Show 485, July 30, 2022: Chef & Restaurateur Ross Pangilinan, ReMix Kitchen Bar, Long Beach. Preview of Long Beach Burger Week

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat once again as dozens of local restaurants and burger-centric businesses will offer unique over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the 2nd annual Long Beach Burger Week returns August 7-14, 2022. Featured Burgers are value-priced at $5, $10, $15 and $20, plus Burger/Cocktail combos at $25.”

“Long Beach Burger Week is even taking “dog friendly” one step further by encouraging restaurants with patios to offer a special Burger Week Menu just for dogs for $5 each.”

“Organized by local 501(c)3 non-profit Long Beach Food & Beverage, executive director Terri Henry, who has been organizing culinary events Long Beach for almost a decade, felt that in addition to encouraging local and surrounding “foodies” to enjoy what the expanding Long Beach culinary community has to offer, events like Burger Week support the local economy and put “butts in seats” of our valued restaurants. “We may be past the pandemic stage of COVID, but restaurants are still struggling and the 2nd annual city-wide Long Beach Burger Week will help increase guest counts and sales in August,” stated Henry. “And hey, it’s summertime and who doesn’t love a good burger?”.”

“There are no tickets or passes required. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups food truck to visit. Participating restaurants, food businesses and offers can be found at the Long Beach Burger Week site.

Then Remix Kitchen Bar at LBX is also a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. Their special is the Remix Burger for $20. It layered on a house-made Brioche Bun with Thyme Garlic Aioli, American Cheese, Arugula, Tomato, Shallot Jam, Bacon and served with Fries. Founder & Executive Chef Ross Pangilinan (Terrace by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza) joins us with spatula in hand.

Congratulations to Chef Ross and his team at Catering by Mix Mix for being awarded the contract to provide foodservice for all events at the soon to open Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) at Segerstrom Center for the Arts adjacent to South Coast Plaza.

Show 455, December 11, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

TERRACE by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza focuses on well-priced, market-driven small plates. The cuisine showcases Chef Ross Pangilinan’s (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar, ReMix Kitchen Bar) eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors, as well as his refined technique. An approachable wine list offers varietals by the glass and bottle as well as rotating craft beers.”

Chef Ross takes a break from his busy Holiday kitchens and is our guest.

Amorcito SoCal Taqueria is a quick service offshoot of Chef Thomas Ortega’s multi-awarded Amor y Tacos in Cerritos, CA, that’s bringing its own style of a Modern Taqueria while being true to the familiar Mexican flavors of Southern California. The original location is at the Hangar at the Long Beach Exchange and the newly launched second location is in Costa Mesa. Amorcito SoCal Taqueria has quickly stood out on its own bringing rave reviews from multiple restaurant critics including Brad A. Johnson of the Orange County Register and Patricia Escarcega of the Los Angeles Times.” Chef Thomas Ortega joins us with a stack of warm corn tortillas in hand.

“Travel to Krokos-Kozanis, Greece to immerse yourself in cooking with saffron and Greece’s vibrant saffron harvest through the pages of this gorgeous, 88-page, full-color travel-cookbooklet (Saffron) collaboration by Photographer, Emily Brooke Sandor, and Greek-American Chef, Christina Xenos. Saffron contains a brief history of saffron, tips on best uses and storage of the spice, 12 lively saffron-forward recipes to inspire the beginner and advanced home cook, and a photography story of the annual saffron harvest in Krokos, one of forty small villages in the town of Kozani, Western Macedonia, Greece.” Emily Brooke Sandor and Chef Christina Xenos are our guests with a proper cup of saffron tea in hand.

Bracken’s Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) organization based in Garden Grove, Orange County California.  Founded in 2013 their mission is simple: Through food rescue, culinary training and their community feeding program Bracken’s Kitchen is committed to rescuing, re-purposing and restoring both food and lives.”“With the help of Bracken’s Kitchen’s nonprofit charity partners, business and professional supporters, volunteers, donors and employees they are committed to providing over 2 million tasty and nutritious meals in 2021.” Founder & Culinary Director Chef Bill Bracken takes a break from his busy Garden Grove kitchens and 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. This week’s (Holiday Cooking) question is from Marcella of Santa Monica. She is the lucky winner of the prize package of premium USDA Prime Steaks from West Coast Prime Meats.

Show 455, December 11, 2021: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, Terrace by Mix Mix, South Coast Plaza Part One

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

TERRACE by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza focuses on well-priced, market-driven small plates. The cuisine showcases Chef Ross Pangilinan’s (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar (Santa Ana,) ReMix Kitchen Bar (Long Beach)) eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors, as well as his refined technique. An approachable wine list offers varietals by the glass and bottle as well as rotating craft beers.”

