Show 106, January 17, 2015: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s rich (but mostly guilt-free) show

Chef Anthony Jacquet of the Whisper Restaurant and Lounge at The Grove in Los Angeles was one of three talented North American Chefs to be chosen by the Taiwan Tourism to participate in Taste Taiwan 2014. The lucky chefs were hosted to an exclusive eight-day culinary adventure to Taiwan. Chef Anthony was inspired to then create a dish from his trip which is highlighted on The Whisper menu as a special for this month. Diners who enjoy this dish also have the chance to win roundtrip airfare to Taiwan on EVA Air.. Chef Anthony returns with an update.

Maison Giraud in Pacific Palisades opened its doors in 2011. The unpretentious restaurant and bakery reflect the life and experiences of master French Chef Alain Giraud (ex-Michel Richard’s Citrus.) Chef Giraud welcomes his guests to dine on fine French food in a friendly, family setting. You can see him every Wednesday morning shopping at The Santa Monica Farmers Market where he is a long-time fixture. Giraud arrived in Los Angeles in 1988 and joined Michel Richard at Citrus as Chef de Cuisine. Together they elevated Citrus to the ranks of the country’s most celebrated restaurants. Chef Alain is our guest.

Troy Johnson is San Diego Magazine’s colorfully opinionated Food Critic and Editor-at Large. Troy joins us to discuss his recent cover story on “Baja. The Best Food, Wine, Beer, Music, And More.” Johnson will also update us on what’s on the horizon of significance in San Diego dining for 2015.

The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC), Golden State of Cocktails, and Dewar’s present “King Cocktail in Story and Song: Dale DeGroff in Conversation with Philip Dobard,” a very special edition of Touring the Cocktail: MOTAC Los Angeles. The presentation is set for Wednesday evening, January 28th at 6:30 p.m. at Casey’s Irish Pub in Downtown Los Angeles. Dale DeGroff is a central figure in the craft cocktail revolution of the last 25 years. Philip Dobard is Vice President of the SoFAB Institute, home of The Museum of the American Cocktail. Both Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard join us to preview the intriguing “King Cocktail in Story and Song.”

Chef Eric Greenspan of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire is back with us. We’ll get an update on the prime time run of his new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” for the National Geographic Channel which just completed its initial run and is available “On Demand” on cable. Starting on Sunday, Jan. 18th Chef Eric is launching a Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese Pop Up at Westfield Century City through the end of March 2015.In Century City there will also be some exclusive menu items for Greenspan’s first West L.A. outpost.

Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week returns with a renewed and refreshed format this winter, spanning two weeks of scrumptious dining possibilities from Monday, January 19th to Sunday, February 1st, 2015. Diners have the opportunity to enjoy special price fixed menus at lunch or dinner priced to represent a great value. Some restaurants are offering special Newport Beach Restaurant Week cocktails to pair with their special menus. Polly Peak, Director of Dine Newport Beach (the marketing arm of the Newport Beach Restaurant Association) is with us to preview all the tasty morsels.

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

Show 106, January 17, 2015: Chef Eric Greenspan

Eric GreenspanChef Eric Greenspan of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire is back with us. We’ll get an update on the prime time run of his new series, Eric Greenspan is Hungry for the National Geographic Channel, which just completed its initial run (six episodes) and is available “On Demand” on cable. We’ll also chat about his experience with the six-hour National Geographic series, “Eat – The Story of Food,” aired in 2-hour installments over 3 nights. Chef Eric was prominent in all the episodes.

Starting on Sunday, Jan. 18th Chef Eric is launching a Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese Pop Up at Westfield Century City (2nd level of the Dining Terrace) through the end of March 2015. In Century City there will also be some exclusive menu items for Greenspan’s first West L.A. outpost. Think the Westfield Melt on sourdough with Muenster cheese, red onion, short rib, tomato and garlic aioli.

January 17: Anthony Jacquet, Alain Giraud, Troy Johnson, Dale DeGroff, Eric Greenspan, Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anthony Jacquet, Executive Chef, Whisper Restaurant & Lounge
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Alain Giraud, Maison Giraud
Segment Four: Troy Johnson, Food Critic, San Diego Magazine Part One
Segment Five: Troy Johnson, Food Critic, San Diego Magazine Part Two
Segment Six: Mixologist Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard of SoFAB Institute
Segment Seven: Chef Eric Greenspan
Segment Eight: Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s rich (but mostly guilt-free) show

Chef Anthony Jacquet of the Whisper Restaurant and Lounge at The Grove in Los Angeles was one of three talented North American Chefs to be chosen by the Taiwan Tourism to participate in Taste Taiwan 2014. The lucky chefs were hosted to an exclusive eight-day culinary adventure to Taiwan. Chef Anthony was inspired to then create a dish from his trip which is highlighted on The Whisper menu as a special for this month. Diners who enjoy this dish also have the chance to win roundtrip airfare to Taiwan on EVA Air. Chef Anthony returns with an update.

