Tag Archives: Georgia’s Restaurant

Long Beach Black Restaurant Week

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Long Beach Black Restaurant Week

The city-wide 2nd annual Long Beach Black Restaurant Week will take place January 22-29, 2023, organizers announced today. Long Beach Black Restaurant Week will be a medium to bring everyone to the table, from all walks of life, to showcase the city’s diverse Black food scene.
Organized by Long Beach Food & Beverage, a California registered 501(c)3 non-profit, Long Black Restaurant Week is an eight day, city-wide event devoted to celebrating African, African American, and Caribbean fare in and around Long Beach. The event also seeks to highlight Black-owned food businesses as well as Black chefs and bartenders.

“We’re excited to participate in Long Beach Black Restaurant Week for the second year,” said Nika Shoemaker-Machado, proprietor of Georgia’s Restaurant located at the Long Beach Exchange. “Having participated in several restaurant weeks over the years, our business has never experienced the kind of guest and sales increases that the inaugural Long Beach event did for us this past January.”

“Having just recently launched our pop-up kitchen, we felt that participating in Long Beach Black Restaurant Week was a no-brainer for us,” added Qiana Mafnas, Executive Chef of Axiom Kitchen Smoked Meats & BBQ. “It will be a great way to get our name out there and share our famous smoked brisket with BBQ lovers in Long Beach and beyond.”

“Long Beach Black Restaurant Week is more than an eight-day event featuring dozens of restaurants and food businesses,” stated Terri Henry, co-organizer of the event and Executive Director of Long Beach Food & Beverage.  “Since launching the non-profit in 2019, we’ve been committed to supporting all of Long Beach’s valued restaurants and will support the event once again with a comprehensive advertising, marketing and PR campaign designed to put ‘butts in seats’ during Long Beach Black Restaurant Week.”

Black-owned Restaurants, Food Trucks, Caterers, Bakeries, Pop-ups, Cottage Businesses and Retail Food Businesses are invited to participate. Registration fee is $100. There will be two pop-up events featuring many of the cottage businesses that will be announced soon.

Currently registered to participate include:

Show 497, October 29, 2022: Nika Shoemaker-Machado, Georgia’s Restaurant, Long Beach Exchange & Anaheim Packing House Part Two

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Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgias Restaurants

Georgia’s Restaurant returned “Nana” Gretchen Shoemaker’s mouthwatering Gumbo to their menu at Georgia’s Restaurant at the Long Beach Exchange and the Anaheim Packing District just in time to celebrate National Gumbo Day back on October 12th, 2022 and for the remainder of 2022!

“Nana Gretchen Shoemaker’s “soul-delicious” signature Gumbo has been a guest favorite since it was first introduced and guests can again savor Nana’s Secret Southern-style Roux featuring Chicken, Andouille Sausage, Shrimp, Crab, and Okra, served over Rice at both locations. To complement this super satisfying meal, guests can also add Soulful Sides such as Collard Greens, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese, or Nana Gretchen’s famous Cornbread served with house-made honey butter, while enjoying her fresh Peach Cobbler for the perfect finish.”

“Nana Gretchen Shoemaker (Nika’s Mom,) the heart of Georgia’s, would tell you Soul Food is the food you get when you cook with your whole heart and soul.”

“Georgia’s dishes are the comfort foods she learned to make with her grandma, the very ones she raised her daughters on, served in her successful catering service and has shared with family and friends throughout the years.” Other specialties include herb-seasoned Fried Chicken, Gretchen’s Jambalaya and Fried Catfish.

“When you taste Georgia’s food, you taste the love and devotion that makes Georgia’s Soul Delicious!!”

2nd generation proprietress Nika Shoemaker-Machado (“Nana” Gretchen’s daughter) takes another break from tending the cornbread muffin pans to continue with us.

A new Georgia’s is in the works for Eastvale in northwestern Riverside County. This newer city incorporated in 2010 was former dairy farms.

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October 29: Artisan 7 Leaves and Crema Bakery, Gleason Family Vineyards, Georgia’s Restaurant

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef and General Manager Chad Urata, Artisan Restaurant & Café, Fountain Valley Part One
Segment Three: Executive Chef and General Manager Chad Urata, Artisan Restaurant & Café, Fountain Valley Part Two
Segment Four: Gleason Family Vineyards, Santa Ynez Valley with Callie Gleason & Winemaker Max Marshak Part One
Segment Five: Gleason Family Vineyards, Santa Ynez Valley with Callie Gleason & Winemaker Max Marshak Part Two
Segment Six: Nika Shoemaker-Machado, Georgia’s Restaurant, Long Beach Exchange & Anaheim Packing House Part One
Segment Seven: Nika Shoemaker-Machado, Georgia’s Restaurant, Long Beach Exchange & Anaheim Packing House 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.

