Show 526, May 20, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Restaurant Week returns to Greater Palm Springs June 2-11, 2023. This annual gastronomic event, now in its 15th year, offers residents and visitors 10 days of dining experiences at local restaurants. Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week is the perfect time to take a culinary tour to sample the ever-increasing stature of food culture of the nine-city destination. Greater Palm Springs gained the attention of the Michelin guide in 2022 with their first-ever inclusion of area restaurants in the guide’s recommended places to eat. Visit Greater Palm Springs serves as the producing partner of Restaurant Week in collaboration with presenting sponsor Agua Caliente Casinos.” SO.PA at L’Horizon in Palm Springs under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Michael Hung is one of the new participating restaurants. We’ll meet him as well as Davis Meyer, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Visit Greater Palm Springs.

“From humble beginnings making frozen treats in the basement of their college dorm room, cofounders of JonnyPops, Erik Brust and Connor Wray perfected an amazing and wonderful formula. Real fruit. Heavy cream. Cane sugar. Purified water. And a pinch of salt. Just simple, wholesome ingredients with no fillers and absolutely nothing artificial. JonnyPops has worked hard over the last 12 years to achieve the right balance of real ingredients, flavor and creaminess. The simpler the ingredients, the more delicious the pop. It’s why they use a few wholesome ingredients – like fresh Midwest dairy – and blend small batches with care.” At the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, Jonny Pops was awarded the prestigious NEXTY for “Best New Sweet Snack” for their (dairy-free and water based) Organic Rainbow Fruit Stacksk bar. Co-Founder Connor Wray joins us from Elk River, Minnesota with an Organic Rainbow Fruit Stack bar in hand.

Notre Vue Estate Winery & Vineyards is a breathtaking property spanning 710 acres located just minutes south of Healdsburg, and directly in the town of Windsor’s backyard. The vast views from the summit are a patchwork of vineyards and open space seamlessly woven together, hence the French name “Notre Vue” which means Our View. The property features 350 acres of “Forever Wild” protected open space and 250 acres of beautiful rolling vineyards. Their wines are made in the European style, focusing on finesse and purity, and made with low intervention, clean winemaking styles. Notre Vue Estate takes pride as a certified Sustainable Vineyard and Winery producing ultra-premium wines from their estate vineyards that straddle two of California’s most famous viticultural appellations: Russian River Valley and Chalk Hill, located in Sonoma County. What makes them special is the diversity of terroir that sweeps across the rich tapestry of their land, allowing Notre Vue to grow a selection of 16 grape varieties, including some European varieties rarely found in Sonoma County. The wines produced at their estate vineyards are recognized for their uniqueness and richness.” The Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson, joins us to uncork all that is Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards.

“Now into the eighth year with award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne, Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine promises exceptional dining for visitors to the iconic venue during the 2023 season for the LA Phil. Goin and Styne’s culinary history has defined Los Angeles tastes since 1998 when they opened Lucques, their legendary first restaurant. At the Hollywood Bowl, their California-inspired offerings include three restaurants and three marketplaces. Additionally, menus for the Terrace and Garden Boxes, which can be ordered a day in advance, are created by four-time James Beard Foundation award-winner Suzanne Goin. Goin’s vibrant new summer dishes pair beautifully with the exceptional wine and beer programs curated by Caroline Styne, the James Beard Foundation’s 2018 Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year award recipient. Overseeing the broad range of dining options serving Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s thousands of nightly guests is Executive Chef Jeff Rogers.” Restaurateur Caroline Style and Chef Suzanne Goin join us with what’s on the tantalizing menu for the LA Phil’s Summer Season at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.

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. Inspired by a recent column by Steve Lopez in the Sunday Los Angeles Times (May 6th.) we’ll take a look at “Early Bird Dining” where meals are priced at a discount. Once very popular it now seems on the verge of disappearing.

