Show 264, March 10, 2018: JC Clow, Founding Managing Partner, The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar

Andy Harris, Andrew Gruel and JC Clow of the Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar at the SoCal Restaurant Show 5th AnniversaryThe Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar has opened its third Southern California location at San Diego’s Westfield UTC in La Jolla. The Winery Restaurant La Jolla provides guests with the same rich experience as its Orange County locations at The District in Tustin and overlooking the marina in Newport Beach.

In the coming weeks, The Winery will also open a separate 1,300-square-foot wine bar within Westfield UTC, called The Wine Bar by The Winery, meant to provide a rich experience at a casual pace, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or tasting flight and small bite.

“At The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, we pride ourselves on really focusing on our guest experience. Our third location now open in La Jolla provides the same level of service, with highly skilled Chefs orchestrating a warm and passionate menu created by our award-winning Chef Yvon Goetz, and a team of Certified Sommeliers to oversee an incredible wine program,” explained JC Clow, Founding Partner of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. “It’s exciting to join a group of retailers that are among the best in their respective fields. We anticipate endless possibilities, with something to suit every palate.”

Managing Partner JC Clow is our hospitable guide.

March 10: Pic’s Peanut Butter, Susan Feniger, Portugal Wines, Brick Restaurant, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Pic Picot, Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter, Nelson, New Zealand Part One
Segment Three: Pic Picot, Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter, Nelson, New Zealand Part Two
Segment Four: Border Grill’s Susan Feniger, Simply DiVine
Segment Five: Evan Goldstein, MS, The Wines of Alentejo, Portugal
Segment Six: Executive Chef / Proprietor David Pratt, Brick Restaurant, San Clemente
Segment Seven: JC Clow, Founding Managing Partner, The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel’s “Ask the Chef”

Now a captivating preview of this Saturday’s scrumptious show. No blarney here…It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… Keep in mind we’re always here with you live every Saturday morning with a fresh show.

Ever consider the delights of top quality peanut butter? The style (with no sugar) that is dense with spreadable crunch and oozing with the rich taste and aroma of freshly roasted peanuts? Kiwi Pic Picot certainly has. Since founding Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter Co. in his garage in Nelson, NZ back in 2008 he is now the best-selling (and best loved) peanut butter in New Zealand. Pic’s is now conquering California. The inspirational NZ peanut butter baron, Pic Picot, is our in-studio guest with his unlikely story.

The Los Angeles LGBT Center’s 13th annual Simply diVine, the premier food and wine event for LGBT people and their allies, will take place on Saturday, March 24, from 6–9 p.m. Held for the first time at Hollywood Forever—one of the world’s most fascinating landmarks best known as the final resting place to more of Hollywood’s founders and stars than anywhere else on Earth—guests will sample extraordinary food and drinks from L.A.’s most popular restaurants, food trucks, wineries, distilleries, breweries, and more. All proceeds support the Center’s life-changing and life-saving programs and services. Event Co-Chair Chef Susan Feniger joins us with all the absolutely fabulous details.

For North Europeans in search of a summer trifecta of sun, sea and sand, Portugal’s southern coastline exerts an irresistible allure. Savvy International wine lovers are now following suit, on a separate voyage of discovery into the country’s hot, dry interior and the vineyards of southern Portugal’s Alentejo (ah-len-TAY-zhoo) region. As with many areas of Southern Europe, wine has been made in the Alentejo for time immemorial, most of it spent in quiet obscurity. But with a winemaking revival well underway, supported by the investment of EU funds, that is fast starting to change. Evan Goldstein, MS, an authority on the wines of Portugal, is our guide to one of the most promising wine regions in southern Europe today.

Executive Chef/Proprietor David Pratt of Brick Restaurant in San Clemente likes to challenge himself. He’s been very successful since opening 6 years ago with his gourmet pizzas from the wood-burning oven with a subspecialty in multi-meat meatballs cooked in the wood-burning oven. Chef David has newly installed an eye-popping Santa Maria-style grill and the appealing farm menu has broadened to include grilled lobster, rib-eye and hangar steaks, lamb chops and whole young kitchen. We divert Chef David from working the Santa Maria grill for a chat.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar has opened its third Southern California location at San Diego’s Westfield UTC in La Jolla. The Winery Restaurant La Jolla provides guests with the same rich experience as its Orange County locations at The District in Tustin and overlooking the marina in Newport Beach. In the coming weeks, The Winery will also open a separate 1,300-square-foot wine bar within Westfield UTC, called The Wine Bar by The Winery, meant to provide a rich experience at a casual pace, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or tasting flight and small bite. Managing Partner JC Clow is our guide.

Our always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, encores with his “Ask the Chef” series. The big Illumination Foundation Benefit, OC Chef’s Table, is set for Sunday, March 18th at Disney’s Grand Californian. Chef Andrew is again a participant in this high profile and worthy charity event. Each celebrity chef cooks with great fanfare for an exclusive table of ten. We’ll hear about it.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Pic PicotEver consider the delights of top quality peanut butter? The style (with no sugar) that is dense with spreadable crunch and oozing with the rich taste and aroma of freshly roasted peanuts? Kiwi Pic Picot certainly has. Since founding Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter Co. in his garage in Nelson, NZ back in 2008 he is now the best-selling (and best loved) peanut butter in New Zealand. Pic’s is now conquering California with availability in Pavilions, Gelson’s and Bristol Farms.

“In 2008 I sold 48 jars to our local supermarket and took to the road. Within a year you could buy Pic’s in 50 outlets around the country. Then we were picked up by both of NZ’s supermarket chains and suddenly Pic’s was available pretty much anywhere in New Zealand.” – Pic Picot

Today, in two bursting-at-the-seams peanut butter works in Nelson, Pic’s produces some 20,000 jars a day. A new 25,000 square foot production facility is under construction designed to accommodate comprehensive factory tours.

The inspirational NZ peanut butter baron, Pic Picot, is our in-studio guest with his in unlikely story.