“On the heels of celebrating its first anniversary, Fountain Valley-based ARTISAN has introduced new hand-crafted pizzas to its celebrated menu. The elevated, fast-casual restaurant and café, a marriage of Orange County-born concepts, 7 Leaves Café and Crema Bakery, has gained a loyal following for its energetic and unique teas, and focused, chef-driven menu of brunch-focused anytime dishes and premium baked goods. Now, the concept takes the same quality ingredients and attention to detail and extends it to an innovative selection of ARTISAN Café Pizza offerings prepared under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Chad Urata.” Chef & Manager Chad Urata takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us with pizza peel in hand.

Gleason Family Vineyards (GFV) is the corporate umbrella for 3, separate, distinct wineries located in the Santa Ynez Valley under the leadership of two generations of the Gleason Family. Their Winemaker is Max Marshak. The properties are Roblar Winery & Vineyard, Refugio Ranch Vineyards, and their most recent acquisition, the historic Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard. Director of Marketing Callie Gleason and Winemaker Max Marshak join us to pull the cork on both Refugio Ranch Vineyards and Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard.

Georgia’s Restaurant returned “Nana” Gretchen Shoemaker’s mouthwatering Gumbo to their menu at Georgia’s Restaurant at the Long Beach Exchange and the Anaheim Packing District just in time to celebrate National Gumbo Day on October 12th, 2022 and for the remainder of 2022! Nana Gretchen Shoemaker’s “soul-delicious” signature Gumbo has been a guest favorite since it was first introduced and guests can again savor Nana’s Secret Southern-style Roux featuring Chicken, Andouille Sausage, Shrimp, Crab, and Okra, served over Rice at both locations. To complement this super satisfying meal, guests can also add Soulful Sides such as Collard Greens, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese, or Nana Gretchen’s famous Cornbread served with house-made honey butter, while enjoying her fresh Peach Cobbler for the perfect finish. 2nd generation proprietress Nika Shoemaker-Machado (“Nana” Gretchen’s daughter) takes a break from the cornbread muffin pans to join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Is ubiquitous Candy Corn really the most popular Halloween candy treat? Chef Andrew weighs in…There is an announced, preliminary deal for Kroger Co. (Ralphs) to buy Albertsons Cos. (Vons and Pavilions.) Kroger’s position is that this will be a wonderful thing for consumers because the combined companies will give them more buying clout and, therefore, decreased costs which will, in theory, be passed on to shoppers. Consumer advocates respectfully disagree. Chef Andrew grocery shops for a big Family. He’ll share his thoughts on this possible mega grocery store combination.

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

Chad Urata of Artisan 7 Leaves

“On the heels of celebrating its first anniversary, Fountain Valley-based ARTISAN has introduced new, hand-crafted pizzas to its celebrated menu. The elevated fast-casual restaurant and café, a marriage of Orange County-born concepts, 7 Leaves Café and Crema Bakery, has gained a loyal following for its energetic and unique teas, and focused, chef-driven menu of brunch-focused anytime dishes and premium baked goods. Now, the concept takes the same quality ingredients and attention to detail and extends it to an innovative selection of ARTISAN Café Pizza offerings prepared under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Chad Urata.”

“Each pizza features an artisanal crust that begins with pillowy dough created by award-winning baker Tarit Tanjasiri, owner of Crema Bakery and co-founder of ARTISAN. “While each ARTISAN Café Pizza is baked to order, great care is taken in the preparation of the dough,” explained Tanjasiri, who oversees all of the baked goods served at ARTISAN. “Our ingredients are simple – flour, water, salt, natural starter, and time – the latter being key, as flavor is developed through a 48-hour cold fermentation.””

“Upon entering the 3,000 square-foot restaurant and café, guests are immersed into an environment that revolves around chic European style, reminiscent of a fine Parisian boulangerie, complete with a display of fresh-baked bread and pastries.”

Chef & Manager Chad Urata takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us with pizza peel in hand.

Callie Gleason Bieszard of Gleason Family Vineyards

Gleason Family Vineyards (GFV) is the corporate umbrella for 3, separate, distinct wineries located in the Santa Ynez Valley under the leadership of two generations of the Gleason Family. Their Winemaker is Max Marshak. The properties are Roblar Winery & Vineyard, Refugio Ranch Vineyards, and their most recent acquisition, the historic Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard. Director of Marketing Callie Gleason and Winemaker Max Marshak join us to pull the cork on both Refugio Ranch Vineyards and Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard.