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

Show 526, May 20, 2023: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week Preview, June 2 to 11

Chef Michael Hung

Restaurant Week returns to Greater Palm Springs June 2-11, 2023. This annual gastronomic event, now in its 15th year, offers residents and visitors 10 days of dining experiences at local restaurants. Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week is the perfect time to take a culinary tour to sample the ever-increasing stature of food culture of the nine-city destination. Greater Palm Springs gained the attention of the Michelin guide in 2022 with their first-ever inclusion of area restaurants in the guide’s recommended places to eat. Visit Greater Palm Springs serves as the producing partner of Restaurant Week in collaboration with presenting sponsor Agua Caliente Casinos.”

“More than 80 restaurants will offer custom menus for lunch, dinner or both. Lunch offers will include 2 or more courses/items priced at $15, $25 or $35. Dinner menus include 3 or more courses/items or small plates and cost $39, $49, $59 or $99. New for 2023 is a category for breakfast and brunch as well as a category for special offers. The flexible “special offers” allow restaurants to present specialties, wine pairings and/or supplemental dishes for an additional charge.”

Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau

SO.PA at L’Horizon in Palm Springs under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Michael Hung is one of the new participating restaurants. We’ll meet him as well as Davis Meyer, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Visit Greater Palm Springs providing all the salivating details.

“Decadent, refined, and intimate, SO•PA offers a unique alfresco dining experience. Visit the restaurant for dinner in an intimate outdoor setting under the stars as Michelin Star awarded Chef Michael Hung presents the seasonally enticing menu. The elegant, yet relaxed evening includes world class cocktails and a sophisticated yet approachable wine cellar curated by their in-house Wine Spectator awarded Sommelier.” Their Restaurant Week prix-fixe menu is three courses (with two Main Couse options) priced at $59 per guest, plus tax and gratuity.

May 20: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week at SO.PA, JonnyPops, Notre Vue Estate Winery & Vineyards, Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week Preview, June 2 to 11
Segment Three: Jonny Pops Frozen Treats with Co-Founder Connor Wray
Segment Four: Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards with Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson Part One
Segment Five: Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards with Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson Part Two
Segment Six: Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine with Chef Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne Part One
Segment Seven: Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine with Chef Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

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

Restaurant Week returns to Greater Palm Springs June 2-11, 2023. This annual gastronomic event, now in its 15th year, offers residents and visitors 10 days of dining experiences at local restaurants. Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week is the perfect time to take a culinary tour to sample the ever-increasing stature of food culture of the nine-city destination. Greater Palm Springs gained the attention of the Michelin guide in 2022 with their first-ever inclusion of area restaurants in the guide’s recommended places to eat. Visit Greater Palm Springs serves as the producing partner of Restaurant Week in collaboration with presenting sponsor Agua Caliente Casinos.” SO.PA at L’Horizon in Palm Springs under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Michael Hung is one of the new participating restaurants. We’ll meet him as well as Davis Meyer, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Visit Greater Palm Springs. 

“From humble beginnings making frozen treats in the basement of their college dorm room, cofounders of JonnyPops, Erik Brust and Connor Wray perfected an amazing and wonderful formula. Real fruit. Heavy cream. Cane sugar. Purified water. And a pinch of salt. Just simple, wholesome ingredients with no fillers and absolutely nothing artificial. JonnyPops has worked hard to achieve the right balance of real ingredients, flavor and creaminess. The simpler the ingredients, the more delicious the pop. It’s why they use a few wholesome ingredients – like fresh Midwest dairy – and blend small batches with care.” At the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, Jonny Pops was awarded the prestigious NEXTY for “Best New Sweet Snack” for their (dairy-free and water based) Organic Rainbow Fruit Stacks bar. Co-Founder Connor Way joins us from Elk River, Minnesota with an Organic Rainbow Fruit Stack bar in hand.

“Notre Vue Estate Winery & Vineyards is a breathtaking property spanning 710 acres located just minutes south of Healdsburg, and directly in the town of Windsor’s backyard. The vast views from the summit are a patchwork of vineyards and open space seamlessly woven together, hence the French name “Notre Vue” which means Our View. The property features 350 acres of “Forever Wild” protected open space and 250 acres of beautiful rolling vineyards. Their wines are made in the European style, focusing on finesse and purity, and made with low intervention, clean winemaking styles. Notre Vue Estate takes pride as a certified Sustainable Vineyard and Winery producing ultra-premium wines from their estate vineyards that straddle two of California’s most famous viticultural appellations: Russian River Valley and Chalk Hill, located in Sonoma County. What makes them special is the diversity of terroir that sweeps across the rich tapestry of their land, allowing Notre Vue to grow a selection of 16 grape varieties, including some European varieties rarely found in Sonoma County. The wines produced at their estate vineyards are recognized for their uniqueness and richness.” The Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson, joins us to uncork all that is Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards.

