Show 493, October 1, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Thanks so much for 10 years of listenership. Today’s show marks the official 10th Anniversary of the debut of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA!

“Exemplifying an elevated concept of sea-to-table Surf and Turf in Orange County, Outer Reef at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort in Dana Point pairs seafood sourced exclusively from the Pacific Coast with bold flavors of prime meats. Spearheaded by critically lauded John Tesar, a multiple James Beard Award nominee and Michelin Starred Chef, Outer Reef’s dinner menu highlights fresh California produce, high-quality meats and seafoods including fresh shellfish, caviar, and crudo, all alongside a curated cocktail program. Outer Reef is inspired by Chef Tesar’s critically acclaimed seafood restaurant Knife & Spoon (Orlando) and his premium steakhouse, Knife (Dallas and Plano.)” Chef John Tesar and Chef de Cuisine Jayro Martinez take a break from their busy kitchens to join us.

“Solvang’s Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, a Central Coast steakhouse and seafood restaurant including a full cocktail bar as well as deli counter, meat counter and pastry program launched last year. Coast Range & Vaquero Bar celebrates the best that the Central Coast has to offer including steaks from the area’s storied ranches, seafood directly from Central Coast wharves, craft cocktails, and a wine program showcasing the region’s finest producers. The restaurant concept also includes proprietary product from the owner’s Santa Ynez ranch, Coast Range Ranch. Vaquero Bar displays a full cocktail menu, local wine and craft beer, and an elevated yet casual bar food menu.” Co-Founder Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox join us.

“Culver City’s classic Tito’s Tacos and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are teaming up for the fifth year in a row to host “Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana,” an annual event that celebrates National Taco Day and National Vodka Day while raising funds for the Culver City Arts Foundation. On October 4, which also happens to be Taco Tuesday, the highly-anticipated event returns, bringing together two iconic brands and an exciting roster of world-class performers on the same stage. In the fifth year of hosting Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana, Tito’s Tacos and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are celebrating two very special milestones. This year’s event will take place on Tuesday, October 4, marking the first time National Taco Day has taken place on a Tuesday since 2016. With this year’s event falling on Taco Tuesday, it is sure to be one to remember.” 3rd Generation Co-Owner Lynne Davidson joins us with cheese tacos, chips and fresh salsa at the ready.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. More and more of us are working the principals of the Mediterranean Diet into our meals. Olive oil is an important component. How do you use the various grades of olive oil in your cooking? Where does Extra Virgin olive oil fit into all of this?

Chef Andrew provides the informative overview. Chef Andrew also highlights what goes into preparing the ultimate fish taco just in time for National Taco Day on Oct. 4th.

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

Show 493, October 1, 2022: Outer Reef in Dana Point with Executive Chef John Tesar and Chef de Cuisine Jayro Martinez Part One

John Tesar of Outer Reef

“Exemplifying an elevated concept of sea-to-table Surf and Turf in Orange County, Outer Reef at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort in Dana Point pairs seafood sourced exclusively from the Pacific Coast with bold flavors of prime meats. Spearheaded by critically lauded John Tesar, a multiple James Beard Award nominee and Michelin Starred Chef, Outer Reef’s dinner menu highlights fresh California produce, high-quality meats and seafoods including fresh shellfish, caviar, and crudo, all alongside a curated cocktail program.”

“Outer Reef is inspired by Chef Tesar’s critically acclaimed seafood restaurant Knife & Spoon (Orlando) and his premium steakhouse, Knife (Dallas and Plano.)” The premium certified Akaushi beef is sourced from HeartBrand in Texas overseen by 3rd & 4th generation cattle ranchers.

The Chef de Cuisine is Jayro Martinez, most recently the opening chef at the well-regarded Mayfield Restaurant & Market in San Juan Capistrano and a distinguished alum of the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.)

“Outer Reef reflects Dana Point’s signature mix of elegant sophistication and laidback coastal culture, making it an ideal destination for any special occasion from romance to family time, a new business endeavor to an unforgettable time with friends. Savor your meal under the warm Southern Californian sunshine in an incredibly relaxed, ocean-view environment (indoors or outdoors) that is not to be missed.”

Chefs John Tesar and Jayro Martinez take a break from their busy kitchens to join us.

