Show 191, October 1, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

In August the James Beard Foundation announced the ten inaugural recipients of the JBF National Scholars Program. We’ll meet the West recipient of the National Scholars Program, Holland Dougherty, who is at University of California, Davis.

We’re hearing a lot from high-end steakhouses talking about premium aged beef. There is even a butcher shop/restaurant locally highlighting a burger with a 100-day dry-aged beef patty. What should we know about aging beef ? Joining us to chat about aging beef are the “Meatheads” from West Coast Prime Meats, Jay Henderson and Terry Hanks. They have over 50-years of combined, hands-on experience in the business! 

The Mad Hungry Woman blogger, Anita Lau, joins us with a gem of a San Diego County dining discovery in Del Mar. Earlier in his career the chef there was part of the opening team at Marche Moderne in South Coast Plaza as well as Charlie Palmer’s at Bloomingdales in South Coast Plaza.

Our friend and colleague, Anne Marie Panoringan (OC Weekly’s blog), was the first journalist to break the story (August 30th) that Executive Chef Jason Montelibano was departing EATS Kitchen at Hotel Irvine to return to Chapter One: The Modern Local in Santa Ana. Time to catch-up with Chef Jason (a.k.a. Chef Chicken Wing.)

Our colleagues at Pacific Food & Beverage Museum are at it again. There’s a lot of interest in fine whiskey here IN California, but do you know about the fine whiskeys FROM California? And you probably haven’t had the chance to experience the range for yourself, but with the latest edition of “The Thoughtful Feast: A California Whiskey Dinner,” all that’s changed. PacFAB’s Richard Foss and Master Distiller Steve Gertman of Ascendant Spirits uncork the flask for us on this one.

Organizers of Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week just announced the upcoming sale of the Dine LBC Long Beach Kitchen Ink 2017 Calendar featuring stunning photos of 13 Long Beach chefs and one local urban farm owner for each of twelve months plus front and back covers. Calendar sales benefit Dine LBC Originals Marketing Fund that provides marketing and public relations support to participating independently owned restaurants year-round. Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week founder, Terri Henry, is our guest.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

October 1: Holland Dougherty, West Coast Prime Meats, Mad Hungry Woman, Jason Montelibano, Richard Foss, Terri Henry

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: James Beard Foundation National Scholars Program recipient, Holland Dougherty
Segment Three: The “Meatheads” from West Coast Prime Meats – Aging Beef
Segment Four: Anita Lau, Mad Hungry Woman blogger
Segment Five: Executive Chef Jason Montelibano, Chapter One – The Modern Local
Segment Six: Pacific Food & Beverage Museum’s “The Thoughtful Feast: A California Whiskey Dinner”
Segment Seven: Terri Henry, Founder, Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week

Please join us at the special time of 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. only for this Saturday, October 1st. We’re back to our usual broadcast time of 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon on October 8th.

In August the James Beard Foundation announced the ten inaugural recipients of the JBF National Scholars Program. We’ll meet the West recipient of the National Scholars Program, Holland Dougherty, who is at University of California, Davis.

We’re hearing a lot from high-end steakhouses talking about premium aged beef. There is even a butcher shop/restaurant locally highlighting a burger with a 100-day dry-aged beef patty. What should we know about aging beef ? Joining us to chat about aging beef are the “Meatheads” from West Coast Prime Meats, Jay Henderson and Terry Hanks. They have over 50-years of combined, hands-on experience in the business! 

The Mad Hungry Woman blogger, Anita Lau, joins us with a gem of a San Diego County dining discovery in Del Mar. Earlier in his career the chef was part of the opening team at Marche Moderne in South Coast Plaza as well as Charlie Palmer’s at Bloomingdales in South Coast Plaza.

Our friend and colleague, Anne Marie Panoringan (OC Weekly’s blog), was the first journalist to break the story (August 30th) that Executive Chef Jason Montelibano was departing EATS Kitchen at Hotel Irvine to return to Chapter One: The Modern Local in Santa Ana. Time to catch-up with Chef Jason (a.k.a. Chef Chicken Wing.)

Our colleagues at Pacific Food & Beverage Museum and The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are at it again. There’s a lot of interest in fine whiskey here IN California, but do you know about the fine whiskeys FROM California? And you probably haven’t had the chance to experience the range for yourself, but with the latest edition of “The Thoughtful Feast : A California Whiskey Dinner,” all that’s changed. PacFAB’s Philip Dobard uncorks the flask for us on this one.