“Now into the eighth year with award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline StyneHollywood Bowl Food + Wine promises exceptional dining for visitors to the iconic venue during the 2023 season for the LA Phil. Goin and Styne’s culinary history has defined Los Angeles tastes since 1998 when they opened Lucques, their legendary firstrestaurant. At the Hollywood Bowl, their California-inspired offerings include three restaurants and three marketplaces.Additionally, menus for the Terrace and Garden Boxes, which can be ordered a day in advance, are created by four-time James Beard Foundation award-winner Suzanne Goin. Goin’s vibrant new summer dishes pair beautifully with the exceptional wine and beer programs curated by Caroline Styne, the James Beard Foundation’s 2018 Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year award recipient. Overseeing the broad range of dining options serving Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s thousands of nightly guests is Executive Chef Jeff Rogers.” Restaurateur Caroline Style and Chef Suzanne Goinjoin us with what’s on the tantalizing menu for the LA Phil’s Summer Season at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.

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. Inspired by a recent column by Steve Lopez in the Sunday Los Angeles Times we’ll take a look at “Early Bird Dining” where meals are priced at a discount. Once very popular it now seems on the verge of disappearing.

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

Chef Michael Hung

Restaurant Week returns to Greater Palm Springs June 2-11, 2023. This annual gastronomic event, now in its 15th year, offers residents and visitors 10 days of dining experiences at local restaurants. Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week is the perfect time to take a culinary tour to sample the ever-increasing stature of food culture of the nine-city destination. Greater Palm Springs gained the attention of the Michelin guide in 2022 with their first-ever inclusion of area restaurants in the guide’s recommended places to eat. Visit Greater Palm Springs serves as the producing partner of Restaurant Week in collaboration with presenting sponsor Agua Caliente Casinos.”

“More than 80 restaurants will offer custom menus for lunch, dinner or both. Lunch offers will include 2 or more courses/items priced at $15, $25 or $35. Dinner menus include 3 or more courses/items or small plates and cost $39, $49, $59 or $99. New for 2023 is a category for breakfast and brunch as well as a category for special offers. The flexible “special offers” allow restaurants to present specialties, wine pairings and/or supplemental dishes for an additional charge.”

Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau

SO.PA at L’Horizon in Palm Springs under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Michael Hung is one of the new participating restaurants. We’ll meet him as well as Davis Meyer, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Visit Greater Palm Springs providing all the salivating details.

“Decadent, refined, and intimate, SO•PA offers a unique alfresco dining experience. Visit the restaurant for dinner in an intimate outdoor setting under the stars as Michelin Star awarded Chef Michael Hung presents the seasonally enticing menu. The elegant, yet relaxed evening includes world class cocktails and a sophisticated yet approachable wine cellar curated by their in-house Wine Spectator awarded Sommelier.”

Connor Wray of Jonny Pops

“From humble beginnings making frozen treats in the basement of their college dorm room at St. Olaf College, cofounders of JonnyPops, Erik Brust and Connor Wray perfected an amazing and wonderful formula.”

“Real fruit. Heavy cream. Cane sugar. Purified water. And a pinch of salt. Just simple, wholesome ingredients with no fillers and absolutely nothing artificial.”

“JonnyPops has worked hard to achieve the right balance of real ingredients, flavor and creaminess. The simpler the ingredients, the more delicious the pop. It’s why they use a few wholesome ingredients – like fresh Midwest dairy – and blend small batches with care.”

“JonnyPops are also completely peanut-, tree nut-, and gluten-free, as well as kosher-certified.” At the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, Jonny Pops was awarded the prestigious NEXTY for “Best New Sweet Snack” for their (dairy-free and water based) Organic Rainbow Fruit Stacks bar.