“My Mum and Auntie had made a bit of peanut butter when I was little. They’d both bought a new Vitamix and peanut butter was one of the cool things you could make with them. Anyway, I bought a few kilos of peanuts, roasted them in the oven and squished them up with a bit of salt, blowing up my cheap modern blender in the process.”

“But the peanut butter was beautiful. A million times nicer than the stuff I’d got used to. I filled a few jars for friends, and one of my twelve year old son’s mates liked it so much he bought a jar with his pocket money.”

“I was fifty- five, going a bit blind (macular degeneration runs in the family) and had just had to close a little Laundromat that had been earning me a couple of hundred dollars a week. I figured if I could make 30 jars of peanut butter on Friday morning I could sell it at our farmers market on Friday afternoon and get my $200 back.”

“So that’s what I did. I made a roaster out of a concrete mixer and bought a bench top grinder and a tonne of peanuts from Australia and got to work.” –Pic Picot

Susan Feniger of Mud Hen TavernThe Los Angeles LGBT Center’s 13th annual Simply diVine, the premier food and wine event for LGBT people and their allies, will take place on Saturday, March 24, from 6–9 p.m. Held for the first time at Hollywood Forever—one of the world’s most fascinating landmarks best known as the final resting place to more of Hollywood’s founders and stars than anywhere else on Earth—guests will sample extraordinary food and drinks from L.A.’s most popular restaurants, food trucks, wineries, distilleries, breweries, and more. All proceeds support the Center’s life-changing and life-saving programs and services.

“This year, with our new home at the iconic Hollywood Forever, Simply diVine is giving you more than ever before—more of L.A.’s premier food, wine, and spirits, more space, more fun,” said event co-chair Susan Feniger. “There’s never been a better time to show up and support the LGBT community. We need everyone in this fight as we keep working to build a world where all of us can thrive.”

Those looking for a more intimate experience can get a one-hour exclusive early entry to the main event at 5 p.m. with a CLUB VIP Lounge ticket offering private bartenders from The Chapel at the Abbey; tastings of rare wines and Tito’s Handmade Vodka; entertainment by Rachel Sorsa Band; magic by Bill Bailey (from Magic Castle); celebrity chef experiences with Susan Feniger (Border Grill) and Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill Restaurants & Truck); and more. Complimentary VIP parking included.

Event Co-Chair Chef Susan Feniger joins us with all the absolutely fabulous details.

Evan GoldsteinFor North Europeans in search of a summer trifecta of sun, sea and sand, Portugal’s southern coastline exerts an irresistible allure. Savvy International wine lovers are now following suit, on a separate voyage of discovery into the country’s hot, dry interior and the vineyards of southern Portugal’s Alentejo (ah-len-TAY-zhoo) region.

As with many areas of Southern Europe, wine has been made in the Alentejo for time immemorial, most of it spent in quiet obscurity. But with a winemaking revival well underway, supported by the investment of EU funds, that is fast starting to change.

Alentejo is blessed with an astonishing array of native grapes. With over 250 indigenous grape varieties, Portugal, has the highest density of native grapes per square mile of any country in the world, including Italy. Proud local producers concentrate on those native grapes, which are often blended.

Evan Goldstein, MS, an authority on the wines of Portugal, is our guide to one of the most promising wine regions in southern Europe today.

David PrattExecutive Chef/Proprietor David Pratt of Brick Restaurant in San Clemente likes to challenge himself. He’s been very successful since opening 6 years ago with his distinctive gourmet pizzas from the wood-burning oven with a subspecialty in massive, multi-meat (beef, pork and veal) meatballs cooked in the wood-burning oven.

Chef David has newly installed an eye-popping Santa Maria-style grill and the appealing farm menu has broadened to include grilled lobster, rib-eye and hangar steals, lamb chops and whole young chicken.

“David Pratt, a visionary and true foodie at heart, is passionate about fresh, sustainable and flavorful food. He cares deeply about the food he creates, but he cares even more that people are happy with it. “I try to talk to each table that comes in,” David says. “I want to make sure everyone has a good experience.” “

“His hands are in each aspect of the business, from making pasta and shopping at farmers markets to overseeing the wine list and meeting guests.  One bite into a wood-fired Margherita pizza or the house roasted Porchetta and it all comes full circle.”

We divert Chef David from working the Santa Maria grill for a chat.

Andy Harris, Andrew Gruel and JC Clow of the Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar at the SoCal Restaurant Show 5th AnniversaryThe Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar has opened its third Southern California location at San Diego’s Westfield UTC in La Jolla. The Winery Restaurant La Jolla provides guests with the same rich experience as its Orange County locations at The District in Tustin and overlooking the marina in Newport Beach.

In the coming weeks, The Winery will also open a separate 1,300-square-foot wine bar within Westfield UTC, called The Wine Bar by The Winery, meant to provide a rich experience at a casual pace, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or tasting flight and small bite.

“At The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, we pride ourselves on really focusing on our guest experience. Our third location now open in La Jolla provides the same level of service, with highly skilled Chefs orchestrating a warm and passionate menu created by our award-winning Chef Yvon Goetz, and a team of Certified Sommeliers to oversee an incredible wine program,” explained JC Clow, Founding Partner of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. “It’s exciting to join a group of retailers that are among the best in their respective fields. We anticipate endless possibilities, with something to suit every palate.”

Managing Partner JC Clow is our hospitable guide.

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosOur always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, encores with his Ask the Chef series. The significant Illumination Foundation Benefit, OC Chef’s Table, is set for Sunday, March 18th at Disney’s Grand Californian. Chef Andrew is again a participant in this high profile and worthy charity event. Each celebrity chef cooks with great fanfare for an exclusive (highly decorated & visually stunning) table of ten. We’ll hear about it.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Pic Picot, Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter, Nelson, New Zealand Part One
Segment Three: Pic Picot, Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter, Nelson, New Zealand Part Two
Segment Four: Border Grill’s Susan Feniger, Simply DiVine
Segment Five: Evan Goldstein, MS, The Wines of Alentejo, Portugal
Segment Six: Executive Chef / Proprietor David Pratt, Brick Restaurant, San Clemente
Segment Seven: JC Clow, Founding Managing Partner, The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel’s “Ask the Chef”

Show 244, October 14, 2017: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at the Fifth Anniversary of the SoCal Restaurant ShowNow a tempting preview of Saturday October 14th’s properly decadent & celebratory show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

It’s our special 5th Anniversary Show. Pop the Champagne corks. Thanks so much for being part of our audience and joining in the festivities. The show is live from the state-of- the art Test / Demonstration Kitchen at Melissa’s World Variety Produce’s Vernon complex. We’ll encore some great guests from the past 5 years and also look to the future.

