Show 495, October 15, 2022: JC Clow, Founding Partner, The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar, Tustin

JC Clow of the Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar located in The District in Tustin is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this month. Founding Partner JC Clow joins us with Champagne flute in hand to celebrate this achievement. There are now also thriving sister Winery Restaurants on the water in Newport Beach and in La Jolla.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. When Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz set out 15 years ago to deliver a culinary experience straight from wine county, little did they know that they would also earn the title along the way of “Restaurateurs of the Year” for their achievements and have their restaurants in Newport Beach and Tustin earn the title of “Restaurant of the Year” multiple times!”

Partners William Lewis and Executive Chef Yvon Goetz are our guests on Oct. 22nd to continue the celebration of The Winery’s 15th Anniversary.

Show 441, September 4, 2021: Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza Store with Partners Stan Frazier and Jeff Roberts

“Every September, in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza Store (3 OC locations) fundraises for Julian’s LEGO® Corner, an Orange County-based charity that donates new LEGO® kits for seriously ill hospitalized children to play with while they undergo medical care at Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Last year, Sgt. Pepperoni’s raised $16,000, and the team has an even bigger goal in 2021.”

“The connection behind Sgt. Pepperoni’s goal and passion for Julian’s LEGO® Corner, is a unique and endearing story of Julian Dunn’s friendship with Lauren Roberts, daughter of Sgt. Pepperoni’s partners, Erica and Jeff Roberts.”

“Lauren and Julian were classmates, neighbors and friends when Julian was diagnosed with brain cancer and had to undergo strenuous treatment. Lauren stepped up to raise money with a lemonade stand to show her support for Julian. Lauren’s mother, Erica Roberts, added, “She was only five years old at the time, but she knew how to make cookies and lemonade. So, she said, ‘Mom, I want to do a lemonade stand for Julian.’” Just that day, Lauren raised more than $1,500 with her lemonade stand and her efforts for Julian didn’t stop there.”

“Lauren continued hosting lemonade stands to raise money for Julian over the next few years, as well as a musical event in Julian’s honor, Jammin’ for Julian. Lauren, now in high school, has also created Sweet Things For A Sweet Cause, a collection of desserts benefitting Julian’s LEGO® Corner that are available for purchase at Sgt. Pepperoni’s stores year-round.”

“Inspired by Lauren and Julian’s story, and with a strong desire to make a positive impact within their community, the Roberts, Hong, Frazier and Dodman families, owners of Sgt. Pepperoni’s, were honored to build upon Lauren’s efforts for Julian’s LEGO® Corner with a yearly, month-long fundraiser to commemorate Julian’s strength and bravery. Now in its sixth year, the fundraiser helps spread awareness for Julian’s LEGO® Corner and celebrates Julian’s legacy by bringing a smile to other children at CHOC.”

“To show guest’s support for Julian’s LEGO® Corner, Sgt. Pepperoni’s will be collecting new LEGO® sets and cash donations at all three locations (Aliso Viejo, Newport Beach and Irvine) for CHOC patients throughout September. Additionally, all proceeds in the month of September from Pizza of the Month, The Parma Pie, and desserts will be donated to Julian’s LEGO® Corner.”

Our guests, representing the owners of Sgt. Pepperoni’s, are Stan Frazier and Jeff Roberts.

Show 429, June 12, 2021: Bosscat Kitchen and Libations, Orange, Houston, TX and Newport Beach Part One

John Reed and Leslie Nguyen of Bosscat Kitchen and Libations

Orange County restaurateurs Leslie Nguyen and John Reed (owners of Bosscat Kitchen and Libations) launched their third location this March on the corner of Chapman Avenue and Olive Street in Old Towne Orange at the previous Rod’s Liquor location, a 100-year old building..

“The 5,000 sq. ft. result is a beautifully modern space that is as authentic and nostalgic to Old Towne Orange as it is bold and eye-catching to fit Bosscat Kitchen’s brand. Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer, has drawn her inspiration from the century old pre-prohibition style building, making certain every detail is on brand for Bosscat’s rustic industrial aesthetic but also throwing back to the auto repair shop and the beloved neighborhood liquor store that had decades of commerce and stories before it.”

“Bosscat Kitchen & Libations creatively meshes upscale and casual dining with an expansive whiskey selection and unique menu of American comfort food. The high energy, open-spaced concept promotes a lively experience at all locations: Newport Beach, CA and Houston, TX (with the third location newly opened in Orange, CA on March 17th). Their brick, metal, dark wood and whiskey barrel decor suits its comfort menu.”

“One of the restaurant’s most coveted attractions is the famous whiskey room that houses hundreds of whiskies from several countries (including: Scotland, Ireland, Japan, Canada and the US). Bosscat Kitchen’s Executive Chef, Peter Petro, cultivates new ideas with seasonal produce, meats and spices.”

Bosscat Kitchens’ Leslie Nguyen (in-studio) and John Reed (on the phone from Houston) join us.