“Located at 2990 Grand Avenue and Hwy 154, Refugio Ranch is a 415-acre estate located in the Santa Ynez Valley AVA of California’s Central Coast. Within the property, covered largely by old oak trees, twenty- six select acres were mindfully planted and have been well cared for by the Gleason Family. Refugio Ranch represents a centuries-old history of cowboys and cattle ranching. The native land has been left largely untouched but for the vines that the land itself nurtures and readies for harvest. The Gleasons believe it is “terroir” or that sense of place, that gives a wine its soul.”

“The charming town of Los Olivos, CA was founded in the late 1800’s as the southern terminus of the Pacific Coast Railroad. Many historic buildings from that era still stand in Los Olivos today, including the present home of the Refugio Ranch Vineyards Tasting Room. The building was built circa 1912 as the warehouse for the Pinal-Dome Refining Co. (later Union Oil) where the tank cars from the railway were filled.”

“The Gleasons have taken great care to preserve the structure and spirit of this slice of history. The early 1900’s warehouse is now home to Refugio Ranch’s two tasting bars, a VIP lounge and an expansive outdoor deck ~ making it one of the largest tasting rooms in Los Olivos.”

“Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard (and Farm) is a small gem set amidst the splendor of Santa Barbara County’s Santa Ynez Valley. The farm is a shining example of the vision of its late founder, Betty Williams. Betty was always ahead of her time, and in the 60’s set out to create a working farm based on good practices for people, animals and the earth. First there were horses, then organic vegetables and finally, a vineyard.”

“Today, the 42-acre vineyard (now owned by Gleason Family Vineyards) stretches across a sun-drenched mesa on the eastern portion of the 106-acre property. Buttonwood started planting in 1983 and now have 38,000 vines, small in the world of wine, but huge to Buttonwood. The on-site tasting room is surrounded by other bounty from the farm, including olives, pomegranates, peonies, herbs, summer vegetables and of course, their famous peaches!”

Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgias Restaurants

Georgia’s Restaurant returned “Nana” Gretchen Shoemaker’s mouthwatering Gumbo to their menu at Georgia’s Restaurant at the Long Beach Exchange and the Anaheim Packing District just in time to celebrate National Gumbo Day back on October 12th, 2022 and for the remainder of 2022!

“Nana Gretchen Shoemaker’s “soul-delicious” signature Gumbo has been a guest favorite since it was first introduced and guests can again savor Nana’s Secret Southern-style Roux featuring Chicken, Andouille Sausage, Shrimp, Crab, and Okra, served over Rice at both locations. To complement this super satisfying meal, guests can also add Soulful Sides such as Collard Greens, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese, or Nana Gretchen’s famous Cornbread served with house-made honey butter, while enjoying her fresh Peach Cobbler for the perfect finish.”

“Nana Gretchen Shoemaker (Nika’s Mom,) the heart of Georgia’s, would tell you Soul Food is the food you get when you cook with your whole heart and soul.”

“Georgia’s dishes are the comfort foods she learned to make with her grandma, the very ones she raised her daughters on, served in her successful catering service and has shared with family and friends throughout the years.”

“When you taste Georgia’s food, you taste the love and devotion that makes Georgia’s Soul Delicious!!”

2nd generation proprietress Nika Shoemaker-Machado (“Nana” Gretchen’s daughter) takes a break from the cornbread muffin pans to join us.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

Is ubiquitous Candy Corn really the most popular Halloween candy treat? How did that happen? Chef Andrew weighs in…

There is an announced, preliminary deal for Kroger Co. (Ralphs) to buy Albertsons Cos. (Vons and Pavilions.) Kroger’s position is that this will be a wonderful thing for consumers because the combined companies will give them more buying clout and, therefore, decreased costs which will, in theory, be passed on to shoppers. Consumer advocates politely disagree. Chef Andrew grocery shops for a big Family. He’ll share his thoughts on this possible grocery store combination.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef and General Manager Chad Urata, Artisan Restaurant & Café, Fountain Valley Part One
Segment Three: Executive Chef and General Manager Chad Urata, Artisan Restaurant & Café, Fountain Valley Part Two
Segment Four: Gleason Family Vineyards, Santa Ynez Valley with Callie Gleason & Winemaker Max Marshak Part One
Segment Five: Gleason Family Vineyards, Santa Ynez Valley with Callie Gleason & Winemaker Max Marshak Part Two
Segment Six: Nika Shoemaker-Machado, Georgia’s Restaurant, Long Beach Exchange & Anaheim Packing House Part One
Segment Seven: Nika Shoemaker-Machado, Georgia’s Restaurant, Long Beach Exchange & Anaheim Packing House Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 458, January 15, 2022: Restaurateur Nika Shoemaker-Machado, Georgia’s Restaurant, Long Beach participating in Long Beach Black Restaurant Week

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Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgias Restaurants

“The city-wide inaugural Long Beach Black Restaurant Week will take place January 23-30, 2022. Long Beach Black Restaurant Week will be a platform to bring everyone to the table, from all walks of life, to showcase the city’s diverse Black food scene. Organized by Long Beach Food & Beverage, a California registered 501(c)3 non-profit, along with Velika Turner, former co-owner of Derricks on Atlantic, Long Black Restaurant Week will be an eight day event devoted to celebrating African, African American, and Caribbean fare in and around Long Beach. The event also seeks to highlight Black-owned food businesses as well as Black chefs and bartenders.”