Maison Giraud in Pacific Palisades opened its doors in 2011. The unpretentious restaurant and bakery reflect the life and experiences of master French Chef Alain Giraud (ex-Michel Richard’s Citrus.) Chef Giraud welcomes his guests to dine on fine French food in a friendly, family setting. You can see him every Wednesday morning shopping at The Santa Monica Farmers Market where he is a long-time fixture. Giraud arrived in Los Angeles in 1988 and joined Michel Richard at Citrus as Chef de Cuisine. Together they elevated Citrus to the ranks of the country’s most celebrated restaurants. Chef Alain is our guest.

Troy Johnson is San Diego Magazine’s colorfully opinionated Food Critic and Editor-at Large. Troy joins us to discuss his recent cover story on “Baja. The Best Food, Wine, Beer, Music, And More.” Johnson will also update us on what’s on the horizon of significance in San Diego dining for 2015.

The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC), Golden State of Cocktails, and Dewar’s present “King Cocktail in Story and Song: Dale DeGroff in Conversation with Philip Dobard,” a very special edition of Touring the Cocktail : MOTAC Los Angeles. The presentation is set for Wednesday evening, January 28th at 6:30 p.m. at Casey’s Irish Pub in Downtown Los Angeles. Dale DeGroff is a central figure in the craft cocktail revolution of the last 25 years. Philip Dobard is Vice President of the SoFAB Institute, home of The Museum of the American Cocktail. Both Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard join us to preview the intriguing “King Cocktail in Story and Song.”

Chef Eric Greenspan of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire is back with us. We’ll get an update on the prime time run of his new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” for the National Geographic Channel which just completed its initial run and is available “On Demand” on cable. Starting on Sunday, Jan. 18th Chef Eric is launching a Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese Pop Up at Westfield Century City through the end of March 2015.In Century City there will also be some exclusive menu items for Greenspan’s first West L.A. outpost.

Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week returns with a renewed and refreshed format this winter, spanning two weeks of scrumptious dining possibilities from Monday, January 19th to Sunday, February 1st, 2015. Diners have the opportunity to enjoy special price fixed menus at lunch or dinner priced to represent a great value. Some restaurants are offering special Newport Beach Restaurant Week cocktails to pair with their special menus. Polly Peak, Director of Dine Newport Beach (the marketing arm of the Newport Beach Restaurant Association) is with us to preview all the tasty morsels.

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

Anthony JacquetChef Anthony Jacquet of the Whisper Restaurant and Lounge at The Grove in Los Angeles was one of three talented North American Chefs to be selected by Taiwan Tourism to participate in Taste Taiwan 2014. The lucky chefs were hosted to an exclusive eight-day culinary adventure to Taiwan.

Chef Anthony was inspired to then create a dish from his trip which is highlighted on The Whisper menu as a special for this month. It’s a Berkshire Pork Belly Bun with housemade hoisin sauce, pickled Fresno peppers, five-spice candied peanuts, and a fried quail egg.

Diners who enjoy this dish at Whisper Lounge this month also have the chance to win roundtrip airfare to Taiwan on EVA Air.

The chefs’ eight-day tour of Taiwan was filmed and edited into an informative 30-minute documentary. The documentary follows the on-the-go chefs as they indulge in Taiwan’s finest restaurants and experience the island’s fresh produce markets and street foods, among other culinary adventures.

Chef Anthony returns with an update.

Alain GiraudMaison Giraud in Pacific Palisades opened its doors in 2011. The unpretentious restaurant and bakery reflect the life and experiences of master French Chef Alain Giraud (ex-Michel Richard’s Citrus.) Chef Giraud welcomes his guests to dine on fine French food in a friendly, family setting.

You can see him every Wednesday morning shopping at The Santa Monica Farmers Market where he is a long-time and familiar fixture. Giraud arrived in Los Angeles in 1988 and joined Michel Richard at Citrus as Chef de Cuisine. Together they elevated Citrus to the ranks of the country’s most celebrated restaurants.

Since then Alain has been the executive chef at Lavande, a fondly remembered French Provencal restaurant at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. He was the opening executive chef in 2002 at the high profile and much written-about Bastide on Melrose Place in West Hollywood. Before opening Maison Giraud, Alain was the opening executive chef at Anisette, an ambitious French brasserie located in the landmark Clocktower Building in Santa Monica.

Maison Giraud hosts a gourmet oyster bar on the first Thursday of each month conducted by Master Ecailler Christophe Happillion. On the fourth Thursday of each month is the Four Star Dinner (7-courses) showcasing the talents of a prominent Guest Chef.

Foie gras is back on the menu at Maison Giraud.

Chef Alain Giraud is our guest.

Troy JohnsonTroy Johnson is San Diego Magazine’s colorfully opinionated Food Critic and Editor-at Large. He also pens the San Diego Food News Blog available on San Diego Magazine’s Website. You also know him as a regular judge on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games now in Season 2.

Previously he also wrote and hosted Food Network’s “Crave.” This was a fast-moving food and travel show.

Troy joins us to discuss his recent cover story on “Baja. The Best Food, Wine, Beer, Music, And More.” Johnson will also update us on what’s on the horizon of significance in San Diego dining for 2015.

Is foie gras now returning to San Diego area restaurants as it is in Los Angeles and Orange County? We’ll get Johnson’s thoughts on foie gras.

