celebrating their 40th Anniversary this year, is one of the participants in “The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes.” Weston Hartley, the Co-Winemaker (representing the 2nd generation of Family ownership) is our guest. Valdiguie is their favorite undiscovered wine grape and will be their featured wine at The Festival. “It’s Racy. Defined as: (of a wine, flavor, etc.) having a characteristic quality to a high degree.” Count on other surprises at their table, too.

“Slice Out Hunger is hosting a Pizza Expo Tailgate Party on Monday, March 23rd in Las Vegas as a special public event to kick off Pizza Expo 2026. This event grants guests access (in two sessions) to over two-dozen world-famous pizza makers from all over the globe and 75 minutes of unlimited slices per session. Session 1 is 4 to 5:15 p.m. and Session 2 is then 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. The festival location is Third Street (Downtown Las Vegas) in front of Pizza Rock Downtown, 201 N 3rd St, Las Vegas, NV 89101. The “Who” is Pizza Rock’s Tony Gemigniani, Metro Pizza‘s John Arena, Slice Out Hunger’s Scott Wiener (“The Pizza Show”), and over two dozen local and nationally acclaimed pizza makers including World Pizza Champions and past Pizza Expo winners. One hundred percent of proceeds are donated to Slice Out Hunger, a national pizza industry charity that helps with local hunger efforts in cities across the country. Founder Scott Wiener (New Yorker) joins us with pizza peel at the ready.

“Like most sourdough, San Diego-based Leaven Foods (NEXTY Award-winner at the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim) origin story began during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, when lockdown ended, the founders’ (two scientists who are bakers) once-coddled starter was neglected. Enter Leaven Foods, a shelf-stable sourdough starter made from non-GMO wild yeast and beneficial bacteria. This innovative powder eliminates the need for feeding or maintenance and makes baking sourdough accessible for home cooks of all abilities.”

Founder and CEO Cameron Martino joins us in the rise.

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

Show 671, March 21, 2026: Chef George Geary, Culinary Personality, with Citrus Illustrated

Posted on March 23, 2026 by Adam Bell

Chef George Geary’s latest is Citrus Illustrated, a brightly illustrated guide to all things citrus! “Learn about these beautiful and practical fruits, why to cherish them, and how to put them to good use, including 35 sensational recipes.”

“From the ubiquitous navel orange to the lesser-known Fukushu kumquat to the straight-up-funky Buddha’s hand citron, citrus comes in many forms. Knowing exactly how and when to best harness their bright essences can be a challenge — until now. This handy little cookbook offers a fascinating exploration of over 25 citrus varieties and their many uses, from enriching simple dishes to the oils of the peel and juice of the fruit. Featuring 35 sweet and savory recipes that will help you use up a bumper crop or make the most of the brightest fruits of the season.”

“Charming citrus-bright illustrations throughout make this resource guide—also packed with historical background on each fruit, attributes, nutritional and health benefits, availability, and more—an inspiring gift for home cooks and bakers, fruit lovers, and anyone interested in maximizing their use and enjoyment of luscious citrus fruits.”

Chef George Geary joins us to “Squeeze the Day!” This is his 17^th cookbook.

George is generously sharing his recipe for Shrimp, Grapefruit and Avocado Salad from Citrus Illustrated. It was a big hit at the food media presentation he conducted at Melissa’s exhibition & research kitchen a few weeks ago.

Shrimp, Grapefruit and Avocado Salad

Posted on March 21, 2026 by Adam Bell

Recipe excerpt from:
Citrus Illustrated
by George Geary

Serves 4

Light and refreshing but still packed with protein, this salad combines succulent shrimp, tangy grapefruit and a creamy avocado for a delightful, healthy meal. It is perfect for a summertime lunch or light dinner. Pair it with a refreshing Rosé and a baguette.

1 pound (31-40) shrimp, cooked, shelled and deveined
2 large red grapefruits, sectioned
2 medium ripe Hass avocados
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp yellow mustard
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

On a large platter, arrange the shrimp, grapefruit and avocado in rows. Set aside
In a jar, with a tight-fitting lid, add the oil, lemon juice, mustard, salt and pepper to taste. Shake until the dressing is emulsified and thickened, about 20 seconds.
Drizzle the dressing over the shrimp, grapefruit and avocado. Add additional salt and pepper if desired.

