Show 554, December 2, 2023: 3rd Annual Long Beach International Tamale Festival

Long Beach promoter Sal Flores

“The 3rd Annual Long Beach International Tamales Festival will take place December 9, 2023. The wildly popular holiday event will take place at Long Beach City College PCH campus located at 1350 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, 1:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. and will include music, food, drinks, performances, Best Homemade Tamale Contest and more.

“Organized by Long Beach Home + Living, a local lifestyle multimedia outlet, the event is devoted to celebrating the diverse Tamale-making restaurants, pop-ups and food trucks around Long Beach. The event is designed to be a medium to bring everyone to the table, from all walks of life, to showcase the city’s diverse Latin food scene featuring holiday tamales.”

“As somebody who grew up with this holiday tradition, I remember making tamales with my grandma and my tias, sharing great family stories, going to la plaza and seeing all the Christmas decorations, the folklorico dancers, the music, but best of all; eating delicious tamales on Christmas Eve together as a family,” stated co-organizer Sal Flores. “I want people to feel right at home, to embrace the Latino culture and history, while introducing what may be a new holiday tradition to people from different backgrounds.” Sal Flores joins us with a plate of freshly steamed traditional tamales in hand.

Show 428, June 5, 2021: Liz Ostoich, Owner, Farm, La Plaza, Palm Springs Part Two

Liz Ostoich of Farm and Tac/Quila in Palm Springs

FARM (reconceived in 2016 under new ownership) is a traditional Provencial-style restaurant in downtown Palm Springs in the historic Plaza, tucked away from traffic. The culinary team has taken care to create a menu comprised of traditional European dishes, brimming with locally sourced produce and artisanal meats. In true Provencial-style, the weekly changing prix fixe dinner menu (available Friday through Tuesday) is served at a relaxed pace so you may enjoy your evening at Farm.” It’s three courses (with selections in each course) plus an Amuse Bouche and a refreshing Palate Cleanser presented before the Entree. Reservations are needed for Dinner.

Breakfast and Lunch with an a la care menu are offered daily on a walk-in basis. Think an extensive selection of Sweet & Savory Crepes, Omelettes, Brioche French Toast, Greenery and Sandwiches.

“The experience at Farm is like being transported to the South of France. When you come and dine with us, you can expect an extraordinary sensory experience; from our garden-like patio seating, our beautiful bouquet of floral landscaping, to our incredible authentic menu comprised of the freshest ingredients, you will be wowed at every turn.”

“Enjoy a meal on our patio and take in the ambiance of being out of the city. We prepare all our items as you order. No freezers, no microwave, and our kitchen staff works hard to prepare each dish with the utmost care!”

Owner Liz Ostoich typically journeys to France twice a year for menu inspiration.

Liz also owns (with her husband Mark) the nearby Tac/Quila. It’s their take on elevated Jalisco style cuisine with specialty tequilas and mezcals.

Owner Liz Ostoich continues with us.

Show 426, May 22, 2021: Winemaker Mark Cargasacchi, Jalama Wines, Lompoc

Mark Cargasacchi of Jalama Wines

“The Jalama Wines Tasting Room located in the historic La Plaza building in downtown Palm Springs offers a truly authentic tasting opportunity where guests experience the casual and inviting atmosphere of California’s Central Coast wine country. The Jalama Wines vineyards are located in the Santa Ynez Valley of Santa Barbara County.”

“Jalama Wines’ artisan winery produces less than 1,000 cases of wine yearly, including estate Pinot Noir, sourced Syrah, Grenache, and Petite Sirah, and several Rhone blends.” The two estate vineyards are Cargasacchi Vineyard – Sta. Rita Hills and Jalama Vineyard – Santa Barbara County.

“The Palm Springs Tasting Room is the first and only one of its kind in the area. It’s a welcoming spot for anyone who enjoys exceptional wine. You’re likely to meet winemaker Mark Cargasacchi there and get a chance to learn what makes Jalama Wines so special.” The Tasting Room is open Friday through Sunday from 12 Noon to 5:00 p.m.

Winemaker Mark Cargasacchi joins us to pull the cork on Jalama Wines.