Show 493, October 1, 2022: Outer Reef in Dana Point with Executive Chef John Tesar and Chef de Cuisine Jayro Martinez Part Two

Jayro Martinez of Outer Reef

“Exemplifying an elevated concept of sea-to-table Surf and Turf in Orange County, Outer Reef at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort in Dana Point pairs seafood sourced exclusively from the Pacific Coast with bold flavors of prime meats. Spearheaded by critically lauded John Tesar, a multiple James Beard Award nominee and Michelin Starred Chef, Outer Reef’s dinner menu highlights fresh California produce, high-quality meats and seafoods including fresh shellfish, caviar, and crudo, all alongside a curated cocktail program.”

“Outer Reef is inspired by Chef Tesar’s critically acclaimed seafood restaurant Knife & Spoon (Orlando) and his premium steakhouse, Knife (Dallas and Plano.)” The premium certified Akaushi beef is sourced from HeartBrand in Texas overseen by 3rd & 4th generation cattle ranchers.

The Chef de Cuisine is Jayro Martinez, most recently the opening chef at the well-regarded Mayfield Restaurant & Market in San Juan Capistrano and a distinguished alum of the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.)

“Outer Reef reflects Dana Point’s signature mix of elegant sophistication and laidback coastal culture, making it an ideal destination for any special occasion from romance to family time, a new business endeavor to an unforgettable time with friends. Savor your meal under the warm Southern Californian sunshine in an incredibly relaxed, ocean-view environment (indoors or outdoors) that is not to be missed.”

Chefs John Tesar and Jayro Martinez take another break from their busy kitchens to continue with us.

October 1: John Tesar and Jayro Martinez, Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, Tito’s Tacos and Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Outer Reef in Dana Point with Executive Chef John Tesar and Chef de Cuisine Jayro Martinez Part One
Segment Three: Outer Reef in Dana Point with Executive Chef John Tesar and Chef de Cuisine Jayro Martinez Part Two
Segment Four: Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, Solvang, with Co-Proprietor Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox Part One
Segment Five: Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, Solvang, with Co-Proprietor Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox Part Two
Segment Six: “Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana” with Tito’s Tacos (Culver City) Co-Owner Lynne Davidson Part One
Segment Seven: “Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana” with Tito’s Tacos (Culver City) Co-Owner Lynne Davidson Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

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

“Exemplifying an elevated concept of sea-to-table Surf and Turf in Orange County, Outer Reef at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort in Dana Point pairs seafood sourced exclusively from the Pacific Coast with bold flavors of prime meats. Spearheaded by critically lauded John Tesar, a multiple James Beard Award nominee and Michelin Starred Chef, Outer Reef’s dinner menu highlights fresh California produce, high-quality meats and seafoods including fresh shellfish, caviar, and crudo, all alongside a curated cocktail program. Outer Reef is inspired by Chef Tesar’s critically acclaimed seafood restaurant Spoon & Kitchen (Orlando) and his premium steakhouse, Knife (Dallas and Plano.)” Chef John Tesar and Chef de Cuisine Jayro Martinez take a break from their busy kitchens to join us.

“Solvang’s Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, a Central Coast steakhouse and seafood restaurant including a full cocktail bar as well as deli counter, meat counter and pastry program launched last year. Coast Range & Vaquero Bar celebrates the best that the Central Coast has to offer including steaks from the area’s storied ranches, seafood directly from Central Coast wharves, craft cocktails, and a wine program showcasing the region’s finest producers. The restaurant concept also includes proprietary product from the owner’s Santa Ynez ranch, Coast Range Ranch. Vaquero Bar displays a full cocktail menu, local wine and craft beer, and an elevated yet casual bar food menu.” Co-Founder Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox join us.

