Show 697, September 19, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on September 21, 2026 by Adam Bell

Santa Monica’s iconic seafood destination, The Lobster, is celebrating their 27th Anniversary this year. A seafood restaurant has been in this original location for over 100 years. “This legendary seafood restaurant is an internationally recognized dining destination that is as much a part of Santa Monica’s history as it’s neighbor, the Santa Monica Pier. Situated at the intersection of Route 66 and the Pacific Ocean, The Lobster has been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors for decades, offering not only mesmerizing views of the Santa Monica Pier and Malibu coastline but also an award-winning seafood menu under the masterful guidance of acclaimed Chef Govind Armstrong. With Armstrong at the helm, The Lobster is Michelin recognized, a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence.” Chef Govind Armstrong takes a break from shucking oysters to join us.

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser are responsible for the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.” The Wife & the Somm in Glassell Park is one of the Friday night participating restaurants in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Co-owner, Wife, and Pastry Chef Christy Lucchese joins us with rolling pin in hand.

Respected winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine Co. is one of the participating boutique wineries of note in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Warson Wine is pouring both nights. Paul joins us to pop the cork on all this is Warson Wine.

“Orange County’s favorite celebration of premium spirits is back — and this year, whiskey is sharing the spotlight. The OC Whiskey Festival (& More) returns to The Park in Irvine on Thursday, October 1, bringing together an impressive collection of spirit brands, celebrated local restaurants and interactive experiences for an unforgettable evening. While whiskey remains at the heart of the festival, this year’s expanded event brings spirits of all kinds. Guests will have the opportunity to sample tequila, vodka, gin and more from brands including Teremana Tequila, Ketel One Vodka, Grey Goose Vodka, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Nolet’s Gin, with additional brands continuing to join the lineup.” Chris Daily, Beverage Director and Owner of Daily Dose Hospitality and Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer and Co-Founder of Daily Dose are our in-studio guides to The OC Whiskey Festival.

“The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America® presented by American Express and Resy brings together chefs, special guests, and diners from across the country to celebrate the local independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. The walk-around tasting at The LINE LA on Tuesday evening, October 6th will be an exciting gathering of chefs from the Los Angeles culinary community, with food stations hosted by TasteTwenty chefs Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle of Little Fish Melrose Hill, and many other local notable chefs. Each station will reflect the chef’s signature style and highlight the uniqueness of their restaurant and the Los Angeles culinary community. The tasting will also have beverage stations and other activations from James Beard’s national and local sponsors.” Melissa’s is providing all the fresh produce. Celebrity Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill), a James Beard Foundation Trustee, joins us with the salivating details of Taste America: Los Angeles.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Today Chef Andrew previews the upcoming California Spiny Lobster Season. Spiny’s have a different taste and texture profile from the revered Maine variety. Both, of course, are crave-worthy. That’s always some good eating!
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 697, September 19, 2026: Executive Chef Govind Armstrong, The Lobster, Santa Monica

Posted on September 21, 2026 by Adam Bell

Santa Monica’s iconic seafood destination, The Lobster, is celebrating their 27^th Anniversary this year. “A seafood restaurant has been in this original location for over 100 years. This legendary seafood spot is an internationally recognized dining destination that is as much a part of Santa Monica’s history as it’s next-door neighbor, the Santa Monica Pier.”

“Situated at the intersection of Route 66 and the Pacific Ocean, The Lobster has been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors for decades, offering not only mesmerizing views of the Santa Monica Pier and Malibu coastline but also an award-winning seafood menu under the masterful guidance of acclaimed Chef Govind Armstrong. With Armstrong at the helm, The Lobster is Michelin recognized, a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence.”

“At the core of its menu, fresh lobster is flown in directly from Maine six days a week with no middleman, ensuring patrons enjoy the freshest catch. The menu features some of Los Angeles’ finest California cuisine, including classic menu favorites that Chef Armstrong has added his own special touch, such as: crispy calamari and prawns with garlic anchovy aioli, ponzu and sweet chili sauce; Summer Corn & Lobster Chowder with Smoked Bacon & Croutons; steamed Maine Lobster, with Gloria’s Blue Lake green beans, Weiser Farms heirloom Potatoes and drawn butter; and grilled Maine lobster with fresh herbs, lemon and drawn garlic butter.” For hot sauce fans be sure to try the flavorful house-prepared version that comes with the raw oysters.