“Their frozen treats are called “JonnyPops” after Erik’s cousin and original co-conspirator, Jonathan. His passing, the result of a tragic drug overdose, filled the family with grief – but also fueled a desire to spark change.”

“In honor of their namesake, each JonnyPops stick is printed with a good deed because they believe sharing kindness, through actions big and small, helps them achieve their sincere mission of making the world a better place, one pop at a time”

Co-Founder Connor Wray joins us from Elk River, Minnesota with an Organic Rainbow Fruit Stack bar in hand.

Geoffrey Thompson of Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards

Notre Vue Estate Winery & Vineyards is a breathtaking property spanning 710 acres located just minutes south of Healdsburg, and directly in the town of Windsor’s backyard. The vast views from the summit are a patchwork of vineyards and open space seamlessly woven together, hence the French name “Notre Vue” which means Our View. The property features 350 acres of “Forever Wild” protected open space and 250 acres of beautiful rolling vineyards. Their wines are made in the European style, focusing on finesse and purity, and made with low intervention, clean winemaking styles.”

“Notre Vue Estate takes pride as a certified Sustainable Vineyard and Winery producing ultra-premium wines from their estate vineyards that straddle two of California’s most famous viticultural appellations: Russian River Valley and Chalk Hill, located in Sonoma County. What makes them special is the diversity of terroir that sweeps across the rich tapestry of their land, allowing Notre Vue to grow a selection of 16 grape varieties, including some European varieties rarely found in Sonoma County. The 710-acre estate boasts many diverse microclimates, including rare soil and slope combinations. The wines  produced at their estate vineyards are recognized for their uniqueness and richness.”

“Grapes have been grown on the property since 1869 and commercially for wines since 1907. Notre Vue Estate & Winery produces wines under the Notre Vue label which are sold primarily at their tasting salons and in select restaurants. Notre Vue also produces wines under the Balverne label which is a brand that was historically famous in the 1980’s being poured at the White House multiple times as well as the famous Hollywood Brown Derby, the original Spago in West Hollywood and Sparks Steakhouse in New York.”

“Balverne wines were produced on the estate in the 1980’s and the brand was carefully resurrected by the Notre Vue Estate owners in 2012 to honor Balverne’s history. In 2022, Notre Vue Estate celebrated its 30 year anniversary under the current ownership. Notre Vue Estate is now helmed by co-founder Renée Brown-Stein. In addition to producing multiple wines under our two labels they also sell their grapes to many premium wineries in Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Notre Vue grapes are found in some of the most well-known wines from Sonoma and Napa.”

The Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson, joins us to uncork all that is Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards.

Suzanne Goin of the LLucques Group

“Now into the eighth year with award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline StyneHollywood Bowl Food + Wine promises exceptional dining for visitors to the iconic venue during the 2023 season for the LA Phil. Goin and Styne’s culinary history has defined Los Angeles tastes since 1998 when they opened Lucques, their legendary first restaurant. At the Hollywood Bowl, their California-inspired offerings include three restaurants and three marketplaces. Additionally, menus for the Terrace and Garden Boxes, which can be ordered a day in advance, are created by four-time James Beard Foundation award-winner Suzanne Goin. Goin’s vibrant new summer dishes pair beautifully with the exceptional wine and beer programs curated by Caroline Styne, the James Beard Foundation’s 2018 Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year award recipient. Overseeing the broad range of dining options serving Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s thousands of nightly guests is Executive Chef Jeff Rogers.”

Caroline Styne of Lucques Restaurant Group

“This year Caroline Styne has expanded the retail wine selections in the three marketplaces, broadening the varieties and options for wine lovers visiting the Bowl. In addition to increasing the selection of her popular canned wine offerings, she has also added a number of vegan and organic bottles, as well as a collection of natural wines from producers including Broc Cellars, Johan Vineyards, Lo-fi Wines, Angeleno Wine Company and more. And, returning for the 2023 season are the fan favorites Winemaker Wednesdays and Sunday Market Tastings – a 14-week program of complimentary wine tastings at the Plaza Marketplace with guest winemakers, importers and sommeliers hand-selected by Caroline to give the venue’s visitors an immersive and personal experience with her favorite people in the wine world.”

“Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s many dining options include three sit-down restaurants, street-food kiosks, pre-ordered picnic boxes and a full-service dinner delivered to your box seat. For private events, Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine provides catering at several locations for groups both large and small.”

Restaurateur Caroline Style and Chef Suzanne Goin join us with what’s on the salivating menu for the LA Phil’s Summer Season at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of 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.

Inspired by a recent column by Steve Lopez in the Sunday Los Angeles Times we’ll take a look at “Early Bird Dining” where meals are priced at a discount. Once very popular it now seems on the verge of perhaps disappearing. Has “Happy Hour” really replaced it? We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week Preview, June 2 to 11
Segment Three: Jonny Pops Frozen Treats with Co-Founder Connor Wray
Segment Four: Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards with Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson Part One
Segment Five: Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards with Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson Part Two
Segment Six: Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine with Chef Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne Part One
Segment Seven: Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine with Chef Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 435, July 24, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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

Azucar, located in La Serena Villas in Palm Springs, is a hidden gem of a boutique dining experience. They serve modern contemporary cuisine (American, Mediterranean and Spanish flavors) to a sophisticated, adults-only crowd, focusing on flavor utilizing high quality and local ingredients. Azucar offers outdoor seating by the beautiful La Serena Villas pool and on their designed rooftop deck with a view. Reservations are politely recommended. “Sugar High Rooftop Lounge at La Serena Villas is a great mix of Boho chic meets cool Palm Springs. The little desert oasis sits atop the fresh and vibrant restaurant Azucar. It is the perfect slice of heaven to sip on amazing cocktails and nosh on appetizers. You can have all this while surrounded by the breathtaking San Jacinto mountains.” General Manager Laura Slipak is our guest providing the overview of the property.

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week lau launches August 1-8, 2021.” Chef Ross Pangilinan of Remix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange is one of the participating restaurants in the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week. ReMix is a modern version of the acclaimed Mix Mix Kitchen Bar by esteemed Chef Ross Pangilinan. For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Ross is featuring French Burger Sliders with shallot marmalade, bacon, melted brie, truffle aioli and served with fries. Chef Ross Pangilinan joins us with spatula securely in hand.

The Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau launched the digital Summer Eats Pass in early June to help support local restaurants, while also providing deals and offerings to the community and visitors. Each time diners use the pass to check in to a local eatery, they become eligible for a weekly drawing to win a $50 gift card to a local restaurant. To unlock the savings, guests can download a free mobile pass to access exclusive offers from Greater Palm Springs restaurants. Offers range from special prix fixe menus to free items with purchases.” Boozehounds (“Where dogs bring their humans,”) an ambitious newly opened, dog-friendly dining establishment with a serious bar program in Palm Springs is part of the Summer Eats Pass. Co-owner Bryan Rogers joins in the conversation along with Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs CVB.

The 2021 OC Fair opened the gates on Friday, July 16th. Opening Weekend was sold out. Outrageous Fair Food is always a mouthwatering highlight. What crazy edible will they next put on a stick? One of the all-star Fair Food personalities is the well-traveled Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri of Biggy’s fame on the RCS Carnival Midway. We’ll find out what indulgent deliciousness Chef Dominic is cooking up now through August 15th.

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.” Proprietor & Chef Joey Rooney of The Cooked Duck on Pacific Coast Highway is a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. It’s an easygoing and popular neighborhood restaurant for Breakfast and Lunch serving generous portions of properly prepared comfort foods. For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Joey is featuring his Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger with Texas chili, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and topped with Fritos Corn Chips for the perfect crunch. Restaurateur Joey Rooney joins us with a Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger 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 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. Chefs typically prefer to cook with natural gas at their restaurants. Some USA cities have been making moves to phase out natural gas connections to residences and businesses with the hope of reducing carbon emissions. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts.