Organizers of Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week recently announced the upcoming sale of the Dine LBC “Long Beach Kitchen Ink” 2017 Calendar featuring stunning photos of 13 Long Beach chefs and one local urban farm owner for each of twelve months plus front and back covers. Calendar sales benefit Dine LBC Originals Marketing Fund that provides marketing and public relations support to participating independently owned restaurants year-round. Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week founder, Terri Henry, is our guest.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Holland DoughertyIn August the James Beard Foundation announced the ten inaugural recipients of the JBF National Scholars Program. We’ll meet the West recipient of the National Scholars Program, Holland Dougherty, who is at University of California, Davis. She is a PhD Candidate in the Sustainable Agricultural Modeling Lab.

“We are proud that our Foundation’s newest scholarship program is committed to awarding $20,000 in financial aid to ten extraordinary scholars each year. A desire to pursue a career in the culinary arts is no longer limited to cooking in the kitchen,” said Kris Moon, vice president of the James Beard Foundation. “Just as the types of careers available in the culinary arts have evolved, so too is the Foundation’s scholarship program. The National Scholars Program supports a diverse group of students exploring virtually every educational discipline, whether that be history, anthropology, economics, management, or the sciences—as viewed through the lens of food.”

This year, and in each subsequent year, up to ten annual scholarships in the amount of $20,000 each will be granted. To ensure regional diversity, one awardee is selected from each of the ten geographic regions defined by the James Beard Foundation Awards.

The JBF National Scholars Program is a part of the larger James Beard Foundation Scholarship Program, which is awarding more than $750,000 in financial aid available in 2016, the largest annual total in the Foundation’s history.

Established in 1991, the scholarship program assists aspiring and established culinary professionals who plan to further their education at a licensed or accredited culinary school or hospitality institution, college, or university. In the past 25 years, the program has not only grown in visibility and financial scope, but in the breadth of subjects its recipients have embraced. As of 2016, the Foundation will have awarded over $6.5 million in financial aid to more than 1,800 recipients.

Belcampo 100 Day Dry Aged BurgerWe’re hearing a lot from high-end steakhouses talking about premium, aged beef. There is even a butcher shop/restaurant locally highlighting a burger with a 100-day dry-aged beef patty. What should we know about aging beef?

How does aging improve the flavor or texture of beef? There is wet aging and dry aging. Is a prime streak aged 35-days really better than a cut which was only aged 7-days ? Is long aging really better? Our meat experts will explain all…

Joining us to chat about aging beef are the Meatheads from West Coast Prime Meats, Jay Henderson and Terry Hanks. They have over 50-years of combined, hands-on experience in the business!

Anita Lau of Mad Hungry WomanThe Mad Hungry Woman blogger, Anita Lau, joins us with a gem of a San Diego County dining discovery in Del Mar. Earlier in his career the chef there was part of the opening team at both Marche Moderne in South Coast Plaza as well as Charlie Palmer’s at Bloomingdales in South Coast Plaza.

Anita will also share her first impressions of the long-in-the-works El Mercado Modern Cuisine in Santa Ana. This is a new concept from the chef/proprietor of the highly regarded Anepalco.

Jason MontelibanoOur friend and colleague, Anne Marie Panoringan (OC Weekly’s blog), was the first journalist to break the story (August 30th) that Executive Chef Jason Montelibano was departing EATS Kitchen at Hotel Irvine to return to Chapter One: The Modern Local in Santa Ana. Time to catch-up with Chef Jason (a.k.a. Chef Chicken Wing.)

From Anne Marie’s OC Weekly “Stick a Fork in It” blog post:

“I have had such a positive experience with EATS, Hotel Irvine and the Irvine Company over the last two years. And while I’ve learned so much and grown in this time, I’m very excited to return to Chapter One: the modern local, in Santa Ana to continue my career in an environment of creativity and collaboration. As always, I’m eternally grateful to those who’ve supported me every step of the way, and I look forward to what the future brings.” – Chef Jason Montelibano

Richard FossOur colleagues at The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are at it again. There’s a lot of interest in fine whiskey here IN California, but do you know about the fine whiskeys FROM California? Though the state’s been producing whiskey since at least the 1860s, there’s never been such a selection of styles at such high quality as there is now. And you probably haven’t had the chance to experience the range for yourself, but with the latest edition of “The Thoughtful Feast: A California Whiskey Dinner,” all that’s changed.

On October 11, the Pacific Food & Beverage Museum (PacFAB), in collaboration with Women Who Whiskey – Los Angeles, will host a dinner featuring five highly distinctive styles of California whiskey, each paired with a sumptuous dish from the kitchen of 1212 Santa Monica, the newest culinary star on Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade. Diners will enjoy the five whiskeys listed below, both neat and cocktailed, and a diverse five-course menu featuring lamb, pork belly, roasted root vegetables, and much more.

