Tag Archives: Jim Cascone

Show 499, November 12, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats at the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles is doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season. Huntington Meats’ sister shop Farmers Market Poultry will also be participating in the drive.

The two shops offering quality product are again coming together to participate in the 2nd Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November organized by proprietor Jim Cascone. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to local agencies servicing homeless and low-income families.”

Master butcher Jim Cascone joins us from behind-the-counter with all the Pajama Drive details.

We know Chef Ted Hopson from the fondly remembered The Bellwether in Studio City which was an unfortunate victim of the pandemic. The better news is that Chef Ted is now the very busy Vice President at Gourmet Imports in Alhambra. “Gourmet Imports is a Los Angeles area-based importer and distributor of specialty foods that has been serving Chefs and culinary professionals since 1989.  The company was built on a commitment to service, quality and integrity.  Gourmet Imports carries over 300 cheeses as well as nearly 2,000 other culinary items including: caviar, charcuterie, pâté, oils, vinegars, chocolate, baking and pastry ingredients and much, much more.”

““Modern Hippie” celebrates a way of living and entertaining that creates an intentional series of moments at home, where good food, conversation, and design come together to create and establish lasting and inspired memories. Lauren Thomas’s The Modern Hippie Table: Recipes and Menus for Eating Simply and Living Beautifully combines more than 70 curated recipes and assorted themed menus with beautiful and doable tabletop ideas, creating a vibe of laid-back elegance that complements whatever is on the menu, from an intimate dinner for two to a large celebration.” “In this debut collection, Lauren shares favorite dishes that can be easily prepared for entertaining, which allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests and family. Some of the recipes are made from scratch, while others make creative use of store-bought convenience foods and pre-made products that help save time.” Lauren takes a break from preparing her Pear, Pomegranate, Turkey and Gorgonzola Board to join us.

“Santa Barbara Wine Country, named Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Region of the Year for 2021 and recently honored with multiple wine scores over 90+ points, is bringing some of its acclaimed wines to Orange County for special Wine Tasting Pop-Ups. The fall tasting events in November and December feature a wide range of varietals from small production and highly sought-after wineries. Guests will learn the best wines to gift and pour for their guests this holiday season.” Representing Santa Barbara Vintners (the organizer) is Winemaker Karen Steinwachs (previously the long-time winemaker at Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard) of Seagrape Wine Co, Santa Rita Hills.

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. The countdown to Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 24th continues. As an experienced restaurant chef with a lot fine-dining experience Chef Andrew wants all home cooks to have a stress-free and uneventful Thanksgiving. Chef Andrew continues to share his genuinely useful Thanksgiving cooking tips. If you find a turkey to your liking the question then is to spatchcock or not…Side dishes (especially stuffing) make the Thanksgiving table and Chef Andrew, of course, has some tasty thoughts.

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

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Show 499, November 12, 2022: Jim Cascone, Master Butcher, Huntington Meats, Original Farmers Market, Los Angeles

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Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry

“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats at the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles is doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season. Huntington Meats’ sister shop Farmers Market Poultry will also be participating in the drive.”

“The two shops offering quality product are again coming together to participate in the 2nd Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November organized by proprietor Jim Cascone. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to local agencies servicing homeless and low-income families.”

“Customers that visit either of the shops and donate a pair of new, unwrapped pajamas valued at $10 or more will receive a complimentary pound of ground beef or homemade sausages from Huntington Meats, or a dozen fresh eggs from Farmers Market Poultry. In addition to PJs for children aged infant to age 18, the shops will be collecting children’s slippers, robes, security blankets, story books and toothbrush / toothpaste sets through November 30th. At the conclusion of the Pajama Drive, collected items will be distributed to Los Angeles area agencies for gift giving to their youngest clientele over the holiday season.”

“We felt this was a unique idea for the holidays,” said Jim Cascone, proprietor of both Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry. “Toy drives are great, but we forget that some kids may never have received a brand new pair of PJs, which was something many of us took for granted growing up.”

Master butcher Jim Cascone joins us from behind-the-counter with all the Pajama Drive details.

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November 12: Huntington Meats, Gourmet Imports, The Modern Hippie, Santa Barbara Vintners Pop-Ups

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Jim Cascone, Master Butcher, Huntington Meats, Original Farmers Market, Los Angeles
Segment Three: Chef Ted Hopson, Vice President, Gourmet Imports
Segment Four: Lauren Thomas, The Modern Hippie Table cookbook and blog – The Modern Hippie Way Part One
Segment Five: Lauren Thomas, The Modern Hippie Table cookbook and blog – The Modern Hippie Way Part Two
Segment Six: Karen Steinwachs, Winemaker, Seagrape Wine Co., Santa Barbara Vintners Part One
Segment Seven: Karen Steinwachs, Winemaker, Seagrape Wine Co., Santa Barbara Vintners 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.

“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats at the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles is doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season. Huntington Meats’ sister shop Farmers Market Poultry will also be participating in the drive.

The two shops offering quality product are again coming together to participate in the 2nd Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November organized by proprietor Jim Cascone. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to local agencies servicing homeless and low-income families.”

Master butcher Jim Cascone joins us from behind-the-counter with all the Pajama Drive details.

We know Chef Ted Hopson from the fondly remembered The Bellwether in Studio City which was an unfortunate victim of the pandemic. The better news is that Chef Ted is now the very busy Vice President at Gourmet Imports in Alhambra. “Gourmet Imports is a Los Angeles area based importer and distributor of specialty foods that has been serving Chefs and culinary professionals since 1989. The company was built on a commitment to service, quality and integrity. Gourmet Imports carries over 300 cheeses as well as nearly 2,000 other culinary items including: caviar, charcuterie, pâté, oils, vinegars, chocolate, baking and pastry ingredients and much, much more.”

