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

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: The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America: Los Angeles Preview with Mary Sue Milliken, James Beard Foundation Trustee

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 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 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.

A Border Grill serving three meals a day will debut next month at the newly renovated and greatly expanded Hollywood Burbank Airport.

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

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 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 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 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, 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!

Chef Govind Armstrong of the Lobster

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 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.”

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.

Christy Luchesse of Wife and the Somm

“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.

Paul Warson of Warson Wine Company

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.”

Leslie Nguyen of Daily Dose Hospitally

“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.”

“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 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 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.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Calico Fish House

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 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

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

Show 629, May 31, 2025: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week with Restaurateur & Chef Susan Feniger of Alice B.

Susan Feniger of Socalo and Border Grill

“Food lovers are invited to savor the very best of the region as Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week returns from May 30 to June 8, 2025. Presented by Visit Greater Palm Springs, this highly anticipated ten-day event celebrates the area’s culinary scene, welcoming both locals and visitors to explore outstanding dining experiences across the Coachella Valley. Restaurant Week features special prix fixe menus and exclusive offerings from a wide range of participating establishments.”

“Restaurant Week is truly a showcase of our region’s remarkable hospitality and ever-evolving dining landscape,” said Colleen Pace, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at Visit Greater Palm Springs. “Year after year, our community comes together to celebrate local flavors, connect over shared meals, and support our talented culinary and hospitality professionals. We invite everyone to discover new favorites, revisit cherished classics, and experience the incredible spirit of Greater Palm Springs through Restaurant Week.”

“Diners can enjoy specially curated prix fixe lunch menus priced at $15, $25, or $35, and dinner menus at $29, $39, $49, or $59. Select restaurants will also offer distinctive Restaurant Week specials. For a complete list of participants, menu previews, and to make reservations, visit Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week. In addition to showcasing delicious food, Restaurant Week gives back to the community. For every reservation made through their website, $1 will be donated to FIND Food Bank, helping to fight hunger throughout the Coachella Valley.”

Alice B. in Palm Springs is one of the dozens of participating restaurants. It’s an inspired menu blending Southern California’s seasonal bounty with the lively flavors of the Mediterranean, brought to life by James Beard and Julia Child award-winning chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. They are particularly famous for their Instagrammable Cornmeal Cheddar Drop Biscuits with cardamom honey butter. Susan Feniger is our guest to preview Alice B.’s menu for Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week.

Show 582, June 15, 2024: Chef Susan Feniger – Alice B. in Palm Springs

Susan Feniger of Socalo and Border Grill

“The newly launched Alice B. is a unique dining destination from James Beard and Julia Child award-winning chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill and Socolo) located adjacent to downtown Palm Springs. The restaurant and bar is tucked inside the lobby of Living Out, a luxury resort-style LGBTQ+ community surrounded by spectacular desert and mountain views.”

“Combining Southern California’s incredible seasonal bounty with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, the culinary vision is a collaborative effort between Feniger, Milliken, and acclaimed Executive Chef Lance Velasquez.”

“Alice B.’s dinner and brunch menus evolve frequently with the seasons. Guests can also visit the bar for seasonal bites, classic cocktails or a glass of wine with live piano music on select evenings.”

“Inspired by the extraordinary life of Alice B. Toklas and her life partner Gertrude Stein, the restaurant establishes a welcoming space where culinary excellence, art, and community converge. The inviting bar and dining room reference the iconic mid-century modern style Palm Springs is famous for.”

Not to be missed are the signature Cornmeal Cheddar Drop Biscuits with Cardamom honey!

Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with a plate of Cornmeal Cheddar Drop Biscuits at the ready.

Show 564, February 10, 2024: Journalist Farley Elliott, SF Gate, Southern California Bureau Chief Part One

Farley Elliott at the KLAA Studios

We’re delighted to welcome food journalist Farley Elliott back to the show. Farley Elliott is the new SoCal Bureau Chief for SFGATE. Previously, he was the Senior Editor for Eater Los Angeles, covering food and culture around LA, and his work has also appeared in print, film, and television. He’s also the author of Los Angeles Street Food: A History From Tamaleros to Taco Trucks, a book about the long, winding saga of street food in Los Angeles.

Farley joins us to chat about his new beat and provide a preview of what’s soon to come.Along the way he’ll discuss an unusual form of Street Art in Venice with a social message which has attracted national attention and his recent visit to greater Palm Springs where (among other activities) he interviewed Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger at their new restaurant, Alice B. located in Downtown Palm Springs.

