Show 260, February 10, 2018: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Program Note : On Saturday, February 17th we follow Ducks Hockey at the special time of 3 to 5:00 p.m. Don’t keep it a secret.

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s crave-worthy show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… Keep in mind we’re always here with you live every Saturday with a fresh show.

The ment’or BKB Foundation oversees, and funds, the USA’s participation in the biannual Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition. Inspired by Team USA’s unprecedented Gold Statue at the Bocuse last year ment’or is now funding, and building, a dedicated training kitchen for Bocuse d’Or Team USA located at the Culinary Institute of America at Copia’s campus in Napa. Executive Director Young Yun provides the details.

Baker and restaurateur Tarit Tanjasiri closed his popular Crema Café in Seal Beach late last year for a total remodel. It originally launched on Main St. in 2006. It feels more open now as the wall between the Bakery & Café was removed. We’re on the rise with Tarit.

The globetrotting Chef Bernard Guillas is the long-time, beloved Executive Chef of the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club and The Marine Room (oceanfront) in La Jolla. He’s also San Diego’s energetic culinary ambassador to the World. He just back from the 10th Annual Cayman Cookout with Le Bernardin’s Eric Ripert. We’re long overdue for a chat with Chef Bernard.

Sima Cohen is a celebrity trainer, nutritionist, wellness expert, and life coach with more than twenty years’ experience. Her new book is Sima’s Healthy Indulgence – 100 Revampred, Guilt-Free Recipes to Transform Your Life. This book is perhaps the ultimate guide to guiltless freedom that you can celebrate every day, without any depriving, compromising, counting calories, or measuring body fat! We’ll meet Sima.

Restaurateur Michael McCarty of Michael’s Santa Monica fame has been a larger-than-life fixture on the local dining scene (Manhattan, too) since 1979. He is a legendary discoverer (and developer) of youthful culinary talent. In the summer of 2016 Michael reinvented Michael’s Santa Monica once again with the arrival of a hot young chef, Miles Thompson. We’ll chat with Michael about the diminishing influence of high-profile restaurant critics over the years as well as Chef Miles’ new Winter Happy Hour menu.

Our always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, encores with his “Ask the Chef” series. What’s the future of home-delivery meal kits like Blue Apron? Even the supermarkets are offering their own labels of these fresh, and ready-to-cook at home meal kits. Are they even a good deal? Chef Andrew weighs in. He certainly supports any honest effort that encourages people to cook at home.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Show 260, February 10, 2018: Restaurateur Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & NYC

Michael McCartyRestaurateur Michael McCarty of Michael’s Santa Monica fame has been a larger-than-life fixture on the local dining scene (Manhattan, too) since 1979. He is a legendary discoverer of youthful culinary talent. In the summer of 2016 Michael reinvented Michael’s Santa Monica once again with the arrival of a hot young chef, Miles Thompson.

When Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty opened the landmark Michael’s in Santa Monica back in 1979 I’m not sure he even suspected that he would become one of the pioneers of what is known as California cuisine along with Alice Waters and Wolfgang Puck. He pioneered having museum quality art on the restaurant’s wall with not a hint of pretention. A Michael’s in New York came on the scene about a decade later serving breakfast, lunch & dinner to the media elite.

Michael is also known for mentoring rising, young culinary talent. This distinguished alumni club includes Jonathan Waxman, Nancy Silverton, Mark Peel, Ken Frank, and Sang Yoon.

McCarty still can be seen at The Santa Monica Farmers Market on Wednesday mornings with his culinary team. When he’s home in Santa Monica he’s at the restaurant nightly still touching tables and welcoming guests.

We’ll chat with Michael about the diminishing influence of high-profile restaurant critics over the years as well as Chef Miles’ new Winter Happy Hour menu. (Think pork ribs with Calabrian chili red hot and a daily cocktail special for $1.79.) How valuable is restaurant criticism to an established restaurant?