Family-owned Georgia’s Restaurant in the Long Beach Exchange is a participating restaurant. Georgia’s Co-owner, Nika Shoemaker-Machado, joins us with what’s on her “Soul Food” menu.

“Gretchen Shoemaker (Nika’s Mom,) the heart of Georgia’s, would tell you Soul Food is the food you get when you cook with your whole heart and soul.”

“Georgia’s dishes are the comfort foods she learned to make with her grandma, the very ones she raised her daughters on, served in her successful catering service and has shared with family and friends throughout the years.”

The Long Beach Georgia’s is now serving Weekend Brunch. They also offer a comfortable outside patio.

“When you taste Georgia’s food, you taste the love and devotion that makes Georgia’s Soul Delicious!!”

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Show 457, January 8, 2022: Long Beach Black Restaurant Week with Producer Terri Henry of Long Beach Food & Beverage

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Terri Henry of Dine LBC and Terri Henry Marketing

“The city-wide inaugural Long Beach Black Restaurant Week will take place January 23-30, 2022. Long Beach Black Restaurant Week will be a platform to bring everyone to the table, from all walks of life, to showcase the city’s diverse Black food scene.”

“Organized by Long Beach Food & Beverage, a California registered 501(c)3 non-profit, along with Velika Turner, former co-owner of Derricks on Atlantic, Long Black Restaurant Week will be an eight day event devoted to celebrating African, African American, and Caribbean fare in and around Long Beach. The event also seeks to highlight Black-owned food businesses as well as Black chefs and bartenders.”

“Long Beach Black Restaurant Week is more than an eight-day event featuring dozens of restaurants and food businesses,” stated Terri Henry, co-organizer of the event and Executive Director of Long Beach Food & Beverage. “Since launching the non-profit in 2019, we’ve been committed to supporting all of Long Beach’s valued restaurants and will support Black Restaurant Week with a comprehensive advertising, marketing and PR campaign to help put ‘butts in seats’ during Long Beach Black Restaurant Week and beyond.”

“Black-owned Restaurants, Food Trucks, Caterers, Bakeries, Pop-ups, Cottage Businesses and Retail Food Businesses will be participating.”

Terri Henry, co-organizer of the event and Executive Director of Long Beach Food & Beverage joins us.

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Show 396, October 24, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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“Located in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, Manuela unites chef, farmer and artist to create an authentic and original dining experience. Under the direction of Executive Chef Kris Tominaga, the menu celebrates seasonal ingredients sourced from the best farmers and producers in Southern California.” They reopened in July for spacious patio dining in their designed inner courtyard for Weekday Lunch, Dinner and Weekend Brunch. (Closed on Monday.) “Serving a wide range of vegetables, grains, fish and game, Manuela also features an exemplary bar program which offers classic cocktails using house-made bitters and tonics. Local beers are on tap, while the carefully selected wine list is designed to pair with the smoke and acid flavors at the heart of the Manuela menu.” We entice Chef Kris out of his busy kitchen for a chat.

Georgia’s Restaurant (family-owned) at the Long Beach Exchange and Anaheim Packing House will be offering a special new Breast Bucket & Sides combo all throughout the month of October 2020 in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to help increase awareness and support! The Georgia’s Restaurant new Breast Bucket & Sides combo features a 6-Piece Bucket of Boneless Chicken Breasts (all white meat) and Choice of Two Sides including selections such as their signature Collard Greens, Garlic Rice, and French Fries for just $20 all month long. The special is available at both locations for outdoor patio dining, takeout, delivery and curbside pickup. In other Georgia’s news Nana Gretchen Shoemaker’s “soul-delicious” signature Gumbo is back on the menu in both locations. 2nd generation proprietress Nika Shoemaker-Machado is our guest.

“The Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines vineyard is located on Hwy 246, 11 miles west of Buellton in the cooler northwestern section of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Fog graces the vineyard most mornings; followed by cool Pacific ocean breezes and bright sunny afternoons. These conditions nurture gentle ripening of Kessler-Haak’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at lower sugars with crisp acidity and the higher levels of spice commonly seen in cool climate viticulture. At Kessler-Haak the approach is that “great wine is produced in the vineyard.” Consequently, they feel the best winemaking approach is a minimalistic one, relying on traditional methods and techniques.”

Grower and Winemaker Dan Kessler artfully pulls the cork on Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines for us.