Dale DeGroffThe Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC), Golden State of Cocktails, and Dewar’s present “King Cocktail in Story and Song: Dale DeGroff in Conversation with Philip Dobard,” a very special edition of Touring the Cocktail: MOTAC Los Angeles. The presentation is set for Wednesday evening, January 28th at 6:30 p.m. at Casey’s Irish Pub in Downtown Los Angeles.

Dale DeGroff is a central figure in the craft cocktail revolution of the last 25 years. Hear how Dale became “King Cocktail,” how he went from L.A’s Hotel Bel-Air to New York’s Rainbow Room, why he and a group of like-minded craft cocktail pioneers established MOTAC, and colorful tales of events along the way.

Philip Dobard is Vice President of the SoFAB Institute, home of The Museum of the American Cocktail.

Enjoy classic standards performed live by Dale and Philip and sip signature cocktails featuring Dewar’s True Scotch and prepared from recipes by MOTAC Advisory Board members Julian Cox, Josh Goldman, Michael Neff, and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson. Admission includes a selection of gourmet appetizers courtesy of Casey’s Irish Pub.

Both Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard join us to preview the intriguing “King Cocktail in Story and Song.”

Eric GreenspanChef Eric Greenspan of Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire is back with us. We’ll get an update on the prime time run of his new series, Eric Greenspan is Hungry for the National Geographic Channel, which just completed its initial run (six episodes) and is available “On Demand” on cable. We’ll also chat about his experience with the six-hour National Geographic series, “Eat – The Story of Food,” aired in 2-hour installments over 3 nights. Chef Eric was prominent in all the episodes.

Starting on Sunday, Jan. 18th Chef Eric is launching a Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese Pop Up at Westfield Century City (2nd level of the Dining Terrace) through the end of March 2015. In Century City there will also be some exclusive menu items for Greenspan’s first West L.A. outpost. Think the Westfield Melt on sourdough with Muenster cheese, red onion, short rib, tomato and garlic aioli.

Dine Newport Beach Restaurant WeekDine Newport Beach Restaurant Week returns with a renewed and refreshed format this winter, spanning two weeks of scrumptious dining possibilities from Monday, January 19th to Sunday, February 1st, 2015. Diners have the opportunity to enjoy special price fixed menus at lunch or dinner priced to represent a great value. Some restaurants are offering special Newport Beach Restaurant Week cocktails to pair with their special menus.

New price points on menus available to offer something for everyone and every occasion. Lunch – $10, $15, $20, and $25. Dinner – $20, $30, $40, and $50.

“Newport Beach Restaurant Week will showcase a variety of unique dining experiences and cuisines ranging from American favorites to authentic ethnic fare and formal fine dining to hip and sandy-feet -casual,” notes Polly Peak, Director of Dine Newport Beach.

Polly Peak, Director of Dine Newport Beach (the marketing arm of the Newport Beach Restaurant Association) is with us to preview all the tasty morsels.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anthony Jacquet, Executive Chef, Whisper Restaurant & Lounge
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Alain Giraud, Maison Giraud
Segment Four: Troy Johnson, Food Critic, San Diego Magazine Part One
Segment Five: Troy Johnson, Food Critic, San Diego Magazine Part Two
Segment Six: Mixologist Dale DeGroff and Philip Dobard of SoFAB Institute
Segment Seven: Chef Eric Greenspan
Segment Eight: Dine Newport Beach Restaurant Week

November 22: Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours, Deborah Schneider, Eric Greenspan, Frank Ostini, Stir Market, Celebrity Cruises

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours / Wine Tours Santa Ynez Valley
Segment Three: Executive Chef Deborah Schneider, solita Tacos & Margaritas
Segment Four: Chef Eric Greenspan Part One
Segment Five: Chef Eric Greenspan Part Two
Segment Six: Frank Ostini, Hitching Post II
Segment Seven: Stir Market
Segment Eight: Executive Chef John Suley, Celebrity Cruises

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and occasional Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s full show…

The primo attraction in California’s charmingly rural Santa Ynez Valley is the diversity of noteworthy wineries. The wine trail there includes Los Alamos, Buellton, Solvang, Ballard, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. How do you navigate the Valley? The “SoCal Restaurant Show” recently left that in the expert hands of Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours, based right there. We’ll meet the proprietor, Eric John Reynolds.

When it comes to the flavors and preparations of the authentic foods of Baja California our local expert is Chef Deborah Schneider. To keep current she now orchestrates an annual cooking research trip to different interior States in Mexico. Back in 2006 Chef Deb wrote Baja! Cooking on the Edge which is still in print and greatly admired. Her two restaurant concepts are SOL Mexican Cocina (Newport Beach and Scottsdale) and solita Tacos and Margaritas (Huntington Beach and Valencia.) The Valencia solita opened this week for dinner in the Westfield Valencia Town Center. Chef Deb is out guest.

Fine dining chef, Eric Greenspan, is all over Food Television. He impressively just vanquished the competition in Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen : Superstar Sabotage Tournament.” He came out on top against a group of seven other fiercely competitive celebrity chefs. All his winnings went to charity. Chef Eric’s new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” debuts on the National Geographic Channel on Monday, November 24th.