A portion of all proceeds support the National Food & Beverage Foundation (NatFAB), home of PacFAB, The Museum of the American Cocktail, and the Southern Food & Beverage Museum.

Dinner is $85 for all NatFAB, Women Who Whiskey, and Culinary Historians of Southern California members, or $95 for non-members, and includes tax and gratuity. NatFAB membership is available to all right here. Space is limited to 50 diners and reservations are required. Visit their website for more information and to purchase tickets now.

1212 Santa Monica is located at 1212 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401.

Featured Whiskeys

Long Beach Kitchen Ink CalendarOrganizers of Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week recently announced the upcoming sale of the Dine LBC Long Beach Kitchen Ink 2017 Calendar featuring stunning photos of 13 Long Beach chefs and one local urban farm owner for each of twelve months plus front and back covers. Calendar sales benefit Dine LBC Originals Marketing Fund that provides marketing and public relations support to participating independently owned restaurants year-round.

Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week founder Terri Henry conceived the idea after seeing “Kitchen Ink” editorial feature in an Orange County publication several years ago. She was looking to bring the concept to Long Beach but wanted to put a unique spin on it, hence the calendar idea was born.

“We wanted to produce a unique promotional piece that showcases the individual personalities of the culinary talent here, which in so many cases include body ink,” said Henry. “The calendar is our way of paying homage to those behind the scenes of our delicious dining experiences in Long Beach.”

More than just a one-time editorial feature, the calendar is a high quality promotional piece and expected to warrant a keepsake status beyond its 12 months. Based on the enthusiasm from the featured chefs, Henry expects it become an annual project.

Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week founder, Terri Henry, is our guest.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: James Beard Foundation National Scholars Program recipient, Holland Dougherty
Segment Three: The “Meatheads” from West Coast Prime Meats – Aging Beef
Segment Four: Anita Lau, Mad Hungry Woman blogger
Segment Five: Executive Chef Jason Montelibano, Chapter One – The Modern Local
Segment Six: Pacific Food & Beverage Museum’s “The Thoughtful Feast: A California Whiskey Dinner”
Segment Seven: Terri Henry, Founder, Dine LBC – Long Beach Restaurant Week

Show 174, June 4, 2016: Museum of the American Cocktail’s Dale “King Cocktail” DeGroff and Philip Dobard

Dale DeGroffThree superstar cocktailians: Dale DeGroff, Gaz Regan, and Adam Seger, share the stories behind cocktails they created and named when The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) presents its next Los Angeles seminar, Cocktail Genesis & the Language of Libations,” Tuesday, June 14, 2016 @ 6:30 p.m. at Executive Chef Sherry Yard’s newest fine dining destination, The Tuck Room at iPic Theaters Westwood. Properly shaking the libations for us are MOTAC’s creator, Dale DeGroff and MOTAC’s Philip Dobard.

Ever wonder how a new cocktail is created? What goes into it: base spirit(s), modifiers, and garnish? And then how it’s named? Well, on June 14 MOTAC brings together three living legends, one of them, Dale DeGroff, aka “King Cocktail,” a James Beard Foundation Award Winner and Who’s Who Inductee, to tell the origin stories of five signature cocktails they themselves created, and why they carry the names so synonymous with their creators.

Come pass a rich evening of storytelling and drinking, all while enjoying a spread of gourmet appetizers courtesy of dual James Beard Foundation Award Winner, Sherry Yard.

Show 153, January 2, 2016: MOTAC’s Lesley Jacobs Solmonson

Lesley Jacobs SolmonsonOur thirsty friends at The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are ringing in the New Year with an upcoming evening program at Greenbar Craft Distillery in Downtown Los Angeles, American Spirits New & Old: From Applejack to Prickly Pear on Tuesday, January 12th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Admission includes gourmet appetizers.

The American “can do” attitude has held sway for as long as the country has been settled. This is particularly true of our ability to press indigenous products into service as…booze. From the apples historically employed in applejack to the flourishing rye crops used in making whiskey, enterprising Americans know how to distill. Today, with the craft cocktail renaissance in full swing, we are once again exploring new, and rediscovering defunct, spirits, from modern takes on gin to prickly pear liqueur.

Leading the spirited evening is Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, Senior Editor at CHILLED Magazine and co-author of The 12 Bottle Bar who is our guest.