“Restaurateur, Tech Entrepreneur and Host Josh Kopel has just launched Season 2 of the FULL COMP podcast. The restaurant industry is staring down the barrel of a 60% permanent closure rate due to COVID-19 and Kopel, himself being a casualty, decided it was time to help fix what’s broken. FULL COMP is a weekly show exploring the past and future of the hospitality industry. Provocative and actionable, the show aims to ask the tough questions, supplying listeners with the tools and resources needed to thrive post-pandemic. As Host of FULL COMP, Josh Kopel challenges conventional wisdom by hosting both hospitality professionals and thought leaders from outside of the industry while tackling today’s toughest topics.” Restaurateur Josh Kopel is our guest.

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 regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Salt is a requirement to sustain human life. It’s also a key ingredient in preserving, cooking and preparing food. Food can actually taste bland without a bit of added salt. The right amount enhances flavor. Too much can overpower the dish. Then there are the variety of finishing salts. We’ll continue the seasoned tutorial started with Chef Andrew last Saturday. It’s again time to “Ask the Chef.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!

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Show 396, October 24, 2020: Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgia’s Restaurant Long Beach & Anaheim

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Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgias RestaurantsGeorgia’s Restaurant (family-owned) at the Long Beach Exchange and Anaheim Packing House will be offering a special new Breast Bucket & Sides combo all throughout the month of October 2020 in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to help increase awareness and support! The Georgia’s Restaurant new Breast Bucket & Sides combo features a 6-Piece Bucket of Boneless Chicken Breasts (all white meat) and Choice of Two Sides including selections such as their signature Collard Greens, Garlic Rice, and French Fries for just $20 all month long. The special is available at both locations for outdoor patio dining, takeout, delivery and curbside pickup.

In other Georgia’s news Nana Gretchen Shoemaker’s “soul-delicious” signature Gumbo is back on the menu in both locations. “The house Gumbo has been a guest favorite ever since it was first introduced and now guests can again savor Nana’s secret Southern-style Roux featuring Chicken, Andouille Sausage, Shrimp, Crab, and Okra, served over Rice at both locations. To complement this super satisfying meal, guests can add some Soulful Sides such as Collard Greens, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese, or Nana Gretchen’s Famous Cornbread served with house-made honey butter and enjoy her fresh Peach Cobbler for a sweet finish.”

2nd generation proprietress Nika-Shoemaker-Machado is our guest.

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October 24: Manuela, Georgia’s Restaurant, Kessler-Hawk Vineyard, Josh Kopel of Full Comp Media

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef Kris Tominaga, Manuela, Downtown Los Angeles
Segment Three: Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgia’s Restaurant Long Beach & Anaheimo
Segment Four: Dan Kessler, Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines, Lompoc Part One
Segment Five: Dan Kessler, Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines, Lompoc Part Two
Segment Six: Restaurateur and FULL COMP Podcast Host Josh Kopel Part One
Segment Seven: Restaurateur and FULL COMP Podcast Host Josh Kopel Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef” Part Two

“Located in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, Manuela unites chef, farmer and artist to create an authentic and original dining experience. Under the direction of Executive Chef Kris Tominaga, the menu celebrates seasonal ingredients sourced from the best farmers and producers in Southern California.” They reopened in July for spacious patio dining in their inner courtyard. “Serving a wide range of vegetables, grains, fish and game, Manuela also features an exemplary bar program which offers classic cocktails using house-made bitters and tonics. Local beers are on tap, while the carefully selected wine list is designed to pair with the smoke and acid flavors at the heart of the Manuela menu.” We entice Chef Kris out of his busy kitchen for a chat.

Georgia’s Restaurant (family-owned) at the Long Beach Exchange and Anaheim Packing House will be offering a special new Breast Bucket & Sides combo all throughout the month of October 2020 in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to help increase awareness and support! The Georgia’s Restaurant new Breast Bucket & Sides combo features a 6-Piece Bucket of Boneless Chicken Breasts (all white meat) and Choice of Two Sides including selections such as their signature Collard Greens, Garlic Rice, and French Fries for just $20 all month long. The special is available at both locations for outdoor patio dining, takeout, delivery and curbside pickup. In other Georgia’s news Nana Gretchen Shoemaker’s “soul-delicious” signature Gumbo is back on the menu in both locations. 2nd generation proprietress Nika-Shoemaker-Machado is our guest.

“The Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines vineyard is located on Hwy 246, 11 miles west of Buellton in the cooler northwestern section of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Fog graces the vineyard most mornings; followed by cool Pacific ocean breezes and bright sunny afternoons. These conditions nurture gentle ripening of Kessler-Haak’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at lower sugars with crisp acidity and the higher levels of spice commonly seen in cool climate viticulture. At Kessler-Haak the approach is that “great wine is produced in the vineyard.” Consequently, they feel the best winemaking approach is a minimalistic one, relying on traditional methods and techniques.”

