We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high- profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later Chef Eric transitioned (with a major promotion) to Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering based at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood. Every year for over two-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2023 is the 29th year celebration of Wolfgang Puck’s culinary responsibilities for the Governors Ball. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. The pastry design is by Kamel Guechida and Gary Larduinat. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 12th. Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.
“Come celebrate and be part of the sixth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization celebrating 50 years of providing homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors. Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed as Hosts of Masters of Taste 2023 which also marks the 6th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste 2023 Culinary Master and Host Chef Michael Reed is a classically trained chef and restaurateur, who has spent 19 years as a chef for restaurants across New York and Los Angeles. Today, Chef Reed is the co-owner and Executive Chef behind two Los Angeles restaurants, Poppy + Rose of Downtown Los Angeles, and Anaheim’s Poppy & Seed. In addition to the two concepts, Chef Reed and his wife and co-owner, Kwini Reed also run an upscale catering company, Root of All Food.” Chef Michael and Kwini Reed are our guests.
“The inaugural, first of its kind Pizza City Fest Los Angeles will take place April 29-30, 2023 at L.A. LIVE – Downtown Los Angeles’ Sports and Entertainment District – offering fans the unique opportunity to sample pizzas from Southern California’s best pizza makers all in one location over two days. Steve Dolinsky – a 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter and “The Food Guy” at NBC 5 Chicago – has turned his love of pizza into an all-encompassing endeavor. Now he hopes to bring that same experience to Los Angeles (as he did last year in Chicago) and showcase the diversity – in both geography and styles – that the region exemplifies.” We are previewing Pizza City Fest Los Angeles in multiple segments leading up to the event. Today we’ll meet Founder, Steve Dolinsky.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Bring on the sweet and succulent shrimp, always a popular menu item. Chef Andrew tells us about the appeal of Fair Trade, 100 percent traceable wild blue Mexican shrimp.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.
We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high- profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later Chef Eric transitioned (with a major promotion) to Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering based at The Dolby Theater in Hollywood. Every year for over two-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2023 is the 29th year celebration of the Governors Ball. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. The pastry design is by Kamel Guechida and Gary Larduinat. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 12th. Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.
“Come celebrate and be part of the sixth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization celebrating 50 years of providing homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors. Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed as Hosts of Masters of Taste 2023 which also marks the 6th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste 2023 Culinary Master and Host Chef Michael Reed is a classically trained chef and restaurateur, who has spent 19 years as a chef for restaurants across New York and Los Angeles. Today, Chef Reed is the co-owner and Executive Chef behind two Los Angeles restaurants, Poppy + Rose of Downtown Los Angeles, and Anaheim’s Poppy & Seed. In addition to the two concepts, Chef Reed and his wife and co-owner, Kwini Reed also run an upscale catering company, Root of All Food.” Chef Michael and Kwini Reed are our guests.
Bravo’s “Top Chef”debuts its 20th season with “World All-Stars” in London, on Thursday evening, March 9th. The new season of the Emmy-winning series feature 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs will battle it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) will be one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants. Chef Amar takes a break from his busy kitchens for a preview of “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.
“The inaugural, first of its kind Pizza City Fest Los Angeles will take place April 29-30, 2023 at L.A. LIVE – Downtown Los Angeles’ Sports and Entertainment District – offering fans the unique opportunity to sample pizzas from Southern California’s best pizza makers all in one location over two days. Steve Dolinsky – a 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter and “The Food Guy” at NBC 5 Chicago – has turned his love of pizza into an all-encompassing endeavor. Now he hopes to bring that same experience to Los Angeles (as he did last year in Chicago) and showcase the diversity – in both geography and styles – that the region exemplifies.” We are previewing Pizza City Fest Los Angeles in multiple segments leading up to the event. Today we’ll meet Founder, Steve Dolinsky.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behindthefull-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Bring on the sweet and succulent shrimp, always a popular menu item. Chef Andrew tells us about the appeal of Fair Trade, 100 percent traceable wild blue Mexican shrimp.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high- profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later Chef Eric transitioned (with a major promotion) to Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering based at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood.
Every year for over two-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2023 is the 29th year celebration of the Governors Ball. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. The pastry design is by Kamel Guechida and Gary Larduinat. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 12th.