“True to its name, the restaurant showcases full-service dining for Lunch, Dinner and Weekend Brunch in a beautifully designed covered terrace located at the west end of the Bridge of Gardens. Features include a small wine bar, an open kitchen and a chef’s table counter offering an omakase-style tasting menu experience.”

A highlight at Terrace by Mix Mix is the three-course Express Lunch menu changing frequently. A sample entrée is Salmon Paella with sofrito, market vegetables, parmesan and gremolata.

Chef Ross Pangilinan also provides creative off-site catering.

Chef Ross takes a break from his busy Holiday kitchens and joins us.

Show 455, December 11, 2021: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, Terrace by Mix Mix, South Coast Plaza Part Two

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

TERRACE by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza focuses on well-priced, market-driven small plates. The cuisine showcases Chef Ross Pangilinan’s (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar (Santa Ana,) ReMix Kitchen Bar (Long Beach)) eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors, as well as his refined technique. An approachable wine list offers varietals by the glass and bottle as well as rotating craft beers.”

“True to its name, the restaurant showcases full-service dining for Lunch, Dinner and Weekend Brunch in a beautifully designed covered terrace located at the west end of the Bridge of Gardens. Features include a small wine bar, an open kitchen and a chef’s table counter offering an omakase-style tasting menu experience.”

A highlight at Terrace by Mix Mix is the three-course Express Lunch menu changing frequently. A sample entrée is Salmon Paella with sofrito, market vegetables, parmesan and gremolata.

Chef Ross Pangilinan also provides creative, off-site catering.

“Chef Ross’ passion for cuisine started at a young age and he has since crafted it with a remarkable background of culinary experience including studying at Le Cordon Bleu, working at the two-Michelin-starred Les Trois Marche in France, the Patina Restaurant Group‘s Pinot Provence and Patina, where they earned a Michelin star in 2007, opening Sinatra within Encore at the Wynn in Las Vegas, and as executive chef of Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Pangilinan opened Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in Downtown Santa Ana to rave reviews in 2016 and was named Restaurant of the Year by Orange Coast Magazine and Best New Restaurant by the Golden Foodie Awards.”

Chef Ross takes another break from his busy Holiday kitchens and continues.

December 11: Ross Pangilinan, Amorcito SoCal Taqueria, Christina Xenos and Emily Brooke Sandor, Bracken’s Kitchen

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, Terrace by Mix Mix, South Coast Plaza Part One
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, Terrace by Mix Mix, South Coast Plaza Part Two
Segment Four: Chef Thomas Ortega, Amorcito SoCal Taqueria, Long Beach & Costa Mesa Part One
Segment Five: Chef Thomas Ortega, Amorcito SoCal Taqueria, Long Beach & Costa Mesa Part Two
Segment Six: Saffron with Authors Emily Brooke Sandor and Chef Christina Xenos
Segment Seven: Chef Bill Bracken, Founder & Culinary Director Bracken’s Kitchen, Garden Grove
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

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

TERRACE by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza focuses on well-priced, market-driven small plates. The cuisine showcases Chef Ross Pangilinan’s (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar, ReMix Kitchen Bar) eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors, as well as his refined technique. An approachable wine list offers varietals by the glass and bottle as well as rotating craft beers.

Chef Ross takes a break from his busy Holiday kitchens and is our guest.

“Amorcito SoCal Taqueria is a quick service offshoot of Chef Thomas Ortega’s multi-awarded Amor y Tacos in Cerritos, CA, that’s bringing its own style of a Modern Taqueria while being true to the familiar Mexican flavors of Southern California. The original location is at the Hangar at the Long Beach Exchange. Amorcito SoCal Taqueria has quickly stood out on its own bringing rave reviews from multiple restaurant critics including Brad A. Johnson of the Orange County Register and Patricia Escarcega of the Los Angeles Times.” Chef Thomas Ortega joins us with a stack of warm corn tortillas in hand.

“Travel to Krokos-Kozanis, Greece to immerse yourself in cooking with saffron and Greece’s vibrant saffron harvest through the pages of this gorgeous, 88-page, full-color travel-cookbooklet (Saffron) collaboration by Photographer, Emily Brooke Sandor, and Greek-American Chef, Christina Xenos. Saffron contains a brief history of saffron, tips on best uses and storage of the spice, 12 lively saffron-forward recipes to inspire the beginner and advanced home cook, and a photography story of the annual saffron harvest in Krokos, one of forty small villages in the town of Kozani, Western Macedonia, Greece.” Emily Brooke Sandor and Chef Christina Xenos are our guests with a proper cup of saffron tea in hand.