““Modern Hippie” celebrates a way of living and entertaining that creates an intentional series of moments at home, where good food, conversation, and design come together to create and establish lasting and inspired memories. Lauren Thomas’s The Modern Hippie Table: Recipes and Menus for Eating Simply and Living Beautifully combines more than 70 curated recipes and assorted themed menus with beautiful and doable tabletop ideas, creating a vibe of laid-back elegance that complements whatever is on the menu, from an intimate dinner for two to a large celebration.” “In this debut collection, Lauren shares favorite dishes that can be easily prepared for entertaining, which allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests and family. Some of the recipes are made from scratch, while others make creative use of store-bought convenience foods and pre-made products that help save time.” Lauren takes a break from preparing her Pear, Pomegranate, Turkey and Gorgonzola Board to join us.

“Santa Barbara Wine Country, named Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Region of the Year for 2021 and recently honored with multiple wine scores over 90+ points, is bringing some of its acclaimed wines to Orange County for special Wine Tasting Pop-Ups. The fall tasting events in November and December will feature a wide range of varietals from small production and highly sought-after wineries. Guests will learn the best wines to gift and pour for their guests this holiday season.” Representing Santa Barbara Vintners (the organizer) is Winemaker Karen Steinwachs (previously the long-time winemaker at Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard) of Seagrape Wine Co, Santa Rita Hills.

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. The countdown to Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 24th continues. As an experienced restaurant chef with a lot fine-dining experience Chef Andrew wants all home cooks to have a stress-free and uneventful Thanksgiving. Chef Andrew continues to share his genuinely useful Thanksgiving cooking tips. If you find a turkey to your liking the question then is to spatchcock or not…Side dishes make the Thanksgiving table and Chef Andrew, of course, has some tasty thoughts.

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

Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry

“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats at the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles is doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season. Huntington Meats’ sister shop Farmers Market Poultry will also be participating in the drive.”

“The two shops offering quality product are again coming together to participate in the 2nd Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November organized by proprietor Jim Cascone. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to local agencies servicing homeless and low-income families.”

“Customers that visit either of the shops and donate a pair of new, unwrapped pajamas valued at $10 or more will receive a complimentary pound of ground beef or homemade sausages from Huntington Meats, or a dozen fresh eggs from Farmers Market Poultry. In addition to PJs for children aged infant to age 18, the shops will be collecting children’s slippers, robes, security blankets, story books and toothbrush / toothpaste sets through November 30th. At the conclusion of the Pajama Drive, collected items will be distributed to Los Angeles area agencies for gift giving to their youngest clientele over the holiday season.”

“We felt this was a unique idea for the holidays,” said Jim Cascone, proprietor of both Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry. “Toy drives are great, but we forget that some kids may never have received a brand new pair of PJs, which was something many of us took for granted growing up.”

Master butcher Jim Cascone joins us from behind-the-counter with all the Pajama Drive details.

Chef Ted Hopson

We know Chef Ted Hopson from the fondly remembered The Bellwether in Studio City which was an unfortunate victim of the pandemic. The better news is that Chef Ted is now the very busy Vice President at Gourmet Imports in Alhambra.

“Gourmet Imports is a Los Angeles area-based importer and distributor of specialty foods that has been serving Chefs and culinary professionals since 1989. The company was built on a commitment to service, quality and integrity. Gourmet Imports carries over 300 cheeses as well as nearly 2,000 other culinary items including: caviar, charcuterie, pâté, oils, vinegars, chocolate, baking and pastry ingredients and much, much more.”

“Ingredients & traditions matter. Working to preserve & promote them is something Gourmet Imports is deeply passionate about. They believe that food & dining are integral to our social fabric and in these times where nearly everything is synthesized, automated, expedited, and/or truncated, they are thankful to the passionate farmers & artisans that produce the goods that Gourmet Imports carries. They are equally grateful to their clients for their support, for their insistence on authenticity & excellence, and their work to provide experiences around which we can all connect over a shared meal (even if the mid-meal Instagram post has become all but inevitable).”

We’re catching up with Chef Ted Hopson.

Modern Hippie Lauren Thomas

““Modern Hippie” celebrates a way of living and entertaining that creates an intentional series of moments at home, where good food, conversation, and design come together to create and establish lasting and inspired memories. Lauren Thomas’s The Modern Hippie Table: Recipes and Menus for Eating Simply and Living Beautifully combines more than 70 curated recipes and assorted themed menus with beautiful and doable tabletop ideas, creating a vibe of laid-back elegance that complements whatever is on the menu, from an intimate dinner for two to a large celebration.” 

“In this debut collection, Lauren shares favorite dishes that can be easily prepared for entertaining, which allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests and family. Some of the recipes are made from scratch, while others make creative use of store-bought convenience foods and pre-made products that help save time.”

“Lauren is also passionate about making sure the surroundings of the occasion are as beautiful as the meal is delicious. She provides suggestions for flowers, linens, and surfaces that won’t add stress or break the bank. And to complete your planning, suggested menus for occasions such as an intimate date night or a meet the neighbors gathering are sprinkled throughout the book to help plan out themed meals, along with tips on how to set the scene for the occasion.”

Lauren takes a break from preparing her Pear, Pomegranate, Turkey and Gorgonzola Board to join us.

Karen Steinwachs of Seagrape Wine Company

Santa Barbara Wine Country, named Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Region of the Year for 2021 and recently honored with multiple wine scores over 90+ points, is bringing some of its acclaimed wines to Orange County for special Wine Tasting Pop-Ups. 

“The fall tasting events will feature a wide range of varietals from small production and highly sought-after wineries. Guests will learn the best wines to gift and pour for their guests this holiday season.”