“Culver City’s classic Tito’s Tacos and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are teaming up for the fifth year in a row to host “Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana,” an annual event that celebrates National Taco Day and National Vodka Day while raising funds for the Culver City Arts Foundation. On October 4, which also happens to be Taco Tuesday, the highly-anticipated event returns, bringing together two iconic brands and an exciting roster of world-class performers on the same stage. In the fifth year of hosting Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana, Tito’s Tacos and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are celebrating two very special milestones. This year’s event will take place on Tuesday, October 4, marking the first time National Taco Day has taken place on a Tuesday since 2016. With this year’s event falling on Taco Tuesday, it is sure to be one to remember.” 3rd Generation Proprietor Lynne Davidson joins us with cheese tacos, chips and fresh salsa at the ready.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. More and more of us are working the principals of the Mediterranean Diet into our meals. Olive oil is an important component. How do you use the various grades of olive oil in your cooking? Where does Extra Virgin olive oil fit into all of this?

Chef Andrew provides the informative overview.

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

John Tesar of Outer Reef

“Exemplifying an elevated concept of sea-to-table Surf and Turf in Orange County, Outer Reef at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort in Dana Point pairs seafood sourced exclusively from the Pacific Coast with bold flavors of prime meats. Spearheaded by critically lauded John Tesar, a multiple James Beard Award nominee and Michelin Starred Chef, Outer Reef’s dinner menu highlights fresh California produce, high-quality meats and seafoods including fresh shellfish, caviar, and crudo, all alongside a curated cocktail program.”

“Outer Reef is inspired by Chef Tesar’s critically acclaimed seafood restaurant Knife & Spoon (Orlando) and his premium steakhouse, Knife (Dallas and Plano.)”

Jayro Martinez of Outer Reef

The Chef de Cuisine is Jayro Martinez, most recently the opening chef at the well-regarded Mayfield Restaurant & Market in San Juan Capistrano and a distinguished alum of the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.)

“Outer Reef reflects Dana Point’s signature mix of elegant sophistication and laidback coastal culture, making it an ideal destination for any special occasion from romance to family time, a new business endeavor to an unforgettable time with friends. Savor your meal under the warm Southern Californian sunshine in an incredibly relaxed, ocean-view environment (indoors or outdoors) that is not to be missed.”

Chefs John Tesar and Jayro Martinez take a break from their busy kitchens to join us.

Anthony Carron of Coast Range Restaurant

“Solvang’s Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, a Central Coast steakhouse and seafood restaurant including a full cocktail bar as well as deli counter, meat counter and pastry program launched last year.”

“Coast Range & Vaquero Bar celebrates the best that the Central Coast has to offer including steaks from the area’s storied ranches, seafood directly from Central Coast wharves, craft cocktails, and a wine program showcasing the region’s finest producers. The restaurant concept also includes proprietary product from the owner’s Santa Ynez ranch, Coast Range Ranch. Vaquero Bar displays a full cocktail menu, local wine and craft beer, and an elevated yet casual bar food menu.”

Chris Fox of Coast Range Restaurant

“Award-winning chefs and industry veterans Anthony Carron, Lincoln Carson, and Steven Fretz joined forces with renowned sommelier and winemaker, Rajat Parr, to bring their collective experience to the new all-day dining concept in the heart of Solvang. Chris Fox is the Executive Chef.”

“They say there’s always a silver lining. While 2020 brought challenges it also allowed us to assemble a world-class team of chefs and find the perfect space to showcase our talents in a part of the world we love,” said Chef Anthony Carron.

Co-Founder Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox join us.

Lynne Davidson of Tito's Tacos

Culver City’s classic Tito’s Tacos and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are teaming up for the fifth year in a row to host “Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana,” an annual event that celebrates National Taco Day and National Vodka Day while raising funds for the Culver City Arts Foundation. On October 4, which also happens to be Taco Tuesday, the highly-anticipated event returns, bringing together two iconic brands and an exciting roster of world-class performers on the same stage.”

“As part of the event, attendees will be able to enjoy delicious award-winning tacos and Tito’s Handmade Vodka specialty cocktails, along with seven hours of nonstop Mexican entertainment by traditional mariachi artists including Grammy Award-nominated Mariachi Sol De Mexico De Jose Hernandez, all-female favorites Mariachi Reyna De Los Angeles, and Trio Chapala; folklorico dancers DanzArts / Sabor a Mexico Dance Company, and a special appearance by standup comic Jesus Trejo.”

“In the fifth year of hosting Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana, Tito’s Tacos and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are celebrating two very special milestones. This year’s event will take place on Tuesday, October 4, marking the first time National Taco Day has taken place on a Tuesday since 2016. With this year’s event falling on Taco Tuesday, it is sure to be one to remember.”