February 10: ment’or BKB Foundation, Crema Café, Bernard Guillas, Sima Cohen, Michael McCarty

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Young Yun, Executive Director, ment’or BKB Foundation
Segment Three: Restaurateur & Baker Tarit Tanjasiri, Crema Café, Seal Beach
Segment Four: Executive Chef Bernard Guillas, The Marine Room & The La Jolla Breach & Tennis Club, La Jolla
Segment Five: Celebrity Trainer Simi Cohen, Sima’s Healthy Indulgences Part One
Segment Six: Celebrity Trainer Simi Cohen, Sima’s Healthy Indulgences Part Two
Segment Seven: Restaurateur Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & NYC
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group & Show Co-Host

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s crave-worthy show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… Keep in mind we’re always here with you live every Saturday with a fresh show.

The ment’or BKB Foundation oversees, and funds, the USA’s participation in the biannual Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition. Inspired by Team USA’s unprecedented Gold Statue at the Bocuse last year ment’or is now funding, and building, a dedicated training kitchen for Bocuse d’Or Team USA located at the Culinary Institute of America at Copia’s campus in Napa. Executive Director Young Yun provides the details.

Baker and restaurateur Tarit Tanjasari closed his popular Crema Café in Seal Beach late last year for a total remodel. It originally launched on Main St. in 2006. It feels more open now as the wall between the Bakery & Café was removed. We’re on the rise with Tarit.

The globetrotting Chef Bernard Guillas is the long-time, beloved Executive Chef of the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club and The Marine Room (oceanfront) in La Jolla. He’s also San Diego’s energetic culinary ambassador to the World. He just back from the 10th Annual Cayman Cookout with Le Bernardin’s Eric Ripert. We’re long overdue for a chat with Chef Bernard.

Sima Cohen is a celebrity trainer, nutritionist, wellness expert, and life coach with more than twenty years’ experience. Her new book is Sima’s Healthy Indulgence – 100 Revamped, Guilt-Free Recipes to Transform Your Life. This book is perhaps the ultimate guide to guiltless freedom that you can celebrate every day, without any depriving, compromising, counting calories, or measuring body fat! We’ll meet Sima.

Restaurateur Michael McCarty of Michael’s Santa Monica fame has been a larger-than-life fixture on the local dining scene (Manhattan, too) since 1979. He is a legendary discoverer of youthful culinary talent. In the summer of 2016 Michael reinvented Michael’s Santa Monica once again with the arrival of a hot young chef, Miles Thompson. We’ll chat with Michael about the diminishing influence of high-profile restaurant critics over the years as well as Chef Miles’ new Winter Happy Hour menu.

Our always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, encores with his “Ask the Chef” series. What’s the future of home-delivery meal kits like Blue Apron? Even the supermarkets are offering their own labels of these fresh, and ready-to-cook at home meal kits. Are they a good deal ? Chef Andrew weighs in.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Young YunThe ment’or BKB Foundation oversees, and funds, the USA’s participation in the biannual Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition. Inspired by Team USA’s unprecedented Gold Statue at the Bocuse last year ment’or is now funding, and building, a dedicated training kitchen for Bocuse d’Or Team USA located at the Culinary Institute of America at Copia’s campus in Napa.

Scheduled to open in Spring 2018 ment’or’s hope is that this kitchen will become a permanent home for the Team.

The targeted fundraising goal is to raise $250,000.

The new space will replicate the kitchen at the Bocuse d’Or, so that Team USA can practice to compete as they would on the actual competition day. Most importantly, the kitchen will be outfitted with the necessary equipment to ensure that Team USA can continue to succeed on this international culinary stage. In addition, guests will be able to visit the training space to see the physical platters, tools. Photos, and memorabilia encompassing Team USA’s storied history and growing legacy.

Ment’or BKB’s Executive Director Young Yun provides the details.

Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema CafeBaker and restaurateur Tarit Tanjasari closed his popular Crema Café in Seal Beach late last year for a total remodel. It originally launched on Main St. in 2006. It feels more open now as the wall between the Bakery & Café was removed.

“The Crema Cafe is a European-inspired restaurant and bakery in beautiful downtown Seal Beach, California. We serve breakfast and lunch 7 days a week. Our menu offers classic favorites and delicious new alternatives. From our famous sweet and savory crepes to our tempting pastries, hearty sandwiches and fresh salads, we offer a variety of great breakfast and lunch choices.”

