“Culinary Host and Restaurateur / Chef Neal Fraser and Event Producer Shelby Russell are presenting the inaugural Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine set for Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the iconic Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica.” Shelby Russell joins us with all the event’s mouthwatering details.
“Conceived as a premier, one-night-only strolling culinary celebration at the intersection of entertainment, culinary artistry, and philanthropy, Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine will host 750 distinguished guests from across the entertainment industry and Los Angeles’ thriving food and beverage community. This exclusive gathering unites an influential mix of producers, studio executives, celebrities, tastemakers, and industry leaders for an extraordinary evening along the California coast. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Southern California’s most coveted seaside destinations, the event will unfold in a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere where creativity, culture, and world-class cuisine take center stage.”
“Beyond its star power and culinary prestige, Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine is grounded in purpose, with 100% of proceeds from the evening benefiting two of the entertainment industry’s most respected charitable organizations: Variety – The Children’s Charity of Southern California, which provides critical support and resources to children with special needs and their families, and the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation, celebrating 90 years of supporting the motion picture community offering financial assistance and vital services to industry professionals in times of hardship. With deep-rooted connections to major film studios, both organizations play a vital role in supporting the people behind the entertainment industry making this event especially meaningful to the Hollywood community.”
Special Ticket Discount for Listeners:
At checkout enter “Promo Code”: ANDY for special discount.
“If you find yourself hungry in Long Beach, California, contemplate a visit to Crack, a haven for comfort food lovers craving premium sandwiches and stellar burgers.” It’s hidden in plain sight at the Bixby Village Golf Course with no exterior sign. Located at 6180 Bixby Village Dr, this charming spot with golf course view patio dining personifies casual dining with its cozy, laid-back ambiance. Crack was one of the crowd favorites of the recent Long Beach Burger Week. The burgers are cooked on an outdoor grill on the patio deck. Talk about an enticing aroma! They are particularly acclaimed for their portfolio of Smash Burgers including The Dirty (with Cheddar, Bacon Jam & Chipotle Mayo), Bacon Jam, and Hatch Pepper. The personable Burger-Meister with the well-used spatula, Dave Trepanier, takes a break from the action grill to join us.
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.” Host Chef Neal Fraser (Redbird and Vibiana) joins us to preview the upcoming festivities.
“Tiki bar fans, rejoice — and grab a place at Strong Water Anaheim. This reimagined classic of the genre, with its curio-shop-in-a-shipwreck atmosphere, its supercharged, elevated bar-food menu, its encyclopedic list of classic and creative tropical libations (zero proof options included), and its treasure chest of rare artisanal rums worth drinking straight.” Strong Water shares the distinction of having been twice nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverage Programs. Strong Water has an accomplished executive chef, Steve Kling, with serious culinary credentials including overseeing the kitchens at the historic Five Crowns in Corona del Mar. He has created the seasonal changing menus for both Dinner and Weekend Brunch at Strong Water. Dinner highlights include Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, Spinach Rangoons, Sweet Chili Salmon and Rice Noodle Salad with Ribeye. Worth mentioning is the Loco Moco Burger with an 8 oz. American Wagyu patty, Spam, Fried Egg, Tempura Battered Onion Ring, Mixed Greens and Bone Marrow Gravy & Polynesian Spread and served on a Hawaiian Bun. Items to contemplate for Weekend Brunch are Bananas Foster Buttermilk Pancakes, Sisig Breakfast Burrito and Loco Moco Bowl. Chef Steve Kling takes a break from his busy Brunch service to be our guest.
“Since 1972 Big Island Bees, a family operation, has been producing 100% pure, monofloral honey on the Island of Hawaii. Their bees forage on the island’s unique and abundant blossoms producing bold and distinct flavor profiles that have earned accolades across all the islands, the U.S. mainland and Japan. To preserve those natural flavors, Big Island Bees never heats or filters honey — what you taste is exactly what the bees made. The beekeepers extract and pack the honey directly from the bees’ hives at the honey farm above scenic Kealakekua Bay. Visitors are welcome for guided weekday tours and to the on-site beekeeping museum and retail store offering a wide assortment of honey and honey-inspired products. Book a tour and shop an assortment of honeys, skin care products, specialty foods and art at their website.” The Queen Bee of Big Island Bees, Whendi Grad, is our guest.
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.” South Bay restaurateur and celebrity chef David LeFevre (Fishing with Dynamite, MB Post, The Arthur J and AttaGirl) now joins us to preview the upcoming festivities.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Oysters as a standard on restaurant menus continue to grow in popularity. A bonus is that they are sustainable and high in protein. Oysters can be successfully grown domestically further encouraging domestic seafood production. Chef Andrew will revisit the merits of this tasty bivalve.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-Host previews the show.