Wolfgang Puck is flying in his Executive Chef at CUT London, Elliott Grover, to prepare Fish and Chips and oversee the Beef Wellington Carving Station. New creations for this year are the Ma Maison Chicken Salad and Wolfgang’s spin on Chicken & Waffles.
Chef Eric takes a break from his active kitchens to join us.
“Come celebrate and be part of the sixth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization celebrating 50 years of providing homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.”
“Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed as Hosts of Masters of Taste 2023 which also marks the 6th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste 2023 Culinary Master and Host Chef Michael Reed is a classically trained chef and restaurateur, who has spent 19 years as a chef for restaurants across New York and Los Angeles. Today, Chef Reed is the co-owner and Executive Chef behind two Los Angeles restaurants, Poppy + Rose of Downtown Los Angeles, and Anaheim’s Poppy & Seed. In addition to the two concepts, Chef Reed and his wife and co-owner, Kwini Reed also run an upscale catering company, Root of All Food.”
“In 2011, Chef Reed and Kwini Reed jointly created the high-end catering company, Root of All Food which specializes in high-end boutique catering, in-home cooking and events, and catering to Southern California. During the summer of 2014, Reed opened DTLA brunch darling, Poppy + Rose, a restaurant that specializes in classic American diner-fare made from scratch with a seasonal menu. He owns the restaurant alongside his wife, Kwini Reed. In 2021, Poppy & Seed opened, branching more upscale service and cuisine in a modern greenhouse setting. Located in the Anaheim Packing District, Poppy & Seed features a menu of refined American fare.”
“The sixth annual Masters of Taste 2023 is expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and top cocktail bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”
Ticket Information: Masters of Taste 2023 will take place on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, and this is a 21+ event. A VIP Power Hour will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and General Admission will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed are our guests.
Bravo’s “Top Chef” debuts its 20th season with “World All-Stars” in London, on Thursday evening, March 9th. The new season of the Emmy-winning series feature 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs will battle it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santanain Laguna Beach) will be one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.
Chef Amar is a “Top Chef” veteran and characterized as a fierce competitor. In a spectacular and memorable finale he was judged the 1st runner up for “Top Chef” Season 13 – California narrowly missing thecoveted top spot. He was then invited back for “Top Chef” Season 18 – Portland as a member of the elite judging panel.
Chef Amar takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us with a preview of “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.
Sail in style with Chef Amar on a premium Douro River Valley (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) cruise for 7 nights (starting November 5th.) around Porto, Portugal (the City of Bridges) on a Uniworld boutique river cruise. Also a visit to Spain’s glorious city of Salamanca. On-board cooking classes with Chef Amar will feature fresh, regional produce. Also learn the art of Spanish winemaking and Ports from Porto with visits to some of Chef Amar’s favorite wineries in the region featured on the Wine Lists at Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana.
“The inaugural, first of its kind Pizza City Fest Los Angeleswill take place April 29-30, 2023 at L.A. LIVE – Downtown Los Angeles’ Sports and Entertainment District – offering fans the unique opportunity to sample pizzas from Southern California’s best pizza makers all in one location over two days. Steve Dolinsky – a 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter and “The Food Guy” at NBC 5 Chicago – has turned his love of pizza into an all-encompassing endeavor. Now he hopes to bring that same experience to Los Angeles (as he did last year in Chicago) and showcase the diversity – in both geography and styles – that the region exemplifies.”
“I’ve seen the L.A. pizza scene explode recently, having visited about 60 places while researching over the past year,” said Dolinsky. “But with so much great pizza spread out from Santa Barbara to San Diego, there needed to be a way to highlight these artisans all in one place. Not only will we do that, but we’ll also bring together some of the most talented local pizza pros to share their knowledge and expertise with home cooks.”
We are previewing Pizza City Fest Los Angeles in multiple segments leading up to the event. Today we’ll meet the Founder of Pizza City FestLos Angeles, Steve Dolinsky.
Tickets for Pizza City Fest Los Angeles start at $95. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit Pizza City’s Ticketing page or call 1-877-234-8425.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behindtherecently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.