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

Show 435, July 24, 2021: Greater Palm Springs Summer Eats Pass with Davis Meyer and Restaurateur Bryan Rogers of Boozehounds

Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bujreau

The Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau launched the digital Summer Eats Pass in early June to help support local restaurants, while also providing deals and offerings to the community and visitors. Each time diners use the pass to check in to a local eatery, they become eligible for a weekly drawing to win a $50 gift card to a local restaurant. To unlock the savings, guests can download a free mobile pass to access exclusive offers from Greater Palm Springs restaurants. Offers range from special prix fixe menus to free items with purchases.”

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer the Summer Eats Pass to encourage the community and visitors to help support our local restaurant scene and even encourage exploration of new favorites,” said Davis Meyer, Director of Partnership. “Despite a challenging year for the restaurant industry, Greater Palm Springs offers a rich and diverse culinary scene with a variety of new offerings available for people to experience this summer.”

Boozehounds (“Where dogs bring their humans”,) an ambitious newly opened, dog-friendly dining establishment with a serious bar program in Palm Springs is part of the Summer Eats Pass. They are open for Dinner nightly and have just added Weekend Brunch. Co-owner Bryan Rogers joins in the conversation along with Davis Meyers of the Greater Palm Springs CVB.

July 24: Azucar, Long Beach Burger Week with Remix Kitchen Bar and the Crooked Duck, Palm Springs Summer Eats Pass, the Midway Gourmet

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Laura Slipak, General Manager, Azucar Restaurant and La Serena Villas, Palm Springs
Segment Three: Chef Ross Pangilinan, Remix Kitchen Bar, Long Beach Exchange, Long Beach
Segment Four: Greater Palm Springs Summer Eats Pass with Davis Meyer and Restaurateur Bryan Rogers of Boozehounds
Segment Five: Chef Dominic Palmieri, “The Midway Gourmet” at the OC Fair Part One
Segment Six: Chef Dominic Palmieri, “The Midway Gourmet” at the OC Fair Part Two
Segment Seven: Chef & Proprietor Joey Rooney, The Crooked Duck, Long Beach
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.

Azucar, located in La Serena Villas in Palm Springs, is a hidden gem of a boutique dining experience. They serve modern contemporary cuisine (American, Mediterranean and Spanish flavors) to a sophisticated, adults-only crowd, focusing on flavor utilizing high quality and local ingredients. Azucar offers outdoor seating by the beautiful La Serena Villas pool and on their designed rooftop deck with a view. Reservations are politely recommended. “Sugar High Rooftop Lounge at La Serena Villas is a great mix of Boho chic meets cool Palm Springs. The little desert oasis sits atop the fresh and vibrant restaurant Azucar. It is the perfect slice of heaven to sip on amazing cocktails and nosh on appetizers. You can have all this while surrounded by the breathtaking San Jacinto mountains.” General Manager Laura Slipak is our guest providing the overview of the property.

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.” Chef Ross Pangilinan of Remix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange is one of the participating restaurants in the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week. ReMix is a modern version of the acclaimed Mix Mix Kitchen Bar by esteemed Chef Ross Pangilinan. For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Ross is featuring French Burger Sliders with shallot marmalade, bacon, melted brie, truffle aioli and served with fries. Chef Ross Pangilinan joins us spatula securely in hand.

The Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau launched the digital Summer Eats Pass in early June to help support local restaurants, while also providing deals and offerings to the community and visitors. Each time diners use the pass to check in to a local eatery, they become eligible for a weekly drawing to win a $50 gift card to a local restaurant. To unlock the savings, guests can download a free mobile pass to access exclusive offers from Greater Palm Springs restaurants. Offers range from special prix fixe menus to free items with purchases.” Boozehounds (“Where dogs bring their humans”,) an ambitious newly opened, dog-friendly dining establishment with a serious bar program in Palm Springs is part of the Summer Eats Pass. Co-owner Bryan Rogers joins in the conversation along with Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs CVB.

The 2021 OC Fair opened the gates on Friday, July 16th. Opening Weekend was sold out. Outrageous Fair Food is always a mouthwatering highlight. What crazy edible will they next put on a stick? One of the all-star Fair Food personalities is the well-traveled Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri of Biggy’s fame on the RCS Carnival Midway. We’ll find out what indulgent deliciousness Chef Dominic is cooking up now through August 15th.