Happy Hour daily from 3 to 6:00 p.m. and all-day on Friday.

Chef Govind Armstrong takes a break from shucking oysters to join us.

Show 697, September 19, 2026: “Ask the Chef” with Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House and Show Co-host

Posted on September 21, 2026 by Adam Bell

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Calico Fish House

Today Chef Andrew previews the upcoming California Spiny Lobster Season. There is a difference in flavor and texture from the Maine variety. Both are great examples of the joy of fresh domestic seafood properly prepared. Spiny’s are incredible split in half and grilled on an open flame. That’s definitely some good eating!

Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook is available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.

September 19: The Lobster, Manhattan Beach Food + Wine with Wife and the Somm & Warson Wine, OC Whiskey Festival, Taste America with Mary Sue Milliken

Posted on September 17, 2026 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: The Lobster, Wife and the Somm
Hour Two: Warson Wine Co., OC Whiskey Festival, Mary Sue Milliken, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Executive Chef Govind Armstrong, The Lobster, Santa Monica
Segment Four: Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival Preview with Christy Lucchese of Wife and The Somm
Segment Five: 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Preview with Winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine Co.
Segment Six: The OC Whiskey Festival with Chris Daily and Leslie Nguyen, Daily Dose Hospitality
Segment Seven: The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America: Los Angeles Preview with Mary Sue Milliken, James Beasrd Foundation Trustee
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House and Show Co-host

Santa Monica’s iconic seafood destination, The Lobster, is celebrating their 27^th Anniversary this year. A seafood restaurant has been in this original location for over 100 years. “This legendary seafood restaurant is an internationally recognized dining destination that is as much a part of Santa Monica’s history as it’s neighbor, the Santa Monica Pier. Situated at the intersection of Route 66 and the Pacific Ocean, The Lobster has been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors for decades, offering not only mesmerizing views of the Santa Monica Pier and Malibu coastline but also an award-winning seafood menu under the masterful guidance of acclaimed Chef Govind Armstrong. With Armstrong at the helm, The Lobster is Michelin recognized, a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence.” Chef Govind Armstrong takes a break from shucking oysters to join us.

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser are responsible for the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.” The Wife & the Somm is one of the Friday night participating restaurants in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Co-owner, Wife, and Pastry Chef Christy Lucchese joins us with rolling pin in hand.

Respected winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine is one of the participating boutique wineries of note in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Paul joins us to pop the cork on all this is Warson Wine.

“Orange County’s favorite celebration of premium spirits is back—and this year, whiskey is sharing the spotlight. The OC Whiskey Festival (& More) returns to The Park in Irvine on Thursday, October 1, bringing together an impressive collection of spirit brands, celebrated local restaurants and interactive experiences for an unforgettable evening. While whiskey remains at the heart of the festival, this year’s expanded event brings spirits of all kinds. Guests will have the opportunity to sample tequila, vodka, gin and more from brands including Teremana Tequila, Ketel One Vodka, Grey Goose Vodka, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Nolet’s Gin, with additional brands continuing to join the lineup.” Chris Daily, Beverage Director and Owner of Daily Dose Hospitality and Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer and Co-Founder of Daily Dose are our guides to The OC Whiskey Festival.

“The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America® presented by American Express and Resy brings together chefs, special guests, and diners from across the country to celebrate the local independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. The walk-around tasting at The LINE LA on Tuesday evening, October 6^th will be an exciting gathering of chefs from the Los Angeles culinary community, with food stations hosted by TasteTwenty chefs Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle of Little Fish Melrose Hill, and many other local notable chefs. Each station will reflect the chef’s signature style and highlight the uniqueness of their restaurant and the Los Angeles culinary community. The tasting will also have beverage stations and other activations from James Beard’s national and local sponsors.” Melissa’s is providing all the fresh produce. Celebrity Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill, Alice B.), a James Beard Foundation Trustee, joins us with the details of Taste America: Los Angeles.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Today Chef Andrew previews the upcoming California Spiny Lobster Season. That’s some good eating!

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

Happy Hour daily from 3 to 6:00 p.m. and all-day on Friday.

Chef Govind Armstrong takes a break from shucking oysters to join us.