Thursday, Nov. 17, 5 to 8pm at Wine Gallery in Laguna Beach – Enjoy tasting a variety of wines and light bites. Guests must be 21 or older. Tickets are $25, and can be purchased on Eventbrite. Wine Gallery is located at 1833 S. Coast Hwy., #110, in Laguna Beach.

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 5:30 to 8:30pm at Cucina Enoteca in Irvine – Enjoy a special evening of tasting award-winning wines from Santa Barbara Wine Country, paired with light bites. Guests must be 21 or older. The event is complimentary, but guests are required to RSVP through Eventbrite as space is limited. Cucina Enoteca is a modern California-inspired Italian kitchen meets charming bohemian eatery and retail wine shop. Cucina Enoteca is located in Irvine Spectrum Center at 532 Spectrum Center Dr., in Irvine.

Thursday, Dec. 8, 5 to 8pm at Parlour 17 in Costa Mesa – A variety of award-winning Santa Barbara wines will be showcased and served with light bites. Guests must be 21 or older. The event is complimentary, but guests are required to RSVP through Eventbrite as space is limited. Parlour 17 is a private event space located in Plaza Sereno at 234 E. 17th St., #117, in Costa Mesa.

 For more information, visit the Eventbrite links or Santa Barbara Wine Country Events.

Representing Santa Barbara Vintners (the organizer) is Winemaker Karen Steinwachs of Seagrape Wine Co, Santa Rita Hills. (Karen was previously the winemaker at Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard for 15 years) 

“Santa Barbara Vintners (Santa Barbara County Vintners Association) is a non-profit 501(c)6 organization founded in 1983 to protect and promote Santa Barbara County as a world-class wine producing and winegrape growing region. The association includes winery members whose annual production is at least 75% Santa Barbara County (or sub-AVA) labeled and extensive industry-associated members. The association produces festivals; educational seminars and tastings; provides information to consumers, trade, and media; and advocates for the Santa Barbara County wine and grape industry.

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.

The countdown to Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 24th continues. As an experienced restaurant chef with a lot fine-dining experience Chef Andrew wants all home cooks to have a stress-free and uneventful Thanksgiving. Chef Andrew continues to share his genuinely useful Thanksgiving cooking tips. If you find a turkey to your liking the question then is to spatchcock or not…Side dishes, including the stuffing, make the Thanksgiving table and Chef Andrew, of course, has some tasty thoughts.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Jim Cascone, Master Butcher, Huntington Meats, Original Farmers Market, Los Angeles
Segment Three: Chef Ted Hopson, Vice President, Gourmet Imports
Segment Four: Lauren Thomas, The Modern Hippie Table cookbook and blog – The Modern Hippie Way Part One
Segment Five: Lauren Thomas, The Modern Hippie Table cookbook and blog – The Modern Hippie Way Part Two
Segment Six: Karen Steinwachs, Winemaker, Seagrape Wine Co., Santa Barbara Vintners Part One
Segment Seven: Karen Steinwachs, Winemaker, Seagrape Wine Co., Santa Barbara Vintners Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 399, November 14, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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It’s closing in on Thanksgiving so reduce your stress level and please plan ahead…We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

“This November, the California Restaurant Association Foundation (CRAF), a non-profit that invests in and empowers California’s restaurant workforce, invites all Californians to participate in its inaugural ‘The Grateful Table® Dine Out!’ The ask is simple. Throughout November, Californians are encouraged to “dine out to help out” as much as possible in gratitude to their neighborhood restaurants. Want to do more? A guest can directly support California’s struggling foodservice community at featured restaurants by donating to Restaurants Care®, a nonprofit program which provides restaurant workers facing hardships with relief grants for basic living needs like groceries, utilities, diapers, clothing, gas and rent.” The CRA Foundation’s Alycia Harshfield and Farmer Boys’ President & Chief Operating Officer Dave Wetzel (a featured restaurant partner of The Grateful Table Dine Out) join us with all the details.

“The award-winning Fable & Spirit in Newport Beach has been helping to bring the Lido Marina community together by putting a unique spin on “Dinner and a Movie” with dinners under the iconic Grand Marquee of neighboring Lido Theater. Presented every Tuesday and Wednesday, the outdoor dinners feature themed menus created by Executive Chef David Shofner to change weekly. Priced between $40 and $50 per guest, the reservation-only menus will continue through November, allowing Chef Shofner to present imaginative, globally inspired dishes featuring the exciting ingredients that the season has to offer.” Proprietor Darren Coyle is our guest.

“From the creator of Skinny Southern, Emmy Award–winning chef Lara Lyn Carter, comes another collection of delicious, nutritious versions of your favorite Southern foods in Skinny Southern Baking.  Satisfy your cravings (or your hungry party guests) with completely gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free baked goods that don’t skimp on flavor. The recipes include lightened-up Southern staples like lemon squares, gingersnaps, and herb biscuits alongside incredible and surprising combinations of Southern flavors like Pumpkin Cranberry Pecan Bread, Sweet Potato Meringues, and Lemon Blueberry Cream Pie.” We’re baking with Chef Lara Lyn Carter.

“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry located at The Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax in Los Angeles are doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season. The two shops offering the best quality meats and poultry (along with genuine customer service) have come together to host their first Holiday Kids Pajama Drive taking place the entire month of November. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to local agencies servicing homeless and low income families.” Proprietor Jim Cascone joins us with the meaty details.

Drew Brahs of Harper Barbecue (Costa Mesa based) is well-known in the West as the go-to builder (via word-of-mouth) of hand-crafted, custom smokers for skilled pitmasters and home backyard barbecue fans alike. He crafts everything from small backyard pits to large versions on trailers. Drew is responsible for creating the massive twin, 1,000 gallon offset smokers used to the max at Danny Castillo’s Heritage Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano. Drew is a fan of the Central Texas style of barbecue. In the early stages of development and construction is his own restaurant, Harper Barbecue, in Costa Mesa which will be a Family affair. While the restaurant is being built Drew will shift the smoker enterprise to selling stock items. We’ll meet barbecue entrepreneur Drew Brahs.