Thanksgiving is on Chef Eric Greenspan’s mind, too. He’s teamed up with Tillamook (think cheese) for a special promotion to honor the season of gratitude. Tillamook has also added ice cream to their product line.

Ten years ago Twentieth Century-Fox released a modestly budgeted film based on a best-selling book with wine appreciation at its center. The movie was Sideways and the Santa Ynez Valley wine country, a central character in the film, was forever changed. Hitching Post II, previously famous with visitors for their tasty Santa Maria-style BBQ earned a double dose of notoriety from the film. A major character in the film, played by Virginia Madsen, is a waitress at The Hitching Post. Hitching Post wines also found their way into the film. Chef, winemaker, and Santa Ynez Valley goodwill ambassador, Frank Ostini of Hitching Post fame joins us to look back.

Stir Market, located in mid-city Los Angeles, has just launched. It’s a boutique California take on the European food hall experience that is both urban market hall and restaurant. Executive Chef Christopher Barnett (ex-The Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills) collaborates with Food Network culinary personality Chef Jet Tila on the menu of sandwiches and salads, small plates, and European-style rotisserie items.

Celebrity Cruises and their executive chef, John Suley, are always innovating when it comes to dining on Celebrity’s modern fleet of 11 cruise ships. Now the coveted white truffle, “the diamond of the kitchen,” will be featured on very special menus on select Caribbean sailings in late November and early December. Celebrity acquired two coveted white truffles (weighing 700 grams) at the recent World White Truffle Auction in Grinzane Cavour, Italy. The rare truffles are only available a few months of the year. Chef Suley returns to the show to talk about the mouthwatering dishes he’ll create which will showcase the extraordinary white truffles.

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

Eric John ReynoldsThe primo attraction in California’s charmingly rural Santa Ynez Valley is the diversity of noteworthy wineries. The wine trail there includes Los Alamos, Buellton, Solvang, Ballard, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. How do you navigate the Valley? The “SoCal Restaurant Show” recently left that in the expert hands of Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours, based right there.

All of their accommodating hosts have sommelier training and are treated as VIPs at the carefully selected wineries included on the tour. As a Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours guest you are guaranteed a warm welcome at each winery stop. A picnic lunch is part of excursion and you get picked up at your hotel.

“Just sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty and wonderful boutique wineries that Santa Barbara wine country has to offer.”

We’ll meet the proprietor and founder, Eric John Reynolds.

Deborah SchneiderWhen it comes to the flavors and preparations of the authentic foods of Baja California our local expert is Chef Deborah Schneider. To keep current she now orchestrates an annual cooking research trip to different interior States in Mexico. Back in 2006 Chef Deb wrote Baja! Cooking on the Edge which is still in print and greatly admired.

Her two successful restaurant concepts are SOL Mexican Cocina (Newport Beach and Scottsdale) and solita Tacos and Margaritas (Huntington Beach and Valencia.) The Valencia solita opened this week for dinner in the Westfield Valencia Town Center.

“Solita is a simple, sophisticated neighborhood Mexican restaurant built around a custom oak-fired Santa Maria-style grill, inspired by Chef Deb’s travels through Baja California and Mexico. Solita’s Mexico is fresh and delicious, simple and light. It’s made from scratch, often carrying a whiff of smoky flavor from the wood grill, full of flavor from fresh salsas, corn tortillas, dry and fresh chiles, crushed herbs, fruit and spices, mole sauces and cheeses…”

Chef Deb is our guest.

Eric GreenspanFine dining chef, Eric Greenspan, is all over Food Television. He impressively just vanquished the competition in Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen : Superstar Sabotage Tournament.” He came out on top against a group of seven other fiercely competitive celebrity chefs. All his winnings went to charity. Chef Eric’s new series, “Eric Greenspan is Hungry” debuts on the National Geographic Channel on Monday, November 24th.

“Famed Los Angeles Chef and Restaurateur Eric Greenspan believes there’s no better place to experience food than at the source. So, he’s hitting the road with his best friend and trusted sidekick, Captain Mauzner, to hunt for the best dishes America has to offer. From the field to the fire, they’re hunting, cooking and learning about authentic American food served up by the people who know it best.”

Thanksgiving is on Chef Eric Greenspan’s mind, too. He’s teamed up with Tillamook (think cheese) for a special promotion to honor the season of gratitude. Tillamook has also added premium ice cream to their product line.

“If you’re like us (Tillamook) you give thanks for cheese on a daily basis, so for the season of gratitude we thought it only fitting to take our appreciation up a notch. We’ve partnered with Grilled Cheese Guru and Master of Melt, Chef Eric Greenspan, to bring you Grilled Cheesegiving, featuring special Tillamook Thanksgiving menu items available at Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese in Los Angeles.”

Frank OstiniTen years ago Twentieth Century-Fox released a modestly budgeted film based on a best-selling book with wine appreciation at its center. The movie was Sideways and the Santa Ynez Valley wine country, a central character in the film, was forever changed.

Hitching Post II, previously famous with visitors for their tasty Santa Maria-style BBQ using red oak earned a double dose of notoriety from the film. A major character in the film, played by Virginia Madsen, is a waitress (Maya) at The Hitching Post. Hitching Post wines also found their way into the film.