“Our artisan bakery offers a full range of fresh-baked goods. We use the finest ingredients like real butter and wholesome grains. Our assortment of handcrafted breads includes our signature 7-grain Crema Multigrain bread, sourdough and raisin pecan. See our schedule for a complete list of available daily breads. You can also indulge your sweet tooth with our enticing array of cookies, muffins, scones, sweet croissants and macarons, baked to perfection.”

“We invite you to dine al fresco on our airy patio or in our cozy interior. Our patio is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring man’s best friend along, too (please make sure Fido is on a leash).”

We’re on the rise with Tarit.

Bernard GxuillasThe globetrotting Chef Bernard Guillas is the long-time, beloved Executive Chef of the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club and The Marine Room (oceanfront) in La Jolla. He’s also San Diego’s energetic culinary ambassador to the World. He just back from the 10th Annual Cayman Cookout with Le Bernardin’s Eric Ripert.

Since 1941, one symbol has stood for the most exquisite dining experience in San Diego. The Seahorse symbol of The Marine Room.

“During this time, The Marine Room has earned countless accolades. Renown critics have described its privileged setting on La Jolla’s finest beach and the thrill of being “eye-level” with the crashing surf at high tide. The culinary artistry of Executive Chef Bernard Guillas and Chef de Cuisine Ron Oliver has been called “world-class” for its devotion to fresh seafood, seasonal variety, hand-selected local ingredients and award-winning desserts. Others have defined the experience as “sophistication with a sense of delight.” But our greatest satisfaction comes simply from serving our guests – who come to celebrate the joy of life with good company, a perfectly-prepared meal, and a golden Pacific sunset to call their own.”

We’re long overdue for a chat with Chef Bernard.

Sima CohenSima Cohen is a celebrity trainer, nutritionist, wellness expert, and life coach with more than twenty years’ experience. In her life journey she learned the important elements that govern and influence health and happiness. Her new book is Sima’s Healthy Indulgence – 100 Revampred, Guilt-Free Recipes to Transform Your Life.

Sima’s definition of transformation is not about obsessing over the numbers on a scale—it is all about something that blossoms from within you, out from your very pores, that ends with a lustrous glow that shows all over your transformed self. It’s not just about eating good food and feeding your hungry belly, it’s about discovering who you are, and transforming your body and life from the inside out.

After two decades, countless hours, thousands of clients, and customized food and detox plans, it was a no-brainer to understand that everybody—no matter their age or social status—wants their cake, and to eat it too. This book will transform how you think, what you eat, and the way you live. Losing weight is just the cherry on top of the sugar-free sundae.

We’re hanging out in the kitchen with Sima.

When clients said they had a sweet tooth, or they were hungry for their latest diet’s “no-no food” and wanted to eat without the guilt that came with it, something immediately clicked in Sima’s mind, and she knew that she had to create a perfect, life-changing meal plan for them. This book is the ultimate guide to guiltless freedom that you can celebrate every day, without any depriving, compromising, counting calories, or measuring body fat!

She perfected her method to help people from all walks of life discover these elements that pave the way for achieving sustainable health and happiness in life: selfsweat, and substance. Her expertise in nutrition (substance) and fitness (sweat) has helped thousands of overweight individuals achieve ideal weight—the culinary part of that work resulted in the creation of this book.

Sima resides in Los Angeles, California, with her daughter Kayla.

Michael McCartyRestaurateur Michael McCarty of Michael’s Santa Monica fame has been a larger-than-life fixture on the local dining scene (Manhattan, too) since 1979. He is a legendary discoverer of youthful culinary talent. In the summer of 2016 Michael reinvented Michael’s Santa Monica once again with the arrival of a hot young chef, Miles Thompson.

When Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty opened the landmark Michael’s in Santa Monica back in 1979 I’m not sure he even suspected that he would become one of the pioneers of what is known as California cuisine along with Alice Waters and Wolfgang Puck. He pioneered having museum quality art on the restaurant’s wall with not a hint of pretention. A Michael’s in New York came on the scene about a decade later serving breakfast, lunch & dinner to the media elite.

Michael is also known for mentoring rising, young culinary talent. This distinguished alumni club includes Jonathan Waxman, Nancy Silverton, Mark Peel, Ken Frank, and Sang Yoon.

McCarty still can be seen at The Santa Monica Farmers Market on Wednesday mornings with his culinary team. When he’s home in Santa Monica he’s at the restaurant nightly still touching tables and welcoming guests.

