Opening the show with a brief visit with James Beard Award-winning Chef Tim Hollingsworth of Otium in Downtown Los Angeles. Chef Tim is at the center of the documentary, “Chain Restaurant Special” released on the Roku Channel (and available to everyone at no charge) on July 12th. Chef Tim is also the co-founder of Chain with actor and comedian B.J. Novak, which reimagines familiar chain restaurant favorites.
“In the documentary Celebrity friends including Chrissy Teigen and John Legend gather at the inaugural Chain Fest bash last year in Los Angeles. It’s a party as acclaimed Chef Tim Hollingsworth puts a gourmet spin on eight beloved and iconic dishes from Chili’s, Red Robin, Panda Express, Jack in the Box, Sonic, Pizza Hut, Pepsi, and Dunkin’.” One creation of Chef Tim and his culinary team is the gourmet reimagining of the Panda Express signature Orange Chicken.
“Terranea Resort’s (Rancho Palos Verdes) inaugural Food and Wine Festival is being held on Sunday, July 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This oceanfront event, taking place at the scenic resort’s The Meadows, has been created to celebrate the culinary talents of some of Terranea’s talented chefs, as well as to host a glorious summer gourmet experience – showcasing local and regional eateries, craft breweries, wineries and fine beverage purveyors. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, live music will be provided by Upstream, a leading Southern California reggae and Caribbean band, and the popular yacht rock band The AstroYachts.” Joining us with all the tasty Food & Wine Festival specifics is Andrew Vaughan, the Executive Chef of Terranea Resort.
The Bear (based in Chicago) is back on Hulu for Season 3 and already attracting a lot of attention and, of course, spirited controversy. Given that Chicago is a great food town it was only a matter of time before a savvy tour operator in the Windy City created a “The Bear” Chicago Food Tour. This has now happened with the launch of Chicago Food & City Tour’s Yes, Chef! Chicago: A Bear – Inspired Food Tour.” Our own newly Chicago-based, informed foodie, Terri Henry, shares her recent adventure on this engaging Chicago tour which also included as guests a Staff Writer and Photographer for The Chicago Tribune.
“Jambalaya Girl (Kristen Preau Moore) by Cook Me Somethin’ Mister is a family and women owned business that brings an authentic taste of New Orleans to the world with easy to prepare food products, inspired by Jambalaya Girl’s family recipes. Drawing from her family’s upbringing in the New Orleans cooking scene and her creation of a nationwide tailgating fundraiser following Hurricane Katrina, owner Kristen Preau “Jambalaya Girl” created Cook Me Somethin’ Mister initially from her Dad’s jambalaya recipe. All products are now proudly made in New Orleans with the finest ingredients and are specially blended by Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Magic Seasoning Blends.” We’re joined by the Jambalaya Girl herself, Kristen Preau, to cook up all the good eating that is Jambalaya Girl New Orleans food products.
“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and pop-ups will offer unique over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the 4th annual Long Beach Burger Week returns July 21-28, 2024. Organized by local non-profit Long Beach Food & Beverage, the organization 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. One of the featured restaurants in LBBW is the new ISM Brewing located on The Promenade in Downtown Long Beach. Proprietor Ian McCall joins us to describe his salivating Burger Week creation, Mahalo Madness, which is a delicious, hand-held delight which takes inspiration from the ISM Culinary Team’s favorite Hawaiian / Japanese Burger spots.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. How does this new California legislation designed to eliminate “junk fees” impact restaurants that include a mandatory Service Charge? Some last-minute modifications were legislated and enacted right before July 1st. We’ll get the accurate story and an informed restaurateurs POV from Chef Andrew.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.
Opening the show with a brief visit with James Beard Award-winning Chef Tim Hollingsworth of Otium in Downtown Los Angeles. Chef Tim is at the center of the documentary, “Chain Restaurant Special” released on the Roku Channel (and available to everyone at no charge) on July 12th. Chef Tim is also the co-founder of Chain with actor and comedian B.J. Novak, which reimagines familiar chain restaurant favorites.
“Terranea Resort’s (Rancho Palos Verdes)inaugural Food and Wine Festival is being held on Sunday, July 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This oceanfront event, taking place at the scenic resort’s The Meadows, has been created to celebrate the culinary talents of some of Terranea’s talented chefs, as well as to host a glorious summer gourmet experience – showcasing local and regional eateries, craft breweries, wineries and fine beverage purveyors. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, live music will be provided by Upstream, a leading Southern California reggae and Caribbean band, and the popular yacht rock band The AstroYachts.” Joining us with all the tasty Food & Wine Festival specifics is Andrew Vaughan, the Executive Chef of Terranea Resort.