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. Thanksgiving is fast approaching on November 26th. In the spirit of the Holidays it’s appropriate for Chef Andrew to now share his best Thanksgiving cooking tips. This week we’re talking about cooking the seasoned bird. Chef Andrew suggests this might be the year to spatchcock the turkey. It seems more people will be doing Family Thanksgiving at home this year and probably with smaller groups. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 399, November 14, 2020: Huntington Meats & Farmers Market Poultry’s Holiday Kids Pajama Drive

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Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry located at The Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax in Los Angeles are doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season.”

“The two shops offering the best quality meats and poultry are coming together to host their first Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to local agencies servicing homeless and low income families.”

“Customers who visit either of the shops and donate a pair of new, unwrapped pajamas valued at $10 or more will receive a complimentary pound of premium bacon or homemade sausages from Huntington Meats, or a dozen fresh eggs from Farmers Market Poultry. In addition to PJs for children aged infant to age 18, the shops will be collecting children’s slippers, robes, security blankets, story books and toothbrush/toothpaste sets through November 30th. At the conclusion of the Pajama Drive, collected items will be distributed to Los Angeles area agencies for gift giving to their youngest clientele over the holiday season.”

“We thought this was a unique idea for a great cause,” said Jim Cascone, proprietor of both Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry. “Toy drives are great during the holiday, but we forget that some kids may never have received a brand new pair of PJs, which was something many of us took for granted growing up.”

“Our goal is to try make nights a little comfier for those kids that may be experiencing homelessness or are members of families that just don’t have the means to purchase their little one’s new pajamas,” Head butcher Jon Escobedo added. “We want to do our part to make sure that kids in need across Los Angeles have new pajamas to snuggle in this holiday season.”

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November 14: The Grateful Table Dine Out, Fable & Spirit, Lara Lyn Carter, Huntington Meats, Harper Barbecue

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: California Restaurant Association Foundation’s The Grateful Table Dine Out! to Benefit Restaurants Care
Segment Three: Darren Coyle, Proprietor, Fable & Spirit, Newport Beach
Segment Four: Chef Lara Lyn Carter with Skinny Southern Baking Part One
Segment Five: Chef Lara Lyn Carter with Skinny Southern Baking Part Two
Segment Six: Huntington Meats & Farmers Market Poultry’s Holiday Kids Pajama Drive
Segment Seven: Drew Brahs of Harper Barbecue in Costa Mesa
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

It’s closing in on Thanksgiving so reduce your stress level and please plan ahead…We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

“This November, the California Restaurant Association Foundation (CRAF), a non-profit that invests in and empowers California’s restaurant workforce, invites all Californians to participate in its inaugural ‘The Grateful Table® Dine Out!’ The ask is simple. Throughout November, Californians are encouraged to “dine out to help out” as much as possible in gratitude to their neighborhood restaurants. Want to do more? A guest can directly support California’s struggling foodservice community at featured restaurants by donating to Restaurants Care®, a nonprofit program which provides restaurant workers facing hardships with relief grants for basic living needs like groceries, utilities, diapers, clothing, gas and rent.” The CRA Foundation’s Alycia Harshfield and Farmer Boys’ President & Chief Operating Officer Dave Wetzel (a featured restaurant partner of The Grateful Table Dine Out) join us with all the details.

“The award-winning Fable & Spirit in Newport Beach has been helping to bring the Lido Marina community together by putting a unique spin on “Dinner and a Movie” with dinners under the iconic Grand Marquee of neighboring Lido Theater. Presented every Tuesday and Wednesday, the outdoor dinners feature themed menus created by Executive Chef David Shofner to change weekly. Priced between $40 and $50 per guest, the reservation-only menus will continue through November, allowing Chef Shofner to present imaginative, globally inspired dishes featuring the exciting ingredients that the season has to offer.” Proprietor Darren Coyle is our guest.

“From the creator of Skinny Southern, Emmy Award–winning chef Lara Lyn Carter, comes another collection of delicious, nutritious versions of your favorite Southern foods in Skinny Southern Baking.  Satisfy your cravings (or your hungry party guests) with completely gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free baked goods that don’t skimp on flavor. The recipes include lightened-up Southern staples like lemon squares, gingersnaps, and herb biscuits alongside incredible and surprising combinations of Southern flavors like Pumpkin Cranberry Pecan Bread, Sweet Potato Meringues, and Lemon Blueberry Cream Pie.” We’re baking with Chef Lara Lyn Carter.

“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry located at The Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax in Los Angeles are doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season. The two shops offering the best quality meats and poultry (along with genuine customer service) are coming together to host their first Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to local agencies servicing homeless and low income families.” Proprietor Jim Cascone joins us with the meaty details.

Drew Brahs of Harper Barbecue (Costa Mesa based) is well-known in the West as the go-to builder (via word-if-mouth) of hand-crafted, custom smokers for skilled pitmasters and home backyard barbecue fans alike. He crafts everything from small backyard pits to large versions on trailers. Drew is responsible for creating the massive twin, 1,000 gallon offset smokers used to the max at Danny Castillo’s Heritage Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano. Drew is a fan of the Central Texas style of barbecue. In the early stages of development and construction is his own restaurant, Harper Barbecue, in Costa Mesa which will be a Family affair. While the restaurant is being built Drew will shift the smoker enterprise to selling stock items. We’ll meet barbecue entrepreneur Drew Brahs.