We’ll chat with Michael about the diminishing influence of high-profile restaurant critics over the years as well as Chef Miles’ new Winter Happy Hour menu. How valuable is restaurant criticism to an established restaurant?

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at the Fifth Anniversary of the SoCal Restaurant ShowOur always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, encores with his “Ask the Chef” series. What’s the future of home-delivery meal kits like Blue Apron? Even the supermarkets are offering their own labels of these fresh, and ready-to-cook at home meal kits. Are they even a good deal for the money?

Chef Andrew weighs in.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Young Yun, Executive Director, ment’or BKB Foundation
Segment Three: Restaurateur & Baker Tarit Tanjasiri, Crema Café, Seal Beach
Segment Four: Executive Chef Bernard Guillas, The Marine Room & The La Jolla Breach & Tennis Club, La Jolla
Segment Five: Celebrity Trainer Simi Cohen, Sima’s Healthy Indulgences Part One
Segment Six: Celebrity Trainer Simi Cohen, Sima’s Healthy Indulgences Part Two
Segment Seven: Restaurateur Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & NYC
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group & Show Co-Host

Show 239, September 2, 2017: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel

Now a tantalizing preview of this Saturday’s Labor Day Weekend bubbling over show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

Presented by Long Beach Chef AC BoralRICE & SHINE (an eight- course, family-style brunch experience) prides itself on being a completely unique brunch. You even leave with an edible care package. The next RICE & SHINE is set for Sunday, September 10th at 11:30 a.m. in a secret location in Downtown Long Beach. We’ll meet Chef AC.

When Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty opened the landmark Michael’s in Santa Monica back in 1979 I’m not sure he suspected that he would become one of the pioneers of what is known as California cuisine. A Michael’s in New York came on the scene about a decade later serving breakfast, lunch & dinner to the media elite. Just about a year ago Michael boldly rejuvenated Michael’s Santa Monica (working with son, Chas) by bringing-in a 28-year old rising-star chef with avant-garde ideas. Chef Michael McCarty is our guest.

Cleveland’s other popular celebrity chef, “Rocco Whalen, if nothing else, is wrapped up in the love of cooking: the idea and vitality of it, the doing of it, the invention and sustainability of it, the day-to-day enrichment of it, and, ultimately and significantly, the memory of learning all about it from his mother. All combine as convictions he affectionately shares with his regulars and first-timers who dine at his remarkable 15 year-old restaurant, Fahrenheit in historic Tremont, a stone’s throw from downtown Cleveland.” We’ll chat with the perpetually on-the-go Chef Rocco.

We’re delighted to welcome our Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, back to the show (in-studio) after his recent global travels. Chef Andrew will be discussing a benefit he’s hosting at Slapfish Huntington Beach for all of September in support of Bracken’s Kitchen. Also on the menu is a discussion of shrimp. When you’re buying shrimp as “fresh” is that really the case? Is there anything wrong with enjoying shrimp that has been properly frozen?

OCAPICA is celebrating 20 years at “Tastemakers of Orange County” on the evening of September 20th at SoCo and The OC MixTastemakers of Orange County 2.0” is a culinary event celebrating the Asian and Pacific Islander community, education, and heritage. The celebration includes food tastings, fun entertainment, and a silent auction. Their goal this year is 800 guests and 20 high profile Orange County chefs. Proceeds from this event benefit the non-profit organization, OCAPICA, and will support mental health, health, workforce, youth in education, and civic engagement opportunities for low income families. Executive Director and Founder Mary Anne Foo and participating Restaurateur Ed Lee of Wahoo’s Fish Taco join us with all the delectable details.

Special thanks to the OC Register’s Feature Reporter, Jackie Moe. This week she recognized the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on her list of the 25 top podcasts produced in Southern California that are “some of the most interesting, educational and entertaining recordings available.” We’re with some very impressive company and are deeply honored. We’re especially proud to be the only food, restaurant and libation show originating on local radio so recognized.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Show 239, September 2, 2017: Restaurateur & Chef Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & Michael’s New York Part One

Michael McCartyWhen Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty opened the landmark Michael’s in Santa Monica back in 1979 I’m not sure he even suspected that he would become one of the pioneers of what is known as California cuisine along with Alice Waters and Wolfgang Puck. He pioneered having museum quality art on the restaurant’s wall with not a hint of pretention. A Michael’s in New York came on the scene about a decade later serving breakfast, lunch & dinner to the media elite.