“Additionally, Tito’s Tacos and Tito’s Handmade Vodka will continue their philanthropic tradition, donating 100% of the proceeds from the event to the Culver City Arts Foundation. The event has raised over $50,000 over the past years, with this year’s donation expected to increase significantly.”

“Founded in 1959 by Benjamin Davidson and now run by his granddaughter Lynne Davidson, Tito’s Tacos is an iconic Mexican fast casual restaurant in Culver City, CA. Known for its “folded” hard shell tacos and burritos beloved by celebrities, locals and visitors, Tito’s menu features crispy beef tacos, tamales, burritos, enchiladas, tostadas and guacamole, among other dishes. The cuisine is made from scratch daily using original recipes and served to thousands of loyal fans daily, often by employees who have been with Tito’s for decades.”

3rd Generation Proprietor Lynne Davidson joins us with cheese tacos, chips and fresh salsa at the ready.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

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

More and more of us are working the principals of the Mediterranean Diet into our meals. Olive oil is an important component. How do you use the various grades of olive oil in your cooking? Where does Extra Virgin olive oil fit into all of this? What dishes should it be used with? Chef Andrew provides the informative overview.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Outer Reef in Dana Point with Executive Chef John Tesar and Chef de Cuisine Jayro Martinez Part One
Segment Three: Outer Reef in Dana Point with Executive Chef John Tesar and Chef de Cuisine Jayro Martinez Part Two
Segment Four: Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, Solvang, with Co-Proprietor Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox Part One
Segment Five: Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, Solvang, with Co-Proprietor Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox Part Two
Segment Six: “Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana” with Tito’s Tacos (Culver City) Co-Owner Lynne Davidson Part One
Segment Seven: “Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana” with Tito’s Tacos (Culver City) Co-Owner Lynne Davidson Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 417, March 20, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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

Casa Vega in Sherman Oaks under the watchful eye of 2nd generation restaurateur Christy Vega has reopened again for full-service dining. Celebrating its 65th Anniversary in 2021 there will be a year of festivities honoring the late founder, Ray Vega, who passed away earlier in the year. Also new is a changing series of $5.00 Margarita Mondays served from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. every Monday. Christy Vega is our guest with a Los Lucadores Foo in hand.
 
Barbara Fairchild, a past inductee in the James Beard Foundation’s “Who’s Who in American Food & Beverage,” is the former, long-time Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appetit Magazine. She currently serves at the Chair of the Los Angeles Council for C-CAP (Careers through Culinary Arts Program and also is a member of the National Board of Directors for C-CAP. In normal times Barbara dines out frequently at a wide variety of restaurants. For the past pandemic year Barbara has stayed safely at home with restaurant dining on the far back burner. Barbara recently broke the fast with a celebratory birthday meal on the original patio of Spago Beverly Hills (with proper social distancing of the tables.) Barbara shares the memorable experience with us.

Mayfield Restaurant & Market is an ambitious, glowingly reviewed, modern California restaurant and market located in Downtown San Juan Capistrano in an extensively refurbished historic building. It’s on two levels and includes a comfortable covered patio. The menu has a distinctive Mediterranean and Levant flair and there is also an extensive cocktail list along with an ample selection of craft beers and natural wines. The operating days, and hours, have just been extended. All seating on the 2nd level patio and in the main dining room is properly socially distanced. Proprietor George Barker and Executive Chef Jayro Martinez join us.

“The international dining scene is a vast, ever-shifting landscape, and Today’s Special – 20 Leading Chefs Choose 100 Emerging Chefs (Phaidon) is perfectly positioned to help readers navigate it. Twenty of the globe’s leading chef-curators — 10 men and 10 women — have each selected five emerging chefs from around the world, showcasing a variety of styles of food, restaurants, and personalities. Each of the 100 selected chefs is profiled, with recipes, photographs, and menus, plus original commissioned essays that shed light on what makes a standout star in today’s culinary realm.” An L.A. area featured “Emerging Chef” in Today’s Special is Dave Beran of Pasjoli in Santa Monica and the now departed, Dialogue (up to a 20-course nightly tasting Menu,) which was highly praised. He was nominated for Today’s Special by New York-based Chef Daniel Boulud (Daniel.) We’ll meet Chef Dave Beran.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants during the early stages of recovery which remains a genuine concern. Restaurants in Southern California are finally again allowed to operate for outside/patio dining and inside dining at reduced capacities with all the requisite COVID 19 safety precautions. We’ll “Ask the Chef.” As if restaurants didn’t have enough to contend with right now the insidious Dine & Dash” scheme to defraud restaurants is, unfortunately, a growing trend with a pair of awful variations. Chef Andrew explains…