Chef, winemaker, and Santa Ynez Valley goodwill ambassador, Frank Ostini of Hitching Post fame joins us to look back.

Christopher Barnett and Jet TilaStir Market, located in mid-city Los Angeles, has just launched. It’s a boutique California take on the European food hall experience that is both urban market hall and restaurant. Executive Chef Christopher Barnett (ex- The Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills) collaborates with Food Network culinary personality Chef Jet Tila on the menu of sandwiches and salads, small plates, and European-style rotisserie items.

Stir Market serves all-day (from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.) including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

The roots of Stir Market pay homage to the major food hall cities of Europe. “We’re inspired by iconic culinary/retail destinations such as Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid and Harrods in London where dining and shopping blend effortlessly,” explains Stir Market President and Co-Founder Mimi Mok, a self-professed Francophile who has spent over a decade living in southern France.” These great markets – that offer diverse eating experiences, shopping, and a sense of discovery – are as memorable as any Michelin starred restaurant. That’s was our inspiration for Stir Market, an environment where neighbors can come together for morning coffee, a meal on-the-go, sit-down dinner, and even shop for a gourmand gift.”

John Suley of Celebrity CruisesCelebrity Cruises and their executive chef, John Suley, are always innovating when it comes to dining on Celebrity’s modern fleet of 11 cruise ships. Now the coveted white truffle, “the diamond of the kitchen,” will be featured on very special menus on select Caribbean sailings in late November and early December.

Celebrity acquired two coveted white truffles (weighing 700 grams) at the recent World White Truffle Auction in Grinzane Cavour, Italy. The rare truffles are only available a few months of the year. Chef Suley returns to the show to talk about the mouthwatering dishes he’ll create which will showcase the extraordinary white truffles.

“Chef Suley and his culinary team will use the highly coveted truffles acquired at the auction to create an exclusive dining experience onboard Celebrity Equinox during a 10-night Caribbean cruise departing on Friday, Nov. 21st from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Truffle-themed dinners will be available onboard Celebrity ships for select Caribbean sailings in late November and early December. Plus, the winning delicacies will also be featured at the James Beard Foundation’s legendary James Beard House in New York on Monday, Nov. 24th, for a special truffle-and-wine-pairing event.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours / Wine Tours Santa Ynez Valley
Segment Three: Executive Chef Deborah Schneider, solita Tacos & Margaritas
Segment Four: Chef Eric Greenspan Part One
Segment Five: Chef Eric Greenspan Part Two
Segment Six: Frank Ostini, Hitching Post II
Segment Seven: Stir Market
Segment Eight: Executive Chef John Suley, Celebrity Cruises

November 15: Noah Blom, Rick Rodgers, Simon Majumdar, Jo-Jo Doyle, Susan Feniger

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Noah Blom
Segment Two: Thanksgiving Cooking Tips with Chef Noah Blom
Segment Three: Rick Rodgers, cookbook author and culinary instructor
Segment Four: Simon Majumdar Part One
Segment Five: Simon Majumdar Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle, Honda Center
Segment Seven: Susan Feniger, Border Grill and Mud Hen Tavern
Segment Eight: Chef Noah Blom, ARC Restaurant Food & Libations and Shuck Oyster Bar

Chef Noah Blom, the executive chef and partner of ARC Restaurant Food & Libation, is this week’s guest host. Now a preview of today’s full show…

In his formative years Chef Noah worked in some incredible restaurants including Restaurant Daniel in Manhattan. He also opened restaurants for Laurent Tourendel. In Orange County, before he started ARC, he was part of the culinary team at Mesa. With the high pressure Thanksgiving Holiday ahead he has some great practical tips to make your Thanksgiving less stressful and more delicious.

Rick Rodgers is an award-winning cookbook author and cooking teacher and the accomplished writer of more than forty cookbooks on subjects ranging from baking to grilling, and more. Rodgers often works behind the scenes as a recipe tester, co-author, and valued consultant on cookbooks by other authors.

Just in time for the Holidays is The Big Book Of Sides – More than 450 Recipes for the Best Vegetables, Grains, Salads, Breads, Sauces and More. What’s the Thanksgiving feast without the assortment of tasty sides? Rick gives the humble side dish its due, elevating it to its proper, important place on the menu – front and center.

You know food historian Simon Majumdar as the no-nonsense judge on Food Network’s hit series, “Cutthroat Kitchen” with Alton Brown. Majumdar’s new food series, “EAT : The Story of Food” launches soon on National Geographic Channel. The show examines how food impacts societies throughout history.

The Ducks are back on the ice at Honda Center so it’s a good time to revisit Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle and see what is new in cravable edibles for the season. Chef Jo-Jo even has a new, full-service restaurant, Standing ‘O’ in his domain. What’s tending in various outlets for hearty appetites is the Hot Brown, the New Orleans Muffuletta, and the One Pound Meatball over Penne Pasta.