Bring on the sweet and succulent shrimp, always a popular menu item. Chef Andrew tells us about the appeal of Fair Trade, 100 percent traceable wild blue Mexican shrimp.
Chef Andrew and Lauren Gruel have a new fast casual concept, Burger 101, coming soon to the 2-level, Kitchen United complex on the 3rd St. Promenade in Santa Monica. It’s Chef Andrew’s version of a value-priced, honest burger (and loaded fries) using quality ingredients including a premium burger patty sourced from West Coast Prime Meats. He’ll also launch a casual Mexican concept there, Lolo’s Tacos, specializing in clean and simple tacos, burritos and standout specialty sauces.
“Come celebrate and be part of the 5th Anniversary Masters of Taste, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival that will take place on Sunday,April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconicPasadena Rose Bowl!”
“Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Vanda Asapahu as it’s first-ever female Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022, which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Culinary Master and 2022 Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai and she has participated in Masters of Taste since the event’s inception in April 2016. While her mother, Anna Asapahu, still helms the family kitchen, Asapahu is the vanguard, taking up the torch of her family’s culinary tradition at Ayara Thai, and under her leadership in May of 2019 Ayara Thai was named one of Michelin GuideCalifornia’s 2019 Bib Gourmands.”
“I have had the pleasure of participating in Masters of Taste since its inaugural year,” states Asapahu. “The most amazing thing about Masters of Taste is that 100% of the proceeds go directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services and not many food festivals can say that. Union Station Homeless Services is committed to ending homelessness in Los Angeles.”
“Masters of Taste 2022 will bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and bars, along with select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”
“This year Masters of Taste 2022 will partner with Careers through Culinary Arts Program, Los Angeles(C-CAP LA), anational 501(c)(3) non-profit founded by culinary educator Richard Grausman in 1990 and Co-Chaired by Chef Marcus Samuelsson. Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) provides culinary, job, and life skills to over 20,000 middle-and-high school students in seven regions across the United States. Due to the restaurant industry labor shortage, the Los Angeles Region, C-CAP LA will be partnering with Masters of Taste by bringing high school student volunteers to assist this year’s Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary and Sweet Masters throughout the event to gain real-time event training while helping support these incredible chefs and restaurants that are participating in this year’s event.”
Joining us to preview all the delights of Masters of Taste are Host ChefVanda Asapahu and C-CAP L.A.’s Gail Carney.
General Admission tickets (limited supply remaining) are still available @ $135.
“Come celebrate and be part of the 5th Anniversary Masters of Taste, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival that will take place on Sunday,April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconicPasadena Rose Bowl!”
“Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Vanda Asapahu as it’s first-ever female Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022, which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Culinary Master and 2022 Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai and she has participated in Masters of Taste since the event’s inception in April 2016. While her mother, Anna Asapahu, still helms the family kitchen, Asapahu is the vanguard, taking up the torch of her family’s culinary tradition at Ayara Thai, and under her leadership in May of 2019 Ayara Thai was named one of Michelin GuideCalifornia’s 2019 Bib Gourmands.”
“I have had the pleasure of participating in Masters of Taste since its inaugural year,” states Asapahu. “The most amazing thing about Masters of Taste is that 100% of the proceeds go directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services and not many food festivals can say that. Union Station Homeless Services is committed to ending homelessness in Los Angeles.”
“Masters of Taste 2022 will bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and bars, along with select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”
“This year Masters of Taste 2022 will partner with Careers through Culinary Arts Program, Los Angeles(C-CAP LA), anational 501(c)(3) non-profit founded by culinary educator Richard Grausman in 1990 and Co-Chaired by Chef Marcus Samuelsson. Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) provides culinary, job, and life skills to over 20,000 middle-and-high school students in seven regions across the United States. Due to the restaurant industry labor shortage, the Los Angeles Region, C-CAP LA will be partnering with Masters of Taste by bringing high school student volunteers to assist this year’s Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary and Sweet Masters throughout the event to gain real-time event training while helping support these incredible chefs and restaurants that are participating in this year’s event.”
“Be a part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl with 100% of the proceeds going directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services!
Masters of Taste introduces Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016.”