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser have orchestrated the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”

“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”

“Tickets are on sale now for the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine and guests are encouraged to purchase early and begin planning an unforgettable weekend of world-class culinary experiences, exceptional wines and spirits, luxury accommodations, and the relaxed sophistication of beautiful Manhattan Beach. Exclusive Hotel Packages at westdrift Manhattan Beach are also available, inviting guests to stay, sip, savor, and experience Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival all weekend long.”

The Wife & the Somm is one of the Friday night participating restaurants in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Co-owner, Wife, and Pastry Chef Christy Lucchese joins us with her rolling pin in hand.

Winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine is one of the participating wineries in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. He’s there pouring both nights. Paul joins us to pop the cork on all this is Warson Wine.

“Paul Warson grew up in Los Angeles, attended UC Davis where he eventually studied Fermentation Science. Before his final year he worked at a sparkling winery in Carneros when he decided he would spend his career doing what he did for his summer vacation. Upon completion of his degree, he was invited back to see, “the other side of things.””

“Warson Wine Company started as a need Paul felt he had to fulfill. An inner call, to again make wine on his terms, for people to enjoy, but now with the fruit he chooses. There’s so much on the horizon for Warson Wine Company and you can taste for yourself at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.”

“While whiskey remains at the heart of the festival, this year’s expanded event brings spirits of all kinds. Guests will have the opportunity to sample tequila, vodka, gin and more from brands including Teremana Tequila, Ketel One Vodka, Grey Goose Vodka, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Nolet’s Gin, with additional brands continuing to join the lineup.”

“Whiskey lovers can look forward to pours from an outstanding collection of distilleries and labels, including Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery, WhistlePig Whiskey, Angel’s Envy Kentucky Bourbon, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester and Jim Beam, among many others.”

“Complementing the spirit tastings will be culinary samples from a growing lineup of restaurants and local favorites, including Bosscat Kitchen, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, Miss Mini Donuts, BABA G Mediterranean, Il Fornaio, Lola’s by MFK, FARMHOUSE at Roger’s Gardens, Malfi Coffee and 90 Pacifica Restaurant & Wine Bar at DoubleTree by Hilton. More restaurants, distilleries and spirit partners are being added to the bill daily.”

Chris Daily, Beverage Director and Owner of Daily Dose Hospitality and Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer and Co-Founder of Daily Dose are our guides to The OC Whiskey Festival.

Mary Sue Milliken of Border Grill and Socalo

“The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America® presented by American Express and Resy brings together chefs, special guests, and diners from across the country to celebrate the local independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. A cohort of chefs, representing 20 markets across the country and known as the TasteTwenty, will host dinners and walk-around tastings spotlighting the breadth and unity of culinary creativity nationwide.”

“The walk-around tasting at The LINE LA on Tuesday evening, October 6^th will be an exciting gathering of chefs from the Los Angeles culinary community, with food stations hosted by TasteTwenty chefs Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle of Little Fish Melrose Hill, and many other local notable chefs. Each station will reflect the chef’s signature style and highlight the uniqueness of their restaurant and the Los Angeles culinary community. The tasting will also have beverage stations and other activations from the James Beard Foundation’s national and local sponsors.” Melissa’s is providing all the fresh produce.

Celebrity Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill, Alice B.), a James Beard Foundation Trustee, joins us with the details of Taste America: Los Angeles.

Today Chef Andrew previews the upcoming California Spiny Lobster Season. That’s definitely some good eating!

Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook is available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.

Podcasts

Hour One: The Lobster, Wife and the Somm
Hour Two: Warson Wine Co., OC Whiskey Festival, Mary Sue Milliken, Andrew Gruel

Show 592, August 31, 2024: Ask the Chef with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House

Posted on September 3, 2024 by Adam Bell

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

Chef Andrew is a recognized authority on Lobster Rolls. He’s expertly served them by the 100s over the years. Besides the familiar Maine-style there is also the equally delicious Connecticut-style roll. Choose your personal favorite. Let the discussions begin…Chef Andrew has the inspirational overview as well as tips for getting the most meat out of the lobster…

Show 505, December 24, 2022: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef” Part One

Posted on December 26, 2022 by Adam Bell

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.

Chef Andrew looks back at the year’s highs and lows and what’s on the horizon for Hospitality in 2023. First Chef Andrew revisits the plight of Maine Lobstermen and the environmental concern about the diminishing population of the North American Right Whales. What forces are actually to blame? Also time to check back on the status of 3rd Party Delivery Firms serving restaurants.