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.” Proprietor & Chef Joey Rooney of The Cooked Duck on Pacific Coast Highway is a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. It’s an easygoing and popular neighborhood restaurant for Breakfast and Lunch serving generous portions of properly prepared comfort foods. For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Joey is featuring his Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger with Texas chili, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and topped with Fritos Corn Chips for the perfect crunch. Restaurateur Joey Rooney joins us with a Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger 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 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. Chefs typically prefer to cook with natural gas at their restaurants. Some USA cities have been making moves to phase out natural gas connections to residences and businesses with the hope of reducing carbon emissions. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts.

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

Azucar, located in La Serena Villas in Palm Springs, is a hidden gem of a boutique dining experience. They serve modern contemporary cuisine (American, Mediterranean and Spanish flavors) to a sophisticated, adults-only crowd, focusing on flavor utilizing high quality and local ingredients. Azucar offers outdoor seating by the beautiful La Serena Villas pool and on their designed rooftop deck with a view. Reservations are politely recommended.

Sugar High Rooftop Lounge at La Serena Villas is a great mix of Boho chic meets cool Palm Springs. The little desert oasis sits atop the fresh and vibrant restaurant Azucar. It is the perfect slice of heaven to sip on amazing cocktails and nosh on appetizers. You can have all this while surrounded by the breathtaking San Jacinto mountains.”

“Originally built in 1933, La Serena Villas sits on over an acre of beautiful landscaped grounds in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, walking distance to the famous Palm Canyon Drive, where you will find the best restaurants, boutiques and galleries.”

“Redeveloped as a luxury hotel with 18 guest rooms in 2016 by award -winning architect, May Sung, with all the modern amenities of a 5-star hotel. Each piece of furniture, all materials and finishes have been carefully hand- picked by interior design group, Avenue Interior Design.”

“The stunning San Jacinto Mountains are the backdrop for this luxury boutique hotel. The secluded private villas each have a private patio, complete with a romantic claw foot tub, fire-pit, and built-in benches.”

Laura Slipak, the General Manager of both La Serena Villas and Azucar restaurant is our guest.

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.”

“Organized by local non-profit, Long Beach Food & Beverage and thanks to a generous grant from the City of Long Beach, executive director Terri Henry, who brought the original restaurant week to Long Beach with partners in 2014, felt that in addition to encouraging local and surrounding “foodies” to enjoy what the expanding Long Beach culinary community has to offer, events like Burger Week support the local economy and put “butts in seats” of our valued restaurants. “Now that we are a registered 501c3 non-profit and have support, we decided to mix things up a little this year and put our efforts into a city-wide Long Beach Burger Week, because, hey, it’s summertime who doesn’t love a good burger?’,” Henry explained.”

“There are no tickets or passes to purchase. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups or home cottage businesses for pick-up. Participating restaurants, food businesses and offers can be found on the Long Beach Burger Week website”

Chef Ross Pangilinan of Remix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange is one of the participating restaurants in the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week. ReMix is a modern version of the acclaimed Mix Mix Kitchen Bar by esteemed Chef Ross Pangilinan. His third Southern California concept has combined Mix Mix signature dishes with a complete new assortment of food offerings.

Chef Ross is featuring French Burger Sliders with shallot marmalade, bacon, melted brie, truffle aioli and served with fries.

The Sliders are served with the guest’s choice of a beer or soft drink.

Chef Ross Pangilinan joins us spatula securely in hand.

Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bujreau

The Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau launched the digital Summer Eats Pass in early June to help support local restaurants, while also providing deals and offerings to the community and visitors. Each time diners use the pass to check in to a local eatery, they become eligible for a weekly drawing to win a $50 gift card to a local restaurant. To unlock the savings, guests can download a free mobile pass to access exclusive offers from Greater Palm Springs restaurants. Offers range from special prix fixe menus to free items with purchases.”

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer the Summer Eats Pass to encourage the community and visitors to help support our local restaurant scene and even encourage exploration of new favorites,” said Davis Meyer, Director of Partnership. “Despite a challenging year for the restaurant industry, Greater Palm Springs offers a rich and diverse culinary scene with a variety of new offerings available for people to experience this summer.”