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. Thanksgiving is fast approaching on November 26th. In the spirit of the Holidays it’s appropriate for Chef Andrew to now share his best Thanksgiving cooking tips. This week we’re talking about cooking the seasoned bird. It seems more people will be doing Family Thanksgiving at home this year and probably with smaller groups. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

Alycia Harshfield of the California Restaaurant Association“This November, the California Restaurant Association Foundation (CRAF), a non-profit that invests in and empowers California’s restaurant workforce, invites all Californians to participate in its inaugural ‘The Grateful Table® Dine Out!’ The ask is simple. Throughout November, Californians are encouraged to “dine out to help out” as much as possible in gratitude to their neighborhood restaurants. Want to do more? A guest can directly support California’s struggling foodservice community at featured restaurants by donating to Restaurants Care®, a nonprofit program which provides restaurant workers facing hardships with relief grants for basic living needs like groceries, utilities, diapers, clothing, gas and rent.”

“This very first The Grateful Table® Dine Out is a statewide campaign that’s complementary to our current way of life and has the potential to make a lasting impact on the industry by giving back to the hardworking people who operate our restaurants – chefs, cooks, bussers, bartenders, servers and dishwashers – in their greatest time of need. Since the pandemic hit in March, Restaurants Care has awarded grants to nearly 1,200 of California’s restaurant workers also benefitting their nearly 1,700 dependents, with 79% of grants awarded to people of color.”

“This November, dining out is our superpower! We have the ability to support our favorite restaurants and chip in to help struggling restaurant workers. Whether it’s takeout, dining in or having your meal delivered, we’re encouraging every Californian to help the restaurant community get back on their feet leading into the holiday season,” said Alycia Harshfield, Executive Director of CRAF. “Your support directly impacts our neighborhood restaurants, the employees and their families, and together, we can bring them some much-needed hope and stability.”

“As an added incentive to dine out, CRAF is hosting exciting social media giveaways throughout November where diners can enter to win a $500 gift card to their favorite restaurant! Every Thursday in November, two winners will be randomly selected to receive a $500 gift card to any restaurant they tag with the hashtag #GratefulTableSweepstakes. It’s as easy as that!”

The CRA Foundation’s Alycia Harshfield and Farmer Boys’ President & Chief Operating Officer Dave Wetzel (a featured restaurant partner of The Grateful Table Dine Out) join us with all the details.

Darren and Jean Coyle of Fable and Spirit“The award-winning Fable & Spirit in Newport Beach has been helping to bring the Lido Marina community together by putting a unique spin on “Dinner and a Movie” with dinners under the iconic Grand Marquee of neighboring Lido Theater. Presented every Tuesday and Wednesday, the outdoor dinners feature themed menus created by Executive Chef David Shofner to change weekly.”

“Priced between $40 and $50 per guest, the reservation-only menus continue through November, allowing Chef Shofner to present imaginative, globally inspired dishes featuring the exciting ingredients that the season has to offer. Each week’s menu is expertly paired with optional wines by Sommelier Ali Coyle, allowing guests to create their own culinary adventure. Director of Spirits Drew Coyle was inspired to create a popcorn-infused signature cocktail, the Pink Flamingo, to pay homage to The Lido Theater’s nickname when it first opened in 1939.”

“By partnering with The Lido Theater to expand our outdoor dining, we were able to keep the rich history of the Lido Marina area alive,” commented Darren Coyle, who owns Fable & Spirit, Dublin 4 Gastropub, and Wineworks for Everyone with his wife, Jean. “The response has been overwhelming as the community comes together to enjoy themselves at a time when we need it the most – and in a way that’s safe and responsible.”

Proprietor Darren Coyle is our guest.

Cookbook Author Lara Lyn Carter“From the creator of Skinny Southern, Emmy Award–winning chef Lara Lyn Carter, comes another collection of delicious, nutritious versions of your favorite Southern foods in Skinny Southern Baking. Satisfy your cravings (or your hungry party guests) with completely gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free baked goods that don’t skimp on flavor.”

“The recipes include lightened-up Southern staples like lemon squares, gingersnaps, and herb biscuits alongside incredible and surprising combinations of Southern flavors like Pumpkin Cranberry Pecan Bread, Sweet Potato Meringues, and Lemon Blueberry Cream Pie. With a foreword from Marc Summers and sections about making your own nut butters and refined sugar–free jams and fruit butters, Skinny Southern Baking reimagines Southern baking with style and simplicity.”

“Lara Lyn Carter is considered Georgia’s go-to authority on Southern entertaining. She converted to healthy, clean cooking and shares her vast experience and array of healthy Southern recipes in this groundbreaking cookbook, an invaluable addition to any health-conscious kitchen.”

We’re in the kitchen whisking with Lara Lyn Carter.

Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry located at The Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax in Los Angeles are doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season.”

“The two shops offering the best quality meats and poultry are coming together to host their first Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to local agencies servicing homeless and low income families.”

“Customers who visit either of the shops and donate a pair of new, unwrapped pajamas valued at $10 or more will receive a complimentary pound of premium bacon or homemade sausages from Huntington Meats, or a dozen fresh eggs from Farmers Market Poultry. In addition to PJs for children aged infant to age 18, the shops will be collecting children’s slippers, robes, security blankets, story books and toothbrush/toothpaste sets through November 30th. At the conclusion of the Pajama Drive, collected items will be distributed to Los Angeles area agencies for gift giving to their youngest clientele over the holiday season.”

“We thought this was a unique idea for a great cause,” said Jim Cascone, proprietor of both Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry. “Toy drives are great during the holiday, but we forget that some kids may never have received a brand new pair of PJs, which was something many of us took for granted growing up.”