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

Show 417, March 20, 2021: Restaurateur George Barker an Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, Mayfield, San Juan Capistrano Part One

George Barker of Mayfield Restaurant and Market

Mayfield Restaurant & Market is an ambitious, glowingly reviewed modern California restaurant and market located in Downtown San Juan Capistrano in an extensively refurbished historic building. It’s on two levels and includes a comfortable covered patio. The menu has a distinctive Mediterranean and Levant flair and there is also an extensive cocktail list along with an ample selection of craft beers and natural wines. The tables in all dining areas of Mayfield are properly socially distanced.

The operating days, and hours, have just been extended.

Friday through Saturday from 5:00 p.m. until late is their Supper Club menu. It’s served family-style. The menu categories (with choices in each area) include Rip and Dip, Small Plates, Large Plates and Desserts. Especially popular is the Za’atar Fried Chicken with hot honey, house ranch and house pickles.

An a la carte Dinner menu is offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5:00 p.m. until late. Also available then is the full Supper Club sharing menu.

The daytime, a la carte menu is served Tuesday (newly added) to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It offers menu categories of Dips, Breakfast Bits and Lunch Dishes. Dishes are designed to be shared.

The newly extended Happy Hour is Tuesdays (all day) and Wednesday & Thursday from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Mayfield Market is stocked with premium food products Chef Jayro makes in-house and items Mayfield uses and loves. They carry anything to do with eating and drinking well, including pantry items, natural wines, homeware, cookbooks and more.

Proprietor George Barker and Executive Chef Jayro Martinez join us.

Show 417, March 20, 2021: Restaurateur George Barker an Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, Mayfield, San Juan Capistrano Part Two

George Barker of Mayfield Restaurant and Market

Mayfield Restaurant & Market is an ambitious, glowingly reviewed modern California restaurant and market located in Downtown San Juan Capistrano in an extensively refurbished historic building. It’s on two levels and includes a comfortable covered patio. The menu has a distinctive Mediterranean and Levant flair and there is also an extensive cocktail list along with an ample selection of craft beers and natural wines. The tables in all dining areas of Mayfield are properly socially distanced.

The operating days, and hours, have just been extended.

Friday through Saturday from 5:00 p.m. until late is their Supper Club menu. It’s served family-style. The menu categories (with choices in each area) include Rip and Dip, Small Plates, Large Plates and Desserts. Especially popular is the Za’atar Fried Chicken with hot honey, house ranch and house pickles.

An a la carte Dinner menu is offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5:00 p.m. until late. Also available then is the full Supper Club sharing menu.

The daytime, a la carte menu is served Tuesday (newly added) to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It offers menu categories of Dips, Breakfast Bits and Lunch Dishes. Dishes are designed to be shared.

The newly extended Happy Hour is Tuesdays (all day) and Wednesday & Thursday from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Mayfield Market is stocked with premium food products Chef Jayro makes in-house and items Mayfield uses and loves. They carry anything to do with eating and drinking well, including pantry items, natural wines, homeware, cookbooks and more.

Proprietor George Barker and Executive Chef Jayro Martinez continue with us.

March 20: Casa Vega, Barbara Fairchild, Mayfield Restaurant & Market, Dave Beran

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur Christy Vega, Casa Vega, Sherman Oaks Part One
Segment Three: Restaurateur Christy Vega, Casa Vega, Sherman Oaks Part Two
Segment Four: Food & Travel Journalist Barbara Fairchild (former Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appetit Magazine)
Segment Five: Restaurateur George Barker an Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, Mayfield, San Juan Capistrano Part One
Segment Six: Restaurateur George Barker an Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, Mayfield, San Juan Capistrano Part Two
Segment Seven: Restaurateur & Chef Dave Beran, Pasjoli, Santa Monica
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.