Bracken’s Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) organization based in Garden Grove, Orange County California. Founded in 2013 their mission is simple: Through food rescue, culinary training and their community feeding program Bracken’s Kitchen is committed to rescuing, re-purposing and restoring both food and lives.”“With the help of Bracken’s Kitchen’s nonprofit charity partners, business and professional supporters, volunteers, donors and employees they are committed to providing over 2 million tasty and nutritious meals in 2021.” Founder & Culinary Director Chef Bill Bracken takes a break from his busy Garden Grove kitchens and 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. This week’s question is from Marcella of Santa Monica. She is the lucky winner of the prize package of premium USDA Prime Steaks from West Coast Prime Meats.

The Winning (multi-part) Holiday Cooking Question:

“I’m going to make a prime rib for Christmas dinner and I’m undecided on how to cook it. Looking into different cooking methods, rubs, etc. I came across this one – Reverse Sear.

“What is a reverse sear? Don’t know much about it. When is it appropriate to use a reverse sear and would it apply to steaks, roasts, pork, chicken? Or ?”

“Would I want to reverse sear my prime rib? What’s the best way to cook a prime rib roast? We like it rare with lots of au jus and all the sides!”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

TERRACE by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza focuses on well-priced, market-driven small plates. The cuisine showcases Chef Ross Pangilinan’s (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar, ReMix Kitchen Bar) eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors, as well as his refined technique. An approachable wine list offers varietals by the glass and bottle as well as rotating craft beers.”

“True to its name, the restaurant showcases full-service dining for Lunch, Dinner and Weekend Brunch in a beautifully designed covered terrace located at the west end of the Bridge of Gardens. Features include a small wine bar, an open kitchen and a chef’s table counter offering an omakase-style tasting menu experience.”

A highlight at Terrace by Mix Mix is the three-course Express Lunch menu changing frequently. A sample entrée is Salmon Paella with sofrito, market vegetables, parmesan and gremolata.

“Chef Ross’ passion for cuisine started at a young age and he has since crafted it with a remarkable background of culinary experience including studying at Le Cordon Bleu, working at the two-Michelin-starred Les Trois Marche in France, the Patina Restaurant Group‘s Pinot Provence and Patina, where they earned a Michelin star in 2007, opening Sinatra within Encore at the Wynn in Las Vegas, and as executive chef of Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Pangilinan opened Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in Downtown Santa Ana to rave reviews in 2016 and was named Restaurant of the Year by Orange Coast Magazine and Best New Restaurant by the Golden Foodie Awards.”

Chef Ross takes a break from his busy Holiday kitchens and joins us.

Chef Thomas Ortega

Amorcito SoCal Taqueria is a quick service off shoot of Chef Thomas Ortega’s multi awarded Amor y Tacos in Cerritos, CA, that’s bringing its own style of a Modern Taqueria while being true to the familiar Mexican flavors of Southern California. The original location is at the Hangar at the Long Beach Exchange. Amorcito SoCal Taqueria has quickly stood out on its own bringing rave reviews from multiple restaurant critics including Brad A. Johnson of the Orange County Register and Patricia Escarcega of the Los Angeles Times.” “

“At Amorcito SoCal Taqueria the principals come from a Chef- driven background and pride themselves on sourcing incredible ingredients from farmers, ranchers, bakers and food purveyors who all share their core values of helping Amorcito deliver the freshest, best tasting menu Amorcito SoCal Taqueria can offer.”

A year-round specialty is the juicy Hatch Burger. It’s an Angus beef patty with garlic aioli, Hatch chile, mustard onions, pickles, American cheese and served on a soft potato bun.

Chef Thomas Ortega joins us with a stack of warm corn tortillas in hand.

Christina Xenos of My Sweet Greek Catering

Travel to Krokos-Kozanis, Greece to immerse yourself in cooking with saffron and Greece’s vibrant saffron harvest through the pages of this gorgeous, 88-page, full-color travel-cookbooklet (Saffron) collaboration by Photographer, Emily Brooke Sandor, and Greek-American Chef, Christina Xenos. Saffron contains a brief history of saffron, tips on best uses and storage of the spice, 12 lively saffron-forward recipes to inspire the beginner and advanced home cook, and a photography story of the annual saffron harvest in Krokos, one of forty small villages in the town of Kozani, Western Macedonia, Greece.

“The goals of Saffron (the cookbook) are to demystify what saffron is and also to empower readers to confidently incorporate saffron into their dishes more frequently. The recipes in this cookbooklet are wonderful on their own but they also serve to familiarize the reader with flavors that pair well with saffron.”