“If you find yourself hungry in Long Beach, California, contemplate a visit to Crack, a haven for comfort food lovers craving premium sandwiches and stellar burgers.” It’s hidden in plain sight at the Bixby Village Golf Course with no exterior sign. Located at 6180 Bixby Village Dr, this charming spot with golf course view patio dining personifies casual dining with its cozy, laid-back ambiance. Crack was one of the crowd favorites of the recent Long Beach Burger Week. The burgers are cooked on an outdoor grill on the patio deck. Talk about an enticing aroma! They are particularly acclaimed for their portfolio of Smash Burgers including The Dirty (with Cheddar, Bacon Jam & Chipotle Mayo), Bacon Jam, and Hatch Pepper. The personable Burger-Meister with the well-used spatula. Dave Trepanier, takes a break from the action grill to join us.
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.” Host Chef Neal Fraser (Redbird and Vibiana) joins us to preview the upcoming festivities.
“Tiki bar fans, rejoice — and grab a place at Strong Water Anaheim. This reimagined classic of the genre, with its curio-shop-in-a-shipwreck atmosphere, its supercharged, elevated bar-food menu, its encyclopedic list of classic and creative tropical libations (zero proof options included), and its treasure chest of rare artisanal rums worth drinking straight.” Strong Water shares the distinction of having been twice nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverage Programs. Strong Water has an executive chef, Steve Kling, with serious culinary credentials including overseeing the kitchens at the historic Five Crowns in Corona del Mar. He has created the seasonal changing menus for both Dinner and Weekend Brunch at Strong Water. Dinner highlights include Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, Spinach Rangoons, Sweet Chili Salmon and Rice Noodle Salad with Ribeye. Items to contemplate for Weekend Brunch are Bananas Foster Buttermilk Pancakes, Sisig Breakfast Burrito and Loco Moco Bowl.
Chef Steve Kling takes a break from his busy Brunch service to be our guest.
“Since 1972 Big Island Bees, a family operation, has been producing 100% pure, monofloral honey on the Island of Hawaii. Their bees forage on the island’s unique and abundant blossoms producing bold and distinct flavor profiles that have earned accolades across all the islands, the U.S. mainland and Japan. To preserve those natural flavors, Big Island Bees never heats or filters honey — what you taste is exactly what the bees made. The beekeepers extract and pack the honey directly from the bees’ hives at the honey farm above scenic Kealakekua Bay. Visitors are welcome for guided weekday tours and to the on-site beekeeping museum and retail store offering a wide assortment of honey and honey-inspired products.”
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.” South Bay restaurateur and celebrity chef David LeFevre (Fishing with Dynamite, MB Post, The Arthur J and AttaGirl) now joins us to preview the upcoming festivities.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Oysters as a standard on restaurant menus continue to grow in popularity. A bonus is that they are sustainable and high in protein. Oysters can be grown domestically. Chef Andrew will revisit the tasty bivalves.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“If you find yourself in Long Beach, California, contemplate a visit to Crack, a haven for comfort food lovers craving premium sandwiches and stellar burgers.” It’s hidden in plain sight at the Bixby Village Golf Course with no exterior sign. “Located at 6180 Bixby Village Dr, this charming spot with golf course view patio dining personifies casual dining with its cozy, laid-back ambiance.”
Crack was one of the crowd favorites of the recent Long Beach Burger Week. The burgers are cooked on an outdoor grill on the patio deck. Talk about an enticing aroma! They are particularly acclaimed for their portfolio of Smash Burgers including The Dirty (with Cheddar, Bacon Jam & Chipotle Mayo), Bacon Jam, and Hatch Pepper.
Creative sides to make note of are White Bean Chicken Chili, Crispy Potato Salad and Pineapple Coleslaw. Root Beer is unusually served on draft.
“Crack stands out for more than just its satisfying food. It seamlessly combines convenience with a warm atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for any occasion. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, enjoying a happy hour with friends, or hosting a catered event, this restaurant strives to have you covered.”
The Burger-Meister with the well-used spatula, Dave Trepanier, takes a break from the action grill to join us.
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”
“Tiki bar fans, rejoice — and grab a place at Strong Water Anaheim. This reimagined classic of the genre, with its curio-shop-in-a-shipwreck atmosphere, its supercharged, elevated bar-food menu, its encyclopedic list of classic and creative tropical libations (zero proof options included), and its treasure chest of rare artisanal rums worth drinking straight.” Strong Water shares the distinction of having been twice nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverage Programs.