Show 469, April 9, 2022: Daniel Perez, General Manager, Mason Bar and Kitchen, Arroyo Grande, CA

Posted on April 11, 2022 by Adam Bell

Daniel Lopez of Mason Bar and Kitchen in Arroyo Grande

“The Village of Arroyo Grande’s Mason Bar and Kitchen is a country-chic restaurant with a full bar, 20 beers on tap, 17 wines by the glass, extensive bottle wine list and premium spirits, paired with creative food in a relaxed setting. It’s an inviting restaurant offering farm-fresh local cuisine in a family-friendly environment.”

“For guests seeking a more festive experience, you’ll find their adjacent award-winning bar is the perfect spot to gather with friends and sample an inspired selection of wine, beer, and unique hand-crafted cocktails.” Mason Bar and Kitchen serves Lunch and Dinner 7-days with Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

“Mason sources their food from local, organic farms with a large selection of local artisan products from fresh produce to the highest quality proteins. They are firm in their commitment to always offer the freshest, non-GMO, antibiotic-free, responsibly harvested, and sustainable local organic produce, products, and proteins available.” Dinner menu highlights include Lobster Dogs with cold water lobster tail meat, carnival batter and creole remoulade, and a 14 oz. bone-in Kurobuta Pork Chop. The selection of steaks ranges from an 8 oz. Flat Iron to a 14 oz. Boneless Ribeye.

General Manager Daniel Perez joins us with all the details of what’s on the menu at Mason Bar and Kitchen.

Show 449, October 30, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on October 31, 2021 by Adam Bell

Happy Halloween. As always we’re all “treats” with absolutely no tricks on the “SoCal Restaurant Show.”

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie joins us in-studio talking about her just concluded cruise of the Western Caribbean on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas with a focus on the expansive variety of food & beverage offerings. We’ll also get a tantalizing preview of Anne Marie’s next Voice of OC column which publishes on Thursday, November 4th. Anne Marie profiles local, veteran-owned restaurants in anticipation of Veterans Day including a Long Beach discovery in a bit of an unexpected location.

To the best of our knowledge Ryan Kraemer at The Bungalow Kitchen in Long Beach at 2^nd & PCH is the only Certified Sommelier in Long Beach actually on the floor interacting with guests. He is a Certified Sommelier with over 15 years of experience in hospitality. Ryan’s specialty is creating (in concert with The Bungalow’s culinary team) extraordinary custom food and wine-pairing experiences for his guests at all levels of wine knowledge. Ryan has just returned from St. Louis where he took the intensive, 3-day exam for the Advanced Sommelier designation from the Court of Master Sommeliers. Ryan joins us to uncork that experience and talk about the elevated beverage program at The Bungalow Kitchen.

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. Lobster prices have gone sky high. Chef Andrew provides his informed perspective on this as well as insight on the increases in fresh seafood pricing in general.

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

Show 449, October 30, 2021: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Posted on October 31, 2021 by Adam Bell

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.

Lobster prices have gone sky high. Chef Andrew provides his informed perspective on this as well as insight on the increases in fresh seafood pricing in general. He shares the best value in seafood right now is domestic flash frozen product. It’s almost indistinguishable from fresh product when properly prepared and has the added benefit of being sustainable.

October 30: Anne Marie Panoringan, Michelle Dudash, Bungalow Kitchen

Posted on October 28, 2021 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anne Marie Panoringan, Food Columnist, Voice of OC Part One
Segment Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Food Columnist, Voice of OC Part Two
Segment Four: Clean Eating Kitchen’s Michelle Dudash, Registered Dietarian Nutritionist – The Low-Carb Mediterranean Cookbook Part One
Segment Five: Clean Eating Kitchen’s Michelle Dudash, Registered Dietarian Nutritionist – The Low-Carb Mediterranean Cookbook Part Two
Segment Six: Ryan Kraemer, Sommelier, The Bungalow Kitchen, Long Beach Part One
Segment Seven: Ryan Kraemer, Sommelier, The Bungalow Kitchen, Long Beach Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

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

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie joins us in-studio talking about her just concluded cruise of the Western Caribbean on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas with a focus on the expansive variety of food & beverage offerings. She also talks about the disappearing Food Trucks in the OC and the impact of the recent oil pipeline leak on sourcing local seafood. We’ll lastly get a tantalizing preview of Anne Marie’s next Voice of OC column which publishes on Thursday, November 4th. Anne Marie profiles local, veteran-owned restaurants in anticipation of Veterans Day.