The Bear (based in Chicago) is back on Hulu for Season 3 and already attracting a lot of attention and, of course, spirited controversy. Given that Chicago is a great food town it was only a matter of time before a savvy tour operator in the Windy City created a “The Bear” Chicago Food Tour. This has now happened with the launch of Chicago Food & City Tour’s “Yes, Chef! Chicago: A Bear – Inspired Food Tour.” Our own newly Chicago-based, informed foodie, Terri Henry, shares her recent adventure on this engaging Chicago tour which also included as guests a Staff Writer and Photographer for The Chicago Tribune.
“Jambalaya Girl (Kristen Preau Moore) by Cook Me Somethin’ Mister is a family and women owned business that brings an authentic taste of New Orleans to the world with easy to prepare food products, inspired by Jambalaya Girl’s family recipes. Drawing from her family’s upbringing in the New Orleans cooking scene and her creation of a nationwide tailgating fundraiser following Hurricane Katrina, owner Kristen Preau “Jambalaya Girl” created Cook Me Somethin’ Mister initially from her Dad’s jambalaya recipe. All products are now proudly made in New Orleans with the finest ingredients and are specially blended by Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Magic Seasoning Blends.” We’re joined by the Jambalaya Girl herself, Kristen Preau, to cook up all the good eating that is Jambalaya Girl New Orleans food products.
“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and pop-ups will offer unique over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the 4th annual Long Beach Food & Beverage, the organization 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. One of the featured restaurants in LBBW is the new ISM Brewing located on The Promenade in Downtown Long Beach. Proprietor Ian McCall joins us to describe his salivating Burger Week creation, Mahalo Madness, which is a delicious, hand-held delight which takes inspiration from the ISM Culinary Team’s favorite Hawaiian / Japanese Burger spots.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. How does this new California legislation designed to eliminate “junk fees” impact restaurants that include a mandatory Service Charge? Some last-minute modifications were legislated and enacted right before July 1st. We’ll get the accurate story and an informed restaurateurs POV from Chef Andrew.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Terranea Resort’s (Rancho Palos Verdes) inaugural Food and Wine Festival is being held on Sunday, July 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“This oceanfront event, taking place at the scenic resort’s The Meadows, has been created to celebrate the culinary talents of some of Terranea’s talented chefs, as well as to host a glorious summer gourmet experience – showcasing local and regional eateries, craft breweries, wineries and fine beverage purveyors. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, live music will be provided by Upstream, a leading Southern California reggae and Caribbean band, and the popular yacht rock band The AstroYachts.”
“To whet your appetite – from Terranea – catalina kitchen will be serving Brown Butter Scallops and a California Citrus Salad; bashi will present Chicken Karage with aioli and togarashi, mar’sel will be pleasing palates with a Corn and Crab Gazpacho with mint pistou and there is so much more to look forward to… Also, at the Lexus sponsor’s booth, charismatic, Michelin-star Chef Ludo Lefebvre will be presenting tantalizing bites.”
The Bear(based in Chicago)is back on Hulu for Season 3 and already attracting a lot of attention and, of course, controversy. Given that Chicago is a great food town it was only a matter of time before a savvy tour operator in the Windy City created a “The Bear” Chicago Food Tour. This has now happened with the launch of Chicago Food & City Tour’s “Yes, Chef! Chicago: A Bear – Inspired Food Tour.” Our own newly Chicago-based, informed foodie, Terri Henry, shares her recent adventure on this Chicago tour which also included as guests a Staff Writer and Photographer for The Chicago Tribune.
For the time being “this is the only Chicago food tour that takes guests to the restaurants featured in the TV phenomenon, “The Bear.” The tour takes the guests to the actual spots where Chef Carmy, Chef Sydney and Richie cook up their magic, and pairs each stop with the insider stories that connect the dots between the show’s fictional drama and Chicago as a real-life foodie destination.” And, yes, there is a stop at the real Chicago Italian Beef shop that inspired the original “Mr. Beef” in the series.
“Jambalaya Girl (Kristen Preau Moore) by Cook Me Somethin’ Mister is a family and women owned business that brings an authentic taste of New Orleans to the world with easy to prepare food products, inspired by Jambalaya Girl’s family recipes. Drawing from her family’s upbringing in the New Orleans cooking scene and her creation of a nationwide tailgating fundraiser following Hurricane Katrina, owner Kristen Preau “Jambalaya Girl” created Cook Me Somethin’ Mister initially from her Dad’s jambalaya recipe. All products are now proudly made in New Orleans with the finest ingredients and are specially blended by Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Magic Seasoning Blends.” We’re joined by the Jambalaya Girl herself, Kristen Preau, to cook up all the good eating that is Jambalaya Girl food products from New Orleans.
From New Orleans Gambit Weekly, Top 40 Under 40 Cover Story: “Known as the “Jambalaya Girl,” Kristen Preau says she was given the title while stirring her father’s cast-iron pot full of jambalaya at her brother’s sporting events… Preau came up with the concept for Cook Me Somethin’ Mister while traveling across the country to raise money for New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. She raised $100,000 for her hometown by serving jambalaya made from her father’s recipe at 11 college tailgates. It made her realize that people donated not only because they loved New Orleans, but they also loved the jambalaya.”