“Our goal is to try make nights a little comfier for those kids that may be experiencing homelessness or are members of families that just don’t have the means to purchase their little one’s new pajamas,” Head butcher Jon Escobedo added. “We want to do our part to make sure that kids in need across Los Angeles have new pajamas to snuggle in this holiday season.”

Drew Brahs of Harper BarbecueDrew Brahs of Harper Barbecue (Costa Mesa based) is well-known in the West as the go-to builder (via word-if-mouth) of hand-crafted, custom smokers for skilled pitmasters and backyard barbecue fans alike. He crafts everything from small backyard pits to large versions on trailers. Drew is responsible for creating the twin, 1,000 gallon smokers offset smokers used at Danny Castillo’s Heritage Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano.

Drew is a fan of the Central Texas style of barbecue. In the early stages of development and construction is his long-in-the works restaurant, Harper Barbecue, in Costa Mesa which will be a Family affair. While the restaurant is being built Drew will shift the smoker enterprise to selling stock items.

We’ll meet barbecue entrepreneur Drew Brahs.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant GroupOur 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.

Thanksgiving is fast approaching on November 26th. In the spirit of the Holiday Season it’s appropriate for Chef Andrew to now continue sharing his best and most useful Thanksgiving cooking tips. Last week it was seasoning the bird with dry rub. The conversation continues now with actually cooking the bird. Now do you keep the meat moist while getting that rich, golden brown color on the skin ? It seems more people will be doing Family Thanksgiving at home this year and probably with smaller groups. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: California Restaurant Association Foundation’s The Grateful Table Dine Out! to Benefit Restaurants Care
Segment Three: Darren Coyle, Proprietor, Fable & Spirit, Newport Beach
Segment Four: Chef Lara Lyn Carter with Skinny Southern Baking Part One
Segment Five: Chef Lara Lyn Carter with Skinny Southern Baking Part Two
Segment Six: Huntington Meats & Farmers Market Poultry’s Holiday Kids Pajama Drive
Segment Seven: Drew Brahs of Harper Barbecue in Costa Mesa
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 305, January 5, 2019: Jon Escobedo, Head Butcher, Huntington Meats & Sausages, Original Farmers Market, Los Angeles

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John EscobedoEstablished in 1986, Huntington Meats & Sausages located at the Original Farmers Market is a true old fashion butcher shop offering traditional roasts, steaks, chops, a variety of house made sausages and much more.

On Saturday, January 12th Huntington Meats is joining forces with Trojan Grill Barbeque Catering to host an over-the-top BBQ lunch event for 300 men, women and children residing at the Union Rescue Mission in Downtown Los Angeles.

The lunch will feature a custom built Tomahawk Crown Roast weighing over 80 lbs. and a 70 lbs. Steamship Round Roast both created by Huntington Meats head butcher Jon Escobedo. Due to the size of the roasts, smoking and grilling will begin the day prior with the Tomahawk Roast going on the grill on the roof at 4:00 a.m. the morning of the event.

Owned and operated by Jim Cascone since 2000, Huntington Meats proudly offers the finest quality product at reasonable prices presented with friendly service.

Huntington Mears is also the proud purveyor of Chef Nancy Silverton’s (Osteria Mozza) “Burger Blend” meat for her signature hamburgers.

Huntington Meats head butcher, Jon Escobedo, is our guest.

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Show 176, June 18, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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Happy Father’s Day to all of our listening Dads! You really deserve some extra credit, too…

Now an appetizing preview of Saturday’s tantalizing show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

Chef Maeve Rochford is the proprietress of the ever-popular Sugar & Scribe Bakery Café in La Jolla. She is also the winner of Food Network’s “Holiday Baking Championship” and the cool $50,000 cash prize. Chef Maeve is our guest.

It’s a good sign of the times. The old-fashioned, full-service, neighborhood butcher shop is back in fashion. This is where you can source the exact cut of meat or poultry that you need and get expert advice from a master butcher who also knows how to prepare and cook everything they sell. What a concept. Master butcher Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry at The Original Farmers Market at Third & Fairfax in Los Angeles brings us up-to-date.

One of the most personal wineries and tasting rooms operating in Santa Barbara County as part of the Urban Wine Trail is former race car driver’s Jamie Slone’s, Jamie Slone Wines. They specialize in limited production, premium wines from the best vineyards of Santa Barbara County, featuring red blends, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and more. We’ll meet him.

Last year celebrated the 50th anniversary of the iconic Five Crowns in Corona del Mar. It also marked the start of the just-completed revitalization which includes a new look for The Greenhouse room and the addition of the new Cooper’s Bar. Overseeing the renovations with great care is our guest, Jim Colombo, the General Manager of Five Crowns (who is also a skilled chef by training).

James Republic, under the culinary direction of Chef David MacLennan and Proprietor / Chef Dean James Max, sets the standard for unpretentious fine dining with imagination in Long Beach. Their popular Summer Dinner Bell Supper Series showcasing the fresh products of local farmers kicks off on Sunday, June 26th. Chef David pops out of the kitchen to provide us with the fresh-from-the-field details.

Our resident wine authority, Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange, is just back from a visit (and many tastings) to a couple of Australia’s premier wine producing areas. We’ll get the delightfully quaffable highlights…Cheers.

Chef Andrew Gruel is in Manhattan this week exhibiting at the International Franchise Expo at Javits Center. We’ll pull him away from the action on the show floor for a chat. He’ll also talk about his debut experience at last Saturday’s Tacolandia on Los Angeles’ historic Olvera Street.

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

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Show 176, June 18, 2016: Jim Cascone, Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry, Los Angeles

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Jim CasconeIt’s a good sign of the times. The old-fashioned, full-service, neighborhood butcher shop is back in fashion. This is where you can source the exact cut of meat or poultry that you need and get expert advice from a master butcher who also knows how to prepare and cook everything they sell. What a concept.