Grower and Winemaker Dan Kessler artfully pulls the cork on Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines for us.

“Restaurateur, Tech Entrepreneur and Host Josh Kopel has just launched Season 2 of the FULL COMP podcast. The restaurant industry is staring down the barrel of a 60% permanent closure rate due to COVID-19 and Kopel, himself being a casualty, decided it was time to help fix what’s broken. FULL COMP is a weekly show exploring the past and future of the hospitality industry. Provocative and actionable, the show aims to ask the tough questions, supplying listeners with the tools and resources needed to thrive post-pandemic. As Host of FULL COMP, Josh Kopel challenges conventional wisdom by hosting both hospitality professionals and thought leaders from outside of the industry while tackling today’s toughest topics.” Restaurateur Josh Kopel is our guest.

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 regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Salt is a requirement to sustain human life. It’s also a key ingredient in preserving, cooking and preparing food. Food can actually taste bland without a bit of added salt. The right amount enhances flavor. Too much can overpower the dish. Then there are the variety of finishing salts. We’ll continue the seasoned tutorial started with Chef Andrew last Saturday. It’s again time to “Ask the Chef.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Kris ominaga of Manuela Restaurant“Located in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, Manuela unites chef, farmer and artist to create an authentic and original dining experience. Under the direction of Executive Chef Kris Tominaga, the menu celebrates seasonal ingredients sourced from the best farmers and producers in Southern California.” They reopened in July for spacious patio dining in their inner courtyard.

“Serving a wide range of vegetables, grains, fish and game, Manuela also features an exemplary bar program which offers classic cocktails using house-made bitters and tonics. Local beers are on tap, while the carefully selected wine list is designed to pair with the smoke and acid flavors at the heart of the Manuela menu.”

“Designed by Los Angeles native Matt Winter and named for Manuela Wirth, the restaurant is illuminated and animated by specially commissioned works from artists Paul McCarthy, Mark Bradford and Raymond Pettibon.”

“An L.A. native, Chef Kris brings costal California inspired dishes to the Manuela menu. Highlights include his signature cream biscuits with Steen’s butter and Col. Newsom’s aged country ham, barbecued oysters with charred leek butter, breadcrumbs and parmesan, and Peads & Barnetts pork chop with yellow peach, turnips, mustard seed oil and honey vinegar. Inspiration comes from the abundance of California’s vibrant flavors and colors.” Chef Kris utilizes his own kitchen garden at Manuela growing herbs and vegetables.

We entice Chef Kris out of his busy kitchen for a brief chat.

Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgias RestaurantsGeorgia’s Restaurant (family-owned) at the Long Beach Exchange and Anaheim Packing House will be offering a special new Breast Bucket & Sides combo all throughout the month of October 2020 in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to help increase awareness and support! The Georgia’s Restaurant new Breast Bucket & Sides combo features a 6-Piece Bucket of Boneless Chicken Breasts (all white meat) and Choice of Two Sides including selections such as their signature Collard Greens, Garlic Rice, and French Fries for just $20 all month long. The special is available at both locations for outdoor patio dining, takeout, delivery and curbside pickup.

In other Georgia’s news Nana Gretchen Shoemaker’s “soul-delicious” signature Gumbo is back on the menu in both locations. “The house Gumbo has been a guest favorite ever since it was first introduced and now guests can again savor Nana’s secret Southern-style Roux featuring Chicken, Andouille Sausage, Shrimp, Crab, and Okra, served over Rice at both locations. To complement this super satisfying meal, guests can add some Soulful Sides such as Collard Greens, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese, or Nana Gretchen’s Famous Cornbread served with house-made honey butter and enjoy her fresh Peach Cobbler for a sweet finish.”

2nd generation proprietress Nika-Shoemaker-Machado is our guest.

Dan Kessler of Kessler-Hawk Vineyard and WinesThe Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines vineyard is located on Hwy 246, 11 miles west of Buellton in the cooler northwestern section of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Fog graces the vineyard most mornings; followed by cool Pacific ocean breezes and bright sunny afternoons. These conditions nurture gentle ripening of Kessler-Haak’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at lower sugars with crisp acidity and the higher levels of spice commonly seen in cool climate viticulture.

At Kessler-Haak the approach is that “great wine is produced in the vineyard.” Consequently, they feel “the best winemaking approach is a minimalistic one, relying on traditional methods and techniques.”

“The quality of the fruit directly impacts the quality of the wine produced from it.  At Kessler-Haak, they believe winemaking begins in the vineyard and that they are wine growers first and foremost and winemakers second.  Winegrower & Winemaker Dan and Owner/Partner Ellen Haak-Kessler live on and work in the vineyard. Coaxing the best fruit from each vine requires an integral involvement with the grape growing process; being there each day, touching the vines and soil and being hands-on in all aspects of the farming.”