Robert Schueller of Melissa’s is our resident authority on all things fruits and vegetables. If it’s legally grown (or imported) in the United States and Robert doesn’t know about it then it probably doesn’t exist!

Today it’s the best of the season including Melissa’s Dutch Yellow Potatoes, Pearl Onions, Dragon Apples, Winter Crunch Grapes, Steamed Beets and Lentils. Also, Melissa’s new and expanding line of Clean Snax.

Over the past decade at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz have created quite a stir by successfully pairing chef-driven, contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. Located at The District in Tustin and on the Bay in Newport Beach, The Winery was named “Restaurant of the Year” by the Orange County Concierge Association in its first year in business. The 3rd location of The Winery Restaurant will launch before year’s end in La Jolla in Westfield UTC. Restaurateur and Managing Partner JC Clow, the master of welcoming service and gracious hospitality, is our guest.

Celebrity Chef Jet Tila (Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen with Alton Brown”) was the original Co-host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” in late 2012, 2013 and 2014. His new cookbook which is already generating a wok-ful of deserved praise is 101 Asian Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die. Just launched is Jet’s new 5-part video series on Facebook, Authentically Asian with Jet Tila. Just this last week Chef Jet earned a new certified Guinness World Record for creating the largest California Roll done with students at SUNY Purchase College. Jet joins us.

Food journalist Cathy Thomas has been the highly-regarded food columnist for the Orange County Register for over 26 years. Most of that time was as the greatly respected Food Editor. In addition to that she is the online columnist for Orange Coast Magazine where you can view many of her entertaining and informative cooking videos featuring area and celebrity chefs. She also is the author of the well-received, first three Melissa’s cookbooks which remain valued reference guides. We get Cathy away from the cutting board for a chat.

Tess Masters is an actor, presenter, cook, lifestyle personality, and author of The Blender Girl, The Blender Girl Smoothies, The Perfect Blend,, and creator of The Blender Girl Smoothies app with Random House. She shares her enthusiasm for healthy living at theblendergirl.com. We’ll meet her.

Tom Fraker, a Melissa’s Corporate Chef and the manager of the Melissa’s Corporate Test Kitchen, came to cooking late as a second career. He spends a great deal of time creating practical & tested recipes that can be prepared in the home kitchen with ease. As a high-profile Melissa’s representative he participates in special events, trade shows, and culinary functions throughout the country. We’ll chat with Chef Tom about choosing and cooking with peppers.

Chef Andrew Gruel rejoins us after launching the first Slapfish in New Mexico in Albuquerque. Chef Andrew and Lauren dine out often with their young son, William. We’ll get Chef Andrew’s thoughts about managing young kids in restaurants and what the parents’ responsibilities are.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Show 244, October 14, 2017: JC Clow, Founding Managing Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar

Andy Harris, Andrew Gruel and JC Clow of the Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar at the SoCal Restaurant Show 5th AnniversaryOver the past decade at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz have created quite a stir by successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. They are also noted for their deep and carefully curated wine cellars. Located at The District in Tustin and on the Bay in Newport Beach, The Winery was named “Restaurant of the Year” by the Orange County Concierge Association in its first year in business.

The 3rd location of The Winery Restaurant will launch before year’s end in La Jolla in the lavishly renovated Westfield UTC. The restaurant menu will focus on contemporary California regional cuisine at its finest, with Executive Chef & Partner Yvon Goetz directing a team that delivers a culinary experience straight from the Wine Country.

At The Winery La Jolla, Chef Goetz’s menu will feature wild game and USDA Prime Steaks, as well as Pacific Rim flavorings, such as fresh line-caught Opah, Mong Chong, Ono & Mahi Mahi flown in daily from Hawaii.  Tying the expansive wine list into the menu, Chef Goetz will feature numerous wine-infused ingredients into many of his signature dishes.

“At The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, we pride ourselves on really focusing on our guest experience. Our third location to open in La Jolla will have the same level of service, with highly skilled Chefs to orchestrate a warm and passionate menu created by our award-winning Chef Yvon Goetz, and a team of Certified Sommeliers to oversee an incredible wine program,” explained JC Clow, Founding Partner of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. “It’s exciting to join a group of retailers that are among the best in their respective fields. We anticipate endless possibilities, with something to suit every palate.”

Restaurateur and Managing Partner JC Clow is our guest.

October 14: SoCal Restaurant Show’s 5th Anniversary!

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Robert Schueller, Melissa’s Prince of Produce
Segment Three: JC Clow, Founding Managing Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Segment Four: Chef Jet Tila, 101 Asian Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die
Segment Five: Food Journalist & Author Cathy Thomas
Segment Six: Tess Masters, The Blender Girl
Segment Seven: Tom Fraker, Melissa’s Corporate Chef & Test Kitchen Manager
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish and Trade’s Two Birds & Butterleaf

Now a tempting preview of this Saturday’s properly decadent & celebratory show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at the Fifth Anniversary of the SoCal Restaurant ShowIt’s our special 5th Anniversary Show. Pop the Champagne corks. Thanks so much for being part of our audience and joining in the festivities. The show is live from the state-of- the-art Test / Demonstration Kitchen at Melissa’s World Variety Produce’s Vernon complex. We’ll encore some great guests from the past 5 years and also look to the future.

Robert Schueller of Melissa’s is our resident authority on all things fruits and vegetables. If it’s legally grown (or imported) in the United States and Robert doesn’t know about it then it probably doesn’t exist!

Today it’s the best of the season including Melissa’s Dutch Yellow Potatoes, Pearl Onions, Dragon Apples, Winter Crunch Grapes, Steamed Beets and Lentils. Also, Melissa’s new and expanding line of Clean Snax.