“Launched in 1994, SFGATE.com was one of the first large-market media sites in the world and served as the exclusive digital home of the San Francisco Chronicle for 19 years. The site, which was initially known as The Gate until officially becoming SFGATE in 1998, was co-founded by Allen Weiner and John Coate.”

“In 2013, the Chronicle launched a paywalled premium website, sfchronicle.com. Over the next six years, varying amounts of free and premium Chronicle content appeared on SFGATE, then in 2019, the Chronicle and SFGATE officially became two separately run entities with their own editorial staffs and independent newsrooms.”

Show 444, September 25, 2021: Chef Susan Feniger, BBQ Mexicana at Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders

Susan Feniger of Socalo and Border Grill

“BBQ Mexicana, a quick service concept from celebrity Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, is located across from Border Grill restaurant and adjacent to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas and inside the new Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders (with two locations.)”

“Inspired by Mary Sue and Susan’s travels to Mexico, where they fell in love with delicious barbacoa and smoked meats, the menu offers a variety of bowls, salads, and burritos filled with mesquite smoked chicken, pulled pork, slow smoked brisket and tofu in addition to aguas frescas, beers and margaritas to go. BBQ Mexicana utilizes seasonal, locally grown ingredients, organic rice and beans, and meats and poultry raised without antibiotics or hormones.”

Also from Chefs Mary Sue and Susan at Allegiant Stadium is their Pacha Mamas cart located near the BBQ Mexicana stand on the 100 Level near the South Entrance. It’s a skewers a la plancha menu.

Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with tongs at the ready.

Show 408, January 16, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

We’re previewing the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Holiday Weekend show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

Chef Josiah Citrin is the respected proprietor of Melisse & Citrin in Santa Monica, Openaire at the Line Hotel in Koreatown, Charcoal Venice and Dear John’s (retro, classic American steakhouse) in Culver City (in partnership with Hans and Patti Rockenwagner) as well as other properties. Chef Josiah joins us to provide the overview of how his establishments are serving guests right now with takeaway and delivery.

“Women restaurateurs from across Los Angeles have created a new charitable organization called RE:Her. Its debut initiative, a food festival called 10 Days RE:Her, will feature 10 days of unique collaborations, thematic menus, and one-on-one conversations between female industry leaders.” 10 Days RE:Her kicks off on January 21, the anniversary of the groundbreaking Women’s March of 2017, and runs through January 30. Over 100 restaurants and collaborators are involved. Observing local dining restrictions, aspects of the festival will take place virtually and remotely. “RE:Her is an affiliate of Let’s Talk, an industry group founded and led by Rohini Dey and supported by the James Beard Foundation. Let’s Talk unites over 250 women restaurateurs across 10 cities; the LA chapter is hosted by Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill & Socalo and Dina Samson (Rossoblu and Superfine Pizza.)”  Dina Samson and Chef Mary Sue Milliken are our guests with all the intriguing specifics of “10 Days RE;Her.”

Since 1995, Dos Cabezas WineWorks has been growing grapes and producing wines in Southern Arizona. The winery is supplied with distinctive, high-quality fruit from its two estate vineyards: Pronghorn Vineyard in Sonoita, and Cimarron Vineyard in the Kansas Settlement. Kelly & Todd Bostock are co-WineWorkers at Dos Cabezas WineWorks in Sonoita, Arizona – the winery they purchased in 2006 along with Todd’s parents, Paula & Frank Bostock. Dos Cabezas.

WineWorks has been producing great Arizona wines (typically blends) from the vineyards they farm (the Cimarron Vineyard in Willcox & the Pronghorn Vineyard in Sonoita) since pioneer Al Buhl started operations in 1995. Winemaker Todd Bostick joins us to pull the cork on Dos Cabezas WineWorks.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants which is a genuine (and increasingly growing) concern. Extended restrictions for restaurants are now in place for Southern California for at least the first 3 weeks of January. Chef Andrew updates us on the inspiring progress for the grass-roots, “86 Restaurant Struggle” campaign to benefit deserving out-of-work and struggling restaurant workers. Chef Andrew and his wife, Lauren, have already distributed over $250,000 (as of today’s show) to restaurant workers in dire need. Chef Andrew also continues to explain his carefully considered, multi-point plan to bolster the fate of struggling restaurants right now. What’s in store for restaurants and dining in 2021?  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!