“As winemakers, the goal at Kessler-Haak is to craft great food friendly wines that speak of place and time. The single most important factor influencing this goal is the decision of when to harvest.  They base this decision on a combination of factors including: sugar levels, pH, flavors, visual appearance of the fruit and vines, seed ripeness and the style of wine we are striving to create.  Ripeness in a given year, which ultimately reflects time and place, is the optimal confluence of these factors.”

Grower and Winemaker Dan Kessler pulls the cork on Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines for us.

Josh Kopel of Full Comp Media“Restaurateur, Tech Entrepreneur and Host Josh Kopel has just launched Season 2 of the FULL COMP podcast. The restaurant industry is staring down the barrel of a 60% permanent closure rate due to COVID-19 and Kopel, himself being a casualty, decided it was time to help fix what’s broken. FULL COMP is a weekly show exploring the past and future of the hospitality industry. Provocative and actionable, the show aims to ask the tough questions, supplying listeners with the tools and resources needed to thrive post-pandemic.”

“As Host of FULL COMP, Josh Kopel challenges conventional wisdom by hosting both hospitality professionals and thought leaders from outside of the industry while tackling today’s toughest topics. Andrew Zimmern (Surviving the Pandemic), Nina Compton (The Benefits of Community Building), Jet Tila (Becoming a Brand), Joe Sasto (Charting a New Path Forward), Alex Day of Death & Co. (Redefining Cocktail Culture), David Meltzer (Set Yourself Up for Success), Dean Alex Susskind of Cornell University (The Future of Restaurants), and Nyesha Arrington (Breaking the Rules for a Better Life) are just some of the most notable guests from FULL COMP SEASON 1, offering a new perspective on an old business.”

“FULL COMP was a selfish endeavor. I was lost and needed guidance. I’ve used the show as a platform to reach out to the folks I’ve looked up to my entire career, hoping their wisdom could help us chart a new path forward,” says Kopel.

“Kopel, now serving up SEASON 2 of FULL COMP, hits harder and goes deeper. Together with some of the brightest minds from within and outside of hospitality, Kopel works to highlight the issues we need to tackle and work towards long-term solutions. FULL COMP SEASON 2 has a power-packed lineup including Jon Taffer (Bar Rescue), Sam Nazarian (SBE), Seth Godin (Marketing Genius), Jim Collins (Good to Great), Jeremiah Tower (Chez Panisse, Stars), Kat Cole (COO, Focus Brands), Will Guidara (IRC), Johnny Ray Zone (Howlin’ Rays), and many more! States Kopel, “I think Che Guevara said it best ‘A revolution is not an apple that falls when it’s ripe. You have to make it fall.’ The restaurant industry needs a revolution and now is the time.””

“The provocative ideas presented on the show have morphed into action with the release of the FULL COMP Industry Guide to Restructuring. This guide, which is available for free on Kopel’s website, is the culmination of the efforts of some of the brightest minds in the restaurant industry. Strategic partners included Oyster Sunday, Cornell University, Death & Co., Yelp and Jon Taffer, as well as countless insights provided by guests of the show, the result being an informative and actionable resource guide.”

“ When asked about the inspiration for the guide, Kopel responded, “As an independent restaurant owner, I had no interest in reinventing the wheel. I wanted to know what the smartest folks in our industry were going to do, and I’d follow suit. That’s why I started the podcast, but after months of doing the show, I still lacked a cohesive plan to reopen. So, I reached out to the innovators, frontrunners and the folks that were already open, to determine what was working and what wasn’t. This guide is the result of those efforts. One hundred percent of the credit for this project goes to the amazing people and companies that provided this information. This is my path forward. It’s not perfect, but it’s the best I’ve seen out there.””

Restaurateur Josh Kopel joins us.

William, Andrew and Lauren GruelOur 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 regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants.

Salt is a requirement to sustain human life. It’s also a key ingredient in preserving, cooking and preparing food. It has a rich history. Food can actually taste bland without a bit of added salt. The right amount enhances flavor. Too much can overpower the dish. Then there are the variety of finishing salts. We’ll continue the seasoned tutorial started with Chef Andrew last Saturday. It’s again time to “Ask the Chef.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef Kris Tominaga, Manuela, Downtown Los Angeles
Segment Three: Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgia’s Restaurant Long Beach & Anaheimo
Segment Four: Dan Kessler, Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines, Lompoc Part One
Segment Five: Dan Kessler, Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines, Lompoc Part Two
Segment Six: Restaurateur and FULL COMP Podcast Host Josh Kopel Part One
Segment Seven: Restaurateur and FULL COMP Podcast Host Josh Kopel Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef” Part Two

