Show 609, December 28, 2024: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her current columns, including dining advice navigating all the food options aboard Caribbean Princess. Of course tasty Orange County morsels will be part of the conversation.

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the dynamic Las Vegas dining scene. Al joins us sharing some dining tidbits including the upcoming surprising move of Jose Andres’ celebrated Bazaar Meat from the Sahara to The Venetian and the ever-popular Chicken Fingers with Fries served in a eye-catching miniature Zamboni at Vegas Golden Knights games. The 3rd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app happens in February. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as their own website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.”

“Winemaker Cecil Park of WineFornia and INNOVATUS wines is widely known as Napa Valley’s first Korean winemaker and viticulturist. Her journey from Yonsei University in Biotechnology Engineering to U.C. Davis in Viticulture and Enology has set her apart as a cultural and professional pioneer. Her background brings diversity to a traditionally Western-dominated field, and she has become an inspiration for others who want to break into the industry. With over 17 years of experience, she seamlessly blends modern techniques with traditional sustainable winemaking practices, creating wines that not only stand out for their quality but also for their unique character. INNOVATUS is the embodiment of Cecil Park’s innovative approach to winemaking. As the founder and creative force behind the brand, Cecil has crafted INNOVATUS into a symbol of both her personal and professional values. The brand stands out in the highly competitive Napa Valley wine scene for its small-lot production and attention to detail, resulting in elegant, expressive, and distinctive wines.” Cecil Park is our guest to uncork all that is INNOVATUS wines.

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. From a working chef and restaurateur’s perspective what is Chef Andrew optimistic about and, conversely, what’s of concern as we enter 2025? Meanwhile egg prices are still on the rise and there are spot shortages at retail.

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

Show 609, December 28, 2024: Al Mancini, Journalist – Creator of Neon Feast for Las Vegas Dining

Al Mancini of Neon Feast

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the dynamic Las Vegas dining scene. Al shares some dining tidbits including the surprising move of Jose Andres’ celebrated Bazaar Meat from the Sahara and an update on a new Chef Michael Mina restaurant, Bourbon Steak, at The Four Seasons. to The Venetian and the ever-popular Chicken Fingers with French Fries served in a miniature Zamboni at Vegas Golden Knights home games at T-Mobile Arena.

The 3rd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app happens in February. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as their website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.”

His weekly podcast is Food & Loathing, an always opinionated deep-dive into the Vegas restaurant and bar scene.

Al also has NeonNews.Vegas with current news (and breaking headline news) on the vibrant Vegas dining scene and lots more reported from his most reliable local sources.

“Neon Feast Foodie Updates” heard weekly on Highway Radio.

December 28: Anne Marie Panorigan, Al Mancini, Innovatus Wines

Podcasts

Hour One: Anne Marie Panoringan, Al Mancini
Hour Two: Al Mancini, Cecil Park, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction and Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist
Segments Four and Five: Al Mancini, Journalist – Creator of Neon Feast for Las Vegas Dining
Segments Six and Seven: Cecil Park, Founder & Winemaker – Innovatus, Napa
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel

Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.

Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her current columns, including dining advice navigating all the food options aboard Discovery Princess. Of course Orange County morsels will be part of the conversation.

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the dynamic Las Vegas dining scene. Al joins us sharing some dining tidbits including the upcoming surprising move of Jose Andres’ celebrated Bazaar Meat from the Sahara to The Venetian and the ever-popular Chicken Fingers served in a miniature Zamboni at Vegas Golden Knights games. The 3rd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app happens in February. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as their own website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.”

“Winemaker Cecil Park of WineFornia and INNOVATUS wines is widely known as Napa Valley’s first Korean winemaker and viticulturist. Her journey from Yonsei University in Biotechnology Engineering to U.C. Davis in Viticulture and Enology has set her apart as a cultural and professional pioneer. Her background brings diversity to a traditionally Western-dominated field, and she has become an inspiration for others who want to break into the industry. With over 17 years of experience, she seamlessly blends modern techniques with traditional sustainable winemaking practices, creating wines that not only stand out for their quality but also for their unique character. INNOVATUS is the embodiment of Cecil Park’s innovative approach to winemaking. As the founder and creative force behind the brand, Cecil has crafted INNOVATUS into a symbol of both her personal and professional values. The brand stands out in the highly competitive Napa Valley wine scene for its small-lot production and attention to detail, resulting in elegant, expressive, and distinctive wines.” Cecil Park is our guest to uncork all that is INNOVATUS wines.

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. From a working chef and restaurateur’s perspective what is Chef Andrew optimistic about and, conversely, what’s of concern as we enter 2025?