Over the past decade at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz have created quite a stir by successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. Located at The District in Tustin and on the Bay in Newport Beach, The Winery was named “Restaurant of the Year” by the Orange County Concierge Association in its first year in business. The 3rd location of The Winery Restaurant will launch before year’s end in La Jolla in Westfield UTC. Restaurateur and Managing Partner JC Clow, the master of welcoming service, is our guest.

Celebrity Chef Jet Tila (Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen with Alton Brown”) was the original Co-host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” in 2012 and 2013. His new cookbook which is already generating a wok-ful of deserved praise is 101 Asian Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die. Just launched is Jet’s new video series on Facebook, Authentically Asian with Jet Tila. Jet joins us.

Cathy Thomas has been the highly-regarded food columnist for the Orange County Register for over 26 years. Most of that time was as Food Editor. In addition to that she is the online columnist for Orange Coast Magazine where you can view many of her entertaining and informative cooking videos featuring area and celebrity chefs. We get Cathy away from the cutting board for a chat.

Tess Masters is an actor, presenter, cook, lifestyle personality, and author of The Blender Girl, The Blender Girl Smoothies, The Perfect Blend, and creator of The Blender Girl Smoothies app with Random House. She shares her enthusiasm for healthy living at theblendergirl.com.  We’ll meet her.

Tom Fraker, a Melissa’s Corporate Chef and the manager of the Melissa’s Corporate Test Kitchen, came to cooking late as a second career.  As a high-profile Melissa’s representative he participates in special events, trade shows, and culinary functions throughout the country. We’ll chat with Chef Tom about choosing and cooking with peppers.

Chef Andrew Gruel rejoins us after launching the first Slapfish in New Mexico in Albuquerque. Chef Andrew and Lauren dine out often with their young son, William. We’ll get Chef Andrew’s thoughts about managing young kids in restaurants and what the parents’ responsibilities are.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA StudioRobert Schueller of Melissa’s is our resident authority on all things fruits and vegetables. If it’s legally grown (or imported) in the United States and Robert doesn’t know about it then it probably doesn’t exist!

This morning it’s the best of the season including Melissa’s Dutch Yellow Potatoes, Pearl Onions, Green Dragon Apples, Winter Crunch Grapes, Steamed Beets and Lentils. Also, Melissa’s new and expanding line of Clean Snax.

“Dutch Yellow Potatoes from Idaho are considered waxy as they remain dense and moist when cooked. The DYP also cooks a lot quicker than other kinds of potatoes. It is also the only potato variety that is not light sensitive, so it does not turn a greenish hue when exposed to light for an extended length of time.”

Melissa’s new CLEAN SNAX® comes in seven tasty mixes: Almond, Pumpkin Seed, Coconut, Quinoa, Cranberry, Carrot Cake, and Matcha.

Each convenient clamshell package contains 5-6 servings of delicious bite-sized squares that are packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like chia and flax seeds, nuts and more.

They are the perfect snack for kids and adults that satisfy both sweet and salty cravings in deliciously healthy nuggets of natural flavors

All CLEAN SNAX® mixes are vegetarian, gluten free, low-fat, low-sodium and contain no artificial ingredients.

JC Clow of the Winery Restaurant and BarOver the past decade at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz have created quite a stir by successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. Located at The District in Tustin and on the Bay in Newport Beach, The Winery was named “Restaurant of the Year” by the Orange County Concierge Association in its first year in business.

The 3rd location of The Winery Restaurant will launch before year’s end in La Jolla in Westfield UTC. The restaurant menu will focus on contemporary California regional cuisine at its finest, with Executive Chef & Partner Yvon Goetz directing a team that delivers a culinary experience straight from the Wine Country.

At The Winery La Jolla, Chef Goetz’s menu will feature wild game and USDA Prime steaks, as well as Pacific Rim flavorings, such as fresh line-caught Opah, Mong Chong, Ono & Mahi Mahi flown in daily from Hawaii.  Tying the expansive wine list into the menu, Chef Goetz will feature numerous wine-infused ingredients into many of his signature dishes.

“At The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, we pride ourselves on really focusing on our guest experience. Our third location to open in La Jolla will have the same level of service, with highly skilled Chefs to orchestrate a warm and passionate menu created by our award-winning Chef Yvon Goetz, and a team of Certified Sommeliers to oversee an incredible wine program,” explained JC Clow, Founding Partner of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. “It’s exciting to join a group of retailers that are among the best in their respective fields. We anticipate endless possibilities, with something to suit every palate.”

Restaurateur and Managing Partner JC Clow is our guest.

Chef Ida Rodriquez of Melissa's World Variety Produce and Jet TilaCelebrity Chef Jet Tila (Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen with Alton Brown”) was the original Co-host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” in 2012 and 2013. His new cookbook which is already generating a wok-ful of deserved praise is 101 Asian Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die. Just launched is Jet’s new video series on Facebook, Authentically Asian with Jet Tila. Episode one is “PHOnomenal Adventure” and Episode Two is “Korean BBQ” with Chef Chris Oh.

Jet also holds numerous Guinness World Records for creating unusual, large format foods. Earlier this week he guided students at SUNY Purchase College to set a new World Record for the longest California Roll. It was measured at 504 feet. 300 pounds of sushi rice and 650 sheets of Nori…!

Chef Jet joins us.

Cathy ThomasCathy Thomas has been the highly-regarded food columnist for the Orange County Register for over 26 years. Most of that time was as Food Editor. In addition to that she is the online columnist for Orange Coast Magazine where you can view many of her entertaining and informative cooking videos featuring area and celebrity chefs.

“My first book was published in 2006, “Melissa’s Great Book of Produce” (Wiley, $29.95, 2006 written for Melissa’s World Variety Produce, the LA-Based company that is the nation’s largest distributor of specialty and organic produce). My second book is “Melissa’s Everyday Cooking with Organic Produce” (Wiley, $29.95). The book has received fantastic reviews. Emeril plugged the book on Good Morning America, naming it as one of the top ten cookbooks for the season. My third book, “50 Best Plants on the Planet (Chronicle, $29.95) explores the fifty most nutrient dense fruits and vegetables that grow on earth. The recipes are easy and delicious.”

