Show 429, June 12, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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

Hotelier and restaurateur Karina Castaneda represents the 2nd generation of the founding family who owns Los Arboles Hotel (a Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel) and the pair of El Mirasol Mexican restaurants. The original (and still operating) El Mirasol (South on E. Palm Canyon Dr.) opened in 1985. The 2nd El Mirasol restaurant (North) is located adjacent to Los Arboles Hotel. El Mirasol makes their hot-off-the-grill corn tortillas on-site and is known for their wide variety of potent Margaritas. The signature Guacamole is prepared from chunks of fresh Haas avocado hand-blended with chopped tomatoes, scallions and cilantro.

Orange County restaurateurs Leslie Nguyen and John Reed (the hands-on owners of Bosscat Kitchen and Libations) launched their third location this March on the corner of Chapman Avenue and Olive Street in Old Towne Orange at the previous Rod’s Liquor location, a 100- year old building. “The 5,000 sq. ft. result is a beautifully modern space that is as authentic and nostalgic to Old Towne Orange as it is bold and eye-catching to fit Bosscat Kitchen’s brand. “Bosscat Kitchen & Libations creatively meshes upscale and casual dining with an expansive whiskey selection and unique menu of American comfort food. The high energy, open-spaced concept promotes a lively experience at all three locations. Their brick, metal, dark wood and whiskey barrel decor suits its comfort menu.”

For 16 years, Providence in Hollywood has elevated the standard of modern American seafood restaurants with exemplary service. Newly reopened for dine-in guests who can again experience Chef Michael Cimarusti’s award-winning cuisine in the heart of Los Angeles, welcomed by one of L.A.’s legendary hosts, co-owner Donato Poto. Restaurateur Donato Poto is with us to reminisce, celebrate the 16th Anniversary and look to the future.

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 continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery which remains a genuine concern. Now that guests are finally able to return to full-service restaurants in greater numbers maintaining civility is important. How far should it escalate with a problem guest before Management lets a customer know that their bad behavior won’t be tolerated? We’ll ask Chef Andrew.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 429, June 12, 2021: Donato Poto, Partner, Providence, Hollywood Part One

Donato Poto of Providence plus Connie and Ted's

For 16 years, Providence in Hollywood has elevated the standard of modern American seafood restaurants with exemplary service. Newly reopened for dine-in guests can again experience Chef Michael Cimarusti’s award-winning cuisine in the heart of Los Angeles, welcomed by one of L.A.’s legendary hosts, co-owner Donato Poto.

“Chef Cimarusti is completely dedicated to procuring the finest sustainable seafood—from regional coasts and international waters—and treats those ingredients with uncompromising respect and sophisticated technique. “First and foremost, what guides us here is sustainability,” Cimarusti says. “We use only wild-caught, sustainable products, mostly from American waters, and look to highlight their finest qualities.””

Providence is newly reopened for Dinner only, serving Tuesday through Saturday. Providence offers a single, extravagant multi-course tasting menu nightly. (Vegetarian and Pescatarian options are available.)

Restaurateur Donato Poto is with us to reminisce, celebrate the 16th Anniversary and look to the future.

June 12: Los Arboles Hotel, Bosscat Kitchen and Libations, Providence’s 16th Anniversary

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur and Hotelier Karina Castaneda, Los Arboles Hotel & El Mirasol Restaurants Part One
Segment Three: Restaurateur and Hotelier Karina Castaneda, Los Arboles Hotel & El Mirasol Restaurants Part Two
Segment Four: Bosscat Kitchen and Libations, Orange, Houston, TX and Newport Beach Part One
Segment Five: Bosscat Kitchen and Libations, Orange, Houston, TX and Newport Beach Part Two
Segment Six: Donato Poto, Partner, Providence, Hollywood Part One
Segment Seven: Donato Poto, Partner, Providence, Hollywood 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.