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

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her current columns, including dining advice navigating all the food options aboard Discovery Princess. Of course Orange County morsels will be part of the conversation.

Along the way Anne Marie shares some dining highlights from her recent adventures in Las Vegas. In OC dining news Anne Marie fills us in on Chef & Restaurateur Allan Tea’s new full-service restaurant in Old Town Orange. What’s the status of the soon to open Vox Kitchen & Bar in South Coast Plaza?

Al Mancini of Neon Feast

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the dynamic Las Vegas dining scene. Al shares some dining tidbits including the surprising move of Jose Andres’ celebrated Bazaar Meat from the Sahara to The Venetian and the ever-popular Chicken Fingers served in a miniature Zamboni at Vegas Golden Knights home games at T-Mobile Arena.

The 3rd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app happens in February. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as their website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.”

His weekly podcast is Food & Loathing, an always opinionated deep-dive into the Vegas restaurant and bar scene.

Al also has NeonNews.Vegas with current news (and breaking headline news) on the vibrant Vegas dining scene and lots more reported from his most reliable local sources.

Cecil Park of Innovatus Wines

Winemaker Cecil Park of WineFornia and INNOVATUS wines is widely known as Napa Valley’s first Korean winemaker and viticulturist. Her journey from Yonsei University in Biotechnology Engineering to U.C. Davis in Viticulture and Enology has set her apart as a cultural and professional pioneer. Her background brings diversity to a traditionally Western-dominated field, and she has become an inspiration for others who want to break into the industry. Cecil has built a reputation in Napa upon her ability to combine scientific precision with artistic winemaking. With over 17 years of experience, she seamlessly blends modern techniques with traditional sustainable winemaking practices, creating wines that not only stand out for their quality but also for their unique character.”

“Cecil’s reach extends across Napa and Sonoma, where she manages over 80 vineyards. She is a highly in-demand consultant for her expertise in private winemaking services, winery design, and vineyard management, with several high-profile clients including J.D. Estate Vineyard, Epps Vineyard, Mt. George Vineyard, and Peju Vineyard. Cecil’s ability to juggle multiple roles and produce consistently excellent results has made her indispensable to the community.”

“INNOVATUS is the embodiment of Cecil Park’s innovative approach to winemaking. As the founder and creative force behind the brand, Cecil has crafted INNOVATUS into a symbol of both her personal and professional values. The brand stands out in the highly competitive Napa Valley wine scene for its small-lot production and attention to detail, resulting in elegant, expressive, and distinctive wines.”

“INNOVATUS wines have been praised by critics and consumers alike. James Suckling awarded 93 points to the brand’s Viognier, and the INNOVATUS Brut Sparkling was awarded as an Editor’s Pick product in Food & Beverage Magazine. Her debut 2014 Cuvée, an unconventional blend of Pinot Noir and Syrah, won international accolades, securing gold at the Shanghai International Wine Challenge. Each of Cecil’s wines, from her structured Cabernet Sauvignon to her vibrant Zinfandel, reflect a deep understanding of both the land and craft of winemaking. INNOVATUS wines capture a perfect balance between bold Napa flavors and a tailored finesse that appeals to international wine lovers.”

“Beyond producing exceptional wines, Cecil has been instrumental in fostering collaboration across the wine community, both locally and globally. Her ongoing partnerships with Asian Health Services and the Korean American Community Foundation, showcase her commitment to enriching Napa’s cultural landscape. Moreover, her focus on educating and empowering the next generation of women in STEM further solidifies her role as a mentor and leader.”

Cecil Park is our guest to uncork all that is INNOVATUS wines.

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

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.

From a chef and restaurateur’s perspective what is Chef Andrew optimistic about and, conversely, what’s of particular concern as we enter 2025?

Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook (newly published) is also available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.

Podcasts

Hour One: Anne Marie Panoringan, Al Mancini
Hour Two: Al Mancini, Cecil Park, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction and Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist
Segments Four and Five: Al Mancini, Journalist – Creator of Neon Feast for Las Vegas Dining
Segments Six and Seven: Cecil Park, Founder & Winemaker – Innovatus, Napa
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel

Show 571, March 30, 2024: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

The 2nd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app happened last month. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as neonfeast.com), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.” To celebrate there is an exciting photo sweepstakes contest on right now with the lucky grand prize winner being hosted to an evening for two at Joel Robuchon at the MGM Grand. Monthly there is a $300 Lip Smacking Foodie Tours gift certificate awarded. Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the Vegas dining scene. Al also has just launched with Gemini Stevens (his co-host on the Food & Loathing podcast) the NeonNews Website with current news (and breaking headline news) on the vibrant Vegas dining scene and lots more reported from his most reliable local sources.