“Jambalaya Girl’s Dad, Paul, used to specially manufacture outdoor cookers for some of the top chefs in New Orleans and he always cooked classic New Orleans recipes, like Jambalaya Girl’s jambalaya, to showcase his cooking equipment. Paul manufactured the gas burner that the late Chef Paul Prudhomme used to prepare his famous Blackened Red Fish recipe. The burner was featured in Chef Paul’s mail order catalog and is pictured in his first cookbook, Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Louisiana Kitchen. (1984)”
“The Preau family cooked some of the first pots of Jambalaya to be served during the early years of French Quarter Fest. Fun fact: Cook Me Somethin’ Mister still uses the same 40-gallon cast iron pot that was used to cook at the very first French Quarter Fest in 1983. That’s one well-seasoned pot!”
“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and pop-ups will offer unique over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the 4th annual Long Beach Burger Week returns July 21-28, 2024.”
“Organized by local non-profit Long Beach Food & Beverage, the organization 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. Besides… it’s summertime and who doesn’t love a good burger?”
“Featured Burgers are value-priced at $5, $10, $15, $20, plus some combos offered at $25. A few of the more unique over-the-top burger offers may include Burger Hand Pies, Pupusa Burgers, Cajun Lobster-topped, IPA Cheese-topped, Bleu Cheese Peppercorn-topped, Pastrami-topped, Chile Verde Burger, and many more unique options. Boasting Metro LA as a sponsor, many restaurants will also be promoting special offers when guests show their Metro LA TAP Card.”
One of the featured restaurants in LBBW is the new ISM Brewing located on The Promenade in Downtown Long Beach. Proprietor Ian McCall joins us to describe his Burger Week special, Mahalo Madness, which is a delicious, hand-held delight which takes inspiration from the ISM Culinary Team’s favorite Hawaiian / Japanese Burger spots.
Mahalo Madness is a 6” square burger patty covered in strips of pork belly, topped with Swiss cheese, grilled oyster mushrooms, grilled onions, grilled pineapple, lettuce, avocado and housemade teriyaki sauce. It’s served between halves of a fresh ciabatta roll.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
How does this new California legislation designed to eliminate “junk fees” impact restaurants that include a mandatory Service Charge? Some last-minute modifications were legislated (and enacted) right before the July 1st implementation. We’ll get the accurate story and an informed restaurateur’s POV from Chef Andrew.
“Calling all BBQ lovers! The 2nd Annual Long Beach BBQ Fest will take place on Saturday, May 25. May is National BBQ Month.”
“Organized by Ian and Qiana Mafnas, proprietors of the wildly popular Axiom Kitchen Smoked Meats & BBQ, sponsored by non-profit NoahS’s Arc Foundation and in collaboration with Long Beach Living, dozens of BBQ and other vendors will gather at Shoreline Aquatic Park on Saturday, May 25, from Noon to 9 p.m. to offer their smoked, sauced and rubbed specialties to BBQ lovers.”
“We are excited for year two of this very unique event”, said Ian and Qiana Mafnas in a joint statement. “We hope to give our fellow smokers and BBQ joints some great exposure and to all those attending a delicious and memorable afternoon and evening.”
Long Beach’s newly launched ISM Brewing will be pouring a couple of their distinctive styles. ISM last month won a pair of prestigious Gold Medals at the World Beer Cup for CalfFiend (infused with coffee) and Western Standard Time (West Coast IPA.)
Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co.in Huntington Beach) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 15 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started. Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing and Tap Room.
“Preen is an award-winning, international architecture and Interiors firm with twenty years of experience specializing in hospitality design. Preen offers everything needed to build a project down to the matchbook.” They are based in a historic building in Los Angeles’ Chinatown. Projects in their expansive portfolio include Pine & Crane in the South Park neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles, the Howlin’ Ray’s in Pasadena (in the fondly-remembered Adohr Milk Farm building) and Piccalilli in Culver City. Preen has also designed a few of the distinctive establishments in Chinatown’s Far East Plaza. A current effort in development is acclaimed Chef Chef Tim Hollingsworth’sOtium Las Vegas in the Waldorf Astoria in the Aria Campus (the former Mandarin Oriental hotel.) Preen’s inspirational founder, Alexis Readinger, is our guest to explore the mysterious world of restaurant design.
