Show 555, December 9, 2023: Descanso Restaurant, Costa Mesa, with Rob Arellano and Chef Jose Angulo Part One

Rob Arellano of Descanso Restaurant

Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, celebrated its five year Anniversary in November. The first concept of its kind, Descanso’s unique and award-winning Plancha dining experience catapulted the Mexican eatery to the top of Orange County’s dining scene shortly after opening in the fall of 2018.”

“Five years ago we started Descanso with the idea of bringing people together to commune over great food and a memorable experience,” said Rob Arellano, Owner of Descanso, Southern California’s only full-service Mexican restaurant known for preparing authentic cuisine a la minute in front of the guest on a traditional Plancha. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this 5th Anniversary milestone with our community, and we look forward to our most exciting year yet as we prepare to expand to Los Angeles in 2024.” The new Los Angeles flagship will be located near Museum Square on the Miracle Mile.

“Descanso Restaurant delivers a festive Mexican dining experience as a modern taqueria that celebrates authentic Mexican flavors and recipes executed on a traditional Plancha and prepared a la minute in front of the guest. With Executive Chef Jose Angulo at the helm, the full-service restaurant is committed to providing only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and does not believe in cooking with lard or using can openers. Drawing guests into the cooking experience as classic Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is made to order, the restaurant’s lively setting celebrates tradition while bringing in the music, smells, and energy of a busy Mexican town.”

Proprietor Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Jose Angulo are our guests with a plate of Lobster Tacos at the ready.

Show 555, December 9, 2023: Descanso Restaurant, Costa Mesa, with Rob Arellano and Chef Jose Angulo Part Two

Jose Angula of Descanso Restaurant

Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, celebrated its five year Anniversary in November. The first concept of its kind, Descanso’s unique and award-winning Plancha dining experience catapulted the Mexican eatery to the top of Orange County’s dining scene shortly after opening in the fall of 2018.”

“Five years ago we started Descanso with the idea of bringing people together to commune over great food and a memorable experience,” said Rob Arellano, Owner of Descanso, Southern California’s only full-service Mexican restaurant known for preparing authentic cuisine a la minute in front of the guest on a traditional Plancha. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this 5th Anniversary milestone with our community, and we look forward to our most exciting year yet as we prepare to expand to Los Angeles in 2024.”The new Los Angeles flagship will be located near Museum Square on the Miracle Mile.

“Descanso Restaurant delivers a festive Mexican dining experience as a modern taqueria that celebrates authentic Mexican flavors and recipes executed on a traditional Plancha and prepared a la minute in front of the guest. With Executive Chef Jose Angulo at the helm, the full-service restaurant is committed to providing only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and does not believe in cooking with lard or using can openers. Drawing guests into the cooking experience as classic Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is made to order, the restaurant’s lively setting celebrates tradition while bringing in the music, smells, and energy of a busy Mexican town.”

Proprietor Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Jose Angulo are our guests with a plate of Lobster Tacos at the ready.

Show 548, October 21, 2023: Chef Shachi Mehra of ADYA and Chef Diana Briscoe of Gracias Madre – Chefs’ Collaboration Dinner Part One

Shachi Mehra of ADYA

ADYA Executive Chef & Partner Shachi Mehra and Gracias Madre Executive Chef Diana Briscoe present a plant-based culinary journey from Mumbai to Mexico on Wednesday, November 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Gracias Madre Newport Beach. The four-course collaborative dinner on Dia de Los Muertos will showcase each chef’s individual style, as well as the magic that happens when the bold, authentic flavors of Indian and Mexican cuisine collide. Chefs Shachi and Diana join us to tempt us with all the menu specifics.”

“It’s exciting to have the opportunity to showcase the synergy between Indian and Mexican cuisines on a day that celebrates and honors lost loved ones,” explains Chef Shachi, who revealed that she enjoys collaborating with chefs to show how Indian food can come together with cuisines from other parts of the world to create unique flavors and combinations. “Gracias Madre’s plant-based focus has given me an opportunity to get creative with the menu and beverage pairings that are sure to surprise and delight guests.”

“The dinner will be held at Gracias Madre Newport Beach and seating is extremely limited. Tickets for the dinner are $95 per guest (excludes tax & ticket fees). Guests will be able to add on Mezcal pairings for $45 and non-alcoholic beverage pairings for $35.” Tickets must be purchased in advance. (Call Gracias Madre Newport Beach to be added to the Wait List.)