Hotelier and restaurateur Karina Castenda represents the 2nd generation of the founding family who owns Los Arboles Hotel (a Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel) and the pair of El Mirasol Mexican restaurants. The original (and still operating) El Mirasol opened in 1985. The 2nd El Mirasol restaurant (North) is located adjacent to Los Arboles Hotel. El Mirasol makes their hot-off-the-grill corn tortillas on-site and is known for their wide variety of potent Margaritas. The signature Guacamole is prepared from chunks of fresh Haas avocado hand-blended with chopped tomatoes, scallions and cilantro.

Orange County restaurateurs Leslie Nguyen and John Reed (owners of Bosscat Kitchen and Libations) launched their third location this March on the corner of Chapman Avenue and Olive Street in Old Towne Orange at the previous Rod’s Liquor location, a 100- year old building.

“The 5,000 sq. ft. result is a beautifully modern space that is as authentic and nostalgic to Old Towne Orange as it is bold and eye-catching to fit Bosscat Kitchen’s brand. “Bosscat Kitchen & Libations creatively meshes upscale and casual dining with an expansive whiskey selection and unique menu of American comfort food. The high energy, open-spaced concept promotes a lively experience at all three locations. Their brick, metal, dark wood and whiskey barrel decor suits its comfort menu.”

For 16 years, Providence in Hollywood has elevated the standard of modern American seafood restaurants with exemplary service. Newly reopened for dine-in guests can again experience Chef Michael Cimarusti’s award-winning cuisine in the heart of Los Angeles, welcomed by one of L.A.’s legendary hosts, co-owner Donato Poto. Restaurateur Donato Poto is with us to reminisce, celebrate the 16th Anniversary and look to the future.

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 continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery which remains a genuine concern. Now that guests are finally able to return to full-service restaurants in greater numbers maintaining civility is important. How far should it escalate with a problem guest before Management lets a customer know that their bad behavior won’t be tolerated? We’ll ask Chef Andrew.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Karina Castenda of Los Arboles Hotel

Hotelier and restaurateur Karina Castenda represents the 2nd generation of the founding family who owns Los Arboles Hotel (a Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel) and the pair of El Mirasol Mexican restaurants. The original (and still operating) El Mirasol opened in 1985. The 2nd El Mirasol restaurant (North) with a spacious patio is located adjacent to Los Arboles Hotel.

El Mirasol makes their corn tortillas on-site and is known for their wide variety of potent Margaritas. The signature Guacamole is prepared from chunks of fresh Haas avocado hand-blended with chopped tomatoes, scallions and cilantro. The El Mirasol restaurants are closed on Monday & Tuesday.

“A charming, historic boutique Palm Springs resort and home to the iconic El Mirasol Mexican Restaurant and bar, Los Arboles Hotel features 21 well-appointed rooms, heated pool, Jacuzzi, room service and is located walking distance from downtown shopping, dining, and nightlife.”

Karina Castenada joins us with a classic De La Casa Margarita in hand.

John Reed and Leslie Nguyen of Bosscat Kitchen and Libations

Orange County restaurateurs Leslie Nguyen and John Reed (owners of Bosscat Kitchen and Libations) launched their third location this March on the corner of Chapman Avenue and Olive Street in Old Towne Orange at the previous Rod’s Liquor location, a 100-year old building..

“The 5,000 sq. ft. result is a beautifully modern space that is as authentic and nostalgic to Old Towne Orange as it is bold and eye-catching to fit Bosscat Kitchen’s brand. Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer, has drawn her inspiration from the century old pre-prohibition style building, making certain every detail is on brand for Bosscat’s rustic industrial aesthetic but also throwing back to the auto repair shop and the beloved neighborhood liquor store that had decades of commerce and stories before it.”

“Bosscat Kitchen & Libations creatively meshes upscale and casual dining with an expansive whiskey selection and unique menu of American comfort food. The high energy, open-spaced concept promotes a lively experience at all locations: Newport Beach, CA and Houston, TX (with the third location newly opened in Orange, CA on March 17th). Their brick, metal, dark wood and whiskey barrel decor suits its comfort menu.”