“Because I’ve studied with chefs across America, Europe and Asia, I have a passion for ethnic cuisines. I love to embrace new flavors, new aromas and new techniques. When it comes to cooking and eating, there is always something new to experience.”

We’ll pull Cathy away from the cutting board for a chat.

Tess MastersTess Masters is an actor, presenter, cook, lifestyle personality, and author of The Blender Girl, The Blender Girl Smoothies, The Perfect Blend, and creator of The Blender Girl Smoothies app with Random House. She shares her enthusiasm for healthy living at theblendergirl.com.

“In the third installment of The Blender Girl cookbook series (The Perfect Blend – 100 Blender Recipes to Energize and Revitalize), Tess serves up 100 smoothies, tonics, soups, salads, appetizers, snacks, main dishes, desserts, and condiments to help you lead a vibrant, healthy life, and have fun.”

“Anchored to a master list of nutrient-dense ingredients, each of the twelve chapters addresses specific health goals, such as gaining energy, optimizing protein intake, boosting immunity, losing weight, and reducing inflammation. Tess lists the foods that can help you stay in optimal health, and shares a few top-line takeaways for each of them-practical information on their health benefits, and how to prepare, blend, and cook them for amazing textures and tastes.”

“There are three optional boosters listed for each recipe that enhance flavor and/or nutrition. I’ve chosen them to work separately or together, so you can supplement any base recipe with one, two, or all three. The food is functional and geared toward flexibility, so you can tailor the recipes to your own taste and requirements to find your perfect blend.”

We’ll meet her.

Tom FrakerTom Fraker, a Melissa’s Corporate Chef and the manager of the Melissa’s Corporate Test Kitchen, came to cooking late as a second career.  He was the oldest student in his class at the California School of Culinary Arts Le Cordon Bleu and was the recipient of a lot of teasing.

As a high-profile Melissa’s representative he participates in special events, trade shows, and culinary functions throughout the country.

We’ll chat with Chef Tom about choosing and cooking with peppers.

We’ll be highlighting recipes from Melissa’s The Great Pepper Cookbook – The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Cooking with Peppers. On the menu are items like Crab Stuffed Cucumber Cups, Devlish Deviled Eggs, Potato and Cauliflower Bake, Chile-Lime -Jackfruit Puffs and Apple Cinnamon-Chile Crumb Cake.

Andrew Gruel and Andy Harris celebrating the fourth anniversary of the SoCal Restaurant Show at SideDoor in Corona del MarChef Andrew Gruel rejoins us after launching the first Slapfish in New Mexico in Albuquerque.

Chef Andrew and Lauren dine out often with their young son, William. We’ll get Chef Andrew’s informed thoughts about managing young kids in restaurants and what the parents’ responsibilities are.

Both Slapfish and Butterleaf are part of Saturday afternoon’s Oozefest 3 (cheese festival of epic proportions) at Main Place Mall in Santa Ana. Slapfish is bringing back the Lobsticle with queso dip, a signature item from the original food truck.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Robert Schueller, Melissa’s Prince of Produce
Segment Three: JC Clow, Founding Managing Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Segment Four: Chef Jet Tila, 101 Asian Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die
Segment Five: Food Journalist & Author Cathy Thomas
Segment Six: Tess Masters, The Blender Girl
Segment Seven: Tom Fraker, Melissa’s Corporate Chef & Test Kitchen Manager
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish and Trade’s Two Birds & Butterleaf

Show 119, April 25, 2015: Sunday in the Vineyard Benefit

Priscilla MarconiThe Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar presents its 7th Annual “Sunday in the Vineyard” fundraiser on Sunday, May 17th, 2015 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The benefit features a premium wine tasting with more than 80 wines, many of which are considered unique and rare finds from boutique wineries spanning the globe.

The event will be held alongside a collection of rare automobiles at the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin. It benefits the Marconi Foundation for Kids and the Eddie Guardado Foundation. The afternoon also includes a sampling of passed hors d’oeuvres by The Winery’s Executive Chef and Partner, Yvon Goetz, along with live and silent auctions. The sommelier staffs at both Winery Restaurants (Tustin and Newport Beach) will be there to assist the guests with wine selections and education under the direction of Sommelier and Managing Partner William Lewis.

“This is our seventh year hosting “Sunday in the Vineyard” and, judging by the success of the first six years, during which we raised approximately $308,000, it’s well on its way to becoming an event that will continue to make a positive impact by raising significant funds for worthy organizations in our community,” commented JC Clow, Managing Partner at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. “We’re delighted to have formed a long-term partnership with the Marconi Foundation for Kids that will continue to support the efforts of nonprofits.”

Priscilla Marconi, representing The Marconi Foundation For Kids, is our guest.

August 9: Jimmy Shaw, FoodGPS, Richard Foss, AlXimia Vino Elemental Winery, CremaCafe, David and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, Golden Foodies

Podcasts

Segment One: Guest Host Chef Jimmy Shaw and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris preview the show
Segment Two: Chef Jimmy Shaw of Loteria! Grill and The Torta Co.
Segment Three: Food GPS Fried Chicken Festival, Chinatown
Segment Four: Food Historian & Author Richard Foss
Segment Five: Manuel Alvarez of AlXimia Vino Elemental Winery
Segment Six: Tarit Tanjasiri of CremaCafe & Bakery
Segment Seven: The 12 Bottle Bar
Segment Eight: The Golden Foodies

Guest Host Chef Jimmy Shaw of Loteria! Grill restaurants and Producer Andy preview the show.

Chef Jimmy Shaw of Loteria! Grill is with us. He brought the rich Mexican Street Food of his native Mexico City to Los Angeles. Keep in mind that Los Angeles is the 2nd largest Mexican City in the World. It all started in 2002 with a modest stand in the Original Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax in Los Angeles.

Chef Jimmy Shaw educates us on the ample Mexican sandwich, The Torta. He also talks about stocking Mexican ingredients in your home pantry.