“Winemaking at Matthiasson Wines (Steve and Jill) is a natural extension of farming. The Matthiasson’s have both worked for many years in the sustainable agriculture and the local food movement, and in 2003 they started Matthiasson Wines based on those values. The wines are classical expressions of different grape varieties, some well-known like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, and some rare like Ribolla Gialla and Refosco. The wines are refreshing, complement food, and are moderate in alcohol.” Matthiasson Wines is a 6-time James Beard Award nominee. Winemaker Steve Matthiasson is with us to gently pull the cork on all that is Matthiasson Winery.
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 the Host Chef for the very special Outstanding in the Field Dinner on the Huntington Beach Pier on October 12th. Sustainably caught seafood fresh from the ocean is on the menu. We’ll get a preview of this unusual dining spectacular.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“Be a part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday,April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of theIconic Pasadena Rose Bowlwith 100% of the proceeds going directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services!”
“Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016.”
“Asapahu went to college at UCLA and to graduate school at Yale, then she spent four years living, traveling, and working her way through Thailand before returning home to Los Angeles. During Asapahu’s stay in her native country, she took extensive notes, which included absorbing Bangkok’s street food scene and reviving old family recipes. After cooking with relatives and eating her way through the streets and countryside, Asapahu brought back these treasured old recipes and new flavors to share at Ayara Thai. While her mother Anna Asapahu still helms the family kitchen, Asapahu is the vanguard, taking up the torch of her family’s culinary tradition at Ayara Thai Cuisine.”
“I have had the pleasure of participating in Masters of Taste since its inaugural year,” states Asapahu. “As a proud UCLA alum (Go Bruins!), I’d give anything for the opportunity to cook, eat and dance on the field of the Rose Bowl. The most amazing thing about Masters of Taste is that 100% of the proceeds go directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services and not many food festivals can say that. Union Station Homeless Services is committed to ending homelessness in Los Angeles.”
“The fifth annual Masters of Taste 2022 is expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and bars, a premier 50-Yard-LineCocktail Bar featuring top Mixologists from four of L.A.’s most distinguished drinking destinations, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”
Chef Vanda joins us with all the enticing details.
Ayara Thai Cuisine in Westchester is currently open for Take-Out orders and their Thai Thursday Night Street Food Series.
We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.
“Be a part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday,April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of theIconic Pasadena Rose Bowl with 100% of the proceeds going directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services!
Masters of Taste introduces Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016.”
Chef Vanda joins us with all the details.
“BBQ Mexicana, a quick service concept from celebrity Chefs MarySue 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.)” Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with tongs at the ready.
“Winemaking at Matthiasson Wines (Steve and Jill) is a natural extension of farming. The Matthiasson’s have both worked for many years in the sustainable agriculture and local food movement, and in 2003 they started Matthiasson Wines based on those values. The wines are classical expressions of different grape varieties, some well-known like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, and some rare like Ribolla Gialla and Refosco. The wines are refreshing, complement food, and are moderate in alcohol.” Matthiasson Wines is a 6- time James Beard Award nominee. Winemaker Steve Matthiasson is with us to gently pull the cork on all that is Matthiasson Winery.
“Made In California – The California-Born Burger Joints, Diners, Fast Food & Restaurants That Changed America chronicles the history and influence of some of America’s best-known California-born restaurants. stomachs, A&W Root Beer. Foster’s Freeze. IHOP. Der Wienerschnitzel. See’s Candy. Jack in the Box. You name the American food icon, and chances are its roots are in California. Food historian and chef George Geary tells the remarkable stories of the early 20th-century food startups that captured America’s hearts and stomachs, from Bob’s Big Boy to McDonald’s, Winchell’s Donuts to In-N-Out, Peet’s Coffee to Taco Bell. With more than 200 historic and contemporary photos.” Author George Geary joins us.
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 the Host Chef for the Outstanding in the Field Dinner on the Huntington Beach Pier on October 12th. Sustainably caught seafood fresh from the ocean is on the menu. We’ll get a preview of this unusual dining spectacular.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“Be a part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday,April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of theIconic Pasadena Rose Bowlwith 100% of the proceeds going directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services!”
“Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016.”