Master butcher Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry at The Original Farmers Market at Third & Fairfax in Los Angeles brings us up-to-date.

Located at the Farmer’s Market at 3rd and Fairfax since 1986, Huntington Meats is proud to offer the finest quality meats and sausages.

“A true old-fashioned butcher shop, Huntington Meats offers traditional roasts, steaks, chops, ground beef and much more. You’ll discover an astonishing selection of sausages here (Cajun, three-cheese, chicken sausage, Italian from mild to Wow! and many more). For parties, select a variety to barbecue so everyone can have a taste! Huntington is also one of the city’s exclusive purveyors of Harris Ranch meats.”

They also offer educational classes.

Find them at Stall 350.

Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats has also taken flight with the experts at Farmers Market Poultry. The chicken here is more flavorful than any found on freezer shelves in chain stores, the turkey comes from several exceptional purveyors (try the ground turkey as an outstanding substitute for ground beef), and fresh eggs and exotic fowl are also readily available. Find them at Stall 216.

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June 18: Maeve Rochford, Huntington Meats, Jamie Slone Wines, Five Crowns, James Republic, Wine Exchange, Andrew Gruel

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Maeve Rochford, Sugar and Scribe, La Jolla, CA
Segment Three: Jim Cascone, Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry, Los Angeles
Segment Four: Jamie Slone Wines, El Paseo, Santa Barbara
Segment Five: Jim Colombo, General Manager, Five Crowns, Corona del Mar
Segment Six: Executive Chef Dave MacLennan, James Republic, Long Beach
Segment Seven: Kyle Meyer, Wine Exchange, Tasting in Australia’s Top Three Wine Regions
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group, Huntington Beach

Happy Father’s Day to all of our listening Dads! You deserve some credit, too…

Now an appetizing preview of Saturday’s tantalizing show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

Chef Maeve Rochford is the proprietress of the ever-popular Sugar & Scribe Bakery Café in La Jolla. She is also the winner of Food Network’s “Holiday Baking Championship” and the cool $50,000 cash prize. Chef Maeve is our guest.

It’s a good sign of the times. The old-fashioned, full-service, neighborhood butcher shop is back in fashion. This is where you can source the exact cut of meat or poultry that you need and get expert advice from a master butcher who also knows how to prepare and cook everything they sell. What a concept. Master butcher Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry at The Original Farmers Market at Third & Fairfax in Los Angeles brings us up-to-date.

One of the most personal wineries and tasting rooms operating in Santa Barbara County as part of the Urban Wine Trail is former race car driver’s Jamie Slone’s, Jamie Slone Wines. They specialize in limited production, premium wines from the best vineyards of Santa Barbara County, featuring red blends, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and more. We’ll meet him.

Last year celebrated the 50th anniversary of the iconic Five Crowns in Corona del Mar. It also marked the start of the just-completed revitalization which includes a new look for The Greenhouse room and the addition of the new Cooper’s Bar. Overseeing the renovations with great care is our guest, Jim Colombo, the General Manager of Five Crowns (who is also a skilled chef by training).

James Republic, under the culinary direction of Chef David MacLennan and Proprietor / Chef Dean James Max, sets the standard for unpretentious fine dining with imagination in Long Beach. Their popular Summer Dinner Bell Supper Series showcasing the fresh products of local farmers kicks off on Sunday, June 26th. Chef David pops out of the kitchen to provide us with the fresh-from-the-field details.

Our resident wine authority, Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange, is just back from a visit (and many tastings) to a couple of Australia’s premier wine producing areas. We’ll get the delightfully quaffable highlights…Cheers.

Chef Andrew Gruel is in Manhattan this week exhibiting at the International Franchise Expo at Javits Center. We’ll pull him away from the action on the show floor for a chat. He’ll also talk about his debut experience at last Saturday’s Tacolandia on Los Angeles’ historic Olvera Street.

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

“Be Sweet. Be Tempted.”

Mauve RochfordChef Maeve Rochford is the proprietress of the ever-popular Sugar & Scribe Bakery Café in La Jolla. She is also the winner of Food Network’s “Holiday Baking Championship” and the cool $50,000 cash prize. Chef Maeve is our guest.

“Born an only child in Cincinnati, Ohio to an Irish-born mother and third generation German Father, Maeve’s life was destined to be greatly influenced by food! She attended an all-girls high school, St. Ursula Academy, and rowed her way into college. After graduating from Boston University on a rowing scholarship, Maeve started her career quest!”

“After college Maeve struggled to settle on a direction. She checked out a few career paths in NYC and then spent several months in South Africa. While cooking dinner for the family she was living with in Walvis Bay, it finally became clear: “I’M A CHEF!” Looking back, Maeve realized she had been on this path since she was two. She moved to Los Angeles and landed her first job as a private chef. It was Maeve’s husband’s career that brought her to San Diego.”

“With the move, Maeve started all over again, but this time she followed her passion, threw caution to the wind, and in the middle of a major recession, opened Sugar and Scribe, a small upscale bakery in Pacific Beach on a shoestring budget. Sugar and Scribe launched in November 2010. The current Sugar and Scribe location opened in La Jolla in February of 2015.”

“Maeve’s love of food and the memories that great foods inspire drive her to create morsels of excellence every day. “I think my keen understanding of flavor combinations comes from mixing leftovers, never being afraid of food and loving the experience of cooking. When I’m happy, I eat. When I’m sad, I eat. When I’m angry, I eat. So it’s important to have great food for every emotion!””

Jim CasconeIt’s a good sign of the times. The old-fashioned, full-service, neighborhood butcher shop is back in fashion. This is where you can source the exact cut of meat or poultry that you need and get expert advice from a master butcher who also knows how to prepare and cook everything they sell. What a concept.