“One of the restaurant’s most coveted attractions is the famous whiskey room that houses hundreds of whiskies from several countries (including: Scotland, Ireland, Japan, Canada and the US). Bosscat Kitchen’s Executive Chef, Peter Petro, cultivates new ideas with seasonal produce, meats and spices.”

Bosscat Kitchens’ Leslie Nguyen and John Reed join us.

Donato Poto of Providence plus Connie and Ted's

For 16 years, Providence in Hollywood has elevated the standard of modern American seafood restaurants with exemplary service. Newly reopened for dine-in guests can again experience Chef Michael Cimarusti’s award-winning cuisine in the heart of Los Angeles, welcomed by one of L.A.’s legendary hosts, co-owner Donato Poto.

“Chef Cimarusti is completely dedicated to procuring the finest sustainable seafood—from regional coasts and international waters—and treats those ingredients with uncompromising respect and sophisticated technique. “First and foremost, what guides us here is sustainability,” Cimarusti says. “We use only wild-caught, sustainable products, mostly from American waters, and look to highlight their finest qualities.””

Providence is newly reopened for Dinner only, serving Tuesday through Saturday. Providence offers a single, extravagant multi-course tasting menu nightly. (Vegetarian and Pescatarian options are available.)

Restaurateur Donato Poto is with us to reminisce, celebrate the 16th Anniversary and look to the future.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

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 continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery.

Now that guests are finally able to return to full-service restaurants in greater numbers maintaining civility between guests and staff is important. How far should it escalate with a problem guest before Management lets a customer know that their over-the-top, bad behavior simply won’t be tolerated? We’ll ask Chef Andrew.

Keep in mind the juicy and delicious Community Burger (more than a mouthful) is available at all Southern California locations of Slapfish. The worthy burger is free with any donation to 86 Restaurant Struggle.” 100 per cent of that money goes to benefit struggling restaurant workers.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur and Hotelier Karina Castaneda, Los Arboles Hotel & El Mirasol Restaurants Part One
Segment Three: Restaurateur and Hotelier Karina Castaneda, Los Arboles Hotel & El Mirasol Restaurants Part Two
Segment Four: Bosscat Kitchen and Libations, Orange, Houston, TX and Newport Beach Part One
Segment Five: Bosscat Kitchen and Libations, Orange, Houston, TX and Newport Beach Part Two
Segment Six: Donato Poto, Partner, Providence, Hollywood Part One
Segment Seven: Donato Poto, Partner, Providence, Hollywood Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 411, February 6, 2021: Restaurateur Donato Poto, Co-Owner of Providence and Connie & Ted’s Part One

Donato Poto of Providence plus Connie and Ted's

For 16 years, Providence in Hollywood has elevated the standard of modern American seafood restaurants along with exemplary service. For Valentine’s Day Weekend (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) guests can experience Chef Michael Cimarusti’s award-winning cuisine for curbside takeaway. The extravagant Valentine’s feast (for 2) starts with Morro Bay Gold Oyster and Kaluga Caviar with Crème Fraiche and concludes with a Tarte au Chocolat with Pudwill Farms raspberries. For the decadent Valentine’s Day feast Chef Cimarusti has also created an entertaining, easy-to-follow video where he energetically walks the guest through the assembling and plating of the meal course-by-course.

“Chef Cimarusti is completely dedicated to procuring the finest sustainable seafood—from regional coasts and international waters—and treats those ingredients with uncompromising respect and sophisticated technique. “First and foremost, what guides us here is sustainability,” Cimarusti says. “We use only wild-caught, sustainable products, mostly from American waters, and look to highlight their finest qualities.””

Restaurateur, Co-Proprietor of Providence and graciously welcoming host Donato Poto is with us to talk about Valentine’s Day and look to the future when dine-in (inside) can return.