Show 548, October 21, 2023: Chef Shachi Mehra of ADYA and Chef Diana Briscoe of Gracias Madre – Chefs’ Collaboration Dinner Part Two

Shachi Mehra of ADYA

ADYA Executive Chef & Partner Shachi Mehra and Gracias Madre Executive Chef Diana Briscoe present a plant-based culinary journey from Mumbai to Mexico on Wednesday, November 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Gracias Madre Newport Beach. The four-course collaborative dinner on Dia de Los Muertos will showcase each chef’s individual style, as well as the magic that happens when the bold, authentic flavors of Indian and Mexican cuisine collide. Chefs Shachi and Diana join us to tempt us with all the menu specifics.” Think Coconut Chickpea Curry with green rice, basil marinated tomatoes and homestyle chapati

“It’s exciting to have the opportunity to showcase the synergy between Indian and Mexican cuisines on a day that celebrates and honors lost loved ones,” explains Chef Shachi, who revealed that she enjoys collaborating with chefs to show how Indian food can come together with cuisines from other parts of the world to create unique flavors and combinations. “Gracias Madre’s plant-based focus has given me an opportunity to get creative with the menu and beverage pairings that are sure to surprise and delight guests.”

“The dinner will be held at Gracias Madre Newport Beach and seating is extremely limited. Tickets for the dinner are $95 per guest (excludes tax & ticket fees). Guests will be able to add on Mezcal pairings for $45 and non-alcoholic beverage pairings for $35.” Tickets must be purchased in advance. (Call Gracias Madre Newport Beach to be added to the Wait List.)

“Whether you’re a foodie, a plant-based enthusiast or simply looking for an extraordinary dining experience in Orange County, Gracias Madre’s chef collaboration dinners are not to be missed. Come for the food, come for the stories, and come ready to savor the best of both worlds!”

Show 522, April 22, 2023: Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills and Cathedral City with Co-Founder Brent Miller Part One

Brent Miller of Luuchador Brewing

When we last visited Luchador Brewing Co. they were just operating their original craft brewery and restaurant in Chino Hills. A new location in Cathedral City has joined the collection last year.

“Co-owner Brent Miller was inspired by the nostalgia of the Luchador wrestling he watched as a child and co-owner Jaime Benson had strong connections to both Chino Hills and the Coachella Valley, and thus, Luchador Brewing Co was born. The flagship location in Chino Hills opened its doors in March 2020 & their second location, Cathedral City in the Coachella Valley, opened in August 2022. Coming soon: LBC Distribution Center in Banning, CA.”

“Brewer Paul Marquez and his team head up Luchador’s custom brew system, made up of eight five-barrel brew tanks in Chino Hills and four ten-barrel tanks in Cathedral City. LBC has 15 rotating taps featuring a wide selection of beers & seltzers, all made in-house, as well as a solid selection of wine by the glass and bottle.

Luchador’s in-house food truck El Camión turns the brewery food truck tradition on its head and serves up delicious Mexican street food small plates, Tijuana-style. Specialties include Aguachile, Gorditas, Tortas, Tacos, Birria Ramen, Luchador Dog and a Mexi-Cali Cheesesteak. Growlers, crowlers, and their full menu are available for take-out. Check LBC’s beer and food links for our current selection.

Brent Miller joins us in-studio to tap the keg on Luchador Brewing Co.

Show 522, April 22, 2023: Luchador Brewing Co., Chino Hills and Cathedral City with Co-Founder Brent Miller Part Two

Brent Miller of Luuchador Brewing

When we last visited Luchador Brewing Co. they were just operating their original craft brewery and restaurant in Chino Hills. A new location in Cathedral City has joined the collection last year.

“Co-owner Brent Miller was inspired by the nostalgia of the Luchador wrestling he watched as a child and co-owner Jaime Benson had strong connections to both Chino Hills and the Coachella Valley, and thus, Luchador Brewing Co was born. The flagship location in Chino Hills opened its doors in March 2020 & their second location, Cathedral City in the Coachella Valley, opened in August 2022. Coming soon: LBC Distribution Center in Banning, CA.”

“Brewer Paul Marquez and his team head up Luchador’s custom brew system, made up of eight five-barrel brew tanks in Chino Hills and four ten-barrel tanks in Cathedral City. LBC has 15 rotating taps featuring a wide selection of beers & seltzers, all made in-house, as well as a solid selection of wine by the glass and bottle.

Luchador’s in-house food truck El Camión turns the brewery food truck tradition on its head and serves up delicious Mexican street food small plates, Tijuana-style. Specialties include Aguachile, Gorditas, Tortas, Tacos, Birria Ramen, Luchador Dog and a Mexi-Cali Cheesesteak. Growlers, crowlers, and their full menu are available for take-out. Check LBC’s beer and food links for our current selection.

Brent Miller continues with us in-studio to tap the keg on Luchador Brewing Co. and also preview their upcoming Weekend Brunch in Cathedral City.

Show 515, March 4, 2023: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently 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.