Josh Lurie of Food GPS is at it again with delectable food and beverage events. The 3rd Annual Food GPS Fried Chicken Festival is set for Sunday afternoon, August 17th in Chinatown’s historic Central Plaza.

The Museum of the American Cocktail (based in New Orleans at the Southern Food & Beverage Museum) is presenting an evening of cocktails, food, and entertainment featuring (the always entertaining) culinary historian and author Richard Foss on August 18th at 6:30 p.m. at Roxanne’s Lounge in Long Beach. The presentation is : “Dry With a Twist: A Liquid Lesson in How Prohibition Changed America.”

One of the most important wine regions in Mexico is the Valle de Guadalupe located about an hour and one-half South of Tijuana. The best of these wines are slowly finding their way North to Southern California. Manuel Alvarez of AlXimia Vino Elemental winery joins us from the Valle de Guadalupe with his Family’s story.

Tarit Tanjasiri is the baker/proprietor of the revered CremaCafe in Seal Beach. It started as a small breakfast and lunch spot. Tarit couldn’t source a bread for his sandwiches that satisfied him so he added an adjacent production bakery. We’ll meet him.

“A new kind of cocktail book, The 12 Bottle Bar, distills the craft cocktail movement for the home bar. Irresistibly uncomplicated, just 12 bottles create over 200 distinct and seasonal cocktails, including beer and wine cocktails.” The husband-and-wife authors are with us.

Orange County’s answer to the prestigious, red carpet awards shows is The Golden Foodies. Voting has started for this year in the first group of categories and the public is invited to vote for their favorite restaurants and related categories. Good luck to all…

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Jimmy Shaw of Loteria Grill and Torta CompanyChef Jimmy Shaw of Loteria! Grill is with us. He brought the rich Mexican Street Food of his native Mexico City to Los Angeles. Keep in mind that Los Angeles is the 2nd largest Mexican City in the World. It all started in 2002 with a modest stand in the Original Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax in Los Angeles.

There are now Loteria! Grill restaurants in Hollywood, Studio, City, Westlake Village, Santa Monica and Downtown at Fig at 7th.

“Lotería! Grill has grown from the open-air stall at the Farmers Market to become a nationally renowned group of restaurants that offer a casually elegant, fun and relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy everything from a refreshing agua fresca or margarita to award-winning, delicious regional specialties and slowly cooked guisos served with handmade corn tortillas.  Favorites like the Chicharrón de Queso, and the Probaditas, a mini-taco sampler of our signature guisos, have their guests coming back frequently for more.”

Chef Jimmy Shaw educates us on the ample Mexican sandwich, the Torta. He also talks about stocking Mexican ingredients as part of your regular home pantry.

Joshua Lurie of Food GPSJosh Lurie of Food GPS is at it again with delectable food and beverage events. The 3rd Annual Food GPS Fried Chicken Festival Presented by Bolthouse Farms is set for Sunday afternoon, August 17th in Chinatown’s historic Central Plaza. Hours are 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

This all-inclusive, chef-focused event includes some of L.A.’s best chefs preparing unique fried chicken dishes and complimentary sides. Additionally, there are an array of delicious desserts (Valerie Confections) and beverages.

Participating chef Jesse Furman (Free Range LA) and Josh Lurie of Food GPS preview the Festival.

Dry with a Twist: A Liquid Lesson in How Prohibition Changed AmericaThe Exhibition Room at Roxanne’s Cocktail Lounge & Latin Grill, Long Beach’s “hidden speakeasy,” hosts the next edition of Touring the Cocktail: MOTAC Los Angeles, a liquid lesson in how Prohibition changed America. Come out for an evening of culture and cocktails, costumes and music! Dress as a flapper, bootlegger, moonshiner, or temperance crusader (no hatchets please, ladies). There will be prizes for the best costume, giveaways, and more!

Whether you were a regular tippler or never let a drop of alcohol past your lips, Prohibition affected every American’s life. Dining options, dating habits, vacation choices, and perhaps most infamously, the attitude of citizens toward law enforcement, were forever altered by the temperance movement’s short-lived crowning achievement. Even so, most Americans don’t really understand who we were before that great experiment, how Prohibition came to pass, and the ways in which the period reverberates to this day.

Historian Richard Foss, author of “Rum: A Global History,” transports participants to a world of temperance terrorists and flappers, moonshiners and smugglers, and ordinary citizens who just wanted a drink and would get it by any means necessary. Drinkmaster David Valiante executes a menu of five period cocktails, illustrating the ways in which America’s palate for drinks has changed.  (Don’t worry, bathtub gin will not appear on the menu, but some delightful and largely forgotten beverages will make a glorious reappearance.) A light dinner of savory specialties from Roxanne’s Latin Grill is included in the price of admission.

Tickets are $40 in advance, $35 for members of SoFAB/MOTAC and the USBG. Tickets at the door are $50 (subject to availability.)

Manuel Alvarez of AlXimia Vino ElementalOne of the most important (and historic) wine regions in Mexico is the Valle de Guadalupe located about an hour and one-half South of Tijuana. The best of these wines are slowly finding their way North to Southern California. Manuel Alvarez of AlXimia Vino Elemental winery joins us from the Valle de Guadalupe with his Family’s story.

Wine tasting and tours are available to visitors at this architecturally significant winery.

“AlXimia is a wine-making project born from the meeting of the senses and the world, with special attention to the earth, the plant, the fruit and its benefits. We are trying to understand, use and preserve nature.

Baja California is wine country, and wines are, in our view, the product of the transmutation of the four natural elements:

  • the earth that nourishes and gives rise to the vineyards
  • the scarce water that is vital in the Valle de Guadalupe
  • the fresh air that comes from the sea and
  • the fire in the form of the heat from the sun, providing the freshness and warmth needed to ripen the grapes and give them the adequate acidity, while at the same time generating the energy needed for the process
  • When you assemble these 4 elements, the space (or ether) becomes the fifth element that makes possible their existence.