January 2: Andrew Gruel, Ronnel Capacia, Jo-Jo Doyle, Formaglini Vineyards, Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, Elika Sadeghi

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Ronnel Capacia, Kelsey’s, Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula
Segment Three: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-host & Founder, Slapfish Restaurant Group
Segment Four: Executive Chef Joseph “Jo-Jo” Doyle, Honda Center, Anaheim”
Segment Five: Winegrower David de Lancellotti, Formaglini Vineyards, Williamette Valley, Oregon Part One
Segment Six: Winegrower David de Lancellotti, Formaglini Vineyards, Williamette Valley, Oregon Part Two
Segment Seven: MOTAC’s Lesley Jacobs Solmonson
Segment Eight: Elika Sadeghi, ESPNU’s “College Football Daily” – Post Game on Lawry’s Beef Bowl

The Happiest of Happy Holidays and all the brightest wishes for a New Year full of promise to all of our loyal listeners. We wouldn’t be here without you.

Executive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, now, newly opened in Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

Next a tempting preview of Saturday’s festive New Year’s celebration show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a good thing…

Kelsey’s is the long-running sports bar at The Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula. After a $2.5 million and nearly four-month renovation, Kelsey’s has transitioned into an upscale American pub with an emphasis on hand-cut, barbecued meats and craft beers. It now seats 303 guests but doesn’t feel cavernous. Ronnel Capacia, Kelsey’s Chef, joins us with the overview.

It’s the New Year so Executive Producer Andy and Chef Andrew would be remiss in not taking a brief look back at 2015 and then looking ahead to 2016 in the active hospitality sphere. There are some big issues hanging over this universe.

Chef Joseph “Jo-Jo” Doyle is the Executive Chef of our neighbor, Honda Center. We’ll catch up with Chef Jo-Jo and continue with the report on a taste of what’s new at Honda Center. We’ll peak inside the Suites as well as tour the Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Club. The new dessert cart (with every tempting treat freshly-prepared and baked in-house) is not to be missed.

Making great wine requires a basic passion for farming. We’ll meet winegrower David de Lancellotti of Formaglini Vineyards. He produces a very limited supply of hand-farmed Oregon Pinot Noir. David is deeply passionate and faithful to his Italian roots and integrates these Old World learnings and practices throughout his Formaglini Vineyard wine experience.

Our thirsty friends at The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are ringing in the New Year with an evening program at Greenbar Craft Distillery in Downtown Los Angeles, “American Spirits New & Old : From Applejack to Prickly Pear on Tuesday, January 12th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Leading the evening is Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, Senior Editor at CHILLED Magazine and co-author of The 12 Bottle Bar.

The 60th Lawry’s Beef Bowl is in the record books. The 2 collegiate gridiron competitors this year were The University of Iowa and Stanford University. ESPNU personality, Elika Sadeghi (College Football Daily), joins us with her opinionated take on Lawry’s Beef Bowl. She was there on the sidelines for this celebrated pre-Rose Bowl game tradition.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Ronnel Capacia photo byy Todd MontgomeryKelsey’s is the long-running sports bar at The Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula. After a $2.5 million and nearly four-month renovation, Kelsey’s has transitioned into an upscale American pub with an emphasis on hand-cut, barbecued meats and craft beers. It now seats 303 guests but doesn’t feel cavernous.

Guests will immediately notice the industrial brick, concrete, exposed and reclaimed wood, juxtaposed with delicate glass and velvet textures as a major departure from the cherry-stained wood furnishings and closed-in booths that defined the restaurant’s prior look.

In developing the new menu, Kelsey’s culinary team initially conducted several guest polls. People were asked what kind of food and new concepts they would like to see in a new restaurant. The barbecue and craft beer theme surfaced repeatedly in the results.

“From there, we went to work developing recipes and methods for smoking and barbecuing meats, crafting sauces, and adding a few other items like gourmet burgers and pizzas we know guests in this restaurant appreciate,” said Kelsey’s Head Chef, Ronnel Capacia.

Smoked Meats at Kelsey's at PechangaWith 10 “From the Smoker” items and 14 southern specialty sides gracing the menu, Capacia and his team are confident diners will enjoy the new dishes. Other selections include several hearty salads and wraps, steak and seafood, and the beloved wood-fired, handmade pizzas held over from Kelsey’s pre-facelift menu.

A newer concept for casino restaurant table seating, Kelsey’s offers an indoor patio adjacent to the casino floor allowing guests to be next to the energy and excitement of slot machines and table games. Kelsey’s is open every day.

Ronnel Capacia, Kelsey’s Chef, joins us with the overview with Todd Montgomery providing the photgraphy.

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosIt’s the New Year so Executive Producer Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel would be remiss in not taking a brief look back at 2015 and then looking ahead to 2016 in the active hospitality sphere. It’s been a big year.

There are some major issues hanging over this universe including the possible elimination of tipping and a labor shortage in the back-of-the-house.

Jo Jo DoyleChef Joseph “Jo-Jo” Doyle is the Executive Chef of our neighbor, Honda Center. We’ll catch up with Chef Jo-Jo and continue with the report on a taste of what’s new at Honda Center.