Casa Vega in Sherman Oaks under the watchful eye of 2nd generation restaurateur Christy Vega has reopened again for full-service dining. Celebrating its 65th Anniversary in 2021 there will be a year of festivities honoring the late founder, Ray Vega, who passed away earlier in the year. Also new is a changing series of $5.00 Margarita Mondays served from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. every Monday. Christy Vega is our guest with a Los Lucadores Foo in hand.

Barbara Fairchild, a past inductee in the James Beard Foundation’s “Who’s Who in American Food & Beverage,” is the former, long-time Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appetit Magazine. She currently serves at the Chair of the L.A. Council for C-CAP (Careers through Culinary Arts Program) and also is a member of the National Board of Directors for C-CAP. In normal times Barbara dines out frequently at a wide variety of restaurants. For the past pandemic year Barbara has stayed safely at home with restaurant dining on the far back burner. Barbara recently broke the fast with a celebratory birthday meal on the original patio of Spago Beverly Hills (with proper social distancing of the tables.) Barbara shares the memorable experience with us.

Mayfield Restaurant & Market is an ambitious, glowingly reviewed, modern California restaurant and market located in Downtown San Juan Capistrano in an extensively refurbished historic building. It’s on two levels and includes a comfortable covered patio. The menu has a distinctive Mediterranean and Levant flair and there is also an extensive cocktail list along with an ample selection of craft beers and natural wines. The operating days, and hours, have just been extended. Proprietor George Barker and Executive Chef Jayro Martinez join us.

“The international dining scene is a vast, ever-shifting landscape, and Today’s Special – 20 Leading Chefs Choose 100 Emerging Chefs (Phaidon) is perfectly positioned to help readers navigate it. Twenty of the globe’s leading chef-curators — 10 men and 10 women — have each selected five emerging chefs from around the world, showcasing a variety of styles of food, restaurants, and personalities. Each of the 100 selected chefs is profiled, with recipes, photographs, and menus, plus original commissioned essays that shed light on what makes a standout star in today’s culinary realm.” An L.A. area featured “Emerging Chef” in Today’s Special is Dave Beran of Pasjoli in Santa Monica and the now departed, Dialogue (up to a 20-course nightly tasting Menu,) which was highly praised. He was nominated for Today’s Special by New York-based Chef Daniel Boulud (Daniel.) We’ll meet Chef Dave Beran.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants during the early stages of recovery which remains a genuine concern. Restaurants in Southern California are finally again allowed to operate for outside/patio dining and inside dining at reduced capacities with all the requisite COVID 19 safety precautions. We’ll “Ask the Chef.” As if restaurants didn’t have enough to contend with right now the insidious “Dine & Dash” scheme to defraud restaurants is, unfortunately, a growing trend with a pair of awful variations. Chef Andrew explains…

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

Christy Vega of Casa Vega

Casa Vega in Sherman Oaks under the watchful eye of 2nd generation restaurateur Christy Vega has reopened again for full-service dining. Celebrating its 65th Anniversary in 2021 there will be a year of festivities honoring the late founder, Ray Vega, who passed away earlier in the year. Also new is a changing series of $5.00 Margarita Mondays served from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. every Monday.

“The Foo Fighters taco has returned to Casa Vega through the end of April. Originally launched in December 2020 as the second installment of the restaurant’s charity band tacos (following the initial launch with Fall Out Boy in October), the special collaboration was cut short when the restaurant temporarily closed that month in response to new COVID restrictions. Now that Casa Vega has reopened for dine-in and take-out, the taco has returned as a special combo plate (Foo Fighters Especial) created by Foo Fighters lead singer Dave Grohl—inspired by his passion for smoking meat—as well as a cocktail.” The libation is the Los Lucadores Foo with a shot of La Gritona resposado, fresh lime juice and Modelo Especial.

“The profits from each taco are donated to No Us Without You, a charity providing food security for undocumented back of house staff and their families created by Va’La Hospitality in the early weeks of the pandemic. As Casa Vega celebrates its 65th anniversary this year, expect more taco collabs and programming to be announced soon.”