Boozehounds (“Where dogs bring their humans”,) an ambitious newly opened, dog-friendly dining establishment with a serious bar program in Palm Springs is part of the Summer Eats Pass. Co-owner Bryan Rogers joins in the conversation along with Davis Meyers of the Greater Palm Springs CVB.

Dominic Palmieri of Midway Gourmet

The 2021 OC Fair opened the gates on Friday, July 16th. The first Weekend was a complete sellout. Outrageous Fair Food is always a mouthwatering highlight. What crazy edible will they next put on a stick? One of the all-star, Fair Food personalities is the well-traveled Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri of Biggy’s fame on the RCS Carnival Midway.

Chef Dominic has noticed a taste trend in addition to the continuing appeal of spicy flavors. That’s sour. The creative minds at The Midway Gourmet have found spicy & sour inspiration and now perfected the all-new Hot Cheeto-n-Cheese Pickles which debuts at the OC Fair. It’s premium dill pickle chips smothered in cheese sauce and then topped with crunchy Hot Cheetos.

Also a juicy, Hot Cheeto-n-Cheese Burger with premium Angus beef. It’s a flame-grilled charbroiled burger sandwiched between a toasted buttery bun dipped in melted cheddar cheese then rolled in ground-up hot Cheetos. The burger is then topped with melted cheese and whole crunchy hot Cheetos.

For those hot Summer days consider the Watermelon Taco topped with refreshing Dole Whip and Tajin.

We’ll find out what other indulgent deliciousness Chef Dominic is cooking up now through August 15th with Chef Dominic.

Joey Rooney of the Crooked Duck

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.”

“Organized by local non-profit, Long Beach Food & Beverage and thanks to a generous grant from the City of Long Beach, executive director Terri Henry, who brought the original restaurant week to Long Beach with partners in 2014, felt that in addition to encouraging local and surrounding “foodies” to enjoy what the expanding Long Beach culinary community has to offer, events like Burger Week support the local economy and put “butts in seats” of our valued restaurants. “Now that we are a registered 501c3 non-profit and have support, we decided to mix things up a little this year and put our efforts into a city-wide Long Beach Burger Week, because, hey, it’s summertime who doesn’t love a good burger?’,” Henry explained.”

“There are no tickets or passes to purchase. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups or home cottage businesses for pick-up. Participating restaurants and other types of food businesses and offers are on LB Burger Week’s site.

Proprietor & Chef Joey Rooney of The Cooked Duck on Pacific Coast Highway is a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. It’s an easygoing and popular neighborhood restaurant for Breakfast and Lunch serving generous portions of properly prepared comfort foods. They are known for coffee, breakfast specialties, sandwiches and, of course, burgers. Beer and wine are on the menu, too, along with wine-based cocktails.

For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Joey is featuring his Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger with Texas chili, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and topped with Fritos Corn Chips for the perfect crunch.

Restaurateur Joey Rooney joins us with a Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger in hand.

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. Genuine concerns remain…

Chefs typically prefer to cook with clean-burning, natural gas at their restaurants. Some USA cities have been making moves to phase out natural gas connections to residences and businesses with the hope of possibly reducing carbon emissions. Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.

Chef Andrew also reports on the progress of his new ambitious Save the Brave Burger” fundraiser for Summer to benefit Veterans with PTS.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Laura Slipak, General Manager, Azucar Restaurant and La Serena Villas, Palm Springs
Segment Three: Chef Ross Pangilinan, Remix Kitchen Bar, Long Beach Exchange, Long Beach
Segment Four: Greater Palm Springs Summer Eats Pass with Davis Meyer and Restaurateur Bryan Rogers of Boozehounds
Segment Five: Chef Dominic Palmieri, “The Midway Gourmet” at the OC Fair Part One
Segment Six: Chef Dominic Palmieri, “The Midway Gourmet” at the OC Fair Part Two
Segment Seven: Chef & Proprietor Joey Rooney, The Crooked Duck, Long Beach
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”