We’ll peak inside the Suites as well as tour the Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Club and learn about the Rotating Chefs Tables. The new “soon to be famous” dessert cart (with every tempting treat freshly-prepared and baked in-house) is not to be missed.

Chef Doyle is responsible for managing all food and beverage offerings at Honda Center, including The Shock Top Terrace, Jack Daniels Old No. 7 Club Restaurant & Bar, Standing ‘O’, concessions and catering. Prior to joining Honda Center he served as Executive Chef at the legendary Churchill Downs.

David de LancellottiMaking great wine requires a basic passion for farming. We’ll meet winegrower David de Lancellotti of Formaglini Vineyards.

He produces a very limited supply of hand-farmed Oregon Pinot Noir. David is deeply passionate and faithful to his Italian roots and integrates these Old World learnings and practices throughout his Formaglini Vineyard wine experience.

Following the inaugural and hugely successful 2012 vintage, Formaglini Vineyards of Willamette Valley recently released its 2013 Estate Pinot Noir to great acclaim. Owner and Winegrower, David de Lancellotti, increased production from 100 to 230 cases for 2013 in order to fulfill the growing demand and interest in his Italian influenced wine.

“I am elated at the feedback for our Formaglini wine. While still a young brand, it is so gratifying to know we are creating a respected and sought after wine experience,” shared de Lancellotti.

In honor of his Italian heritage, the Formaglini Vineyards name is derived from de Lancellotti’s paternal grandmother’s maiden name – Formaglini – from La Quercia, Italy, which is a small village just south of Bologna. “My love of tradition and my Italian roots is the true soul behind our Formaglini wine.” explained de Lancellotti.

Lesley Jacobs SolmonsonOur thirsty friends at The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are ringing in the New Year with an upcoming evening program at Greenbar Craft Distillery in Downtown Los Angeles, American Spirits New & Old: From Applejack to Prickly Pear on Tuesday, January 12th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Admission includes gourmet appetizers.

The American “can do” attitude has held sway for as long as the country has been settled. This is particularly true of our ability to press indigenous products into service as…booze. From the apples historically employed in applejack to the flourishing rye crops used in making whiskey, enterprising Americans know how to distill. Today, with the craft cocktail renaissance in full swing, we are once again exploring new, and rediscovering defunct, spirits, from modern takes on gin to prickly pear liqueur.

Leading the spirited evening is Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, Senior Editor at CHILLED Magazine and co-author of The 12 Bottle Bar who is our guest.

Elika SadeghiThe 60th Lawry’s Beef Bowl is in the record books. The 2 collegiate gridiron competitors this year were The University of Iowa and Stanford University. It’s staged over two nights at Lawry’s The Prime Rib in Beverly Hills with great red carpet fanfare. “KTLA Morning News” weather guy , Mark Kriski was the MC.

ESPNU personality, Elika Sadeghi (College Football Daily), joins us with her opinionated take on Lawry’s Beef Bowl. She was there on the sidelines for this celebrated pre-Rose Bowl game tradition. It’s not a competition but rumor has it that the University of Iowa edged out Stanford University in the battle of the dining room.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Ronnel Capacia, Kelsey’s, Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula
Segment Three: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-host & Founder, Slapfish Restaurant Group
Segment Four: Executive Chef Joseph “Jo-Jo” Doyle, Honda Center, Anaheim”
Segment Five: Winegrower David de Lancellotti, Formaglini Vineyards, Williamette Valley, Oregon Part One
Segment Six: Winegrower David de Lancellotti, Formaglini Vineyards, Williamette Valley, Oregon Part Two
Segment Seven: MOTAC’s Lesley Jacobs Solmonson
Segment Eight: Elika Sadeghi, ESPNU’s “College Football Daily” – Post Game on Lawry’s Beef Bowl

Show 149, December 5, 2015: MOTAC’s “Oh James! Imbibing 007”

Linda CivitelloThe Museum of the America Cocktail is shaking it up once again with their provocative December 15th evening at Faith & Flower in Downtown Los Angeles. The program is “Oh, James! Imbibing 007.”

From aphrodisiacs to villain concoctions, alcohol abounds in the James Bond books and movies. Dive into bitter, sweet, rocks, and neat with food historian Linda Civitello, author of Cuisine and Culture: A History of Food and People. Whether you like your martinis shaken, stirred, or dirty, come get your Bond on with The Museum of the American Cocktail and the evening’s Drinkmaster, Edwin Osegueda of Faith & Flower.

Admission includes four Bond-inspired cocktails, gourmet appetizers and dessert.

Ms. Civitello has been on the faculty of culinary schools throughout Southern California, appeared on TV and radio, and cooks professionally. You can hear her audio tour about food and art at The Getty Museum.