March 21: George Geary, The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes, Hitching Post Wines, Leaven Foods

Posted on March 19, 2026 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: George Geary, Festival of Undiscovered Grapes
Hour Two: Hitching Post Wines, Slice Out Hunger’s Pizza Expo Tailgate Party, Leaven Foods

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Chef George Geary, Culinary Personality, with Citrus Illustrated
Segment Four: “Festival of Undiscovered Grapes”, Los Angeles, with Founder Allison Levine
Segment Five: “Festival of Undiscovered Grapes” with Participating Winery, Hitching Post Wines, Buellton. Weston Hartley, Winemaker
Segment Six: Slice Out Hunger’s Pizza Expo Tailgate Party, Las Vegas, with Founder Scott Wiener
Segments Seven and Eight: Leaven Foods, San Diego with Founder & CEO Cameron Martino

Chef George Geary’s latest is Citrus Illustrated, a brightly illustrated guide to all things citrus! “Learn about t hese beautiful and practical fruits, why to cherish them, and how to put them to good use, including 35 sensational recipes. From the ubiquitous navel orange to the lesser-known Fukushu kumquat to the straight-up-funky Buddha’s hand citron, citrus comes in many forms. Knowing exactly how and when to best harness their bright essences can be a challenge—until now. This handy little cookbook offers a fascinating exploration of over 25 citrus varieties and their many uses, from enriching simple dishes to the oils of the peel and juice of the fruit.” Chef George Geary joins us to “Squeeze the Day!”

“Founded in 2024, The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes is a one-of-a-kind tasting event dedicated to celebrating the diversity of California wine through its lesser-known grape varieties. Featuring 60+ producers and more than 100 unique grapes, the festival is a destination for wine lovers eager to explore beyond the familiar. It returns on Saturday, March 28^th to Mica Studios in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles.” VIP access is at Noon and General Admission starts at 2:00 p.m. Founder Allison Levine joins us pulling the cork on all that is “The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes.”

Hitching Post Wines in Buellton, celebrating their 40^th Anniversary this year, is one of the participants in “The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes.” Weston Hartley, the Co-Winemaker (representing the 2^nd generation of Family ownership) is our guest. Valdiguie is their favorite undiscovered wine grape and will be their featured wine at The Festival. “It’s Racy. Defined as: (of a wine, flavor, etc.) having a characteristic quality to a high degree.”

“Like most sourdough, San Diego-based Leaven Foods (NEXTY Award-winner at the recent Natural Products Expo West) origin story began during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, when lockdown ended, the founders’ (two scientists who are bakers) once-coddled starter was neglected. Enter Leaven Foods, a shelf-stable sourdough starter made from non-GMO wild yeast and beneficial bacteria. This innovative powder eliminates the need for feeding or maintenance and makes baking sourdough accessible for home cooks of all abilities.”

Founder and CEO Cameron Martino joins us in the rise.

Chef Andrew Gruel (our Co-host) of the Calico Fish House in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach on Pacific Coast Highway has a speaking engagement this morning. He’ll rejoin us on March 28^th with his “Ask the Chef” segment talking about cooking with beef tallow and the controversy at Steak ‘n Shake with their fries, tater tots and onion rings.

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

Chef George Geary joins us to “Squeeze the Day!” This is his 17^th cookbook.

“Founded in 2024, “The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes” is a one-of-a-kind tasting event dedicated to celebrating the diversity of California wine through its lesser-known grape varieties. Featuring 60+ producers and more than 100 unique grapes, the festival is a destination for wine lovers eager to explore beyond the familiar. It returns on Saturday, March 28^th to Mica Studios in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles.” VIP access is at Noon and General Admission starts at 2:00 p.m.

The Festival was previously known as “Festival of Forgotten Grapes.” “While ‘forgotten’ captured the idea of overlooked varieties, ‘undiscovered’ better expresses the excitement of uncovering something new,” says festival founder Allison Levine, a wine writer, educator, event planner, and longtime advocate for diversity in wine. “These wines aren’t just relics of the past; they are vibrant, relevant, and full of potential. Our goal is to introduce people to what’s possible beyond the usual handful of California varieties.”

“With more than 100 grape varieties grown in California, only nine account for 93% of plantings. The festival brings attention to the remaining 7%: grapes such as Teroldego, Cinsault, Marsanne, Semillon, and dozens more, each with a compelling story and growing momentum among adventurous winemakers.”