Susan Feniger is the co-executive chef and co-owner of the popular and critically acclaimed Border Grill restaurants and Truck serving modern Mexican food in Las Vegas, Santa Monica and Downtown Los Angeles.A second Border Grill location in Las Vegas is newly opened at The Forum Shops at Caesars (also the home of the pioneering Spago Las Vegas.)

One of the already talked about attractions of the new Border Grill Las Vegas is the ceviche bar. “We’re excited to offer a variety of fresh, sustainable seafood from our new ceviche and oyster bar, inspired by the flavors from our first trip to Veracruz where we tasted the most incredible ceviche,” says Susan Feniger.

Away from the Border Grill empire Feniger is also the principal of Mud Hen Tavern in Los Angeles.

At last a chance to chat with Chef Noah about ARC which is just under two-years old. After being open for all of six weeks, ARC was referred to as one of the “most important restaurants to open in America this decade” by respected food and travel journalist, Brad A. Johnson of The Orange County Register. He is the recipient of a prestigious James Beard Award for excellence in food writing.

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

Marin Howarth and Executive Chef Noah BlomIn his formative years Chef Noah worked in some incredible restaurants including Restaurant Daniel in Manhattan. He also opened restaurants for Laurent Tourendel. In Orange County, before he started ARC, he was part of the culinary team at Mesa. With the high pressure Thanksgiving Holiday ahead he has some great practical tips to make your Thanksgiving less stressful and more delicious.

Chef Noah’s wife and partner, Marin Howarth, runs the front-of-the house at ARC.

Rick RodgersRick Rodgers is an award-winning cookbook author and cooking teacher and the accomplished writer of more than forty cookbooks on subjects ranging from baking to grilling, and more. Rodgers often works behind the scenes as a recipe tester, co-author, and valued consultant on cookbooks by other authors, including Sarabeth Levine of Sarabeth’s Bakery

Rodgers has also penned corporate cookbooks for well-known clients such as Kingsford Charcoal and Sur La Table, as well as many titles for Williams-Sonoma.

Just in time for the Holidays is The Big Book of Sides – More than 450 Recipes for the Best Vegetables, Grains, Salads, Breads, Sauces and More. What’s the Thanksgiving feast without the assortment of tasty sides ? Side dishes make the meal. Rick gives the humble side dish its due, elevating it to its proper, important place on the menu – front and center.

“With 32 color photos, main course pairings for every recipe and a guide to the best cooking methods, The Big Book of Sides provides answers to the age-old question of what to serve with what, with side dishes for all seasons, celebrations, occasions and even everyday weeknight meals.”

Simon MajumdarYou know food historian Simon Majumdar as the no-nonsense judge on Food Network’s hit series, “Cutthroat Kitchen” with Alton Brown. Majumdar’s new food series, “EAT: The Story of Food” launches soon on National Geographic Channel. The show examines how food impacts societies throughout history.

“This is a wonderful way to look at the world because it’s so universal.” Majumdar said. “As I’ve travelled around the world I’ve seen how much food impacts every society and every period in history, and how much it impacts the world we live in today”

“Traveling around the United States over the past year, I saw that it’s a country that finds lots of ways to argue with each other – over religion, guns, politics, you name it. But once you have a meal with someone in their home, it becomes a different equation. I always say it’s hard to have an argument with someone when you have a mouthful of ribs. I think if we all are together, we’d probably have a better society.”

Majumdar is the author of “Eat My Globe” and “Eating For Brittan.” His new book, “Fed White and Blue,” is scheduled for release in 2015.

It’s just been announced that Simon Majumdar will be the new master of ceremonies for the 2015 Golden Foodie Awards at the Fairmont Newport Beach hotel on September 27, 2015.

“For far too long, Orange County has been the neglected middle child of the Southern California food world. Now, however, it has emerged from the shadow of its larger siblings, Los Angeles and San Diego to be recognized for the variety and quality of its vibrant dining scene, and the energy, enthusiasm and skill of those who work in its many restaurants and bars,” Majumdar says.”

Jo Jo DoyleThe Ducks are back on the ice at Honda Center so it’s a good time to revisit Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle and see what is new in cravable edibles for the season. Chef Jo-Jo even has a new, full-service restaurant, Standing ‘O’ in his growing domain .

What’s tending in various outlets for hearty appetites is the Hot Brown, the New Orleans Muffuletta, and the One Pound Meatball over Penne Pasta.

An eagerly anticipated (and long in the works) Wahoo’s Fish Taco outlet is also new for the season.

As of July 2013 Honda Center (unusually) took its food and beverage operations in-house. This is a direction that only a very small number of arenas have taken on.

Chef Doyle assisted with the development of the division including menus, procedures and culture. Bringing with him over 15 years of experience, Chef Doyle is responsible for managing all food and beverage offerings at Honda Center. Prior to Honda Center he served as Executive Chef at the legendary Churchill Downs.

Susan Feniger of Mud Hen TavernSusan Feniger is the co-executive chef and co-owner of the popular and critically acclaimed Border Grill restaurants and Truck serving modern Mexican food in Las Vegas, Santa Monica and Downtown Los Angeles.

A second Border Grill location in Las Vegas is newly opened at The Forum Shops at Caesars (also the home of the pioneering Spago Las Vegas.)