Show 143, October 24, 2015: Food Historian Richard Foss

Richard FossCulinary Historian Richard Foss is also the California Curator for both The Southern Food & Beverage Museum (home of The Museum of the American Cocktail) and Pacific Food & Beverage. His new book is Food in Air and Space: The Surprising History of Food and Drink in The Skies. There was a time when dining in the sky was actually a true gourmet experience.

Richard shares the stories of the first libations in the air as well as the first meals. He also explains why airline food morphed from extraordinary to dull. In part this was motivated by one executive’s observation about leftover olives on salads. This then became the motivation for budget cutting on food costs along with deregulation…Oops!

The always colorful Richard Foss is our guest.

September 19: Andrew Gruel, John Terlato, The Habit, Ventura County Farm Day, Moulin Bistro, Eric Klein, Sipsmith Independent Spirits

Executive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, and now, Irvine at UCI, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

Next an appetizing preview of Saturday’s high-energy and appropriately fully-loaded show and not, with apologies, for dieters. With any luck we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a good thing…

The proudly Family-owned Terlato Wine Group is a holding company for several independent businesses specializing in the marketing and production of exceptional wines. They are probably best known for pioneering the popularity of Pinot Grigio in the United States. Representing the 2nd generation of Family ownership is John Terlato, our guest.

The Habit Burger Grill (which started in Santa Barbara in 1969) has partnered with No Kid Hungry for the month of September to raise funds to wipe out childhood hunger in the United States. A minimum of $200,000 will be contributed. The Habit’s CEO, Russ Bendel, joins us with all the details.

Discover California agriculture first hand and learn about fun farm-specific facts and specialties at SEEAG’s (Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture) third annual Ventura County Farm Day on Saturday, September 26, 2015. This free event welcomes visitors to enjoy both guided and self-guided tours from over 20 working farms in Ventura County. SEEAG’s Founder & Executive Director Mary Maranville is our guest.

Moulin Bistro in Newport Beach, celebrating their first anniversary, is an incredible success story. It’s a busy French bistro, epicerie, boulangerie and patisserie under one roof. (“Always Fresh Always French.”) The ambitious proprietor (unbelievably) had no previous restaurant experience. Proprietor Laurent Vrignaud joins us.

Executive Chef Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” In the last two weeks he has cooked a private dinner for The President, been the celebrity guest chef aboard Holland America Line’s ms Maasdam, and cooked at one of the most prestigious charity funds-raisers in Las Vegas. We’ll catch-up with the busy Chef Eric.

Our friends at The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are at it again. Their next Los Angeles Program is “Gin! A Botanical Mystery Tour” on Tuesday evening, September 22nd at 6:30 p.m. at the newly renovated Clifton’s Cafeteria in Downtown Los Angeles. Jared Brown, Master Distiller at Sipsmith Independent Spirits in London is our guest.

Mussels seem to be the forgotten and underappreciated mollusk in the United States. They are incredibly popular in Europe. The meat is a bit tougher than an oyster or clam but it’s still delicious with a mildly sweet flavor. Our resident seafood authority, Chef Andrew Gruel, will spread the joy of mussels. They are really good eating. There is life beyond oysters !

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

John TerlatoThe proudly Family-owned Terlato Wine Group, based in a Chicago suburb, is a holding company for several independent businesses specializing in the marketing and production of exceptional wines. They are probably best known for pioneering the popularity of Pinot Grigio in the United States.

The Terlatos started out in the wine business as retailers in 1955. Over the years, they have been involved in every facet of the business as wine distributors and importers, as well as winery owners and vineyard developers. No other company in the industry has successfully operated throughout all channels. This vertical integration and diversity of experience shaped the Terlato family’s unique perspective and approach to luxury wine marketing, sales and production.

Chairman Anthony Terlato’s philosophy that “Quality Endures” has guided the growth of the Terlato family’s businesses and provided opportunities to lead, rather than follow, industry trends.

Representing the 2nd generation of Family ownership is Vice Chairman John Terlato, our guest.

Russ BendelThe Habit Burger Grill (which started in Santa Barbara in 1969) has partnered with No Kid Hungry for the month of September to raise funds to wipe out childhood hunger in the United States. A minimum of $200,000 will be contributed.

Doing its part to help end the problem of childhood hunger in America, The Habit Restaurants, Inc.  has launched a partnership with No Kid Hungry in which guests are encouraged to donate at the register and, in return, receive a certificate to enjoy a complimentary Charburger with cheese on their next visit through October 14, 2015.