Show 408, January 16, 2021: “10 Days of Regarding:Her” Festival with Dina Samson of Rossoblu and Superfine Pizza

Dina Samson of Rossoblu and Superfine Pizza“Women restaurateurs from across Los Angeles have created a new charitable organization called RE:Her. Its debut initiative, a food festival called 10 Days RE:Her, will feature 10 days of unique collaborations, thematic menus, and one-on-one conversations between female industry leaders. 10 Days RE:Her kicks off on January 21, the anniversary of the groundbreaking Women’s March of 2017, and runs through January 30. Over 100 restaurants and collaborators are involved. Observing local dining restrictions, aspects of the festival will take place virtually and remotely.”

“RE:Her is an affiliate of Let’s Talk, an industry group founded and led by Rohini Dey and supported by the James Beard Foundation. Let’s Talk unites over 250 women restaurateurs across 10 cities; the LA chapter is hosted by Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill & Socalo and Dina Samson (Rossoblu and Superfine Pizza.) During monthly Zoom meetings, Let’s Talk members discussed various ways that women-owned restaurants have been banding together to drum up business (and generally survive) in cities across the country. The idea for RE:Her was born of out these discussions and ways to take further action to support the industry in Los Angeles.”

“RE:Her’s board is comprised of Lien Ta (All Day Baby), Sandra Cordero (Gasolina Cafe), Sylvie Gabriele (Love & Salt), Bricia Lopez (Guelaguetza), Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill, Socalo), Kimberly Prince (Hotville Chicken), Dina Samson (Rossoblu, Superfine Pizza), Heather Sperling (Botanica), and Brittney Valles (Guerrilla Tacos). Lien (’17), Sandra (’18), and Dina (’20) are alumni of JBF’s Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Program.”

Dina Samson (LA Chapter Host & Founding Member) joins us to provide the overview of “10 Days RE:Her.” One of the events Superfine Pizza is hosting is “Around the World with Superfine.” It’s bake-at-home pizza kits (available January 21st to 30th) featuring the international flavors of Ayara Thai, Casa Vega, Gasolina Cafe and N/Naka.

Show 408, January 16, 2021: “10 Days of Regarding:Her” Festival with Chef Mary Sue Milliken of Socalo and Border Grill

Mary Sue Milliken of Border Grill and Socalo“Women restaurateurs from across Los Angeles have created a new charitable organization called RE:Her. Its debut initiative, a food festival called 10 Days RE:Her, will feature 10 days of unique collaborations, thematic menus, and one-on-one conversations between female industry leaders. 10 Days RE:Her kicks off on January 21, the anniversary of the groundbreaking Women’s March of 2017, and runs through January 30. Over 100 restaurants and collaborators are involved. Observing local dining restrictions, aspects of the festival will take place virtually and remotely.”

“RE:Her is an affiliate of Let’s Talk, an industry group founded and led by Rohini Dey and supported by the James Beard Foundation. Let’s Talk unites over 250 women restaurateurs across 10 cities; the LA chapter is hosted by Chef Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill & Socalo and Dina Samson (Rossoblu and Superfine Pizza.) During monthly Zoom meetings, Let’s Talk members discussed various ways that women-owned restaurants have been banding together to drum up business (and generally survive) in cities across the country. The idea for RE:Her was born of out these discussions and ways to take further action to support the industry in Los Angeles.”

“RE:Her’s board is comprised of Lien Ta (All Day Baby), Sandra Cordero (Gasolina Cafe), Sylvie Gabriele (Love & Salt), Bricia Lopez (Guelaguetza), Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill, Socalo), Kimberly Prince (Hotville Chicken), Dina Samson (Rossoblu, Superfine Pizza), Heather Sperling (Botanica), and Brittney Valles (Guerrilla Tacos). Lien (’17), Sandra (’18), and Dina (’20) are alumni of JBF’s Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Program.”

Chef Mary Sue Milliken (LA Chapter Host) is our guest to provide the overview of the events she is involved with that will be based out of Socalo in Santa Monica. These include “The Girls Got Taste, a 3 course menu by Socalo, Gasolina & Valerie Confections”; “Taco Tuesday featuring Kim Prince’s Hotsville Chicken”; and “Alice’s Southern Gumbo Pop-Up.”

Also on the overflowing event schedule is a virtual dinner presentation of “Women Winemakers of Baja Dinner and Virtual Conversation” with the dinner To-Go pickup at Socalo.