Show 369, April 18, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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It’s a time of great concern for all of us and our “SoCal Restaurant Show” mission, until the Covid-19 crisis is fully abated, is to provide reliable and genuinely useful information on how the restaurant business is coping with the rapidly evolving events. With an emphasis on the health, safety and well-being of our listeners we’ll be detailing what the range of services restaurants can now provide to their guests. Creativity and adaptability are at the forefront. We’re keeping it upbeat…

Chefs and restaurateurs are the most generous people I know. In times of need they are always the very first in generously giving back and meaningfully supporting their communities. Truly remarkable…Right now restaurants urgently need our support to stay afloat. Kindly keep this in mind and please do what you possibly can to support a community-focused, local restaurant….

As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without the encouragement of the foodie community.

El Segundo Brewing Company’s The Slice & Pint is the restaurant spinoff of the successful El Segundo Brewing Company, one of the first craft brewers in the South Bay. Earlier in the year before “Stay at Home” they celebrated their Year Anniversary. They closed for a bit but have reopened with vigorous sanitary protections for takeout and packaged beer sales. On the menu are a variety of pizzas created from a dough that ferments and proofs for multiple days, and salads and sandwiches. Proprietor Rob Croxall and Chef Matt Ranney join us to celebrate the reopening with an appropriate slice and pint.

Chef Shelly Register is the highly accomplished founding Market Chef for A Market located in a highly visible historic building on West Coast Highway in Newport Beach next to A Restaurant (the former Arches location.) It’s a dazzling gourmet convenience store with freshly-prepared gourmet sandwiches, incredible baked goods and desserts, cheeses, coffee, craft beer and premium wine. No product is carried in the store that hasn’t received Chef Sherry’s personal seal of approval. A Market is open for takeout during the moratorium on dine-in. We’ll chat with Shelly Register who is also a noted pastry chef and bread baker.

Farley Elliott is the always well-informed Senior Editor of Eater LA, covering the daily restaurant news beat in greater Los Angeles. His work appears nationally in the online, print, and digital video space. He’s also the guy from that Tiny Hamsters Eating Tiny Burritos video. Farley joins us to discuss how he is covering the restaurant business during the unprecedented Covid-19 crisis (with Stay at Home) and graciously shares some insider insights on how restaurants are coping with the challenging prohibition of dine-in.

Chef Wing Lam is the Co-Founder of Wahoo’s Fish Taco. He is a community leader and grass-roots philanthropist working the fast- casual dining experience for 32 years. Wing is our guest to discuss how Wahoo’s is navigating the current health crisis while still supporting the community. As a service he’s even selling well-made, reusable face masks at cost. Most locations (outside of those inside malls & sports venues) are open for takeout and delivery.

Word-of-Mouth favorite Georgia’s Restaurant has been serving up Southern “soul-delicious” cuisine for the past six years in Anaheim at The Anaheim Packing House, while reimagining and redefining the public’s perception of Southern Soul Food. Last year Georgia’s Restaurant extended their family with the Grand Opening of their second location at the new Long Beach Exchange (LBX). Both locations are open for Curbside Pick-up and 3rd party delivery. Co-Founder Nika Shoemaker-Machado is our hospitable guest with the update.

Chef Steve Samson’s Rossoblu has been a big success since its opening Downtown in the Fashion District in 2017. Rossoblu has just reopened for contactless curbside pickup on Wednesday through Sunday. They are offering handmade pastas, sauces, prepared food, grocery items, wines under $35 and negronis. Chef Steve’s almost adjacent, fast casual Superfine Pizza (around the back of City Market South) is also open for takeout and delivery.

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 updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Take-out/delivery when you can surely helps…Of course, the safety of restaurant employees and guests comes first. Also some useful tips for cooking the ever popular & versatile chicken at home. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show

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Show 369, April 18, 2020: Georgia’s Restaurant (Anaheim & Long Beach) with Co-Founder Nika Shoemaker-Machado

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Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgias RestaurantsWord-of-Mouth favorite Georgia’s Restaurant has been serving up Southern “soul-delicious” cuisine for the past six years in Anaheim at The Anaheim Packing House, while reimagining and redefining the public’s perception of Southern Soul Food. Last year Georgia’s Restaurant extended their family with the Grand Opening of their second location at the new Long Beach Exchange (LBX). Both locations are open for Curbside Pick-up and 3rd party delivery.

Guests can order off the Traditional Menu or select from the Family Packages. Featured is the Fried Chicken Dinner with an 8- piece bucket of Fried Chicken, 2 large Soulful sides and 6 pieces of Nana Gretchen’s Cornbread served with house-made honey butter.

Co-Founder Nika Shoemaker-Machado is our hospitable guest.

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