“Welcome Aboard Strong Water Anaheim tucked away in Downtown Anaheim. When you enter Strong Water Anaheim, you will find yourself walking into the wreckage of the Clementine lost at sea in 1884.”
Strong Water enjoys an executive chef, Steve Kling, with serious culinary credentials including overseeing the kitchens at the historic Five Crowns in Corona del Mar. He has created the seasonal changing menus for both Dinner and Weekend Brunch at Strong Water. Dinner highlights include Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, Spinach Rangoons, Sweet Chili Salmon and Rice Noodle Salad with Ribeye. Items to contemplate for Weekend Brunch are Bananas Foster Buttermilk Pancakes, Sisig Breakfast Burrito and Loco Moco Bowl.
Chef Steve Kling takes a break from his busy Brunch service to be our guest.
“Since 1972 Big Island Bees, a family operation, has been producing 100% pure, monofloral honey on the Island of Hawaii. Their bees forage on the island’s unique and abundant blossoms producing bold and distinct flavor profiles that have earned accolades across all the islands, the U.S. mainland and Japan. To preserve those natural flavors, Big Island Bees never heats or filters honey — what you taste is exactly what the bees made. The beekeepers extract and pack the honey directly from the bees’ hives at the honey farm above scenic Kealakekua Bay. Visitors are welcome for guided weekday tours and to the on-site beekeeping museum and retail store offering a wide assortment of honey and honey-inspired products. Book a tour and shop an assortment of honeys, skin care products, specialty foods and art at their website.”
“Its Organic Ohia Lehua honey was recently recognized once more with a Good Food Award (GFA) — this time as part of the exclusive 15 Years of Good Food Awards. The artisan honey joins a select group of 55 winners across 18 categories who have demonstrated enduring excellence in taste, craftsmanship and ethical production.”
“Good Food’s criteria is totally what we are trying to do at Big Island Bees,” states Whendi Grad, company “queen bee” and co-founder. “We are careful how we extract and pack the honey and people like our unique flavor profiles. It’s great to have an organization recognize what is pure honey and the effort we make to offer it.”
The Queen Bee of Big Island Bees, Whendi Grad, is our guest.
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.” South Bay restaurateur and celebrity chef David LeFevre (Fishing with Dynamite, MB Post, The Arthur J and AttaGirl) joins us to preview the upcoming festivities.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Oysters as a standard on restaurant menus continue to grow in popularity. A bonus is that they are sustainable and high in protein. Oysters can be grown domestically as a cash crop. Chef Andrew will revisit the tasty bivalves.
Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook is available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.
Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach and the Co-Host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” for the last eight years joins us to celebrate the 12th Anniversary of the launch of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA radio reaching all of Southern California.
All of our distinguished chef guests this morning are participants in the Festival.
For today’s very special anniversary show we’ll be joined by some of the high-profile and uber-talented chefs cooking at Manhattan Beach Food and Wine including Eric Klein, Executive Chef, Partner and Senior Vice President Culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering, Host Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird & Vibiana, The Bay Area’s Chris Cosentino and Jayro Martinez of Westwood Coast Steakhouse in Costa Mesa. Also, Lisa Fontanesi, the long-time Los Angeles Director for C-CAP, the benefiting charity of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
Special thanks to our loyal Presenting Sponsors, Melissa’s World Variety Produce and West Coast Prime Meats, for their unwavering support over the years. And to our listeners – we appreciate you tuning-in. All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll’s flagship restaurant Redbirdin Downtown Los Angeles features Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city – Los Angeles. As a follow up to Grace and BLD, Fraser’s menu features seasonal plates ranging from snacks or “kickshaws” to entrees meant to be enjoyed by the whole table. An extensive cocktail menu by Tobin Shea features well-balanced, bespoke renditions of the classics. Wine Director Christopher Dugan’s selections are well rounded with great finds from both established and emerging wine regions throughout the world.”
“Located in downtown Los Angeles, Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems, inside the former rectory building of Vibiana – the cathedral-turned-event-venue also owned and operated by Knoll and Fraser. Designer Robert Weimer and Knoll created a dynamic space that pays homage to the cathedral next door and the existing timeless architecture by inserting simple modern forms to complement rather than overtake the feel of the rooms. The result is a warm and comfortable considered space.”
Event Host Chef Neal Fraser is our guest discussing the salivating culinary aspects of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.
Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach and the Co-Host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” for the last eight years joins us to celebrate the 12th Anniversary of the launch of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA radio reaching all of Southern California.
All of our distinguished chef guests this morning are participants in the Festival.