One of the already talked about attractions of the new Border Grill Las Vegas is the ceviche bar. “We’re excited to offer a variety of fresh, sustainable seafood from our new ceviche and oyster bar, inspired by the flavors from our first trip to Veracruz where we tasted the most incredible ceviche,” says Susan Feniger.

Away from the Border Grill empire Feniger is also the principal of Mud Hen Tavern in Los Angeles.

Susan and her business partner, Mary Sue Milliken, were early pioneers of Food Network with the long-running series, “Too Hot Tamales.” They have also authored five cookbooks including Cooking with Too Hot Tamales. Active members of the community, both play leading roles in Share Our Strength and the Scleroderma Research Foundation.

Noah BlomFinally a chance to chat with Chef Noah about ARC which is just under two-years old. Their provocative tagline is : “Dirty. Sexy. Happiness.”

After being open for all of six weeks, ARC was referred to as one of the “most important restaurants to open in America this decade” by respected food and travel journalist, Brad A. Johnson of The Orange County Register. He is the recipient of a prestigious James Beard Award for excellence in food writing.

Earlier in the year the OC Register Magazine (February 4th) awarded Chef Noah the accolade of “Chef of the Year”

“ARC’s culinary focus is on flame, flavor and finesse – every item is crafted over an open fire in a kitchen where there is nowhere to hide,” explained Noah Blom. “Our goal is to embrace the lost love of simplicity, while satiating the guest with classic dishes that focus on fresh, farmed and vibrant ingredients.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Noah Blom
Segment Two: Thanksgiving Cooking Tips with Chef Noah Blom
Segment Three: Rick Rodgers, cookbook author and culinary instructor
Segment Four: Simon Majumdar Part One
Segment Five: Simon Majumdar Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle, Honda Center
Segment Seven: Susan Feniger, Border Grill and Mud Hen Tavern
Segment Eight: Chef Noah Blom, ARC Restaurant Food & Libations and Shuck Oyster Bar

August 16: Eric Greenspan, CANstruction, Jason Grilli, LA Food and Wine, PigOut, KTown Night Market, Harlowe

Podcasts

Segment One: Guest Host Chef Eric Greenspan and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris preview the show
Segment Two: Chef Eric Greenspan of Foundation Hospitality Group
Segment Three: Long Beach CANstruction benefiting Food Finders
Segment Four: Halo Reliever Jason Grilli
Segment Five: Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival
Segment Six: Pigout 3.0
Segment Seven: KTOWN Night Market & OC Block Party
Segment Eight: Head Barman Chris Amirault of Harlowe, West Hollywood

Guest Host Celebrity Chef Eric Greenspan of Foundation Hospitality Group and Producer Andy preview the show.

Besides being all over Food TV (he bested Iron Chef Bobby Flay on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America”) Chef Eric Greenspan has made a name for himself in the rarified world of fine-dining. For almost two years he was the executive chef of Joachim Splichal’s highly-acclaimed flagship restaurant, Patina. More recently he created The Foundry on Melrose Ave. In the Fall he returns to Melrose with the eagerly anticipated fine dining, Enclave.

Although Chef Eric Greenspan has created the more casual, Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire, his heart and true passion remains in fine dining. We’ll talk about the future of fine-dining in Los Angeles and get Chef Eric’s perspective. We’ll also preview Chef Eric’s new series for the National Geographic Channel debuting in November.

The first Canstruction Competition is coming to Long Beach on August 21st. The resulting collections of food benefit Food Finders food rescue / food bank. It’s going to be a wild 12 hours benefiting people in need!

The Halos have an ace relief pitcher in Jason Grilli newly arrived in a trade deal with The Pittsburgh Pirates. In Pittsburgh he’s known for The Closer, a 3-decker grilled cheese sandwich using 9 different premium cheeses. Jason is with us live from Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Texas to talk about it.

The 2014 Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival (4th Annual) is once again upon us taking place in Downtown Los Angeles on August 21 -24. This is one of the biggest culinary festivals staged on the West Coast with culinary masters hosting power lunches, cocktail culture merging with some of the finest chefs for spirited dinners, and first –time events such as the “Ultimate Bites of L.A. Challenge” on Opening Night hosted by Graham Elliott and Fabio Viviani.

The 3rd Annual PigOut (benefiting Inspire Artistic Minds) is set for Sunday afternoon, August 24th at the California Scenario in Costa Mesa.

The main attraction will be a 250 pound Templeton Rye Duroc Pig of the Templeton Rye Heritage Pork Project.

The KTown Night Market and Block Party is coming to Angel Stadium on Friday and Saturday, August 22nd and 23rd. It’s 60 plus food trucks and vendors (including the Seoul Sausage Co.) and a large beer garden. Also there will be live music, games and rides. We’ll chat with the co-producer and one of the young founders of the participating Seoul Sausage Co.

Meet Mixologist Chris Amirault of Harlowe, a new bar that’s attracting a lot of attention in West Hollywood. Even his standard cocktails are very special. Chris also creates unusual draft and bottled cocktails.