Our favorite globe-trotting travel journalist and TV personality, Darley Newman, is back with a new season of travel adventures. “Join multi-Emmy nominated Darley Newman for Season 11 of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY and experience an enticing blend of culture, history, and gastronomy across a captivating array of destinations in the USA (including Lafayette, Louisiana and Route 66 in Illinois) and to South Korea. Thirteen half-hour episodes debut on PBS stations starting January 11, 2024, including the launch of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY: “Revolutionary Road Trips” in the lead up to the 2026 commemorations of America’s 250th. TRAVELS WITH DARLEY invites viewers on a journey of discovery as Darley Newman explores the heart and soul of each place she visits.” Darley takes a brief detour from the road to join us.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. We’re continuing the spirited conversation about mandatory Service Charges of 18 to 20 per cent now being added onto restaurant checks (this is not a Tip) along with a possible 3 to 5 per cent contribution to employee health care. Adding a “Tip” above and beyond this is typically not discouraged. To make matters worse the “Service Charge” is taxable. Chef Andrew will weigh in on this highly controversial and befuddling development. All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 15 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started.
Trivia Night at ISM Brewing Co. is under the banner of The Epic Pub Quiz on Monday at 7:00 p.m.
“Ian McCall has been deeply passionate about beer for nearly two decades. His journey began in 2004 at Brewbakers in Huntington Beach, where he first discovered the joys of beer making. Initially working behind the bar, Ian quickly learned the brewing process and began creating new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. This period was not just significant for his career; he also met his future wife, Lisa, during a brewing class.”
Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing and Tap Room.
Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 15 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started.
“Ian McCall has been deeply passionate about beer for nearly two decades. His journey began in 2004 at Brewbakers in Huntington Beach, where he first discovered the joys of beer making. Initially working behind the bar, Ian quickly learned the brewing process and began creating new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. This period was not just significant for his career; he also met his future wife, Lisa, during a brewing class.”
“After leaving Brewbakers in 2009 an opportunity arose when Beachwood BBQ announced plans to open a brewery in Long Beach. Ian joined the team, working initially as a bartender. He furthered his brewing education at the Siebel Institute of Technology and started apprenticing under Julian Shrago. By 2013, Ian became Julian’s assistant brewer. During his tenure at Beachwood, the team won numerous awards, including the GABF Mid-size Brewpub and Mid-size Brewpub Brewer of the Year in 2013 and 2014, and at the World Beer Cup in 2016.”
“In 2018, Ian moved to Riip Beer Company in Huntington Beach as Head Brewer. Over five years, he enhanced the brand, assembled a skilled team, and led them to win various prestigious brewing awards, including at GABF, San Diego International, US Beer Open, LA IPA Fest, and the Bistro IPA/DIPA Fest.”
Ian McCall joins continues with us in-studio tapping the keg on all that is now Long Beach’s ISM Brewing and Tap Room on The Promenade. We’re tasting ISM’s Gulp of Mexico (Mexican Lager,) Calf Fiend (Brown Ale with Peruvian Coffee) and Western Standard Time (West Coast IPA.)
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.
Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co.) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 13 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started. Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing and Tap Room.
“Preen is an award-winning, international architecture and Interiors firm with twenty years of experience specializing in hospitality design. Preen offers everything needed to build a project down to the matchbook.” They are based in a historic building in Los Angeles’ Chinatown. Projects in their expansive portfolio include Pine & Crane in the South Park neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles, the Howlin’ Ray’s in Pasadena (in the fondly-remembered Adohr Milk Farm building) and Piccalilli in Culver City. Preen has also designed a few of the distinctive establishments in Chinatown’s Far West Plaza. A current effort in development is acclaimed Chef Tim Hollingsworth’s Otium Las Vegas in the Waldorf Astoria in the Aria Campus (the former Mandarin Oriental hotel.)Preen’s inspirational founder, Alexis Readinger, is our guest to explore the mysterious world of restaurant design.
Our favorite globe-trotting travel journalist and TV personality, Darley Newman, is back with a new season of travel adventures. “Join multi-Emmy nominated Darley Newman for Season 11 of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY and experience an enticing blend of culture, history, and gastronomy across a captivating array of destinations in the USA (including Lafayette, Louisiana and Route 66 in Illinois) and to South Korea. Thirteen half-hour episodes debut on PBS stations starting January 11, 2024, including the launch of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY: “Revolutionary Road Trips” in the lead up to the 2026 commemorations of America’s 250th. TRAVELS WITH DARLEY invites viewers on a journey of discovery as Darley Newman explores the heart and soul of each place she visits.” Darley takes a brief respite from the road to join us.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. We’re continuing the conversation about mandatory Service Charges of 18 to 20 per cent now being added onto restaurant checks (this is not a Tip) along with a possible 3 to 5 per cent contribution to employee health care. Adding a “Tip” above and beyond this is typically not discouraged. To make matters worse the “Service Charge” is taxable. Chef Andrew will weigh in on this highly controversial and befuddling development.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 13 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Weekend Brunch has just started.
Trivia Night at ISM Brewing Co. is under the banner of The Epic Pub Quiz on Monday at 7:00 p.m.