Three Sticks Wines is a boutique, family-owned winery recognized for its unique super premium collection of Sonoma vineyards, award-winning pinot noir, and chardonnay. Proprietor William “Bill” S. Price III (nicknamed Billy Three Sticks) set about building a collection of six Grand Cru level Estate vineyards in Sonoma County starting with Durell in 1997. By way of acquiring or newly planting, he has built a reputation for owning and farming some of the finest pinot and chardonnay acreages in California. Since 2002 Three Sticks Co-founder and General Manager Prema Kerollis set about designing and building the experiences, culture, and voice of Three Sticks while Bill focused on the vineyards with Rob Harris, head of all vineyard activities and winegrowing for the Price Family Vineyards and Estates portfolio. After years spent focusing on vineyards and hospitality, Three Sticks was ripe for some serious winemaking talent. Director of Winemaking Ryan Prichard joined Three Sticks in 2015 to craft wines from Bill’s sought-after Heritage vineyards, notably Durell, Gap’s Crown, and Walala, only to discover the majesty of his small, organically farmed, hand-planted properties, known internally as Monopoles: One Sky, Alana, and William James.” Winemaker Ryan Prichard is our guest to pull the cork on all that is Three Sticks Wine.

Three generations of the Gonzalez Family have been in the grocery business in Southern California with the very popular Northgate Gonzalez Markets. Now they are pioneering a new, first of its kind in the United States shopping experience, with the arrival of the long-in-the-works Mercado Gonzalez in Costa Mesa. It’s a 70,000 square foot culinary wonder of truly mouth-watering authentic foods representing many regions of Mexico with some 20 Puestos (Food Stands) “teeming with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and an array of flavorful delights. Explore a variety of flavors at Mercado González’s Puestos / Food Stands, where each stand offers a unique culinary adventure. Mercado has something to please every palate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.” Representing the 3rd generation of proud Gonzalez Family ownership is Joshua Gonzalez who is also the project Manager for Mercado Gonzalez. Joshua is our informed guide to all the enticing wonders of Mercado Gonzalez.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. French Fries…! There is nothing better than fresh-cut perfectly crisp fries. Chef Andrew shares his proven technique. (Rescheduled from last week.)

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

Show 571, March 30, 2024: Food Journalist Al Mancini, Las Vegas & Creator of the Neon Feast App for Las Vegas Dining Part One

Al Mancini of Neon Feast

The 2nd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app has happened. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as on their website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.” To celebrate there is an exciting photo sweepstakes contest on right now with the lucky winner being hosted to an evening for two at Joel Robuchon at the MGM Grand or a $300 Lip Smacking Foodie Tours gift certificate.

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the Vegas dining scene and looking ahead to what’s notable on the horizon for the rest of 2024. Some of the current talk of the town on dining is about the high-end restaurants at the newly opened (and long-delayed) Fontainebleau on The Strip and the reopening of the new Esther’s Kitchen (relocated) in the Arts District with Executive Chef James Trees.

Al also has just launched with Gemini Stevens (his co-host of the Food & Loathing podcast) the NeonNews Website with current news (and breaking headline news) on the vibrant Vegas dining scene and lots more reported from his most reliable local sources.

Al takes a break from the Las Vegas dining action to join us.

Show 571, March 30, 2024: Food Journalist Al Mancini, Las Vegas & Creator of the Neon Feast App for Las Vegas Dining Part Two

Al Mancini of Neon Feast

The 2nd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app has happened. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as on their website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.” To celebrate there is an exciting photo sweepstakes contest on right now with the lucky winner being hosted to an evening for two at Joel Robuchon at the MGM Grand or a $300 Lip Smacking Foodie Tours gift certificate.

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the Vegas dining scene and looking ahead to what’s notable on the horizon for the rest of 2024. Some of the current talk of the town on dining is about the high-end restaurants at the newly opened (and long-delayed) Fontainebleau on The Strip and the reopening of the new Esther’s Kitchen (relocated) in the Arts District with Executive Chef James Trees.

Al also has just launched with Gemini Stevens (his co-host for the weekly “Food & Loathing” podcast) the NeonNews Website with current news (and breaking headline news) on the vibrant Vegas dining scene and lots more reported from his most reliable local sources.

Al takes another break from the Las Vegas dining action to continue with us.