Emily Brooke Sandor and Chef Christina Xenos join us with a cup of saffron tea in hand.

Bill Bracken of Brackens Kitchen

Bracken’s Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) organization based in Orange County California. Founded in 2013 their mission is simple: Through food rescue, culinary training and their community feeding program Bracken’s Kitchen is committed to rescuing, re-purposing and restoring both food and lives.”

“With the help of Bracken’s Kitchen’s nonprofit charity partners, business and professional supporters, volunteers, donors and employees they are committed to providing over 2 million tasty and nutritious meals in 2021.”

“In its simplest form, Bracken’s Kitchen delivers hot and nutritious meals in a fun, and dignified manner. The program strives to serve the highest quality and most nutritious meals that many of their clients will get all week.”

“Bracken has leveraged his relationships in the business to build a model that can provide a complete, well-balanced dinner spending less than $0.35 for the food to prepare it. A typical meal may be Roasted Pork Loin with Charred Tomatoes and Bell Peppers, Brown Rice Pilaf, Sautéed Seasonal Vegetables, Southwestern Caesar Salad and Fresh Fruit.”

Founder & Culinary Director Chef Bill Bracken takes a break from his busy Garden Grove kitchens and joins us.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

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. This week’s question is from Marcella of Santa Monica. She is the lucky winner of the prize package of premium USDA Prime Steaks from West Coast Prime Meats.

The Winning (multi-part) Holiday Cooking Question:

“I’m going to make a prime rib for Christmas dinner and I’m undecided on how to cook it. Looking into different cooking methods, rubs, etc. I came across this one – Reverse Sear.”

“What is a reverse sear? Don’t know much about it. When is it appropriate to use a reverse sear and would it apply to steaks, roasts, pork, chicken? Or ?”

“Would I want to reverse sear my prime rib? What’s the best way to cook a prime rib roast? We like it rare with lots of au jus and all the sides!”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, Terrace by Mix Mix, South Coast Plaza Part One
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, Terrace by Mix Mix, South Coast Plaza Part Two
Segment Four: Chef Thomas Ortega, Amorcito SoCal Taqueria, Long Beach & Costa Mesa Part One
Segment Five: Chef Thomas Ortega, Amorcito SoCal Taqueria, Long Beach & Costa Mesa Part Two
Segment Six: Saffron with Authors Emily Brooke Sandor and Chef Christina Xenos
Segment Seven: Chef Bill Bracken, Founder & Culinary Director Bracken’s Kitchen, Garden Grove
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 435, July 24, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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

Azucar, located in La Serena Villas in Palm Springs, is a hidden gem of a boutique dining experience. They serve modern contemporary cuisine (American, Mediterranean and Spanish flavors) to a sophisticated, adults-only crowd, focusing on flavor utilizing high quality and local ingredients. Azucar offers outdoor seating by the beautiful La Serena Villas pool and on their designed rooftop deck with a view. Reservations are politely recommended. “Sugar High Rooftop Lounge at La Serena Villas is a great mix of Boho chic meets cool Palm Springs. The little desert oasis sits atop the fresh and vibrant restaurant Azucar. It is the perfect slice of heaven to sip on amazing cocktails and nosh on appetizers. You can have all this while surrounded by the breathtaking San Jacinto mountains.” General Manager Laura Slipak is our guest providing the overview of the property.

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week lau launches August 1-8, 2021.” Chef Ross Pangilinan of Remix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange is one of the participating restaurants in the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week. ReMix is a modern version of the acclaimed Mix Mix Kitchen Bar by esteemed Chef Ross Pangilinan. For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Ross is featuring French Burger Sliders with shallot marmalade, bacon, melted brie, truffle aioli and served with fries. Chef Ross Pangilinan joins us with spatula securely in hand.

The Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau launched the digital Summer Eats Pass in early June to help support local restaurants, while also providing deals and offerings to the community and visitors. Each time diners use the pass to check in to a local eatery, they become eligible for a weekly drawing to win a $50 gift card to a local restaurant. To unlock the savings, guests can download a free mobile pass to access exclusive offers from Greater Palm Springs restaurants. Offers range from special prix fixe menus to free items with purchases.” Boozehounds (“Where dogs bring their humans,”) an ambitious newly opened, dog-friendly dining establishment with a serious bar program in Palm Springs is part of the Summer Eats Pass. Co-owner Bryan Rogers joins in the conversation along with Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs CVB.