“Ian McCall has been deeply passionate about beer for nearly two decades. His journey began in 2004 at Brewbakers in Huntington Beach, where he first discovered the joys of beer making. Initially working behind the bar, Ian quickly learned the brewing process and began creating new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. This period was not just significant for his career; he also met his future wife, Lisa, during a brewing class.”
“After leaving Brewbakers in 2009 an opportunity arose when Beachwood BBQ announced plans to open a brewery in Long Beach. Ian joined the team, working initially as a bartender. He furthered his brewing education at the Siebel Institute of Technology and started apprenticing under Julian Shrago. By 2013, Ian became Julian’s assistant brewer. During his tenure at Beachwood, the team won numerous awards, including the GABF Mid-size Brewpub and Mid-size Brewpub Brewer of the Year in 2013 and 2014, and at the World Beer Cup in 2016.”
“In 2018, Ian moved to Riip Beer Company in Huntington Beach as Head Brewer. Over five years, he enhanced the brand, assembled a skilled team, and led them to win various prestigious brewing awards, including at GABF, San Diego International, US Beer Open, LA IPA Fest, and the Bistro IPA/DIPA Fest.”
Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing and Tap Room.
“Preen is an award-winning, international architecture and Interiors firm founded by Alexis Readinger with twenty years of experience specializing in hospitality design. Preen offers everything needed to build a project down to the matchbook.” They are based in a historic building in Los Angeles’ Chinatown. Projects in their expansive portfolio include Pine & Crane in the South Park neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles, the Howlin’ Ray’s in Pasadena (in the fondly-remembered Adohr Milk Farm building) and Piccalilli in Culver City. Preen has also designed a few of the distinctive establishments in Chinatown’s Far West Plaza. A current, high-profile effort in development is acclaimed Chef Tim Hollingsworth’sOtium Las Vegas in the Waldorf Astoria in the Aria Campus (the former Mandarin Oriental hotel.)
Alexis Readinger, Founder – “I believe in the idea of whole wellness and in creating a life that is deep in abundance for self, for community and for the planet. I’ve spent over two decades in the world of hospitality, this place of great generosity. Coming from this perspective, my commitment is to create conscious spaces that inspire humanity within the human animal experience. My calling is to create space that invites connection to the infinite.”
“A Texas native, Alexis holds a Masters in Architecture from UCLA and a Bachelors from Vanderbilt University. She is a LEED certified Green Building Advisor and a member of the AIA. Alexis serves on the board of the Chinatown Business Improvement District (BID), the Chung King Road Association, and the Travel Experience and Trends Council at the Urban Land Institute (ULI). She stands for just and joyful business.”
Preen’s founder, Alexis Readinger, is our guest to explore the mysterious world of restaurant design.
Our favorite globe-trotting international travel journalist and TV personality, Darley Newman, is back with a new season of traveling. “Join multi-Emmy nominated Darley Newman for Season 11 of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY and experience an enticing blend of culture, history, and gastronomy across a captivating array of destinations in the USA (including Lafayette, Louisiana and Route 66 in Illinois) and to South Korea. Thirteen half-hour episodes debut on PBS stations starting January 11, 2024, including the launch of TRAVELS WITH DARLEY: “Revolutionary Road Trips” in the lead up to the 2026 commemorations of America’s 250th.”
“TRAVELS WITH DARLEY invites viewers on a journey of discovery as Darley Newman explores the heart and soul of each place she visits.”
“This season focuses on the passion of individuals, families, and communities who seek to preserve historical assets, traditions, and authentic cuisine to enable lovers of travel to take nostalgic journeys, learn from their discoveries and pass it on to the next generation,” said Darley.
“In “South Korea’s Culinary Traditions” explore with Darley Newman across the rich world of Korean cuisine, from traditional temple food to modern K-desserts, all while delving into the culture and philosophy behind these delectable dishes in Seoul and Busan. Darley films with a three-star Michelin chef and dives into cooking as a spiritual endeavor with Buddhist nun Jeong Kwan of “Chef’s Table” on Netflix fame.”
Darley takes a brief respite from the road to join us.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
We’re continuing the conversation about mandatoryService Charges of 18 to 20 per cent now added onto restaurant checks (this is not a Tip) sometimes along with a 3 to 5 per cent contribution to employee health care. Adding a “Tip” above and beyond this is typically not discouraged. To make matters worse the “Service Charge” is taxable. Chef Andrew will weigh in on this highly controversial and befuddling development.
Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co.) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 14 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Ian McCall joins us to preview their upcoming Grand Opening on January 11th.
One of the new programming elements in the recently concluded LA Chef Conference 2023 was the activation of the LA Chef Con / Los Angeles Trade Technical College (LATTC) Student Mentorship Program. Five outstanding LATTC Culinary Arts Pathway Students were each awarded $1,000 and then paired with a leading industry mentor for one year with the objective of furthering their growth and education on the Culinary Arts. The Mentorship Program was funded by a grant from Lawry’s Restaurants. One of the Mentorship Program’s recipients is LATTC Culinary Arts Pathway student Shelbi Johnson. Shelbi has been paired with Chef / Proprietor Keith Corbin of Alta Adams in Los Angeles. We’ll meet them both.