“Asapahu went to college at UCLA and to graduate school at Yale, then she spent four years living, traveling, and working her way through Thailand before returning home to Los Angeles. During Asapahu’s stay in her native country, she took extensive notes, which included absorbing Bangkok’s street food scene and reviving old family recipes. After cooking with relatives and eating her way through the streets and countryside, Asapahu brought back these treasured old recipes and new flavors to share at Ayara Thai. While her mother Anna Asapahu still helms the family kitchen, Asapahu is the vanguard, taking up the torch of her family’s culinary tradition at Ayara Thai Cuisine.”
“I have had the pleasure of participating in Masters of Taste since its inaugural year,” states Asapahu. “As a proud UCLA alum (Go Bruins!), I’d give anything for the opportunity to cook, eat and dance on the field of the Rose Bowl. The most amazing thing about Masters of Taste is that 100% of the proceeds go directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services and not many food festivals can say that. Union Station Homeless Services is committed to ending homelessness in Los Angeles.”
“The fifth annual Masters of Taste 2022 is expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and bars, a premier 50-Yard-LineCocktail Bar featuring top Mixologists from four of L.A.’s most distinguished drinking destinations, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”
Chef Vanda joins us with all the enticing details.
“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.”
Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with tongs at the ready.
“Winemaking at Matthiasson Wines(Steve and Jill) is a natural extension of farming. The Matthiasson’s have both worked for many years in the sustainable agriculture and local food movement, and in 2003 they started Matthiasson Wines based on those values. The wines are classical expressions of different grape varieties, some well-known like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, and some rare like Ribolla Gialla and Refosco. The wines are refreshing, complement food, and are moderate in alcohol.” Matthiasson Wines is a 6-time James Beard Award nominee.
“Matthiasson fervently believe the old maxim that “wine is made in the vineyard,” and consider themselves farmers first. They carefully tailor organic viticultural practices to each vineyard — this is how Matthiasson harvests healthy and fully ripe fruit with balanced levels of alcohol and acidity. They do their best to protect and enhance the natural environment in the process.”
“Matthiasson Winery in Napa is open for in-person tastings at the winery and vineyard! They host a limited number of outdoor tastings by appointment 7 days a week. The tastings are approximately 60-75 minutes in length and include a comprehensive lineup of 5 to 6 wines.”
Winemaker Steve Matthiasson is with us to pull the cork on all that is Matthiasson Winery.
“George Geary is the author of many hit books, including L.A.’sLegendary Restaurants and The Cheesecake Bible. He is a cooking teacher, pastry chef, culinary travel guide, and in-demand public speaker. A California native, he lives in the Los Angeles area.”
George Geary is our guest with a cup of Peet’s Coffee in hand.
It’s a disconcerting and confusing time for all of us and our “SoCal Restaurant Show” mission, until the Covid-19 crisis is abated, is to provide reliable and genuinely useful information on how the restaurant business is coping with the evolving events. With an emphasis on the health, safety and well-being of our listeners we’ll be detailing what the range of services restaurants can provide to their guests. Creativity is at the forefront. We’re keeping it focused and upbeat…
Chefs and restaurateurs are the most generous people I know. In times of need they are always first in generously and unselfishly giving back and meaningfully supporting their communities. Truly remarkable…Right now restaurants urgently need our support to stay afloat. Please keep this in mind as you make meal decisions….
As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. With everyone’s support we’ll get through this. Truly couldn’t do it without you.
Chef / Proprietress Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Thai in Westchester is the Host Chef for the 5th Anniversary Masters of Taste benefit at the Rose Bowl. Originally scheduled for Sunday, April 5th it has been necessarily postponed. When that new date is established Chef Vanda will be back with us with all the delectable details. In the meantime Ayara Thai is open for Take-Out and Delivery and would love to serve you. Chef Vanda is our guest with all the tempting menu details.
“At the original location ofThe Winery Restaurant & Wine Barin Tustin Executive Chef / Partner Yvon Goetz is offering a menu of his California contemporary regional cuisine for curbside pick-up (priced 15% off regular pricing) at his flagship Tustin location. Chef Yvon Goetz is also offering guests select cuts of meats to grill at home, based on availability.” Chef Yvon joins us.