Show 429, June 12, 2021: Bosscat Kitchen and Libations, Orange, Houston, TX and Newport Beach Part Two

John Reed and Leslie Nguyen of Bosscat Kitchen and Libations

Orange County restaurateurs Leslie Nguyen and John Reed (owners of Bosscat Kitchen and Libations) launched their third location this March on the corner of Chapman Avenue and Olive Street in Old Towne Orange at the previous Rod’s Liquor location, a 100-year old building..

“The 5,000 sq. ft. result is a beautifully modern space that is as authentic and nostalgic to Old Towne Orange as it is bold and eye-catching to fit Bosscat Kitchen’s brand. Leslie Nguyen, Chief Designer, has drawn her inspiration from the century old pre-prohibition style building, making certain every detail is on brand for Bosscat’s rustic industrial aesthetic but also throwing back to the auto repair shop and the beloved neighborhood liquor store that had decades of commerce and stories before it.”

“Bosscat Kitchen & Libations creatively meshes upscale and casual dining with an expansive whiskey selection and unique menu of American comfort food. The high energy, open-spaced concept promotes a lively experience at all locations: Newport Beach, CA and Houston, TX (with the third location newly opened in Orange, CA on March 17th). Their brick, metal, dark wood and whiskey barrel decor suits its comfort menu.”

“One of the restaurant’s most coveted attractions is the famous whiskey room that houses hundreds of whiskies from several countries (including: Scotland, Ireland, Japan, Canada and the US). Bosscat Kitchen’s Executive Chef, Peter Petro, cultivates new ideas with seasonal produce, meats and spices.”

Bosscat Kitchens’ Leslie Nguyen (in-studio) and John Reed (on the phone from Houston) continue with us.

Show 425, May 15, 2021: Chef Wing Lam of Wahoo’s Fish Taco Part One

Chef Wing Lam of Wahoo’s Fish Taco is collaborating with Three Sticks Wines on two, back-to-back tasting events in Long Beach and Newport Beach under the name of Rose on the Road.

Three Sticks will be pouring a celebratory selection of their latest wines (including the newly released 2020 Castenada Sonoma Coast Rose) at the Wahoo’s Fish Taco locations in Long Beach (May 20th from 5 to 7:00 p.m.) and Newport Beach (May 21stfrom 3 to 5:00 p.m.) as founder and chef, Wing Lam, cooks up his famous grilled fish tacos with spicy oven-roasted salsa on the patio. Tickets are limited.

Chef Wing Lam co-founded Wahoo’s Fish Taco in 1988 (with his two brothers) and the enterprise has grown to over 60 locations throughout California. A fresh and tasty fusion of Brazilian, Asian, and Mexican fare, Wahoo’s is best known for their signature fish tacos that pair perfectly with the newly released 2020 Castenada Rose.

Chef Wing graciously shares his recipe for Fish Tacos with Oven-Roasted Salsa.

Wing Lam is our guest spatula in hand.

Show 425, May 15, 2021: Chef Wing Lam of Wahoo’s Fish Taco Part Two

Chef Wing Lam of Wahoo’s Fish Taco is collaborating with Three Sticks Wines on two, back-to-back tasting events in Long Beach and Newport Beach under the name of Rose on the Road.

Three Sticks will be pouring a celebratory selection of their latest wines (including the newly released 2020 Castenada Sonoma Coast Rose) at the Wahoo’s Fish Taco locations in Long Beach (May 20th from 5 to 7:00 p.m.) and Newport Beach (May 21stfrom 3 to 5:00 p.m.) as founder and chef, Wing Lam, cooks up his famous grilled fish tacos with spicy oven-roasted salsa on the patio. Tickets are limited.

Chef Wing Lam co-founded Wahoo’s Fish Taco in 1988 (with his two brothers) and the enterprise has grown to over 60 locations throughout California. A fresh and tasty fusion of Brazilian, Asian, and Mexican fare, Wahoo’s is best known for their signature fish tacos that pair perfectly with the newly released 2020 Castenada Rose.

Chef Wing graciously shares his recipe for Fish Tacos with Oven-Roasted Salsa.

Show 422, April 24, 2021: Yvon Goetz, Executive Chef & Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar

Yvon Goetz of the Winery Restaurant and Bar

“For the first time since opening nearly 14 years ago, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar has introduced a new Weekend Brunch at its original Tustin location. Created by Executive Chef & Partner Yvon Goetz, the Brunch menu features both breakfast and lunch offerings that are available Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Guests now enjoy Weekend Brunch on The Winery’s recently expanded patio, situated in the heart of The District in Tustin.”

“Chef Goetz’s Weekend Brunch menu puts a Wine Country twist on brunch favorites with dishes like Lemon-Ricotta Pancakes, Crab & Egg White Frittata, and Steak & Eggs. More significant brunch options include a classic French Benedict and Chef Goetz’s signature short ribs in a Zinfandel Braised Beef Short Rib Omelet. Those looking for lighter options may opt for one of four fresh salads with choice of protein, or lifestyle-focused options like Vegan Mushroom & Lentil Ragout. The menu also highlights Chef Goetz’s love for Pacific Rim flavorings and fresh line-caught fish in dishes such as Icelandic Salmon “a la Plancha” and Jumbo Maine Scallops & White Shrimp.”