AlXimia is a family business focused on the work of the sensible. It is a group born at home, amidst the respect for the environment, in the tradition of teaching and knowledge transfer. AlXimia travels through the wine trail manifested in a free and existential thinking against the structured and accurate scientific thought process, daring to innovate.  Started by a mathematician turned winemaker, this amazing winery was built by an innovative architect, the mathematician-winemaker and his astronomer father.”

Tarit TanjasiriTarit Tanjasiri is the consumed baker/proprietor of the revered CremaCafe & Artisan Bakery in Seal Beach. It started eight years ago as a small breakfast and lunch spot. Tarit couldn’t source a bread for his sandwiches that satisfied him so two years ago he added an adjacent production bakery. It’s the café on one side and the bakery on the other. We’ll meet him.

Tarit’s Kouign Amann was one of the OC Weekly’s “100 Favorite Dishes of 2014.”

According to Anne Marie Panoringan of the OC Weekly : “Per Tarit, a Kouign Amann is a pastry from the Brittany region of France. It’s often considered more of a cake than a pastry, although Crema utilizes croissant dough for their version. Layers of butter, dough, sugar and a bit of sea salt are formed. Shaped to resemble a blooming rose, it is then placed in the deck oven to bake. Sweetness and density are much higher in France, and they come in many more sizes, shapes and filling flavors.”

David and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson“A new kind of cocktail book, The 12 Bottle Bar, distills the craft cocktail movement for the home bar. Irresistibly uncomplicated, just 12 bottles create over 200 distinct and seasonal cocktails, including beer and wine cocktails.”

David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, the husband-and-wife authors (and noted cocktail enthusiasts) are with us.

“We’re living in the midst of a cocktail renaissance – artisanal cocktails. Celebrity mixologists, drink menus that outshine wine lists and feature ingredients as fresh and complex as the most sought after meals. Just as home cooks have looked to popular restaurants and chefs for new recipes, imbibers want to bring the magic of a local speakeasy straight to the living room.”

Golden Foodie AwardsOrange County’s answer to the prestigious, red carpet awards shows is The Golden Foodies. Voting has started for this year in the first group of categories and the public is invited to vote for their favorite restaurants and related categories. There are two more weeks of voting cycles…

Winners are chosen by the people. It’s a People’s Choice Food Awards. The Golden Foodie Awards Gala at The Fairmont in Newport Beach is Saturday evening, September 28th. Good luck to all…

Voting concludes on August 9th for the categories of : Mexican, Vegetarian, Pizza, Beer, American Cuisine, Burger, Cocktail, and Best Food Talk Radio Show.

The Founder of The Golden Foodies, Pamela Waitt, and J.C. Clow of The Winery Newport Beach join us. It’s been announced that J.C.’s The Winery Newport Beach has been nominated (one of three nominees in the category) for Best New Restaurant.

Podcasts

Segment One: Guest Host Chef Jimmy Shaw and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris preview the show
Segment Two: Chef Jimmy Shaw of Loteria! Grill and The Torta Co.
Segment Three: Food GPS Fried Chicken Festival, Chinatown
Segment Four: Food Historian & Author Richard Foss
Segment Five: Manuel Alvarez of AlXimia Vino Elemental Winery
Segment Six: Tarit Tanjasiri of CremaCafe & Bakery
Segment Seven: The 12 Bottle Bar
Segment Eight: The Golden Foodies

Show 71, May 3, 2014: Chef Yvon Goetz, Chef & Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Tustin and Newport Beach

Yvon Goetz of the Winery Restaurant and BarThe Winery Restaurant & Bar at the District in Tustin has created quite a splash over the last six years. All that was missing was an ocean view.

Newly arrived on the Bay in Newport Beach is the 2nd location for The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. Partner/ Executive Chef Yvon Goetz is overseeing the kitchen here, too. It’s dinner only at present. Lunch will be coming on the weekends. Chef Yvon is our guest.

The new Winery brings the same distinctive experience as its flagship location in The District in Tustin. This one strives to make the guest feel like they have been transported to a relaxing getaway in Napa or Sonoma. This escape features ocean views from the second-story dining room and breathtaking bar.

The menu here is a bit more seafood centric. Some of the fish (Opah, Ono, and Mahi Mahi) is flown in from Hawaii daily. There is a special emphasis on fresh oysters and other shellfish.

“The major difference with this location will be the stunning views of the waterfront and boat access. We anticipate endless possibilities, with something to suit every palate,” said JC Clow, Managing Partner of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. Three private docks are available for guests to arrive via the Marina.

May 3: Sherry Yard, Jesse Barber, Nan Kohler, Barbara Fairchild, Yvon Goetz

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Sherry Yard of iPic Theaters and Helms Bakery Part One
Segment Three: Sherry Yard of iPic Theaters and Helms Bakery Part Two
Segment Four: Executive Chef Jesse Barber of Barnyard Venice
Segment Five: Nan Kohler, Managing Partner, Grist & Toll – An Urban Flour Mill, Pasadena Part One
Segment Six: Nan Kohler, Managing Partner, Grist & Toll – An Urban Flour Mill, Pasadena Part Two
Segment Seven: Barbara Fairchild, Restaurant & Travel Editor, grapecollective.com, editor, writer, speaker and consultant
Segment Eight: Chef Yvon Goetz, Chef & Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Tustin and Newport Beach

Chef Jet and Producer Andy preview the show.

Multiple James Beard Award-winning Pastry Chef Sherry Yard is familiar to the listening audience of the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” Her work-in-progress is the ambitious revival of the Helms Bakery in Los Angeles on the border with Culver City.

She will tell us all about her exciting new position as Corporate Vice President of the Culinary Division of iPic Theaters. Watching a movie on the big screen should be a deluxe experience with food to match !

There is a relatively new hidden gem of a very personal farm-to-table restaurant in Venice. That’s Barnyard Venice. Come hungry and prepare to be pleasantly surprised and also well-taken care of.

Nan Kohler, the Managing Partner of Grist & Toll – An Urban Flour Mill, is back for an encore. This time she’ll also be speaking about gluten-free.