The campaign, which runs nationwide at participating Habit Burger Grill locations now through September 30, 2015, addresses the serious issue of childhood hunger in the United States where 1 in 5 children cannot count on their next meal.  During the campaign guests at The Habit who donate $2 to No Kid Hungry, a national campaign from the nonprofit Share Our Strength, will receive a certificate for a free Charburger with cheese good on a future visit .

The Habit/No Kid Hungry partnership will raise funds from 120 Habit restaurants nationwide and donations will directly support No Kid Hungry’s mission to wipe out childhood hunger in the U.S. by connecting kids in need with nutritious food and teaching families how to cook healthy, affordable meals.

The Habit’s CEO, Russ Bendel, joins us with all the details.

Ventura County Farm DayDiscover California agriculture first hand and learn about fun, farm-specific facts and specialties at SEEAG’s (Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture) third annual Ventura County Farm Day on Saturday, September 26, 2015. This free event welcomes visitors to enjoy both guided and self-guided tours, hands-on activities and educational demonstrations from over 20 working farms in Ventura County, followed by a ticketed outdoor BBQ at Limoneria Ranch.

A perfect family event, Ventura County Farm Day is free to attend at participating Ventura County farms in Camarillo, Fillmore, Ojai, Oxnard, Santa Paula, Saticoy and Somis.

This year, Ventura County Farm Day will also feature the new Farm Day Mercantile Hub at Hansen Agricultural Research and Extension Center. The Mercantile Hub will host a collection of local artisanal vendors displaying their goods and demonstrating the beautiful products that can be created from the raw bounty grown by our farmers. The market will include meat curers, bread makers, goat milk soaps, honey, jam, pickles, chocolate and more.

After tour hours have concluded, attendees are invited to enjoy a rustic outdoor BBQ from 4-9 p.m. at Limoneira Ranch in Santa Paula. The BBQ will feature live music by Grammy Award-winning artist Todd Hannigan, a kiss-the-farmer photo booth, tractor rides, gourmet salads prepared by farm-to-table Chef Jason Collis, craft beers from Poseidon Brewing Company, small-batch wines from Four Brix Winery and barbeque fired up by the Young Farmers & Ranchers of Ventura County.

SEEAG’s Founder & Executive Director Mary Maranville is our guest.

Laurent VrignaudMoulin Bistro in Newport Beach, celebrating their first anniversary, is an incredible success story. It’s a busy French bistro, epicerie, boulangerie and patisserie under one roof. (“Always Fresh, Always French.”) All the appointments and fixtures are French. The ambitious proprietor (unbelievably) had no previous restaurant experience.

It’s already the darling of Orange County Food writers. Moulin is one of three nominees for “Best New Restaurant” at The Golden Foodie Awards on Sept. 27th at The Fairmont Newport Beach.

The French Rotisserie Chicken is a standout.

Laurent wanted to close at 7:00 p.m. but his French guests had another opinion. By popular demand he opened on Tuesday evenings for Dinner at Moulin. It’s a weekly changing appetizer, main dish, and dessert for $25.00. It now sells out at capacity way in advance. Laurent then added Thursday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. It’s Entrecote Frites night with unlimited fries. It’s also $25.00.

The Orange County Register’s long-time food writer Cathy Thomas recently did a feature on Moulin’s Le Croque Madame. The video (demonstrating the recipe with Laurent and French-born Chef Jeoffrey Offer) is available for viewing on YouTube.

Proprietor Laurent Vrignaud joins us.

Eric KleinExecutive Chef Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” In the last two weeks he has cooked a private dinner for The President, been the celebrity guest chef aboard Holland America Line’s ms Maasdam, and cooked with Wolfgang Puck as the host chef at one of the most prestigious charity funds-raisers in Las Vegas.

Earlier in the week Chef Eric was the host chef for Chef Wolfgang Puck’s 3rd annual “Sip & Savor” benefit at Spago Las Vegas. It benefits Keep Memory Alive.

It’s a mix-and-mingle, wine-and-dine event which gave the guests the opportunity to indulge in an interactive culinary affair sampling the signature cuisine of each of Puck’s six Las Vegas restaurants, paired with a number of Chef Puck’s favorite wines.

We’ll catch-up with Chef Eric.

Our friends at The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are at it again. Their next interactive Los Angeles Program is Gin! A Botanical Mystery Tour” on Tuesday evening, September 22nd at 6:30 p.m. at the newly (and expensively) renovated Clifton’s Cafeteria in Downtown Los Angeles.

Master Distiller Jared Brown, (a MOTAC co-founder) will lead participants on a historical and global tour of gins, including London Dry, New World and Old Tom.

The evening also celebrates the eagerly anticipated reopening of Clifton’s Cafeteria, a Los Angeles culinary icon, now extensively renovated and the future home of MOTAC’s next Los Angeles gallery. Admission includes gourmet appetizers courtesy of Clifton’s kitchen.