A new collaboration between the Mauna Kea Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii and the Kohala Food Hub (KFH) is stepping up the use of food grown by Kohala farmers. “The Hāwī-based KFH aggregates and markets food for small and mid-scale farmers who use regenerative and organic management practices. The fresh food is sold to island resorts, restaurants and residents who purchase a weekly Multi-Farm CSA subscription or buy food through KFH’s Online Marketplace. “I think there’s a special bond between Mauna Kea Resort and the Kohala community due to our proximity and that a large number of Kohala residents work at the resort,” says Maya Parish, director of KFH.
With the collaboration starting in August, Mauna Kea Resort is currently purchasing around 450 pounds of produce weekly from KFH, initially using what farmers already had growing—grapefruit, dragon fruit, navel oranges, starfruit, bananas, green leaf and romaine lettuces. KFH’s Maya Parish and Mauna Kea Resort’s Todd Oldham (Director of Food & Beverage) join us with all the specifics of the effort.”
“Simplicity, with a touch of refined elegance, reigns at Camphor — A Michelin-starred modern French bistro located in DTLA’s Arts District. The brainchild of owners and operators Sarah Lam and Cyrus Batchan of No.8 Hospitality and helmed by two young, impressively pedigreed Co-Executive, Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George, Camphor re-imagines the classic bistro experience. The two chefs collaborate to create a unique flavor identity through an unassuming yet nuanced menu with recognizable nods to the duo’s South and Southeast Asian backgrounds and classical French training. Intentionally designed to be a convivial neighborhood restaurant with an urban heartbeat, Camphor takes things back to basics with an unpretentious and enticing menu featuring an array of shareable small plates, heartier mains, scenographic desserts, classic cocktails with a French twist, and an enviable selection of French and European wines to pair.” Our guests are Cyrus Batchan and Co-Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George.
PBS SoCal and KCET, Southern California’s flagship PBS stations are now airing the 2024 return “of the locally produced, historical documentary series LOST LA, a co-production with the University of Southern California Libraries, part of their longstanding commitment to building public engagement with regional history collections. Public historian and writer Nathan Masters returns as Host for the sixth season of LOST LA with untold histories behind tiki culture, fast food, Historic Filipinotown, hiking, tuberculosis and cemeteries. The half-hour series LOST LA explores the region’s hidden past through documents, photos and other rare artifacts from California libraries and archives. Since its premiere in January of 2016, the series has continued to challenge the assumption that Los Angeles is a city without a history. Instead, LOST LA offers a history of Southern California that is not often told, or has been forgotten, bringing primary sources of Los Angeles history to the screen and connecting them to the Los Angeles of today.” The Director of all the new season’s episodes of LOST LA, Matt Bass, is our well-informed guide to the current 2024 season of LOST LA.
Since its creation is 2019 adjacent to the Santa Ynez Post Office it’s become a locals’ favorite. It definitely reflects the character of the Santa Ynez Valley. Alberto is passionate about maintaining the quality of his food and standout coffee. The dishes are designed to suit all tastes and they are inspired from the bounty of the Santa Ynez Valley. Pony Espresso is where “casual service meets elevated food in a unique environment.” Alberto takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.
Acclaimed Brewer and Restaurateur Ian McCall (ex-Riip Beer Co.) has ventured out on his own with the newly launched ISM Brewing in Downtown Long Beach. In addition to a rotating selection of 14 of his acclaimed craft beers (and prominent guest beers and wine & cider) he has Chef Fonzy De Zuniga (ex-Descanso) in the kitchen crafting elevated pub food including a Salmon Melt with Confit Atlantic Salmon, chipotle mayo, onions, red bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber and smoked cheddar cheese served on a grilled country loaf from the OC’s Crema Artisan Bakery. Ian McCall joins us to preview their upcoming Grand Opening on January 11th.
One of the new programming elements in the recently concluded LA Chef Conference 2023 was the activation of the LA Chef Con / Los Angeles Trade Technical College (LATTC) Student Mentorship Program. Five outstanding LATTC Culinary Arts Pathway Students were each awarded $1,000 and then paired with a leading industry mentor for one year with the objective of furthering their growth and education on the Culinary Arts. The Mentorship Program was funded by a grant from Lawry’s Restaurants. One of the Mentorship Program’s recipients is LATTC Culinary Arts Pathway student Shelbi Johnson. Shelbi has been paired with Chef/Proprietor Keith Corbin of Alta Adams in Los Angeles. We’ll meet them both.