The 2021 OC Fair opened the gates on Friday, July 16th. Opening Weekend was sold out. Outrageous Fair Food is always a mouthwatering highlight. What crazy edible will they next put on a stick? One of the all-star Fair Food personalities is the well-traveled Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri of Biggy’s fame on the RCS Carnival Midway. We’ll find out what indulgent deliciousness Chef Dominic is cooking up now through August 15th.

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.” Proprietor & Chef Joey Rooney of The Cooked Duck on Pacific Coast Highway is a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. It’s an easygoing and popular neighborhood restaurant for Breakfast and Lunch serving generous portions of properly prepared comfort foods. For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Joey is featuring his Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger with Texas chili, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and topped with Fritos Corn Chips for the perfect crunch. Restaurateur Joey Rooney joins us with a Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger in hand.

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 continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery. Chefs typically prefer to cook with natural gas at their restaurants. Some USA cities have been making moves to phase out natural gas connections to residences and businesses with the hope of reducing carbon emissions. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 435, July 24, 2021: Chef Ross Pangilinan, Remix Kitchen Bar, Long Beach Exchange, Long Beach

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.”

“Organized by local non-profit, Long Beach Food & Beverage and thanks to a generous grant from the City of Long Beach, executive director Terri Henry, who brought the original restaurant week to Long Beach with partners in 2014, felt that in addition to encouraging local and surrounding “foodies” to enjoy what the expanding Long Beach culinary community has to offer, events like Burger Week support the local economy and put “butts in seats” of our valued restaurants. “Now that we are a registered 501c3 non-profit and have support, we decided to mix things up a little this year and put our efforts into a city-wide Long Beach Burger Week, because, hey, it’s summertime who doesn’t love a good burger?’,” Henry explained.”

“There are no tickets or passes to purchase. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups or home cottage businesses for pick-up. Participating restaurants, food businesses and offers can be found on the Long Beach Burger Week website”

Chef Ross Pangilinan of Remix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange is one of the participating restaurants in the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week. ReMix is a modern version of the acclaimed Mix Mix Kitchen Bar by esteemed Chef Ross Pangilinan. His third Southern California concept has combined Mix Mix signature dishes with a complete new assortment of food offerings.

Chef Ross is featuring French Burger Sliders with shallot marmalade, bacon, melted brie, truffle aioli and served with fries.

As an option the Sliders can be served with the guest’s choice of a beer.

Chef Ross Pangilinan joins us spatula securely in hand.

July 24: Azucar, Long Beach Burger Week with Remix Kitchen Bar and the Crooked Duck, Palm Springs Summer Eats Pass, the Midway Gourmet

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Laura Slipak, General Manager, Azucar Restaurant and La Serena Villas, Palm Springs
Segment Three: Chef Ross Pangilinan, Remix Kitchen Bar, Long Beach Exchange, Long Beach
Segment Four: Greater Palm Springs Summer Eats Pass with Davis Meyer and Restaurateur Bryan Rogers of Boozehounds
Segment Five: Chef Dominic Palmieri, “The Midway Gourmet” at the OC Fair Part One
Segment Six: Chef Dominic Palmieri, “The Midway Gourmet” at the OC Fair Part Two
Segment Seven: Chef & Proprietor Joey Rooney, The Crooked Duck, Long Beach
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.

Azucar, located in La Serena Villas in Palm Springs, is a hidden gem of a boutique dining experience. They serve modern contemporary cuisine (American, Mediterranean and Spanish flavors) to a sophisticated, adults-only crowd, focusing on flavor utilizing high quality and local ingredients. Azucar offers outdoor seating by the beautiful La Serena Villas pool and on their designed rooftop deck with a view. Reservations are politely recommended. “Sugar High Rooftop Lounge at La Serena Villas is a great mix of Boho chic meets cool Palm Springs. The little desert oasis sits atop the fresh and vibrant restaurant Azucar. It is the perfect slice of heaven to sip on amazing cocktails and nosh on appetizers. You can have all this while surrounded by the breathtaking San Jacinto mountains.” General Manager Laura Slipak is our guest providing the overview of the property.

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.” Chef Ross Pangilinan of Remix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange is one of the participating restaurants in the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week. ReMix is a modern version of the acclaimed Mix Mix Kitchen Bar by esteemed Chef Ross Pangilinan. For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Ross is featuring French Burger Sliders with shallot marmalade, bacon, melted brie, truffle aioli and served with fries. Chef Ross Pangilinan joins us spatula securely in hand.

The Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau launched the digital Summer Eats Pass in early June to help support local restaurants, while also providing deals and offerings to the community and visitors. Each time diners use the pass to check in to a local eatery, they become eligible for a weekly drawing to win a $50 gift card to a local restaurant. To unlock the savings, guests can download a free mobile pass to access exclusive offers from Greater Palm Springs restaurants. Offers range from special prix fixe menus to free items with purchases.” Boozehounds (“Where dogs bring their humans”,) an ambitious newly opened, dog-friendly dining establishment with a serious bar program in Palm Springs is part of the Summer Eats Pass. Co-owner Bryan Rogers joins in the conversation along with Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs CVB.

The 2021 OC Fair opened the gates on Friday, July 16th. Opening Weekend was sold out. Outrageous Fair Food is always a mouthwatering highlight. What crazy edible will they next put on a stick? One of the all-star Fair Food personalities is the well-traveled Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri of Biggy’s fame on the RCS Carnival Midway. We’ll find out what indulgent deliciousness Chef Dominic is cooking up now through August 15th.

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.” Proprietor & Chef Joey Rooney of The Cooked Duck on Pacific Coast Highway is a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. It’s an easygoing and popular neighborhood restaurant for Breakfast and Lunch serving generous portions of properly prepared comfort foods. For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Joey is featuring his Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger with Texas chili, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and topped with Fritos Corn Chips for the perfect crunch. Restaurateur Joey Rooney joins us with a Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger in hand.

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 continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery. Chefs typically prefer to cook with natural gas at their restaurants. Some USA cities have been making moves to phase out natural gas connections to residences and businesses with the hope of reducing carbon emissions. Chef Andrew shares his thoughts.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Azucar, located in La Serena Villas in Palm Springs, is a hidden gem of a boutique dining experience. They serve modern contemporary cuisine (American, Mediterranean and Spanish flavors) to a sophisticated, adults-only crowd, focusing on flavor utilizing high quality and local ingredients. Azucar offers outdoor seating by the beautiful La Serena Villas pool and on their designed rooftop deck with a view. Reservations are politely recommended.

Sugar High Rooftop Lounge at La Serena Villas is a great mix of Boho chic meets cool Palm Springs. The little desert oasis sits atop the fresh and vibrant restaurant Azucar. It is the perfect slice of heaven to sip on amazing cocktails and nosh on appetizers. You can have all this while surrounded by the breathtaking San Jacinto mountains.”

“Originally built in 1933, La Serena Villas sits on over an acre of beautiful landscaped grounds in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, walking distance to the famous Palm Canyon Drive, where you will find the best restaurants, boutiques and galleries.”

“Redeveloped as a luxury hotel with 18 guest rooms in 2016 by award -winning architect, May Sung, with all the modern amenities of a 5-star hotel. Each piece of furniture, all materials and finishes have been carefully hand- picked by interior design group, Avenue Interior Design.”

“The stunning San Jacinto Mountains are the backdrop for this luxury boutique hotel. The secluded private villas each have a private patio, complete with a romantic claw foot tub, fire-pit, and built-in benches.”

Laura Slipak, the General Manager of both La Serena Villas and Azucar restaurant is our guest.

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.”

“Organized by local non-profit, Long Beach Food & Beverage and thanks to a generous grant from the City of Long Beach, executive director Terri Henry, who brought the original restaurant week to Long Beach with partners in 2014, felt that in addition to encouraging local and surrounding “foodies” to enjoy what the expanding Long Beach culinary community has to offer, events like Burger Week support the local economy and put “butts in seats” of our valued restaurants. “Now that we are a registered 501c3 non-profit and have support, we decided to mix things up a little this year and put our efforts into a city-wide Long Beach Burger Week, because, hey, it’s summertime who doesn’t love a good burger?’,” Henry explained.”

“There are no tickets or passes to purchase. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups or home cottage businesses for pick-up. Participating restaurants, food businesses and offers can be found on the Long Beach Burger Week website”

Chef Ross Pangilinan of Remix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange is one of the participating restaurants in the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week. ReMix is a modern version of the acclaimed Mix Mix Kitchen Bar by esteemed Chef Ross Pangilinan. His third Southern California concept has combined Mix Mix signature dishes with a complete new assortment of food offerings.

Chef Ross is featuring French Burger Sliders with shallot marmalade, bacon, melted brie, truffle aioli and served with fries.

The Sliders are served with the guest’s choice of a beer or soft drink.

Chef Ross Pangilinan joins us spatula securely in hand.

Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bujreau

The Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau launched the digital Summer Eats Pass in early June to help support local restaurants, while also providing deals and offerings to the community and visitors. Each time diners use the pass to check in to a local eatery, they become eligible for a weekly drawing to win a $50 gift card to a local restaurant. To unlock the savings, guests can download a free mobile pass to access exclusive offers from Greater Palm Springs restaurants. Offers range from special prix fixe menus to free items with purchases.”