For today’s very special anniversary show we’ll be joined by some of the high- profile chefs cooking at Manhattan Beach Food and Wine including Eric Klein, Executive Chef, Partner and Vice President Culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering, Host Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird & Vibiana, The Bay Area’s Chris Cosentino, and Jayro Martinez of Westwood Coast Steakhouse in Costa Mesa. Also Lisa Fontanesi, the Los Angeles Director for C-CAP, the benefiting charity of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Chris Cosentino is a passionate chef, author, cyclist, and philanthropist.
“A graduate of the culinary program at Johnson & Wales University in his home state of Rhode Island, Cosentino got his professional start at some of the country’s most beloved restaurants in Washington, D.C. and then the Bay Area. In his first executive chef position at Incanto, elevating a neighborhood Italian restaurant to the international scene. During his twelve-year tenure, Cosentino drew critical acclaim for his innovative Italian and whole animal cooking. Cosentino mastered the art of hand-crafted cured meats and helped raise awareness about sustainability & utilizing the entire animal. He also created Boccalone, a celebrated cured meat company, with manufacturing and retail operations in the Bay Area.”
Currently, Chef Chris is gearing up to open Koast, a celebration of local ingredients and coastal cuisine, in Wailea Village on Maui, with a hoped-for launch for late 2024.
Chef Chris Cosentino is our guest.
“Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll’s flagship restaurant Redbirdin Downtown Los Angeles features Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city – Los Angeles. As a follow up to Grace and BLD, Fraser’s menu features seasonal plates ranging from snacks or “kickshaws” to entrees meant to be enjoyed by the whole table. An extensive cocktail menu by Tobin Shea features well-balanced, bespoke renditions of the classics. Wine Director Christopher Dugan’s selections are well rounded with great finds from both established and emerging wine regions throughout the world.”
“Located in downtown Los Angeles, Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems, inside the former rectory building of Vibiana – the cathedral-turned-event-venue also owned and operated by Knoll and Fraser. Designer Robert Weimer and Knoll created a dynamic space that pays homage to the cathedral next door and the existing timeless architecture by inserting simple modern forms to complement rather than overtake the feel of the rooms. The result is a warm and comfortable considered space.”
Event Host Chef Neal Fraser is our guest discussing the salivating culinary aspects of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
“Led by chef, author and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson as national Board Co-chair, Careers C-CAP transforms the lives of underserved high school students and young people around the country by helping them pursue their culinary dreams. C-CAP prepares these talented young adults for college, and for careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry.”
Annually, C-CAP provides culinary, job and life skills to over 22,000 middle-and-high school students across the entire state of Arizona, as well as in Baltimore, Camden, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City & Long Island, Newark, Philadelphia, suburban Maryland, and Washington DC.
“Westwood Coast Steakhouse, the newest culinary venture from San Francisco-based Proof Positive, debuted in early July at Triangle Square in Costa Mesa. Proof Positive now makes its debut in Orange County with Westwood Coast Steakhouse by pairing an elevated, chef-driven steakhouse dining experience with lively country entertainment.
At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, a C-CAP graduate, who brings over a decade of culinary experience to the venture. Martinez has led as an Executive Chef in several acclaimed kitchens, including Mayfield in San Juan Capistrano, AHBA in Laguna Beach, Social in Costa Mesa, and most recently, at Dana Point’s Outer Reef and then Knife Modern Steak under the tutelage of Texas-based celebrity Chef John Tesar.
“Westwood Coast is bolstered by a team of powerhouse hospitality professionals, including General Manager Michael Ruiz of BOA Steakhouse. Westwood Coast presents a unique experience that artfully blends attentive hospitality, lively entertainment, and bold American flavors with premium cuts of meat.”
A Dinner menu highlight is the massive 40 oz. Australian Wagyu Ribeye from Margaret River. For Brunch a standout is the Crab Benedict.
Executive Chef Jayro Martinez is our guest to reveal all the diverse elements that are Westwood Coast and what he’s preparing for the Grand Tasting tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” back when he was the high-profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. In 2016 Chef Eric transitioned (with a major promotion) to Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering based at The Dolby Theater in Hollywood. Every year for over two-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the distinct honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2024 was the 30th year celebration of the Governors Ball. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. The pastry design was by Kamel Guechida and Gary Larduinat.
Most recently Wolfgang Puck Catering designed the state-of-the-art kitchen and operates the foodservice for the ambitious Los Angeles Chargers“The Bolt” training and practice facility in El Segundo. The kitchen includes a tiled, custom Italian pizza oven in the shape of a Chargers football helmet.
Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive chat.
The Westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel, is the official hotel of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
The expansive 26-acre property with a 9-hole, par 3 golf course and pickleball courts is a boutique hotel for travelers of all callings and Westdrift Manhattan Beach delivers the sophistication of a true-blue East Coast classic blended with the laid-back vibe of coastal California.
“Modern decor and sophisticated amenities combine to create Westdrift’s intimate guest spaces, sumptuously adorned for comfort with the rolling golf course views and sparkling city lights in view for that added touch of luxury.”
“Jute Coastal Bar & Kitchen, Westdrift’s signature restaurant for Breakfast, Lunch andDinner, is an indoor-outdoor enclave that features a fresh, creative and communal-focused dining experience.”
“Jute’s signature cocktails, craft beer, and wines from private labels will whisk you away on an experience slated to elevate the already vibrant Manhattan Beach culinary scene. Calling upon talents of local mixologists to evolve their ever-changing cocktail menu, Westdrift’s Mixology Lab is always testing new ingredients and innovative techniques using seasonal ingredients.”
Westdrift’s Jim McCafferty, Director of Catering & Events is our guide to all the luxe amenities of Westdrift Manhattan Beach.
“Susan Spicer, the acclaimed New Orleans culinarian, began her cooking career in New Orleans as an apprentice to Chef Daniel Bonnot at the Louis XVI Restaurant in 1979. Her resume includes staging with Chef Roland Durand in Paris, extensive travel in Europe and California, as well as stints as chef at Savoire Faire and the Bistro at Maison de Ville in New Orleans. She and Regina Keever partnered together to open the celebrated Bayona in the French Quarter in the spring of 1990. With solid support from local diners and critics, Bayona soon earned national attention, countless awards and has been featured in numerous publications. Susan received the 1993 James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef Southeast. In 2010 she launched Mondo, a casual, family-style restaurant which opened in Chef Spicer’s neighborhood of Lakeview. (It was sold in 2019.) In October 2016 she then launched her third restaurant, Rosedale, a neighborhood joint in a unique and historic building that serves her own style of Louisiana home cooking. In the Spring of 2019, a new version of Mondo joined other great New Orleans restaurants in the new terminals at Louis Armstrong International Airport.” Susan takes a break from her busy kitchens to join us.
“Brendan Collins, the new executive chef for Innovative Dining Group’s BOA Steakhouse, is best known in Los Angeles as the Chef-Owner of celebrated restaurants Waterloo & City, Larry’s, Fia, and Market Tavern where he intertwined his British culinary background with California’s bountiful produce, seducing a lively clientele.
Collins’ early background includes accolades and Michelin Stars spanning from London’s Oxo Tower Restaurant to Josiah Citrin’s Melisse in Los Angeles. Now at BOA Steakhouse, Collins’ reputation for deft execution, rich flavors, and playful dishes perfect for gathering, promises to elaborate on restaurateurs’ Lee Maen and Philip Cummins’s vision for the concept.” Chef Brendan Collins is our guest to update the menu offerings at BOA Steakhouse.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is an unabashed fan of asparagus. In his professional opinion it’s the best vegetable in the garden. Chef Andrew joins us with his creative tips on cooking and preparing asparagus.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“The inaugural Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s newest world-class Culinary Festival, is coming to Manhattan Village the evenings of Friday, October 11th and Saturday, October 12th. The Festival features an all-star lineup of 50 of the Best Chefs in North America!”
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine promises to be a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, October 11, 2024, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 25 of the best chefs and restaurants, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.” The charitable beneficiary is the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.)
“Manhattan Beach Food & Wine will be held at Manhattan Village in a 40,000-square-foot outdoor space located at the end of the Veterans Parkway Greenbelt Path. This beautifully landscaped trail runs through Manhattan Beach to Hermosa Beach, allowing guests to walk or bike to this year’s event with ease. Manhattan Village will also be offering complimentary parking and guests are encouraged to use rideshare services.”
Founder Shelby Russell joins us with all the delectable details.
“The inaugural Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s newest world-class Culinary Festival, is coming to Manhattan Village the evenings of Friday, October 11th and Saturday, October 12th. The Festival features an all-star lineup of 50 of the Best Chefs in North America!”
“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine promises to be a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, October 11, 2024, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 25 of the best chefs and restaurants, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.” The charitable beneficiary is the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP.)
“The Inaugural Manhattan Beach Food & Wine will feature an unparalleled lineup of 50 of the Best Chefs from across North America, representing Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, El Segundo, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, New Orleans, Denver, Solvang, Palm Springs, Vancouver, and Mexico. This elite culinary gathering promises to be a spectacular showcase of culinary excellence and innovation.”
Event Host Chef Neal Fraser is our guest discussing the salivating culinary aspects of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.