Show 477, June 4, 2022: Restaurateur Christy Vega, Casa Vega, Sherman Oaks Part One

Christy Vega of Casa Vega

Casa Vega is an iconic Mexican restaurant that has been operating in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles for over 65 years. Casa Vega is located on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks and is one of the longest continuously family-owned restaurants in all of greater Los Angeles. Casa Vega’s roots go back to famous Olvera Street in downtown Los Angeles. Rafael “Ray” Vega opened Casa Vega in 1956 after being inspired by the success of his parents’ earlier restaurant, Café Caliente, which operated on Olvera Street throughout the 1930s. Casa Vega serves authentic, delicious food and drinks in a warm and festive atmosphere.

Founder Ray passed away in January 2021.”

“Today the Vega Family keeps the family legacy alive with Christina (Christy) Vega at the helm. Christina worked side-by-side with her father for over 15 years. Nothing made Ray prouder than knowing his family legacy would continue.”

This year The James Beard Foundation bestowed to Casa Vega, The America’s Classics Award. Each year since 1998 the James Beard Foundation Awards Committee has recognized our nation’s beloved regional restaurants as America’s Classics. Distinguished by their timeless appeal, they serve quality food that reflects the character of their communities. Casa Vega now joins the exclusive collection of L.A. area America’s Classics including Guelaguetza, Langer’s Delicatessen and Philippe the Original. Christy will be in Chicago on the evening of Monday, June 13th to accept the America’s Classics honors for Casa Vega at the 2022 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony.

Show 477, June 4, 2022: Restaurateur Christy Vega, Casa Vega, Sherman Oaks Part Two

Christy Vega of Casa Vega

Casa Vega is an iconic Mexican restaurant that has been operating in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles for over 65 years. Casa Vega is located on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks and is one of the longest continuously family-owned restaurants in all of greater Los Angeles. Casa Vega’s roots go back to famous Olvera Street in downtown Los Angeles. Rafael “Ray” Vega opened Casa Vega in 1956 after being inspired by the success of his parents’ earlier restaurant, Café Caliente, which operated on Olvera Street throughout the 1930s. Casa Vega serves authentic, delicious food and drinks in a warm and festive atmosphere. Founder Ray passed away in January 2021.”

“Today the Vega Family keeps the family legacy alive with Christina (Christy) Vega at the helm. Christina worked side-by-side with her father for over 15 years. Nothing made Ray prouder than knowing his family legacy would continue.”

This year The James Beard Foundation bestowed to Casa Vega, The America’s Classics Award. Each year since 1998 the James Beard Foundation Awards Committee has recognized our nation’s beloved regional restaurants as America’s Classics. Distinguished by their timeless appeal, they serve quality food that reflects the character of their communities. Casa Vega now joins the exclusive collection of L.A. area America’s Classics including Guelaguetza, Langer’s Delicatessen and Philippe the Original. Christy will be in Chicago on the evening of Monday, June 13th to accept the America’s Classics honors for Casa Vega at the 2022 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony

Christy Vega continues as our guest with Table-Side Guacamole at the ready.

Show 462, February 19, 2022: Executive Chef Victor Juarez, Fuego at The Maya and Hotel Maya, Long Beach

Victor Juarez of Fuego

“Award-winning Executive Chef Victor Juarez is leading Fuego, the modern, Latin infused indoor-outdoor restaurant and lounge at Hotel Maya in Long Beach, with a menu that blends his El Salvadorian roots with his Southern California culinary sensibilities. Fuego’s unique setting at the water’s edge provides service to 146 guests with 80 on the patio area and features stunning open-air views that include the Pacific Ocean, Long Beach skyline and the Queen Mary.”

“Fuego offers breakfast, lunch or dinner under the sun and stars. It’s also well-known for its handcrafted margaritas. Fuego boasts one of the largest tequila selections in the region.”

“Chef Juarez also oversees all food preparation and execution for the resort’s 20,000-square-feet meeting, special event, and wedding venues. In addition, he directs and implements the 199-room hotel’s room service, banquets and catering activities.”

“Prior to joining Hotel Maya in 2010, Chef Juarez spent a year as executive chef at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon, Calif., leading all culinary efforts for the property’s nine restaurants and lounges. Earlier in his career Chef Juarez was executive chef at the historic Mission Inn in Riverside, Calif., overseeing all facets of the resort’s food operations including four dining outlets, hotel room service and banquet facilities. He began at the Mission Inn in 1993 as executive sous chef. While at the Mission Inn, Chef Juarez was the recipient of many honors for culinary excellence.”

A signature dish at Fuego is Chef Victor’s version of Ropa Vieja. It’s Cuban-style braised short rib, black bean puree, crispy corn tortillas, cabbage escabeche, caramelized plantains and serrano chiles.

Chef Victor Juarez is our guest.