“One of the unique features of the festival is its mix-and-match retail experience. Attendees can build their own custom orders, selecting individual bottles from multiple producers, with no minimums, and have them delivered directly to their door for one flat-rate fee. It is a seamless way to support small wineries and continue the discovery after the event.”

Founder Allison Levine joins us pulling the cork on all that is “The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes.”

Hitching Post Wines in Buellton is one of the participants in “The Festival of Undiscovered Grapes.” Weston Hartley, the Co-Winemaker (representing the 2^nd generation of Family-ownership) is our guest.

“Led by Frank Ostini (owner of the Hitching Post 2 Restaurant) and Gray Hartley, Hitching Post Wines has passed its 40th vintage in its ongoing quest to create the finest wines possible of Santa Barbara County. The emphasis is to make intriguing, age-worthy Pinot Noirs featuring Santa Barbara County’s two iconic appellations, the Santa Maria Valley and the Sta. Rita Hills. However, other lesser-known varieties such as Chenin Blanc and Valdeguie have also caught their attention.”

“With Frank Ostini as Chef Winemaker since its inception, these are food-friendly, handcrafted wines of balance and finesse that express the essence of the great vineyards of the Santa Barbara region. Moving forward, the next generation of Hartleys – Emily (DTC Manager) and Weston (Winemaker) – have joined the team and are doing much of the heavy lifting at Hitching Post Wines.”

Valdiguie is their favorite “Undiscovered” wine grape and will be their featured wine at The Festival. “It’s Racy. Defined as: (of a wine, flavor, etc.) having a characteristic quality to a high degree.”

“Slice Out Hunger is hosting a Pizza Expo Tailgate Party on Monday, March 23^rd in Las Vegas as a special public event to kick off Pizza Expo 2026. This event grants guests access (in two sessions) to over two-dozen world-famous pizza makers from all over the globe and 75 minutes of unlimited slices per session.” Session 1 is 4 to 5:15 p.m. and Session 2 is then 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.

The festival location is Third Street (Downtown Las Vegas) in front of Pizza Rock Downtown, 201 N 3rd St, Las Vegas, NV

“The “Who” is Pizza Rock’s Tony Gemigniani, Metro Pizza‘s John Arena, Slice Out Hunger’s Scott Wiener (“The Pizza Show”), and over two dozen local and nationally acclaimed pizza makers including World Pizza Champions and past Pizza Expo winners.”

“The annual International Pizza Expo conference and trade show transforms Las Vegas into the world’s pizza capital but the public rarely gets a glimpse. This year they will be adding a new twist to the event; each of the stations will be honoring a different Woman Who Made Pizza History in celebration of Women’s History Month. All of the pizzaioli stationed together will be collaborating to make their own unique specialty pie that pays homage to a woman who altered the course of pizza history.”

“One hundred percent of proceeds are donated to Slice Out Hunger, a national pizza industry charity that helps with local hunger efforts in cities across the country.”

Founder Scott Wiener joins us with pizza peel at the ready.

“The advantages of sourdough are well known: great flavor, naturally long shelf life, and better-for-you bread. Until now, these benefits have been locked behind maintaining a starter that is extremely difficult to scale for producers and time consuming, expensive and wasteful for home bakers,” says Cameron Martino, CEO of Leaven Foods. “Instant Sourdough is revolutionary as it delivers true sourdough fermentation that eliminates starter hassles. It makes real sourdough more affordable and accessible.”

Founder Cameron Martino is a scientist, entrepreneur, and microbial product innovator with a deep passion for modernizing the microbial products that play an essential but often overlooked role across food, health, and agriculture. Over the course of his career, he has helped build and commercialize some of the most innovative microbial products across instrumentation, agriculture, animal health, and food.

Founder and CEO Cameron Martino joins us in the rise.

Podcasts

Hour One: George Geary, Festival of Undiscovered Grapes
Hour Two: Hitching Post Wines, Slice Out Hunger’s Pizza Expo Tailgate Party, Leaven Foods

Show 577, May 11, 2024: Chef George Geary, Food Historian and Author of Made In California: Volume 2

Posted on May 12, 2024 by Adam Bell

“Beloved food historian, world-traveler and chef George Geary is back with Made in California, Volume 2 – The California-Born Burger Joints, Diners, Fast Food & Restaurants That Changed America (1951 to 2010) with even more remarkable stories of the countless international chains that started in the Golden State.”