Christy Vega is our guest with a Los Lucadores Foo in hand.

Journalist Barbara Fairchild

Barbara Fairchild, a past inductee in the James Beard Foundation’s “Who’s Who in American Food & Beverage,” is the former, long-time Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appetit Magazine. She currently serves at the Chair of the L.A. Council for C-CAP (Careers through Culinary Arts Program) and also is a member of the National Board of Directors for C-CAP.

In normal times Barbara dines out frequently at a wide variety of restaurants. For the past pandemic year Barbara has stayed safely at home with restaurant dining on the far back burner. Barbara recently broke the fast with a celebratory birthday meal on the original patio of Spago Beverly Hills (with proper social distancing of the tables.) Barbara shares the memorable experience with us. She also provides us with an overview of C-CAP and the upcoming virtual culinary fundraising event they are presenting nationally on Thursday evening, April 29th with culinary celebrity Carla Hall as the honoree (and hosted by Marcus Samuelsson.)

George Barker of Mayfield Restaurant and Market

Mayfield Restaurant & Market is an ambitious, glowingly reviewed modern California restaurant and market located in Downtown San Juan Capistrano in an extensively refurbished historic building. It’s on two levels and includes a comfortable covered patio. The menu has a distinctive Mediterranean and Levant flair and there is also an extensive cocktail list along with an ample selection of craft beers and natural wines.

The operating days, and hours, have just been extended.

Friday through Saturday from 5:00 p.m. until late is their Supper Club menu. It’s served family-style. The menu categories (with choices in each area) include Rip and Dip, Small Plates, Large Plates and Desserts. Especially popular is the Za’atar Fried Chicken with hot honey, house ranch and house pickles.

An a la carte Dinner menu is offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5:00 p.m. until late.

The daytime, a la carte menu is served Tuesday (newly added) to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It offers menu categories of Dips, Breakfast Bits and Lunch Dishes. Dishes are designed to be shared.

The newly extended Happy Hour is Tuesdays (all day) and Wednesday & Thursday from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Mayfield Market is stocked with premium food products Chef Jayro makes in-house and items Mayfield uses and loves. They carry anything to do with eating and drinking well, including pantry items, natural wines, homeware, cookbooks and more.

Proprietor George Barker and Executive Chef Jayro Martinez join us.

Chef Dave Beran

“The international dining scene is a vast, ever-shifting landscape, and Today’s Special – 20 Leading Chefs Choose 100 Emerging Chefs (Phaidon) is perfectly positioned to help readers navigate it. Twenty of the globe’s leading chef-curators — 10 men and 10 women — have each selected five emerging chefs from around the world, showcasing a variety of styles of food, restaurants, and personalities. Each of the 100 selected chefs is profiled, with recipes, photographs, and menus, plus original commissioned essays that shed light on what makes a standout star in today’s culinary realm.” An L.A. area featured “Emerging Chef” in Today’s Special is Dave Beran of Pasjoli in Santa Monica and the now departed, Dialogue (up to a 20-course, seasonally changing nightly Tasting Menu) which was highly praised. He was nominated for Today’s Special by New York-based Chef Daniel Boulud (Daniel.)

“Pasjoli is an elevated French bistro from award-winning chef Dave Beran. The restaurant pays homage to French cuisine utilizing the bounty of produce available in Southern California. Rooted in classic French cuisine and inspired by Parisian markets, Pasjoli reflects Beran’s thoughtful cooking style, showcasing his creative touches on bistro fare.”

Prior to moving to California, Beran was the chef de cuisine at Alinea and executive chef at Next in Chicago where he received a James Beard Award for Best Chef Great Lakes and was named one of Food & Wine magazine’s Best New Chefs in 2014.

We’ll meet Chef Dave Beran.

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 regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants which is a genuine concern as recovery slowly starts to happen.