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer the Summer Eats Pass to encourage the community and visitors to help support our local restaurant scene and even encourage exploration of new favorites,” said Davis Meyer, Director of Partnership. “Despite a challenging year for the restaurant industry, Greater Palm Springs offers a rich and diverse culinary scene with a variety of new offerings available for people to experience this summer.”

Boozehounds (“Where dogs bring their humans”,) an ambitious newly opened, dog-friendly dining establishment with a serious bar program in Palm Springs is part of the Summer Eats Pass. Co-owner Bryan Rogers joins in the conversation along with Davis Meyers of the Greater Palm Springs CVB.

Dominic Palmieri of Midway Gourmet

The 2021 OC Fair opened the gates on Friday, July 16th. The first Weekend was a complete sellout. Outrageous Fair Food is always a mouthwatering highlight. What crazy edible will they next put on a stick? One of the all-star, Fair Food personalities is the well-traveled Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri of Biggy’s fame on the RCS Carnival Midway.

Chef Dominic has noticed a taste trend in addition to the continuing appeal of spicy flavors. That’s sour. The creative minds at The Midway Gourmet have found spicy & sour inspiration and now perfected the all-new Hot Cheeto-n-Cheese Pickles which debuts at the OC Fair. It’s premium dill pickle chips smothered in cheese sauce and then topped with crunchy Hot Cheetos.

Also a juicy, Hot Cheeto-n-Cheese Burger with premium Angus beef. It’s a flame-grilled charbroiled burger sandwiched between a toasted buttery bun dipped in melted cheddar cheese then rolled in ground-up hot Cheetos. The burger is then topped with melted cheese and whole crunchy hot Cheetos.

For those hot Summer days consider the Watermelon Taco topped with refreshing Dole Whip and Tajin.

We’ll find out what other indulgent deliciousness Chef Dominic is cooking up now through August 15th with Chef Dominic.

Joey Rooney of the Crooked Duck

“Long Beach residents and visitors alike are in for a treat as dozens of local restaurants and food retailers will offer unique, over-the-top Burgers and value-priced Burger Offers when the inaugural Long Beach Burger Week launches August 1-8, 2021.”

“Organized by local non-profit, Long Beach Food & Beverage and thanks to a generous grant from the City of Long Beach, executive director Terri Henry, who brought the original restaurant week to Long Beach with partners in 2014, felt that in addition to encouraging local and surrounding “foodies” to enjoy what the expanding Long Beach culinary community has to offer, events like Burger Week support the local economy and put “butts in seats” of our valued restaurants. “Now that we are a registered 501c3 non-profit and have support, we decided to mix things up a little this year and put our efforts into a city-wide Long Beach Burger Week, because, hey, it’s summertime who doesn’t love a good burger?’,” Henry explained.”

“There are no tickets or passes to purchase. Burger lovers are invited to dine-in, take-out or have featured delivered from their favorite restaurants, or order from the websites of various pop-ups or home cottage businesses for pick-up. Participating restaurants and other types of food businesses and offers are on LB Burger Week’s site.

Proprietor & Chef Joey Rooney of The Cooked Duck on Pacific Coast Highway is a participating restaurant in Long Beach Burger Week. It’s an easygoing and popular neighborhood restaurant for Breakfast and Lunch serving generous portions of properly prepared comfort foods. They are known for coffee, breakfast specialties, sandwiches and, of course, burgers. Beer and wine are on the menu, too, along with wine-based cocktails.

For Long Beach Burger Week Chef Joey is featuring his Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger with Texas chili, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and topped with Fritos Corn Chips for the perfect crunch.

Restaurateur Joey Rooney joins us with a Fritos Chili Cheddar Burger in hand.

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 continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery. Genuine concerns remain…

Chefs typically prefer to cook with clean-burning, natural gas at their restaurants. Some USA cities have been making moves to phase out natural gas connections to residences and businesses with the hope of possibly reducing carbon emissions. Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.