March 30: Al Mancini, Three Sticks Wines, Northgate Gonzalez Markets and Mercado Gonzalez

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Food Journalist Al Mancini, Las Vegas & Creator of the Neon Feast App for Las Vegas Dining Part One
Segment Three: Food Journalist Al Mancini, Las Vegas & Creator of the Neon Feast App for Las Vegas Dining Part Two
Segment Four: Three Sticks Wines, Sonoma County, with Director of Winemaking Ryan Prichard Part One
Segment Five: Three Sticks Wines, Sonoma County, with Director of Winemaking Ryan Prichard Part Two
Segment Six: Mercado Gonzalez, Costa Mesa, with Project Manager Joshua Gonzalez Part One
Segment Seven: Mercado Gonzalez, Costa Mesa, with Project Manager Joshua Gonzalez Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”

Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.

The 2nd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app has happened. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as out their website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.” To celebrate there is an exciting photo sweepstakes contest on right now with the lucky winner being hosted to an evening for two at Joel Robuchon at the MGM Grand or a $300 Lip Smacking Foodie Tours gift certificate. Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the Vegas dining scene. Al also has just launched the NeonNews Website with current news (and breaking headline news) on the vibrant Vegas dining scene and lots more reported from his most reliable local sources.

Three Sticks Wines is a boutique, family-owned winery recognized for its unique super premium collection of Sonoma vineyards, award-winning pinot noir, and chardonnay. Proprietor William “Bill” S. Price III (nicknamed Billy Three Sticks) set about building a collection of six Grand Cru level Estate vineyards in Sonoma County starting with Durell in 1997. By way of acquiring or newly planting, he has built a reputation for owning and farming some of the finest pinot and chardonnay acreages in California. Since 2002 Three Sticks Co-founder and General Manager Prema Kerollis set about designing and building the experiences, culture, and voice of Three Sticks while Bill focused on the vineyards with Rob Harris, head of all vineyard activities and winegrowing for the Price Family Vineyards and Estates portfolio. After years spent focusing on vineyards and hospitality, Three Sticks was ripe for some serious winemaking talent. Director of Winemaking Ryan Prichard joined Three Sticks in 2015 to craft wines from Bill’s sought-after Heritage vineyards, notably Durell, Gap’s Crown, and Walala, only to discover the majesty of his small, organically farmed, hand-planted properties, known internally as Monopoles: One Sky, Alana, and William James.” Winemaker Ryan Prichard is our guest to pull the cork on all that is Three Sticks Wine.

Three generations of the Gonzalez Family have been in the grocery business in Southern California with the very popular Northgate Gonzalez Markets. Now they are pioneering a new, first of its kind in the United States shopping experience, with the arrival of the long-in-the-works Mercado Gonzalez in Costa Mesa. It’s a 70,000 square foot culinary wonder of truly mouth-watering authentic foods representing many regions of Mexico with some 20 Puestos (Food Stands) “teeming with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and an array of flavorful delights. Explore a variety of flavors at Mercado González’s Puestos / Food Stands, where each stand offers a unique culinary adventure. Mercado has something to please every palate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.” Representing the 3rd generation of proud Gonzalez Family ownership is Joshua Gonzalez who is also the project Manager for Mercado Gonzalez. Joshua is our informed guide to all the enticing wonders of Mercado Gonzalez.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. French Fries…! There is nothing better than fresh-cut perfectly crisp fries. Chef Andrew shares his proven technique. (Rescheduled from last week.)

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

Al Mancini of Neon Feast

The 2nd year anniversary of notable Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini’s ambitious Neon Feast dining app has happened. Lots of new features have now been added to the updated App. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android (as well as on their website), Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.” To celebrate there is an exciting photo sweepstakes contest on right now with the lucky winner being hosted to an evening for two at Joel Robuchon at the MGM Grand or a $300 Lip Smacking Foodie Tours gift certificate.

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the Vegas dining scene and looking ahead to what’s notable on the horizon for the rest of 2024. Some of the current talk of the town on dining is about the high-end restaurants at the newly opened (and long-delayed) Fontainebleau on The Strip, the reopening of the new Esther’s Kitchen in the Arts District with Executive Chef James Trees and the recently concluded International Pizza Expo.

Al also has just launched the NeonNews Website with current news (and breaking headline news) on the vibrant Vegas dining scene and lots more reported from his most reliable local sources.

Al takes a break from the Las Vegas dining action to join us.

Ryan Prichard of Three Sticks Winery

Three Sticks Wines is a boutique, family-owned winery recognized for its unique super premium collection of Sonoma vineyards, award-winning pinot noir, and chardonnay. Proprietor William “Bill” S. Price III (nicknamed Billy Three Sticks) set about building a collection of six Grand Cru level Estate vineyards in Sonoma County starting with Durell in 1997. By way of acquiring or newly planting, he has built a reputation for owning and farming some of the finest pinot and chardonnay acreages in California.”