Michael is also known for mentoring rising, young culinary talent. This distinguished alumni club includes Jonathan Waxman, Nancy Silverton, Brooke Williamson, Mark Peel, Ken Frank and Sang Yoon.

McCarty still can be seen at The Santa Monica Farmers Market on Wednesday mornings with his culinary team. He actually was one of the founders of this showcase Farmers Market now known throughout the world. When he’s home in Santa Monica he’s at the restaurant nightly still touching tables and amiably welcoming guests.

Just about a year ago Michael totally rejuvenated Michael’s Santa Monica by bringing-in a 28-year old rising-star chef with avant-garde ideas. Chef Miles Thompson is already earning deserved accolades from food critics. Dining in the lush garden patio at Michael’s all these years later is still a uniquely L.A. experience.

Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty is our guest.

 

Show 239, September 2, 2017: Restaurateur & Chef Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & Michael’s New York Part Two

Michael McCartyWhen Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty opened the landmark Michael’s in Santa Monica back in 1979 I’m not sure he even suspected that he would become one of the pioneers of what is known as California cuisine along with Alice Waters and Wolfgang Puck. He pioneered having museum quality art on the restaurant’s wall with not a hint of pretention.

Michael is also known for mentoring rising, young culinary talent that have gone on to open their own successful restaurants. This distinguished alumni club includes Jonathan Waxman, Nancy Silverton, Brooke Williamson, Mark Peel, Ken Frank and Sang Yoon.

Just about a year ago Michael (working with his son, Chas) totally rejuvenated Michael’s Santa Monica by bringing-in a 28-year old rising-star chef with avant-garde ideas. Chef Miles Thompson is already earning deserved accolades from food critics and bringing in a younger crowd of new guests. Michael shares the entertaining story of how he and Chas came to select Chef Thompson.

Dining in the lush, shaded garden patio at Michael’s all these years later remains a uniquely L.A. experience.

Michael, usually, has a hillside vineyard on his residential property in Malibu. Just now he’s harvesting his Pinot Noir grapes for the 2017 vintage of The Malibu Vineyard.

If you’d like to see what Chef Miles Thompson is like away from Michael’s (and where he eats) take a look at his Chef’s Night Out video from Vice.

September 2: Rice & Shine. Michael McCarty, Rocco Whalen, Tastemakers of Orange County

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Chef AC Boral, RICE & SHINE Brunch Series
Segment Three: Restaurateur & Chef Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & Michael’s New York Part One
Segment Four: Restaurateur & Chef Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & Michael’s New York Part Two
Segment Five: Executive Chef / Proprietor Rocco Whalen, Fahrenheit, Cleveland and Charlotte, NC Part One
Segment Six: Executive Chef / Proprietor Rocco Whalen, Fahrenheit, Cleveland and Charlotte, NC Part Two
Segment Seven: Chef Andrew Gruel, Founder of Slapfish, Two Birds & Butterleaf
Segment Eight: TasteMakers of Orange County 2.0 Benefit

Now a tantalizing preview of this Saturday’s bubbling over show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing

Presented by Long Beach Chef AC Boral, RICE & SHINE (an eight- course, family-style brunch experience) prides itself in being a completely unique brunch. The next RICE & SHINE is set for Sunday, September 10th at 11:30 a.m. in a secret location in Downtown Long Beach. We’ll meet Chef AC.

When Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty opened the landmark Michael’s in Santa Monica back in 1979 I’m not sure he suspected that he would become one of the pioneers of what is known as California cuisine. A Michael’s in New York came on the scene about a decade later serving breakfast, lunch & dinner to the media elite. Just about a year ago Michael rejuvenated Michael’s Santa Monica by bringing-in a 28-year old rising-star chef with avant-garde ideas. Chef Michael McCarty is our guest.