Restaurants in Southern California are finally again allowed to again operate for outside/patio dining and limited inside dining at reduced capacities with all the requisite COVID 19 safety precautions. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

As if struggling restaurants didn’t have enough to contend with right now the regrettable Dine & Dash” scheme to defraud restaurants is, unfortunately, a growing trend with a pair of awful variations. Chef Andrew explains…

Chef Andrew also updates us on the inspiring progress for the grass-roots, 86 Restaurant Struggle campaign to benefit out-of-work and struggling restaurant workers. Chef Andrew and his wife, Lauren, have already distributed over $380,000 in small grants to deserving restaurant workers in serious need. All applications are carefully vetted by the Gruels. The substantial need, and fundraising, continues…

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur Christy Vega, Casa Vega, Sherman Oaks Part One
Segment Three: Restaurateur Christy Vega, Casa Vega, Sherman Oaks Part Two
Segment Four: Food & Travel Journalist Barbara Fairchild (former Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appetit Magazine)
Segment Five: Restaurateur George Barker an Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, Mayfield, San Juan Capistrano Part One
Segment Six: Restaurateur George Barker an Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, Mayfield, San Juan Capistrano Part Two
Segment Seven: Restaurateur & Chef Dave Beran, Pasjoli, Santa Monica
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 393, October 3, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Barbecue afficionados are overjoyed with the launch in August of the eagerly anticipated Heritage Barbecue from proprietors Daniel and Brenda Castillo in San Juan Capistrano. They have developed a fanatical following for their Central Texas-style barbecue (that’s cooked low and slow) previously served in Orange County at popular pop-ups at area craft breweries. Daniel has trained extensively with prominent Texas pitmasters at their respective establishments. Initially the all outdoor establishment is open Wednesday through Sunday and has the capacity to serve several hundred guests per day (with proper social distancing) until the ‘cue runs out. Pitmaster Danny’s accomplished Executive Chef is Nick Echaore. We’ll pull him away from the intensive pre-opening prep for an update.

Newly released on Virtual Cinema is A Chef’s Voyage.” The film follows Emmy (Mind of a Chef) and James Beard award-winning Chef David Kinch and his team from their 3 Star Michelin restaurant, Manresa, in Los Gatos, California for a one of a kind “four hands” collaboration in France with three legendary chefs at their iconic restaurants in Paris, Provence, and Marseille. The ambitious trip was a celebration of Manresa’s 15th Anniversary. The feature documentary was Directed (and Produced) by Remi Anfosso. He joins us from France.

Mayfield Restaurant & Market is an ambitious, modern California restaurant and market located in Downtown San Juan Capistrano in an extensively refurbished, historic building. It’s on two levels and includes a comfortable covered patio. The menu has a Mediterranean and Levant flair and there is also an extensive cocktail list along with an ample selection of craft beers and natural wines. Proprietor George Barker and Executive Chef Jayro Martinez join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Dine-in is slowly, with multiple hiccups, starting to come back but with a lot of new rules that greatly restrict guest counts. Alternately Take-Out / Delivery when you can surely helps… Ghost Kitchens in their various forms are seemingly on the fast growth track. It also includes chain restaurants with extra kitchen space that are preparing unaffiliated, branded food items To-Go and for delivery. Where is this all going? We’ll, of course, “Ask the Chef.”

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

Show 393, October 3, 2020: Mayfield Restaurant and Market, San Juan Capistrano Part One

George Barker of Mayfield Restaurant and MarketMayfield Restaurant & Market is an ambitious, modern California restaurant and market located in Downtown San Juan Capistrano in an extensively refurbished historic building. It’s on two levels and includes a comfortable covered patio. The menu has a Mediterranean and Levant flair and there is also an extensive cocktail list created by a serious Mixologist along with an ample selection of craft beers and natural wines. All of the ingredients are organic.

Friday through Saturday (and Sunday afternoon) is their Supper Club menu. It’s served family-style. The menu categories (with choices in each area) include Rip and Dip, Small Plates, Large Plates and Desserts. Already attracting a following is the Za’atar Fried Chicken with hot honey, house ranch and house pickles. (Wednesday and Thursday evenings it’s an a la carte menu with dishes designed to be shared.)

The daytime, a la carte menu (served Wednesday through Sunday,) offers menu categories of Dips, Breakfast Bits and Lunch Dishes.

The Mayfield Market is stocked with food products Chef Jayro makes in-house and items Mayfield uses and loves. They carry anything to do with eating and drinking well, including pantry items, natural wines, homeware, cookbooks and more.

Proprietor George Barker and Executive Chef Jayro Martinez join us with all the tempting details.