“The Mediterranean diet holds the top rank for being easy to follow and delivering proven results for improved heart health and blood sugar management, decreased risk of cancer, and increased longevity. This cookbook combines the best aspects of the Mediterranean diet with more than 100 nutritious recipes that help the whole family eat clean including 60 meals that can be prepared in 30-minutes or less.” Michelle Dudash is our guest with tongs at the ready.

To the best of our knowledge Ryan Kraemer at The Bungalow Kitchen in Long Beach at 2^nd & PCH is the only Certified Sommelier in Long Beach actually on the floor interacting with guests. He is a Certified Sommelier with over 15 years of experience in hospitality. Ryan’s specialty is creating (in concert with The Bungalow’s culinary team) extraordinary custom food and wine-pairing experiences for his guests at all levels of wine knowledge. Ryan has just returned from St. Louis where he took the intensive, 3-day exam for the Advanced Sommelier designation from the Court of Master Sommeliers. Ryan joins us to uncork that experience and talk about the elevated beverage program at The Bungalow Kitchen.

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

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends.

Anne Marie joins us in-studio talking about her just concluded cruise of the Western Caribbean on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas with a focus on the expansive variety of food & beverage offerings. She also talks about the disappearing Food Trucks in the OC and the impact of the recent oil pipeline leak on sourcing local seafood.

We’ll lastly get a tantalizing preview of Anne Marie’s next Voice of OC column which publishes on Thursday, November 4th. Anne Marie profiles local, veteran-owned restaurants in anticipation of Veterans Day.

“From the creator of Clean Eating Kitchen, Registered Dietarian Nutritionist Michelle Dudash presents The Low-Carb Mediterranean Cookbook with simple, plant-focused recipes for lifelong health.”

“The Mediterranean diet holds the top rank for being easy to follow and delivering proven results for improved heart health and blood sugar management, decreased risk of cancer, and increased longevity. This cookbook combines the best aspects of the Mediterranean diet with more than 100 nutritious recipes that help the whole family eat clean including 60 meals that can be prepared in 30-minutes or less.”

“Clean Eating Kitchen: The Low-Carb Mediterranean Cookbook delivers the benefits of the Mediterranean diet with fewer carbs, satisfying a mostly plant- and seafood-based regimen that is higher in protein and good fats. This book includes the healthiest, most crave-worthy ingredients and flavors of the Mediterranean diet that are sure to induce wanderlust. Included are satisfying dishes ranging from Creamy Spinach Pie with Almond Flour Crust to Sheet Pan Chickpea and Broccoli Dinner.”

“With low-carb and low-sugar recipes packed with protein, you and your family can stay healthy by following one of the best eating lifestyles in the world. Enjoy simple, wholesome meals that leave everyone around the table happy and satisfied with the Clean Eating Kitchen: The Low-Carb Mediterranean Diet Cookbook.”

Michelle Dudash joins us with us with tongs at the ready.

Ryan has just returned from St. Louis where he took the intensive 3-day exam for the Advanced Sommelier designation from the Court of Master Sommeliers. Ryan joins us to uncork that experience and talk about the serious beverage program at The Bungalow Kitchen.

“The Bungalow Kitchen brings a chic and bohemian atmosphere, California Cuisine heavily inspired by local, seasonal ingredients, a classic cocktail program, and an expansive wine list to an unbeatable marina waterfront destination. Menu highlights include pristine shellfish served either ice-cold or hot charcoal-grilled; garden “punch” bowl, featuring crunchy, ice-cold garden vegetables served with Gazpacho shooters and three dipping sauces: Green Goddess, romesco and lemon-poppyseed; a comforting Short Rib ‘Pop-Tart’ topped with crispy shallots and drizzled with sauce bordelaise; signature house-made pizzas such as the Carbonara Pizza white pie with Crispy Guanciale, Yukon Gold potatoes, Pecorino Romano and drizzled with a poached farm egg; and Chef Michael Mina’s signature decadent Lobster Pot Pie featuring a whole Maine lobster, truffle-lobster bisque and root vegetables served tableside.”

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.

Lobster prices have gone sky high. Chef Andrew provides his informed perspective on this unfortunate development as well as insight on the increases in fresh seafood pricing in general.