Cleveland’s other popular celebrity chef, “Rocco Whalen, if nothing else, is wrapped up in the love of cooking : the idea and vitality of it, the doing of it, the invention and sustainability of it, the day-to-day enrichment of it, and, ultimately and significantly, the memory of learning all about it from his mother. All combine as convictions he affectionately shares with his regulars and first-timers who dine at his remarkable restaurant, Fahrenheit in historic Tremont, a stone’s throw from downtown Cleveland.” We’ll chat with the perpetually on-the-go Chef Rocco.

We’re delighted to welcome our Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, back to the show (in-studio) after his recent global travels. Chef Andrew will be discussing a benefit he’s hosting at all local Slapfish locations for all of September in support of Bracken’s Kitchen. Also on the menu is a discussion of shrimp. When you’re buying shrimp as “fresh” is that really the case? Is there anything wrong with enjoying shrimp that has been frozen?

OCAPICA is celebrating 20 years at “Tastemakers of Orange County” on the evening of September 20th at SoCo and The OC Mix. “Tastemakers of Orange County” is a culinary event celebrating the Asian and Pacific Islander community, education, and heritage. The celebration includes food tastings, fun entertainment, and a silent auction. Their goal this year is 800 guests and 20 high profile Orange County chefs. Proceeds from this event benefit the non-profit organization, OCAPICA, and will support mental health, health, workforce, youth in education, and civic engagement opportunities for low income families. Executive Director and Founder Mary Anne Foo and participating Restaurateur Ed Lee of Wahoo’s Fish Taco join us with all the delectable details.

Special thanks to the OC Register’s Feature Reporter, Jackie Moe. This week she recognized the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on her list of the 25 top podcasts produced in Southern California that are “some of the most interesting, educational and entertaining recordings available.” We’re with some very impressive company and are deeply honored. We’re especially proud to be the only food, restaurant and libation show originating on local radio so recognized.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

AC BoralPresented by Long Beach Chef AC Boral, RICE & SHINE (an eight- course, family-style brunch experience) prides itself in being a completely unique brunch. Sit at Chef AC’s long table for a great time blending food, family, culture, and, of course, mimosas. It’s Filipino family favorites with a contemporary twist.

Filipino hospitality means that guests eat well, always leaving the table busog (full) and with even MORE food to take home. Everyone is treated like family and becomes family.

“RICE & SHINE takes traditional Filipino dishes and blends them with American brunch. We want to share the culture and history of Filipino cuisine with those who are unfamiliar while offering something fresh for those who grew up eating it. “If ya don’t know, now ya know.”

At its core, Filipino cuisine is food for the soul. The spirit behind RICE & SHINE is to pay tribute to Filipino food tradition.

The next RICE & SHINE is set for Sunday, September 10th at 11:30 a.m. in a secret location in Downtown Long Beach.

We’ll meet Chef AC.

Michael McCartyWhen Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty opened the landmark Michael’s in Santa Monica back in 1979 I’m not sure he even suspected that he would become one of the pioneers of what is known as California cuisine along with Alice Waters and Wolfgang Puck. He pioneered having museum quality art on the restaurant’s wall with not a hint of pretention. A Michael’s in New York came on the scene about a decade later serving breakfast, lunch & dinner to the media elite.

Michael is also known for mentoring rising, young culinary talent. This distinguished alumni club includes Jonathan Waxman, Nancy Silverton, Mark Peel, Ken Frank and Sang Yoon.

McCarty still can be seen at The Santa Monica Farmers Market on Wednesday mornings with his culinary team. When he’s home in Santa Monica he’s at the restaurant nightly still touching tables and welcoming guests.

Just about a year ago Michael totally rejuvenated Michael’s Santa Monica by bringing-in a 28-year old rising-star chef with avant-garde ideas. Chef Miles Thompson is already earning deserved accolades from food critics. Dining in the lush garden patio at Michael’s all these years later is still a uniquely L.A. experience.

Chef & Restaurateur Michael McCarty is our guest.

Just about a year ago Michael totally rejuvenated Michael’s Santa Monica by bringing-in a 28-year old rising-star chef with avant-garde ideas. Chef Miles Thompson is already earning deserved accolades from food critics and bringing in a younger crowd of new guests.

Dining in the lush, shaded garden patio at Michael’s all these years later remains a uniquely L.A. experience.