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

Eric GreenspanBesides being all over Food TV (he bested Iron Chef Bobby Flay on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America”) Chef Eric Greenspan has made a name for himself in the rarified world of fine-dining. For almost two years he was the executive chef of Joachim Splichal’s highly-acclaimed flagship restaurant Patina. More recently he created The Foundry on Melrose Ave. In the Fall he returns to Melrose with the eagerly anticipated fine dining, Enclave.

Although Chef Eric Greenspan has created the more casual, Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and The Roof on Wilshire, his heart and true passion remains in fine dining. We’ll talk about the future of fine-dining in Los Angeles and get Chef Eric’s perspective.

We’ll also preview Chef Eric’s new series for the National Geographic Channel debuting in November. Look for Chef Eric on the next two Tuesday evenings in prime time as a chef competitor on NBC’s “Food Fighters” hosted by Adam Richman. In October Chef Eric will part of the celebrity chef episode of Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen hosted by Alton Brown.

Canstruction Long BeachThe first CANstruction Competition is coming to Long Beach on August 21st. The resulting collections of food benefit Food Finders food rescue / food bank. It’s going to be a wild 12 hours benefiting people in need!

Four teams comprised of five prominent local architectural and engineering firms will transform thousands of cans of food into larger than life artistic masterpieces. The structures may be built up to 10’ x 10’ x 10’ and will be comprised of edible canned goods totaling over 7,000 lbs.

The completed structures will be on display to the public from August 22nd through September 2nd.

CANstruction was founded in 1992 to help promote the design community and raise food donations for hunger relief efforts. CANstruction events have been held in over 140 cities worldwide donating over 15 million pounds of canned foods to alleviate the concern of hunger and malnutrition.

Jason GrilliThe Halos have an ace relief pitcher in Jason Grilli, newly arrived in a trade deal with The Pittsburgh Pirates. In Pittsburgh he’s known for The Closer, a 3-decker grilled cheese sandwich using 9 different premium cheeses. Jason is with us live from Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas to talk about it.

Grilli, and partners, are also the Pittsburgh franchisees for the rapidly growing Tom+Chee. This is a grilled cheese and tomato soup shop for the kid at heart. The restaurants mix classic comfort food with fresh ingredients, healthy alternatives, and a flare for the unexpected. In addition to the regular menu there are lots of daily specials.

David BernahlThe 2014 Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival (4th Annual) is once again upon us taking place in Downtown Los Angeles on August 21 -24. This is one of the biggest culinary festivals staged on the West Coast with culinary masters hosting power lunches, cocktail culture merging with some of the finest chefs for spirited dinners, and first–time events such as the “Ultimate Bites of L.A. Challenge” on Opening Night hosted by Graham Elliott and Fabio Viviani.

The star-studded lineup of chefs at LAFW will also include Food & Wine Magazine Best New Chefs, James Beard Award winners, iconic personalities within the culinary arena, as well as Food TV personalities (Scott Conant, Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Michelle Bernstein, Michael Chiarello, Nancy Silverton, David Kinch, Michael Cimarusti, Jonathan Waxman, and more.)

Founder David Bernahl of Coastal Luxury Management is our guest.

3rd annual PigOut in Costa MesaThe 3rd Annual PigOut (benefiting Inspire Artistic Minds) is set for Sunday afternoon, August 24th at the California Scenario (Noguchi Gardens) in Costa Mesa.

The main attraction will be a 250 pound Templeton Rye Duroc Pig of the Templeton Rye Heritage Pork Project. Only 25 of these special pigs are in existence.

Chef Mike Puglisi (ex-Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Beverly Hills) of the soon-to-be Electric City Butcher in Santa Ana will be performing a pig deconstruction demonstration.

Koreatown Night MarketThe KTown Night Market and Block Party is coming to Angel Stadium on Friday and Saturday, August 22nd and 23rd. It’s 60 plus food trucks and vendors (including the Seoul Sausage Co.) and a large beer garden. Also there will be live music, games and rides.

Seoul Sausage Co., the Season 3 winners of Food Network’s “Great Food Truck Race,” are curating the all-star mobile culinary experience. The 20 food truck lineup includes fan favorites such as Coolhaus, Slangin Corea, and Fluff Ice.

We’ll chat with the co-producer Danny Park and Yong Kim, one of the young founders of the participating Seoul Sausage Co.

Chris AmiraultMeet Mixologist Chris Amirault of Harlowe, a new bar that’s already attracting a lot of attention in West Hollywood. He’s the Head Barman there. This is from the 1933 Group (Oldfield’s Liquor Room and Sassafras.)

Even Chris’ standard cocktails are very special. Chris also creates unusual draft and bottled cocktails. Also of note are the carafe cocktails and the shared punch bowls.

Not easy to order a libation these days with all the tempting options!

“Give me a bottle of bourbon & half a chicken and I’ll take over the world.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Guest Host Chef Eric Greenspan and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris preview the show
Segment Two: Chef Eric Greenspan of Foundation Hospitality Group
Segment Three: Long Beach CANstruction benefiting Food Finders
Segment Four: Halo Reliever Jason Grilli
Segment Five: Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival
Segment Six: Pigout 3.0
Segment Seven: KTOWN Night Market & OC Block Party
Segment Eight: Head Barman Chris Amirault of Harlowe, West Hollywood