Master butcher Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry at The Original Farmers Market at Third & Fairfax in Los Angeles brings us up-to-date.

Located at the Farmer’s Market at 3rd and Fairfax since 1986, Huntington Meats is proud to offer the finest quality meats and sausages.

“A true old-fashioned butcher shop, Huntington Meats offers traditional roasts, steaks, chops, ground beef and much more. You’ll discover an astonishing selection of sausages here (Cajun, three-cheese, chicken sausage, Italian from mild to Wow! and many more). For parties, select a variety to barbecue so everyone can have a taste! Huntington is also one of the city’s exclusive purveyors of Harris Ranch meats.”

They also offer educational classes.

Find them at Stall 350.

Jim Cascone of Huntington Meats has also taken flight with the experts at Farmers Market Poultry. The chicken here is more flavorful than any found on freezer shelves in chain stores, the turkey comes from several exceptional purveyors (try the ground turkey as an outstanding substitute for ground beef), and fresh eggs and exotic fowl are also readily available. Find them at Stall 216.

Jamie SloneOne of the most personal wineries and tasting rooms operating in Santa Barbara County as part of the Urban Wine Trail is former race car driver’s Jamie Slone’s, Jamie Slone Wines. The destination Tasting Room is located in Downtown Santa Barbara’s Wine Collection of El Paseo. This is at Historic El Paseo in The Presidio neighborhood.

They specialize in limited production, premium wines from the best vineyards of Santa Barbara County, featuring red blends, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and more. We’ll meet him.

“At Jamie Slone Wines we are committed to providing an Outstanding Santa Barbara County Wine Experience. This begins with the goal of producing wines of balance and character that are handcrafted, personal and full of the obsession we’ve come to be known for, the Terroir of Santa Barbara County! Our focus is exclusively on exceptional vineyard sites in Santa Barbara County.”

“Santa Barbara County is truly Diversity Perfected with it’s wonderful blend of microclimates, each defined by unique soils that run the list from chirt and limestone to ancient beach and diatomaceous earth. Couple that with transverse mountain ranges that have cool and moderate temperatures toward the west and warm daytimes and cold nights to the east and the results are complex wines full of acids, tannins, and a myriad of flavors. We are about making authentic and compelling wine from special vineyard sites with subtle nuances and characteristics that tell a particular wine’s story.”

“We are our toughest critic and our micro boutique production level means we can pay attention to the details, producing wines that we personally enjoy, not only approachable today but wines that will age for a long time to come.”

Jim ColomboLast year celebrated the 50th anniversary of the iconic Five Crowns in Corona del Mar. It also marked the start of the just-completed revitalization which includes a new look for The Greenhouse room and the addition of the new Cooper’s Bar.

Overseeing the renovations with great care at every step of the way is our guest, Jim Colombo, the General Manager of Five Crowns (who is also a skilled chef by training).

“We’ve invigorated the Five Crowns experience,” said Ryan O’Melveny Wilson, Executive Chef and Vice President. “From our updated sign out front, to refreshed dining rooms, the new bar and a menu that honors our classics and highlights seasonality, we’re setting the table for the next 50 years.”

Complementing the renovation, Five Crowns’ forward-looking menu balances innovative seasonality with the classic dishes that have made the restaurant a landmark. Guests can now enjoy greater flexibility by pairing seasonal small plates with a shared main dish or a heritage entrée from the Crown Classics section.

“The new menu offers favorites from our 50-year menu archives in addition to a daily selection of fresh fish, hand cut pasta and interesting wines,” commented Wilson. “There is something for every discerning palate, long-time guest or first time Five Crowns diner.”

Dave MaclennanJames Republic under the culinary direction of Chef David MacLennan and Proprietor / Chef Dean James Max sets the standard for unpretentious fine dining with imagination in Long Beach.

Their popular Summer Dinner Bell Supper Series showcasing the fresh products of local farmers kicks off on Sunday, June 26th. Chef David pops out of the kitchen to provide us with all the fresh-from-the-field details.

“Join our table as we share passion for food, combining new and traditional flavors, fresh ingredients and all naturally raised meats, poultry and seafood during our celebration of spring. We’ll be spending Sunday morning at the Long Beach Farmers Market, finding the best in seasonality and locality, coming back to our kitchen to prepare an inspired family style dinner.”

“Our market inspired reception includes seasonal cocktails and canapes beginning at 4:30 pm, followed by dinner from 5 pm to 7 pm. Each delicious course features three distinct dishes served in a communal setting.”

“Our local farmers will be dining with us and be available for questions and discussing what they do best!”

Kyle Meyer of Wine ExchangeOur resident wine authority, Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange, is just back from a visit (and many tastings) to a couple of Australia’s premier wine producing areas. We’ll get the delightfully quaffable highlights…

On Kyle’s ambitious down under trek were the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale in South Australia and Margaret River in Western Australia.

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosChef Andrew Gruel is in Manhattan this week exhibiting at the International Franchise Expo at Javits Center. We’ll pull him away from the action on the show floor for a chat.

He’ll also talk about his debut experience at last Saturday’s Tacolandia on Los Angeles’ historic Olvera Street. It was super busy…

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Maeve Rochford, Sugar and Scribe, La Jolla, CA
Segment Three: Jim Cascone, Huntington Meats and Farmers Market Poultry, Los Angeles
Segment Four: Jamie Slone Wines, El Paseo, Santa Barbara
Segment Five: Jim Colombo, General Manager, Five Crowns, Corona del Mar
Segment Six: Executive Chef Dave MacLennan, James Republic, Long Beach
Segment Seven: Kyle Meyer, Wine Exchange, Tasting in Australia’s Top Three Wine Regions
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group, Huntington Beach