The Newport Beach location of The Winery is also participating in Newport Beach Restaurant Week (ending May 2nd) with Chef Yvon’s 3-course, prix fixe Dinner menu available at $65 per guest. Main Course options include Grilled Brandt Flatiron Steak, Jumbo Maine Scallops & Wild White Shrimp and Zinfandel Braised Angus Beef Shortrib.

Show 403, December 12, 2020: Lido Bottle Works in Newport Beach with Managing Partner Brett Karas

Breet Karas of Lido Bottle WorksAt Lido Bottle Works in Newport Beach’s bayside Lido Marina Village they believe people, food, and drink should be ‘Genuinely Good Together.’ Their unique dishes are prepared for guests under the direction of Executive Chef Amy Lebrun using local and sustainable ingredients expertly paired with specialty craft beer, wine, and cocktails.

Lido Bottle Works specializes in sourcing from a variety of local farms to create the constantly updated menu and the kitchen is truly hyper-seasonal. An element on the plate a couple weeks ago may be swapped out for a new one that is only experiencing it’s peak of season for a week or two now. That attention to detail and seasonality is very important to Chef Amy.

Brett Karas is the Managing Partner for Lido Bottle Works, an upscale American sustainable scratch kitchen with a focus on local craft beer and California wines. As a Southern California native, he prides himself on an active outdoor lifestyle, and a love of craft beer and vibrant ingredients. Being in the restaurant and bar industry for over 19 years has given him a great perspective on operating restaurants and dining in today’s ever-changing and competitive industry. Always up for a challenge, he has helped to create a unique dining experience at Lido Bottle Works since it’s opening in mid-2017.

Lido Marina Village has a convenient, multi-level parking garage on-site. There is an initial one hour of hosted parking plus a 2-hour validation when patronizing Lido Bottle Works.

Brett joins us to artfully pull the cork on Lido Bottle Works.

Show 399, November 14, 2020: Darren Coyle, Proprietor, Fable & Spirit, Newport Beach

Darren and Jean Coyle of Fable and Spirit“The award-winning Fable & Spirit in Newport Beach has been helping to bring the Lido Marina community together by putting a unique spin on “Dinner and a Movie” with dinners under the iconic Grand Marquee of neighboring Lido Theater. Presented every Tuesday and Wednesday, the outdoor dinners feature themed menus created by Executive Chef David Shofner to change weekly.”

“Priced between $40 and $50 per guest, the reservation-only menus continue through November, allowing Chef Shofner to present imaginative, globally inspired dishes featuring the exciting ingredients that the season has to offer. Each week’s menu is expertly paired with optional wines by Sommelier Ali Coyle, allowing guests to create their own culinary adventure. Director of Spirits Drew Coyle was inspired to create a popcorn-infused signature cocktail, the Pink Flamingo, to pay homage to The Lido Theater’s nickname when it first opened in 1939.”

“By partnering with The Lido Theater to expand our outdoor dining, we were able to keep the rich history of the Lido Marina area alive,” commented Darren Coyle, who owns Fable & Spirit, Dublin 4 Gastropub, and Wineworks for Everyone with his wife, Jean. “The response has been overwhelming as the community comes together to enjoy themselves at a time when we need it the most – and in a way that’s safe and responsible.”

The prestigious Michelin Guide recently honored Fable & Spirit with a 2020 Discovery award. Only 25 restaurants in California achieved this new designation.

Proprietor Darren Coyle is our guest.

Show 388, August 29, 2020: Jerilyn Lynch, Co-Proprietor, Mutt Lynch’s, Newport Beach

Jerilyn Lynch of Mutt Lynch'sMutt Lynch’s in Newport Beach, celebrating their 45th Anniversary this year, has introduced a limited-time menu inspired by the distinctive and typically over-the-top specialty foods found at the OC Fair. “Available for a limited time, the special menu sees the addition of iconic Fair favorites, including Giant Turkey Legs and Deep-fried Oreos. When the OC Fair was canceled this year for only the second time in its over-130-year history due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Mutt Lynch’s found a way to keep its magic alive with a special menu recreating some of the Fair’s most iconic dishes. The OC Fair favorites will be available through Labor Day (with the possibility of an extension.)”

“We go to OC Fair every year as a family, and one of the biggest draws for us is the outrageously fun food,” comments second-generation owner Jerilyn Lynch. “The Fair signifies the peak of summer; being there creates a sense of care-free nostalgia. We think the world could use a bit of that right now, so we thought ‘If we can’t go to the OC Fair, we’ll bring the OC Fair to us!’”

“In addition to its new, limited-time menu of OC Fair-inspired food, Mutt Lynch’s is currently offering its full menu – which contains over 200 items. The iconic beach bar has also expanded to offer outdoor dining, converting five parking spaces into a spacious beach-front dining area with plenty of seating, tiki torches and the hanging Christmas lights, that have become a year-round staple at Mutt Lynch’s. This year, the family-owned eatery celebrates its 45th anniversary.”

2nd generation Co-owner, Jerilyn Lynch, is our guest with Giant Turkey Leg in hand.