Barbara Fairchild, the well-traveled Restaurant & Travel Editor for grapecollective.com is back with us to share some inspired restaurant finds from her recent travels both in Europe and in The States.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar in Tustin has a new location on the Bay in Newport Beach. It’s a “wow” of a spot!

All of this and lots more incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Sherry YardRenowned pastry chef and best-selling cookbook author Sherry Yard spent close to 20 years with Wolfgang Puck. She also has been awarded two prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards! On May 5th in New York City Sherry is being inducted into the James Beard Foundation’s Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America. It’s an elite group…

In late 2012 she left Spago to realize a dream project with Sang Yoon. That’s the reopening (and revamping) of the fondly remembered Helms Bakery in Los Angeles on the border of Culver City.

She has just stepped into the newly created position of Corporate Vice President of Culinary Direction for iPic Theaters.

Their new state-of-the-art Westwood complex has just opened. Locally-sourced gourmet food is now on the menu for the luxury movie viewing experience.

She also somehow finds the time to actively serve on both the National and L.A. Boards of the Careers through Culinary Arts Program. (C-CAP.)

The iPic Theaters menu for Westwood even includes Helms Treats. There are premium signature cookies and even frozen novelties!

On the ground floor there is an Italian restaurant (Tanzy) open to the public for lunch and dinner.

Sherry Yard was on hand Sunday, April 25th on Rodeo Dr. in Beverly Hills to observe the cutting of Chef Donald Wressell’s breathtaking birthday cake for the 100th Anniversary of the City of Beverly Hills. Chef Donald is the corporate chef for Guittard Chocolate Co. Sherry has created incredible desserts for the Oscars and was truly impressed with the incredible results. 15,000 slices of deliciousness were served!

Adding a needed basement to the Helms Bakery (where there was none before) has delayed the project. Sherry is now looking at a 2015 launch.

Jesse Barber of Barnyard VeniceBarnyard Venice (opened in 2012) is a bit of a find housed in an old cottage on Pacific Avenue. It’s rustic and comfortable.

Chef Jesse Barber, an alum of the kitchen at Tasting Kitchen, is the menu-maker. Earlier in his career he worked with Thomas Keller at both The French Laundry and Bouchon. He’s put together an ever changing menu with an emphasis on local ingredients. He’s a regular at the Santa Monica Farmers Markets and that’s the basis for his menu which changes almost daily.

His grilled octopus is a standout.

Ramen Tuesday is at the bar.

Nan KohlerNan Kohler is the Managing Partner of Grist & Toll – An urban Flour Mill in Pasadena. She has extensive background in baking.

Nan discusses her take on celiac disease and the growing need for gluten-free products.

On Sunday, May 4th Chef Bruce Kalman of Pasadena’s Union is cooking a dinner in conjunction with Grist & Toll. Union uses many of their products including their polenta which is a favorite of Chef Jet’s.

Chef Kalman will incorporate Grist & Toll’s whole-grain milled fresh flours into five courses. The price is $85 per guest.

Nan explains how the flours produced by Grist & Toll differ from the commercial enriched flour that goes into plain white bread. A lot of the nutritional value is surprisingly lost with the processing of conventional enriched flour.

Nan is also starting to offer baking classes.

Barbara FairchildIt’s a pleasure to welcome food journalist Barbara Fairchild back to the show. She is an editor, writer, speaker and consultant. She was the long-time Editor of Bon Appetit Magazine before the publication relocated to New York.

Her newest position is Restaurant & Travel Editor for grapecollective.com.

Based on her recent travels Barbara has restaurant finds for us from both London and Paris.

Yvon Goetz of the Winery Restaurant and BarThe Winery Restaurant & Bar at the District in Tustin has created quite a splash over the last six years. All that was missing was an ocean view.

Newly arrived on the Bay in Newport Beach is the 2nd location for The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. Partner/ Executive Chef Yvon Goetz is overseeing the kitchen here, too. It’s dinner only at present. Lunch will be coming on the weekends. Chef Yvon is our guest.

The new Winery brings the same distinctive experience as its flagship location in The District in Tustin. This one strives to make the guest feel like they have been transported to a relaxing getaway in Napa or Sonoma. This escape features ocean views from the second-story dining room and breathtaking bar.

The menu here is a bit more seafood centric. Some of the fish (Opah, Ono, and Mahi Mahi) +is flown in from Hawaii daily.

“The major difference with this location will be the stunning views of the waterfront and boat access. We anticipate endless possibilities, with something to suit every palate,” said JC Clow, Managing Partner of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. Three private docks are available for guests to arrive via the Marina.

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Sherry Yard of iPic Theaters and Helms Bakery Part One
Segment Three: Sherry Yard of iPic Theaters and Helms Bakery Part Two
Segment Four: Executive Chef Jesse Barber of Barnyard Venice
Segment Five: Nan Kohler, Managing Partner, Grist & Toll – An Urban Flour Mill, Pasadena Part One
Segment Six: Nan Kohler, Managing Partner, Grist & Toll – An Urban Flour Mill, Pasadena Part Two
Segment Seven: Barbara Fairchild, Restaurant & Travel Editor, grapecollective.com, editor, writer, speaker and consultant
Segment Eight: Chef Yvon Goetz, Chef & Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Tustin and Newport Beach

Show 54, December 28, 2013: JC Clow, Managing Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar

JC Clow of the Winery Restaurant and BarJC Clow is the standout Managing Partner of The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar in the District in Tustin. 2014 will mark their 7th year of operation.

The Orange County Concierge Association has just awarded them the distinction of “Restaurant of the Year.” The news is actually more significant than that. This is the 3rd time in six years that this prestigious award has been earned by them ! That’s a wow.

If you’re looking for a non-stuffy, sophisticated and elegant New Year’s Eve celebration The Winery has two seatings that are reasonably priced and designed for the comfort of the guests. The Winery’s goal on New Year’s Eve is never to pack the house!

The second seating is a four course menu from Chef Yvon, live entertainment and party favors.

JC caps 2013 off by updating us on the new Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar coming to Newport Beach by Valentine’s Day in 2014. It’s right on the Bay on a half-acre site. The building has basically been rebuilt from the ground up.