“Since 2002 Three Sticks Co-founder and General Manager Prema Kerollis set about designing and building the experiences, culture, and voice of Three Sticks while Bill focused on the vineyards with Rob Harris, head of all vineyard activities and winegrowing for the Price Family Vineyards and Estates portfolio. After years spent focusing on vineyards and hospitality, Three Sticks was ripe for some serious winemaking talent. Director of Winemaking Ryan Prichard joined Three Sticks in 2015 to craft wines from Bill’s sought-after Heritage vineyards, notably Durell, Gap’s Crown, and Walala, only to discover the majesty of his small, organically farmed, hand-planted properties, known internally as Monopoles: One Sky, Alana, and William James.”

“The intimate relationship between the winemaker, grower, and each of the six unique properties shines through in each of the wines. Ryan understands how working with great vineyards and a meticulous winemaking style can produce inspiring results. He originally joined Three Sticks with famed pinot noir winemaker Bob Cabral in 2015 and took over winemaking entirely from Cabral in 2021. Three Sticks has a down-to-earth, highly focused, quality-obsessed approach to growing and winemaking.”

The Sonoma home for hospitality at Three Sticks is the historic restored 1842 Vallejo-Castenada Adobe. It’s situated just steps off Sonoma’s town square.

Winemaker Ryan Prichard is our guest to pull the cork on all that is Three Sticks Wine.

Joshua Gonzalez of Northgate Markets

Three generations of the Gonzalez Family have been in the grocery business in Southern California with the very popular Northgate Gonzalez Markets. Now they are pioneering a new, first of its kind in the United States shopping experience with the arrival of the long-in-the-works Mercado Gonzalez in Costa Mesa.

It’s a 70,000 square foot culinary wonder of truly mouth-watering authentic foods representing many regions of Mexico with some 20 Puestos (Food Stands) “teeming with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and an array of flavorful delights. Explore a variety of flavors at Mercado González’s Puestos / Food Stands, where each stand offers a unique culinary adventure. Customers are able to savor sweet churros and sip seven types of hot chocolate from the famous Mexico City Churreria El Moro (a Mexico City landmark since 1935), indulge in crispy and succulent carnitas at Carnitas Don Miguel, relish a Chiva Torta by Familia Albarran, and enjoy Tacos Los Guichos from Familia Zenteno. Mercado has something to please every palate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”

All of the corn tortillas are made fresh throughout the day in the exhibition Tortilleria La Gonzalez located just as you enter the Mercado.

The Mercado even offers destination fine dining with Maizano. “Jorge Salim and Javier Hernandez Pons, the dynamic duo from the team behind beloved Los Angeles restaurants LA Cha Cha Chá in Arts District and Loreto in Elysian Valley, operate a new restaurant in Mercado called Maizano, a concept that is a homage to revered Mexican culinary and social traditions, and, as the name suggests, Mexican heirloom corn. Specifically, dishes such as mole, sopa de Lima, and a variety of memelas and tetelas are standouts.”

“One of the most exciting features of Mercado González is the showcase of breathtaking murals created by renowned Mexican artists from Guadalajara including Claudio Limón. His artistry captures the essence of Mexican culture, infusing each mural with the vivid colors and infectious joy that are hallmarks of Mexico. As customers explore the store, they will experience all the hand-painted signage on the Puestos and about eight murals.”

The attention to details is impressive. The carefully curated music in the seven zones of the Mercado changes throughout the day including in the (soon to be expanded) Dining Patio.

Representing the 3rd generation of proud Gonzalez Family ownership is Joshua Gonzalez who is also the project Manager for Mercado Gonzalez. Joshua is our guide to all the enticing wonders of Mercado Gonzalez.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

French Fries…! There is nothing better than fresh-cut, perfectly crisp fries. Something that seems so simple, however, is rarely done right. Chef Andrew shares his perfected technique. (Rescheduled from last week.)

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Food Journalist Al Mancini, Las Vegas & Creator of the Neon Feast App for Las Vegas Dining Part One
Segment Three: Food Journalist Al Mancini, Las Vegas & Creator of the Neon Feast App for Las Vegas Dining Part Two
Segment Four: Three Sticks Wines, Sonoma County, with Director of Winemaking Ryan Prichard Part One
Segment Five: Three Sticks Wines, Sonoma County, with Director of Winemaking Ryan Prichard Part Two
Segment Six: Mercado Gonzalez, Costa Mesa, with Project Manager Joshua Gonzalez Part One
Segment Seven: Mercado Gonzalez, Costa Mesa, with Project Manager Joshua Gonzalez Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”