Rocco WhalenCleveland’s other popular celebrity chef, “Rocco Whalen, if nothing else, is wrapped up in the love of cooking: the idea and vitality of it, the doing of it, the invention and sustainability of it, the day-to-day enrichment of it, and, ultimately and significantly, the memory of learning all about it from his mother.

All combine as convictions he affectionately shares with his regulars and first-timers who dine at his remarkable restaurant, Fahrenheit in historic Tremont, a stone’s throw from downtown Cleveland.”

“In 2001, Whalen returned to his native Cleveland from Los Angeles, landed a job as sous chef at Blue Point Grille, a seafood restaurant in downtown Cleveland. With recipe spins from Spago and variations on what he felt would work in a seafood restaurant in a city with a reputation for meat and potatoes, Rocco revised and refined the menu with items such as tuna sashimi, a whole catfish stuffed with ginger and served with coconut and citrus ponzu, and chicken spring rolls. After 18 remarkable and successful months at Blue Point it was time to move on.”

“A friend told him of a space for sale in Tremont, a trendy urban neighborhood five minutes from downtown Cleveland. Rocco bought the space, kept the purchase quiet, tossed a couple of “friends and family” tastings; but, for the most part, flew under the radar until he officially opened Fahrenheit, Oct. 2002. In less than a year, he doubled his projected top line dollars.”

We’ll chat with the perpetually on-the-go Chef Rocco.

“Friends and acquaintances were not surprised by Rocco’s success with the original Fahrenheit in Cleveland. He had made an impact as a chef at Blue Point, had brought with him to that restaurant and to the opening of Fahrenheit, a quality product – innovative, unique, and a menu that was affordable. He had learned, also, during his years with Puck, the importance of managing an ambiance that guests, both suburbanites and neighbors, would immediately feel comfortable in; that was genuinely guest friendly.”

Fahrenheit (Charlotte, NC) is situated above the Skye Condos on the 21st Floor. The restaurant features unparalleled views of the Queen City. Also featured on the roof are linear fire pits, a social pool and seasonal herb garden. Fahrenheit provides Room Service for the Skye Condos and the adjacent Hyatt Place Hotel.

Fortunately Chef Rocco hasn’t forgotten the Los Angeles culinary community. He was just out here on July 30th for the annual Stu & The Kids Benefit at Vibiana. On Saturday, September 9th he’s back here in Westwood as one of the participating celebrity chefs in the 8th Annual L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Culinary Cookout.

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosWe’re delighted to welcome our Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, back to the show (in-studio) after his recent global travels. Chef Andrew will be discussing a benefit he’s hosting at all local Slapfish locations for the month of September in support of Bracken’s Kitchen.

Also on the menu is a revealing discussion of everyone’s favorite, shrimp. When you’re buying shrimp as “fresh” is that really the case? Is there anything wrong with enjoying shrimp that was originally properly frozen?

Tastemakers of Orange County 2.0OCAPICA is celebrating 20 years of community service at Tastemakers of Orange County 2.0” on the evening of September 20th at SoCo and The OC Mix. “Tastemakers of Orange County 2.0″ is a culinary event celebrating the Asian and Pacific Islander community, education, and heritage. The 2nd annual celebration includes ample food tastings, fun entertainment, and a silent auction. Their goal this year is 800 guests and 20 high profile Orange County chefs.

Proceeds from this event benefit the non-profit organization, OCAPICA, and will support mental health, health, workforce, youth in education, and civic engagement opportunities for low income families.

Executive Director and Founder Mary Anne Foo and participating Restaurateur Ed Lee of Wahoo’s Fish Taco join us with all the delectable details.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Chef AC Boral, RICE & SHINE Brunch Series
Segment Three: Restaurateur & Chef Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & Michael’s New York Part One
Segment Four: Restaurateur & Chef Michael McCarty, Michael’s Santa Monica & Michael’s New York Part Two
Segment Five: Executive Chef / Proprietor Rocco Whalen, Fahrenheit, Cleveland and Charlotte, NC Part One
Segment Six: Executive Chef / Proprietor Rocco Whalen, Fahrenheit, Cleveland and Charlotte, NC Part Two
Segment Seven: Chef Andrew Gruel, Founder of Slapfish, Two Birds & Butterleaf
Segment Eight: TasteMakers of Orange County 2.0 Benefit