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 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. Of course, the safety of restaurant employees and guests comes first. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”
In September of 1986, Harold Legaux Sr. along with his wife Mary Belle opened Harold and Belle’s in the Jefferson Park area of Los Angeles. It had been a dream of Harold’s to have a place where friends and family from back home (New Orleans) would gather, talk about old times, shoot pool and just socialize. The short menu consisted of Po-Boy Sandwiches, Red Beans & Rice and File-Gumbo (served only on Fridays.) The restaurant has come a long way in 50 years and is now owned and operated by 3rd generation Legaux’s, the husband and wife team Ryan & Jessica Legaux. Together Ryan and Jessica have enhanced and expanded the brand of Harold & Belle’s through various avenues including refurbishing the restaurant. They also have added a new, state of the art private banquet room. We’re stirring the roux with Chef Ryan Legaux.
Back in January we introduced you to Executive Chef Vincent Terusa of Selanne Steak Tavernin Laguna Beach. During the unfortunate embargo on dining-in Selanne is providing discounted curbside take-out. They also are offering the menu from their fast casual spot, the Penalty Box. Chef Terusa joins us with all the details.
It’s an especially difficult time to navigate the supermarkets right now (particularly with “Social Distancing”) and you want fresh proteins of the highest quality to cook at home in addition to restaurant delivery/takeout. West Coast Prime Meats supplies the top restaurants and hotels in Southern California. Responding to the crisis they are now selling to the public for the very first time with next day pickup in Brea between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. You can conveniently obtain a wide range of proteins at fair prices with their usual wonderful customer service. Available are Beef, Grinds & Patties, Poultry, Pork and even Seafood. Their exemplary sanitary practices are above Industry requirements. Call them to get an Inventory List emailed to you. 714.255.8560.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Chef / Proprietress Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Thai in Westchester is the Host Chef for the upcoming 5th Anniversary Masters of Taste benefit at the Rose Bowl. Originally scheduled for Sunday, April 5th it has been necessarily postponed. When that new date is established Chef Vanda will be back with us with all the delectable details. In the meantime Ayara Thai is open for Take-Out and Delivery and would love to serve you.
“Growing up in a Thai-Chinese community in the Samsen District along the banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, chef and restaurateur Andy Asapahu received his cooking and business prowess by helping his mother cook. Not only did Grandma’s (Andy’s mother) large batches of food feed her family of eight, but also those in the neighborhood, who would stop by to purchase her well-known curries.”
Anna, wife of Andy and self-taught chef, hails from the city of Lampang in the heart of northern Thailand and grew up in a family that primarily cooked with home and locally-grown fruits and vegetables. Since Ayara Thai’s opening day, head chef Anna remains a leader in the kitchen and continues her family tradition bWestchestery using home-grown herbs in the restaurant’s dishes. Reflecting both the dishes she ate in the past, as well as her family’s values in sustainable dining, she ensures dishes inspired and prepared with only the freshest ingredients that the season has to offer.”
“Today, the family traditions of Andy and Anna are continued and developed into the third generation, through their daughter Vanda. Living and working in Thailand for four years has given Vanda the experience to revive old family recipes, while traveling through the nation’s different regions has allowed her to discover new tastes and inspirations. After cooking with relatives and eating her way through the streets and countryside, it is these old recipes and new flavors that Vanda brought back to share at Ayara Thai.”
Chef Vanda is our guest with all the tempting menu details.
We’re continuing our interview with Chef / Proprietress Vanda Asapahu ofAyara Thai in Westchester who is the Host Chef for the upcoming 5th Anniversary Masters of Taste benefit at the Rose Bowl. Originally scheduled for Sunday, April 5th it has been necessarily postponed. When that new date is established Chef Vanda will be back with us with all the delectable details. It’s a wonderful, walk-around charity tasting event on the field of the iconic Rose Bowl.
In the meantime Ayara Thai is open for Take-Out and Delivery and would love to serve you. Think Laab Duck with roasted duck breast, lemongrass, sawtooth coriander, scallions, shallots, lime, roasted chili and toasted rice.
“With family recipes and cooking styles passed down through generations, the Asapahu family of Ayara Thai is pleased to offer a taste of authentic Thai food, where quality is never compromised. Using the freshest ingredients, each dish is prepared from scratch and enhanced individually by herbs and spices to ensure the boldest, most genuine flavors.”
Chef Vanda continues with all the tempting To-Go and Delivery menu details.