Show 411, February 6, 2021: Restaurateur Donato Poto, Co-Owner of Providence and Connie & Ted’s Part Two

Donato Poto of Providence plus Connie and Ted's

For 16 years, Providence in Hollywood has elevated the standard of modern American seafood restaurants along with exemplary service. For Valentine’s Day Weekend (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) guests can experience Chef Michael Cimarusti’s award-winning cuisine for curbside takeaway. The extravagant Valentine’s feast (for 2) starts with Morro Bay Gold Oyster and Kaluga Caviar with Crème Fraiche and concludes with a Tarte au Chocolat with Pudwill Farms raspberries. For the decadent Valentine’s Day feast Chef Cimarusti has also created an entertaining, easy-to-follow video where he energetically walks the guest through the assembling and plating of the meal course-by-course.

Also on offer is the Valentine’s Day Edition of The Providence Pantry. If you already have your meal planned tantalizing gourmet enhancements are available. Think local, house-smoked black cod, black truffle brie, black truffle pasta kits, signature cocktails, and a special wine pairing chosen especially for the Valentine’s menu.

“Chef Cimarusti is completely dedicated to procuring the finest sustainable seafood—from regional coasts and international waters—and treats those ingredients with uncompromising respect and sophisticated technique. “First and foremost, what guides us here is sustainability,” Cimarusti says. “We use only wild-caught, sustainable products, mostly from American waters, and look to highlight their finest qualities.””

Connie & Ted’s in West Hollywood Chef Michael’s and Donato’s (along with Craig Nickoloff’s) more casual, full-service Dinner House has reopened for outside patio dining. They are serving Dinner nightly Wednesday through Sunday.

Restaurateur, Co-Proprietor of Providence and graciously welcoming host Donato Poto continues with us to talk about Valentine’s Day at Providence, patio dining at sister restaurant Connie & Ted’s and look to the future when dine-in (inside) can return.

Show 402, December 5, 2020: Matthew DeMarte, General Manager, Connie & Ted’s, West Hollywood

Matthew de Marte wearing a mask at Connie and Ted'sConnie and Ted’s in West Hollywood is inspired by the real Connie & Ted (the grandparents of Chef Michael Cimarusti,) their love for family, and the good times they spent together fishing off the shores of New England. At Connie and Ted’s you’ll find simply prepared fish and shellfish, inspired by the classic clam shacks, oyster bars, and fish houses, that dot the New England Seaboard and the West Coast.

General Manager Matthew DeMarte has been there since the beginning eight years ago. We reel him in to explain how Connie & Ted’s is still hospitably serving their guests (Wednesday through Sunday) with seafood specialties available for takeaway. Gift cards for Connie & Ted’s are a great item for the seafood lovers on your Holiday list.

Show 378, June 20, 2020: Donato Poto, Co-Proprietor, Providence Restaurant, Hollywood

Donato Poto of Providence plus Connie and Ted'sFor 15 years, Providence in Hollywood has elevated the standard of modern American seafood restaurants with exemplary service. Newly reopened for dine-in you can again experience Chef Michael Cimarusti’s award-winning cuisine in the heart of Los Angeles, welcomed by one of L.A.’s legendary hosts, co-owner Donato Poto.

“Chef Cimarusti is completely dedicated to procuring the finest sustainable seafood—from regional coasts and international waters—and treats those ingredients with uncompromising respect and sophisticated technique. “First and foremost, what guides us here is sustainability,” Cimarusti says. “We use only wild-caught, sustainable products, mostly from American waters, and look to highlight their finest qualities.””

Restaurateur Donato Poto is with us to reminisce, celebrate the 15th Anniversary and look to the future.

Show 377, June 13, 2020: Matthew De Marte, General Manager, Connie & Ted’s, West Hollywood

Matthew de Marte wearing a mask at Connie and Ted'sSince partners Chef Michael Cimarusti, Donato Poto, and Craig Nickoloff opened Connie and Ted’s in West Hollywood in 2013 they have redefined the concept of a casual seafood dinner house serving premium seafood. Poised to reopen for dine-in Connie & Ted’s just celebrated their 7th Anniversary.