A new collaboration between the Mauna Kea Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii and the Kohala Food Hub (KFH) is stepping up the use of food grown by Kohala farmers. “The Hāwī-based KFH aggregates and markets food for small and mid-scale farmers who use regenerative and organic management practices. The fresh food is sold to island resorts, restaurants and residents who purchase a weekly Multi-Farm CSA subscription or buy food through KFH’s Online Marketplace. “I think there’s a special bond between Mauna Kea Resort and the Kohala community due to our proximity and that a large number of Kohala residents work at the resort,” says Maya Parish, director of KFH.
With the collaboration starting in August, Mauna Kea Resort is currently purchasing around 450 pounds of produce weekly from KFH, initially using what farmers already had growing—grapefruit, dragon fruit, navel oranges, starfruit, bananas, green leaf and romaine lettuces. KFH’s Maya Parish and Mauna Kea Resort’s Todd Oldham join us with all the specifics of the effort.”
“Simplicity, with a touch of refined elegance, reigns at Camphor — A Michelin-starred modern French bistro located in DTLA’s Arts District. The brainchild of owners and operators Sarah Lam and Cyrus Batchan of No.8 Hospitality and helmed by two young, impressively pedigreed Co-Executive Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George, Camphor re-imagines the classic bistro experience. The two chefs collaborate to create a unique flavor identity through an unassuming yet nuanced menu with recognizable nods to the duo’s South and Southeast Asian backgrounds and classical French training. Intentionally designed to be a convivial neighborhood restaurant with an urban heartbeat, Camphor takes things back to basics with an unpretentious and enticing menu featuring an array of shareable small plates, heartier mains, scenographic desserts, classic cocktails with a French twist, and an enviable selection of French and European wines to pair.” Our guests are Cyrus Batchan and Co-Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George.
PBS SoCal and KCET, Southern California’s flagship PBS stations are soon airing the 2024 return “of the locally produced, historical documentary series LOST LA, a co-production with the University of Southern California Libraries, part of their longstanding commitment to building public engagement with regional history collections. Public historian and writer Nathan Masters returns as Host for the sixth season of LOST LA with untold histories behind tiki culture, fast food, Historic Filipinotown, hiking, tuberculosis and cemeteries. The half-hour series LOST LA explores the region’s hidden past through documents, photos and other rare artifacts from California libraries and archives. Since its premiere in January of 2016, the series has continued to challenge the assumption that Los Angeles is a city without a history. Instead, LOST LA offers a history of Southern California that is not often told, or has been forgotten, bringing primary sources of Los Angeles history to the screen and connecting them to the Los Angeles of today.” Public Historian and writer Nathan Masters (and the host of LOST LA) is our well-informed guide to the new season of LOST LA.
When it comes to great coffee and casual all day dining the locals in Santa Ynez will send you to Alberto Battaglini’sPony Espresso Café.
Since its creation is 2019 it’s become a locals’ favorite. It definitely reflects the character of the Santa Ynez Valley. Alberto is passionate about maintaining the quality of his food and standout coffee. The dishes are designed to suit all tastes and they are inspired from the bounty of the Santa Ynez Valley. Pony Espresso is where “casual service meets elevated food in a unique environment.” Alberto takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm(New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. We’re starting to see more mandatory Service Charges of 18 to 20 per cent added onto restaurant checks (this is not a Tip) along with a 3 to 5 per cent contribution to employee health care. Adding a “Tip” above and beyond this is typically not discouraged. Chef Andrew will revisit this highly controversial and confusing development.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
One of the new programming elements in the recently concluded LA Chef Conference 2023 was the activation of the LA Chef Con / Los Angeles Trade Technical College (LATTC) Student Mentorship Program. Five outstanding LATTC Culinary Arts Pathway Students were each awarded $1,000 and then paired with a leading industry mentor for one year with the objective of furthering their growth and education on the Culinary Arts. The Mentorship Program was funded by a grant from Lawry’s Restaurants.
One of the Mentorship Program’s recipients is LATTC Culinary Arts Pathway student Shelbi Johnson. Shelbi has been paired with Chef/Proprietor Keith Corbin of Alta Adams in Los Angeles. We’ll meet them both.
A new collaboration between the Mauna Kea Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii and the Kohala Food Hub(KFH) is stepping up the use of food grown by Kohala farmers.
“The Hāwī-based KFH aggregates and markets food for small and mid-scale farmers who use regenerative and organic management practices. The fresh food is sold to island resorts, restaurants and residents who purchase a weekly Multi-Farm CSA subscription or buy food through KFH’s Online Marketplace.”
“I think there’s a special bond between Mauna Kea Resort and the Kohala community due to our proximity and that a large number of Kohala residents work at the resort, says Maya Parish, director of KFH.”
“On the food hub’s end, our goals are to create consistent standing resort orders that our farmers can count on and plant out for,” details Parish. “This will stimulate more regional food production, increasing revenue for our farmers and providing consistent quality and volume that the resort can depend on.”