Chef Andrew also reports on the progress of his new ambitious Save the Brave Burger” fundraiser for Summer to benefit Veterans with PTS.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Laura Slipak, General Manager, Azucar Restaurant and La Serena Villas, Palm Springs
Segment Three: Chef Ross Pangilinan, Remix Kitchen Bar, Long Beach Exchange, Long Beach
Segment Four: Greater Palm Springs Summer Eats Pass with Davis Meyer and Restaurateur Bryan Rogers of Boozehounds
Segment Five: Chef Dominic Palmieri, “The Midway Gourmet” at the OC Fair Part One
Segment Six: Chef Dominic Palmieri, “The Midway Gourmet” at the OC Fair Part Two
Segment Seven: Chef & Proprietor Joey Rooney, The Crooked Duck, Long Beach
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 374, May 23, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Happy Memorial Day Weekend. Let the season of inspired & relaxing grilling happily commence…

Chefs and restaurateurs are honestly the most generous people we know. In times of need they are always the very first in generously giving back and meaningfully supporting their communities. Truly remarkable…Right now restaurants urgently need our support to stay afloat. Kindly keep this in mind and please do what you possibly can (as you can afford) to support a community-focused, local restaurant….

As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without the enthusiastic encouragement of the foodie community.

When accomplished fine dining chef Ross Pangilinan left the Patina Group’s Leatherby’s Café Rouge (Segerstrom Center for the Arts) to venture out on his own he wanted to create a more personal, chef-driven concept. His vision came to be as Mix Mix Kitchen Bar located in a bit of an unlikely location in Santa Ana. In normal times it’s a globally inspired dining concept presenting dishes which see influence from traditional French and Italian to modern Filipino cuisines. During the ban on dine-in Chef Ross has shifted to preparing Tapas Family Kits (for 2 or 4 guests) for curbside pick-up. Also in Chef Ross’ family of restaurants is Terrace by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza and the newly (soft) opened ReMix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange. Chef Ross joins us with the overview.

One of our most reliable sources of significant restaurant news in fabulous Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is a staff writer for The Las Vegas Review Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. Al has been working the Vegas food scene for 19 years. He was one of the creators of the popular, and widely referenced, Eating Las Vegas restaurant guidebook series. Al joins us with a report on the return of dining in the restaurants that have been allowed to reopen in Las Vegas.

James Beard Award-winning Chef & Author Suzanne Goin is the Co-Proprietor (with Caroline Styne) of The Lucques Group. a.o.c and Tavern are back on Thursday through Sunday with take-out for pick up or delivery via TOCK. Lucques’ Sunday Suppers are newly available via Lucques Catering with curbside pick up or delivery via TOCK. Chef Suzanne Goin joins us with all the tantalizing specifics.

Previously we’ve met passionate winemaker Clarissa Nagy who has her own boutique label, c nagy, with a rustic tasting room in historic Orcutt. C nagy wines are “A pure expression of grapes from a vineyard celebrating the experience of Santa Barbara County.” Clarissa has a particular affinity for Pinot Noir but other available current releases include Syrah, Grenache, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Blanc. Winemaker Clarissa Nagy is our encore guest.

Sol Agave, the popular elevated regional Mexican restaurant in South County, operates the original location in San Juan Capistrano and the 2-year old branch in Mission Viejo in Kaleidoscope. San Juan Capistrano is open for to-go orders and Mission Viejo will soon reopen for curbside take out on June 1st. Restaurateur Jesse Galvez shares the secrets of Sol Agave’s Famous Carnitas.

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. Take-out/delivery when you can surely helps…Of course, the safety of restaurant employees and guests comes first. Chef Andrew will conclude his revealing commentary on 3rd Party Delivery Services and explain why he suggests you tip the delivery driver in cash. It’s the start of Summer Grilling Season. Chef Andrew has some meaty tips for the backyard master of the grill.

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

Show 374, May 23, 2020: Chef / Proprietor Ross Pangilinan, Mix Mix Kitchen Bar, Terrace by Mix Mix & ReMix Kitchen Bar

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen BarWhen accomplished fine dining chef Ross Pangilinan left the Patina Group’s Leatherby’s Café Rouge (Segerstrom Center for the Arts) to venture out on his own he wanted to create a more personal, chef-driven concept. His vision came to be as Mix Mix Kitchen Bar located in a bit of an unlikely location in Santa Ana. In normal times it’s a globally inspired dining concept presenting dishes which see influence from traditional French and Italian to modern Filipino cuisines.

During the ban on dine-in Chef Ross has shifted to preparing Tapas Family Kits (for 2 or 4 guests) for curbside pick-up. Also in Chef Ross’ family of restaurants is Terrace by Mix Mix at South Coast Plaza and the newly opened ReMix Kitchen Bar in the Long Beach Exchange.

For Friday, Saturday and Sunday Terrace by Mix Mix is serving Share Plates (for 1 to 10 guests) for curbside pick-up. For Friday, Saturday and Sunday Remix Kitchen Bar offers a Tasting Menu for 2 or 4 guests for curbside pick-up.

Chef Ross joins us with the enticing cuisine overview.