“At Connie and Ted’s you’ll find simply prepared fish and shellfish, inspired by the classic clam shacks, oyster bars, and fish houses, that dot the New England Seaboard and the Western Coast.”

During the ban on dine-in Connie & Ted’s has been serving guests with a full menu prepared To-Go & via delivery through TOCK.

Opening General Manager Matthew De Marte (a 3rd generation restaurant professional) provides all the tasty details.

Show 253, December 23, 2017: Restaurateur Donato Poto, il Pesce Cucina and Best Girl

Donato PotoGreatly respected restaurateur Donato Poto, in partnership with Chef Michael Cimarusti, is responsible for the L.A. fine dining treasure, Providence, as well as the more casual Connie & Ted’s (with restaurateur Craig Nickoloff) in West Hollywood. It’s been a busy few weeks for them as they have launched il Pesce Cucina in Eataly in Westfield Century City as well as Best Girl, a 3-meal-a-day restaurant in The Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles.

Headed up by acclaimed L.A. restaurant Providence, Il Pesce Cucina is Eataly’s fish market-inspired restaurant. For more than a decade, the team led by Chef Michael Cimarusti and Donato Poto has worked to elevate the standards of modern American seafood restaurants. At Eataly, Providence highlights the delicious varieties of California’s wild fish in their menus. All of the fresh seafood is responsibly sourced, with a particular focus on wild-caught and raw options that promise to satisfy every taste.

For now tables (including patio seating with prime views of the Hollywood Hills and Century City) are available on a first-come, first-served basis; il Pesce Cucina does not accept reservations. If you’re going to be doing some shopping at Eataly a good tip is put your name in at il Pesce first.

“Providence, a restaurant with two Michelin stars, has defined a new standard of seafood cuisine in America. Led by Chef Michael Cimarusti and co-owner Donato Poto, this signature L.A. restaurant found its roots in the search for sustainable fish, wild caught and of the finest quality. Ingredients are treated with the greatest respect and technique, with the goal of bringing the freshest seafood flavors to your table. Eataly partners with Providence at Il Pesce Cucina because we believe in the same emphasis on ingredients and search for quality.”

We’ll get the full, mouthwatering briefing from Donato.

 

Show 253, December 23, 2017: Restaurateur Donato Poto, il Pesce Cucina and Best Girl Continues…

Donato PotoGreatly respected restaurateur Donato Poto, in partnership with Chef Michael Cimarusti, is responsible for the L.A. fine dining treasure, Providence, as well as the more casual Connie & Ted’s (with restaurateur Craig Nickoloff) in West Hollywood. It’s been a busy few weeks for them as they have launched il Pesce Cucina in Eataly in Westfield Century City as well as Best Girl, a 3-meal-a-day restaurant in The Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles.

Named after the first film screened at The Theatre (now the beautifully restored Ace Theater (built as the flagship for United Artists Theaters) adjacent to the Ace Hotel) in 1927, Best Girl is Downtown Los Angeles’ local haunt featuring rotating, seasonal fare and classic favorites. Best Girl is in partnership with the inimitable Chef Michael Cimarusti and business partner Donato Poto, renowned for championing sustainable seafood and elevating impeccable service in a casual atmosphere.

A multi-nominee for a James Beard Award, Cimarusti’s critically acclaimed restaurants Providence and Connie and Ted’s have earned him two Michelin Stars and international recognition as an industry giant. Cape Seafood and Provisions, his seafaring market, offers sustainable, wild caught fish, prime cuts and grab-and-go dishes. Chef Cimarusti’s menu for Best Girl represents his favorite meals made at home for family and friends — inviting and simple, every dish is expertly crafted, wholly delicious and available every day.

The busy Ace Theater generates a lot of pre-theater dinner business for Best Girl. Donato’s tip is that things are calmer for a leisurely dining experience at 8:00 p.m. and thereafter.

We’ll continue the full briefing from Donato.