Jared Brown, Master Distiller at Sipsmith Independent Spirits in London is our guest.

Andrew GruelMussels seem to be the forgotten and underappreciated mollusk in the United States. They are incredibly popular in Europe. The meat is a bit tougher than an oyster or clam but it’s still delicious with a mildly sweet flavor.

Mussels are an ancient food of early man going back over 20,000 years.

The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was recently on Prince Edward Island in Canada. We enjoyed mussels there cooked in white wine, craft beer, and with tomatoes. The broth is equally delicious, too.

Our resident seafood authority, Chef Andrew Gruel, will spread the joy of mussels. They are really good eating. There is life beyond raw oysters!

Show 134, August 8, 2015: Show Preview with Guest Host Chef Andrew Gruel & Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Andrew GruelExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, and now, Irvine at UCI, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

Next a mouthwatering preview of Saturday’s fully overloaded show. With any luck we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a good thing…

What’s new in ice cream ? (Sorry we just missed National Ice Cream Month…) Consider Manila Sky Ice Cream. This line of gourmet, sweet indulgences is a fusion of authentic Filipino inspired tropical ingredients combined with creamery fresh California milk. The flavors are bold. What started as a hobby for founder Anthony Reyes and his wife has grown (since 2012) into a viable business. What’s not to love about creamy ice cream? We’ll chill with Co-founder Anthony Reyes.

The raw oyster bar seems to be popping up as an attraction at a lot of restaurants these days including ones that offer very little seafood. It’s a trend…Satarist Jonathan Swift once wrote, “He was a bold man that first ate an oyster.” There are three primary species of oysters that are commercially harvested domestically. Our own resident seafood expert, Chef Andrew Gruel, will provide some needed 411 on what every listener should know about these plump bivalves that now are seemingly on restaurant menus everywhere.

Hatch Chile season is upon us! Fresh Hatch Chiles, grown only in the Mesilla Valley of New Mexico, are available for just a few short weeks each year in August and September. Many connoisseurs consider them the world’s tastiest chiles.Melissa’s World Variety Produce has led the charge in popularizing the coveted Hatch Chiles and developing many great, easy-to-prepare recipes using them. Their Corporate Chef, Ida Rodriguez, joins us to discuss the joys of Hatch Chile season.

At the age of 15, Chef Brendan Collins quit secondary school to follow his dream and enroll in culinary school, where is was classically trained in French technique. By 17, the talented Nottingham native had his first job at London’s La Gavroche, a Michelin two-star restaurant. Today Collins is the Executive Chef and Proprietor of both Birch in Hollywood as well as the Executive Chef of The Corner Door in Culver City.

Sadly the 125 Anniversary run of the Orange County Fair (“One Big Party” concludes on Sunday, August 16th. The Concessionaire’s Cup Awards for OC Fair’s Finest Foods have been presented. We’ll talk with one of the Trophy Winners, Lori Southerland of Grant’s Tasti Burgers and Tasti Chips.

Our spirited friends at The Museum of The American Cocktail (MOTAC) are at it again. Their next Los Angeles presentation isSin and the Silver Screen: The Birth of Spirited Hollywood.” The date is Monday evening, August 17th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Hollywood’s preeminent English pub, The Pikey Café & Bar. Lesley Jacobs Solmonson & David Solmonson, the authors of The 12 Bottle Bar and publishers of 12bottlebar.com are the always entertaining presenters.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 134, August 8, 2015: The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC)

David and Lesley Jacobs SolmonsonOur spirited friends at The Museum of The American Cocktail (MOTAC) are at it again. Their next Los Angeles presentation is Sin and the Silver Screen: The Birth of Spirited Hollywood.”

The program tells the story of Hollywood’s transformation from a dry, well-churched town to the epicenter of nightclub culture. The presentation features the rise and Golden Age of the Hollywood nightclub, tales from its most popular establishments, and “house drinks” from several famous clubs, including the Cocoanut Grove, Embassy Club, and Café Montmarte. Admission ($40.00 General Admission) includes farm-to-table food pairings of Chef Ralph Johnson.

Our guests, Lesley Jacobs Solmonson and David Solmonson, share the fascinating factoid that during Prohibition Hollywood still portrayed drinking as something that was socially acceptable. It paints the picture of how Prohibition was viewed in the West.

The event date is Monday evening, August 17th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Hollywood’s preeminent English pub, The Pikey Café & Bar. Lesley Jacobs Solmonson & David Solmonson, the authors of The 12 Bottle Bar and publishers of 12bottlebar.com are the always entertaining presenters.