“Ruby’s Diner. Panda Express. Yogurtland. Wetzel’s Pretzels. The Cheesecake Factory. California Pizza Kitchen. These and many more iconic American culinary establishments have their roots in California”.

“Focusing on the years 1951 to 2010, the second volume of Made in California highlights fifty more food startups that have captured America’s hearts and stomachs, from the Claim Jumper to the Green Burrito, Chuck E. Cheese to Mrs. Fields Cookies, Jamba Juice to Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Brimming with captivating historical detail and more than 200 dazzling full-color photos, George Geary’s newest journey into California’s culinary history is sure to awaken every reader’s inner foodie.”

“Chef George Geary is the accomplished author of 16 books, from single-subject cookbooks to historical-driven California’s restaurant books, including L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants and The Cheesecake Bible. In addition, he is a cooking-school teacher, pastry chef, culinary travel guide, television personality, and in-demand public speaker on food and Hollywood and California History. A California native who has taught and traveled to 119 countries and every continent, he lives in Southern California and owns a mid-Century historical home.”

Your chance to meet George and get a signed copy of Made in California – Volume 2. George Geary will be appearing at Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena on Thursday evening, May 30th @ 7:00 p.m. to talk about the book and sign copies.

George briefly puts down his spatula and joins us with a cheesecake at the ready.

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

Posted on February 5, 2023 by Adam Bell

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

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

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

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

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

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

Show 511, February 4, 2023: Chef George Geary, Food Historian. His latest title is L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants Part One

Posted on February 5, 2023 by Adam Bell

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

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

Show 511, February 4, 2023: Chef George Geary, Food Historian. His latest title is L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants Part Two

Posted on February 5, 2023 by Adam Bell

George’s next title for publication in 2024 is a follow-up tome to his previous Made In California: The California-Born Diners, Burger Joints, Restaurants & Fast Food that Changed America.

Chef George Geary continues with us with a Green Corn Tamale in hand from El Cholo (celebrating their 100th Anniversary this year.)

February 4: Anne Marie Panoringan, George Geary, Cheferbly

Posted on February 2, 2023 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part One
Segment Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part Two
Segment Four: Chef George Geary, Food Historian. His latest title is L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants Part One
Segment Five: Chef George Geary, Food Historian. His latest title is L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants Part Two
Segment Six: Cheferbly Private Dining Platform with Founder Kevin Kim Part One
Segment Seven: Cheferbly Private Dining Platform with Founder Kevin Kim Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cheferbly’s founder, Kevin Kim, joins us.

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

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

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

Podcasts

Show 444, September 25, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on September 26, 2021 by Adam Bell

“Be a part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl with 100% of the proceeds going directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services!

Masters of Taste introduces Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016.”

Chef Vanda joins us with all the tasty details.

“BBQ Mexicana, a quick service concept from celebrity Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, is located across from their Border Grill restaurant and adjacent to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas in Las Vegas and inside the new Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders (with two locations.)” Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with tongs at the ready.

“Winemaking at Matthiasson Wines (Steve and Jill) is a natural extension of farming. The Matthiasson’s have both worked for many years in the sustainable agriculture and the local food movement, and in 2003 they started Matthiasson Wines based on those values. The wines are classical expressions of different grape varieties, some well-known like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, and some rare like Ribolla Gialla and Refosco. The wines are refreshing, complement food, and are moderate in alcohol.” Matthiasson Wines is a 6-time James Beard Award nominee. Winemaker Steve Matthiasson is with us to gently pull the cork on all that is Matthiasson Winery.

“Made In California – The California-Born Burger Joints, Diners, Fast Food & Restaurants That Changed America chronicles the history and influence of some of America’s best-known California-born restaurants. A&W Root Beer. Foster’s Freeze. IHOP. Der Wienerschnitzel. See’s Candies. Jack in the Box. You name the American food icon, and chances are its roots are in California. Food historian and Chef George Geary tells the remarkable stories of the early 20th-century food startups that captured America’s hearts and stomachs, from Bob’s Big Boy to McDonald’s, Winchell’s Donuts to In-N-Out, Peet’s Coffee to Taco Bell. With more than 200 historic and contemporary photos.” Author George Geary joins us.

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 the Host Chef for the very special Outstanding in the Field Dinner on the Huntington Beach Pier on October 12th. Sustainably caught seafood fresh from the ocean is on the menu. We’ll get a preview of this unusual dining spectacular.

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