“In addition, another identified goal includes providing an example to other resorts in the Kona and Kohala Districts to also “join more deeply” in supporting locally based farmers with their significant collective purchasing power.”
“We were always heavy into purchasing local but it seemed after COVID, we had to do everything in our power to strengthen food security and the way we can do that is though our dollars,” notes Todd Oldham, Mauna Kea Resort food and beverage director. “When we buy local products, the money stays here and helps someone keep their land and expand to grow more food.”
“Oldham, a former chef who grew up with an agricultural background in Pennsylvania, shares a resort mission is to increase the use of local food. “It’s not just a verbal think; we do strategy sessions on how to increase local food usage, what steps we need to take and the initiatives needed.”
“With the collaboration starting in August, Mauna Kea Resort is currently purchasing around 450 pounds of produce weekly from KFH, initially using what farmers already had growing—grapefruit, dragon fruit, navel oranges, starfruit, bananas, green leaf and romaine lettuces. Now KFH is asking its farmer network to plant out crops specifically to supply the resort’s stated needs—carrots, eggplant, broccoli, cabbage and green beans— while negotiating price points that work for all.”
KFH’s Maya Parish and Mauna Kea Resort’s Todd Oldham join us with all the specifics of the important effort.
“Simplicity, with a touch of refined elegance, reigns at Camphor — A Michelin-starred modern French bistro located in DTLA’s Arts District. The brainchild of owners and operators Sarah Lam and Cyrus Batchan of No.8 Hospitality and helmed by two young, impressively pedigreed Co-Executive Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George, Camphor re-imagines the classic bistro experience. The two chefs collaborate to create a unique flavor identity through an unassuming yet nuanced menu with recognizable nods to the duo’s South and Southeast Asian backgrounds and classical French training.”
“Intentionally designed to be a convivial neighborhood restaurant with an urban heartbeat, Camphor takes things back to basics with an unpretentious and enticing menu featuring an array of shareable small plates, heartier mains, scenographic desserts, classic cocktails with a French twist, and an enviable selection of French and European wines to pair.”
“The two chefs collaborate to create a unique flavor identity through an unassuming yet nuanced menu with recognizable nods to the duo’s South and Southeast Asian backgrounds and classical French training. Their talents were cultivated at the Michelin-starred Blue by Alain Ducasse in Bangkok, where the now co-chefs met and worked together for several years under Ducasse himself. Upon first glance at the minimally worded menu, dishes are described in their simplest form, but the flavor profiles and presentation tell a very different story still within the realm of classic French cuisine. George’s love of spices (lovingly transported from his hometown of Kerala on the southwestern coast of India) interplays with the French-leaning menu to create full-flavored dishes with a kick. Boonthankit’s mastery and passion for dessert artistry are on full display at Camphor.”
Our guests are Cyrus Batchan and Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George.
PBS SoCal and KCET, Southern California’s flagship PBS stations are soon airing the 2024 “return of the locally produced, historical documentary series LOST LA, a co-production with the University of Southern California Libraries, part of their longstanding commitment to building public engagement with regional history collections. Public historian and writer Nathan Masters returns as Host for the sixth season of LOST LA with untold histories behind tiki culture, fast food, Historic Filipinotown, hiking, tuberculosis and cemeteries.”
“The new season of LOST LA is scheduled on PBS SoCal beginning Tuesday, January 2 at 7:30 p.m. PT. After the broadcast, each episode of LOST LA is available to stream on their companion websites and on the free PBS App. Members of PBS SoCal and KCET will get early access to stream all six episodes on PBS Passport starting Jan. 2.”
“The half-hour series LOST LA explores the region’s hidden past through documents, photos and other rare artifacts from California libraries and archives. Since its premiere in January of 2016, the series has continued to challenge the assumption that Los Angeles is a city without a history. Instead, LOST LA offers a history of Southern California that is not often told, or has been forgotten, bringing primary sources of Los Angeles history to the screen and connecting them to the Los Angeles of today.”
Public Historian and writer Nathan Masters is our well-informed guide to the new season of LOST LA.
Since its creation is 2019 it’s become a true locals’ favorite. It definitely reflects the rich character of the Santa Ynez Valley.
Alberto is passionate about maintaining the quality of his food and coffee. The dishes are designed to suit all tastes and they are inspired from the bounty of the Santa Ynez Valley. Pony Espresso is where “casual service meets elevated food in a unique environment”
“Alberto was born in Verona, Italy where he graduated as chef in 2002. He then pursued a career as a barman that allowed him to travel in different areas of the world. Thanks to those years of experiences he created his own style of recipes incorporating Italian background with Latin influence. Battaglini, followed one purpose only, to heighten the craft of bartending while emphasizing the importance of delivering an exceptional customer experience. After opening different restaurants he is now partnering with Evan Lash, a friend and a Santa Ynez Valley Real Estate Investor, to create a completely different dining experience in the Santa Ynez Valley.”
Alberto takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.
