Show 655, November 29, 2025: Terra Amico Farms, San Martin, Santa Clara County with Farmer Joe Raineri

Posted on December 1, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Welcome to San Martin’s (Santa Clara County, CA) Terra Amico Farms, a thriving organic and regenerative heirloom tomato farm nestled in the countryside between Morgan Hill and Gilroy. The farm is dedicated to sustainable agricultural practices that not only produce the highest quality and best tasting tomatoes but also rejuvenate the land and support biodiversity. At Terra Amico Farms, they believe in the power of community and the joy of connecting people with the source of their food.”

“Terra Amico Farms commitment to organic farming ensures that their tomatoes are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, preserving the health of the soil and the surrounding ecosystem. They embrace regenerative techniques such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting to enhance soil fertility and capture carbon, making this farm a model of environmental stewardship.”

“Terra Amico Farms is more than just a place to grow tomatoes; it’s a destination for unforgettable experiences. They host Farm-To-Table dinners where guests can savor gourmet meals crafted from estate produce and other local farm fresh, seasonal produce, prepared by talented local chefs. These dinners offer a unique opportunity to taste the flavors from local farms while enjoying the picturesque landscape. Guests are treated to a farm tour, learn about their sustainable farming practices and enjoy wine, craft beer and ciders from local producers.”

Joe is also the volunteer guiding force behind the non-profit, embryonic Fattoria Public Market and Food Hall. For California in Morgan Hill the concept is inspired by the European Public Markets supporting small family farmers and artisan food product producers showcasing a diversity of culinary delights.

“In addition to their dinners, Terra Amico Farms organize a variety of farm-related events throughout the year. From guided tours and u-picks to community harvest days, there is always something happening at Terra Amico Farms. These events foster a deeper connection between people and the food they eat, promoting a greater appreciation for sustainable agriculture.”

Farmer Joe Raineri takes a break from weeding to join us.

Show 620, March 15, 2025: Sadaf Foods with Daniella Soofer

Posted on March 17, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Sadaf Foods based in Vernon, CA has been a family business since 1982 when two brothers immigrated to Los Angeles from Iran. Once settled, they began to long for the comforting and familiar aromas and tastes of home. They found it challenging to locate traditional Middle Eastern ingredients in American supermarkets. To address this, the brothers founded Sadaf, aiming to help the community experience a taste of home in their kitchens.”

“Founded and headquartered in Los Angeles, California, and trademark registered worldwide, Sadaf started with just three people and 17 products. However, the brothers persisted in sourcing and importing the highest quality ingredients and specialty foods from various Mediterranean cuisines and countries.”

“Today, Sadaf employs over 100 people, leading numerous divisions that support more than 1,000 Sadaf brand products distributed nationwide. Sadaf imports products from over 15 countries worldwide, with the mission to connect cultures through delicious and authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food.”

Look for special Persian New Year’s (Nowruz) displays of Sadaf Foods products at area Ralphs grocery stores.

Family member Daniella Soofer is our guide to all that is Sadaf Foods including their newly introduced line of Certified Organic products.

Show 618, March 1, 2025: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on March 3, 2025 by Adam Bell

Congratulations to Brad Metzger and his Team at Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions for organizing (seemingly overnight) last Thursday’s Chefs Love LA Benefit with celebrity guest chefs preparing the 8-course seated dinner at Lawry’s The Prime Rib in Beverly Hills. Over $850,000 was raised for Restaurants Care and World Central Kitchen.

“In 2019, chef Rashida Holmes, a past James Beard Award Nominee, inspired by her diverse culinary background and personal cravings, envisioned Bridgetown Roti, filling a gap in LA’s food scene with Caribbean patties and rotis. Initially starting as a pop-up, the business gained traction during the pandemic, receiving a surge of support for Black-owned businesses and earning accolades. Holmes, along with her mother Joy Clarke-Holmes and partner Malique Smith, expanded the menu to include family recipes and secured a commercial kitchen, laying the groundwork for a permanent location (with a kitchen) which opened last year on N. Vermont Ave. in East Hollywood.” Think Macaroni & Cheese Pie, Oxtail & Peppers Patty, Rotis and Honey Jerk Whole Wings. Co-Proprietor Malique Smith joins us.

“Culinary Team USA competed on January 26th at the (biannual) 2025 Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, France, the world’s most prestigious and rigorous culinary competition, finishing 7th place out of 24 teams. France took home the Gold. This international event is often referred to as the “Culinary Olympics.” Team USA’s participation is a testament to their culinary prowess, following Team USA’s groundbreaking wins in 2015 for Silver and 2017 for Gold. Team USA placed 1st in the preliminary Bocuse’ d’Or Americas competition in New Orleans last June.” Team USA’s Head Chef, Stefani De Palma joins us with thoughts of Lyon.

“Step right up ladies and gentlemen to the spectacular “Cirque de Chocolate-A Whimsical World of Chocolate Wonders” at the 12th Big Island Chocolate Festival presented by the non-profit Kona Cacao Association on April 10th to 12th at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa on the Big Island of Hawaii. The annual festival offers chocolate-themed culinary demonstrations for the home cook, cacao growing and processing seminars by industry experts, a farm tour and a festive evening gala with walkaround savory and sweet culinary stations, chocolate fountain, entertainment, DJ dancing and a silent auction. At the 5:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday gala, guests can enjoy unlimited wine, craft beer, special edition Ola Brew chocolate seltzer and beer, iced tea and coffee. The gala also offers VIP seating with two specially curated drinks paired with pupus.” Founder Farsheed Bonakdar, The Chocolate Guy Hawaii, is our guide to pure chocolate decadence.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish Housee (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Organic foods are very much part of the current culinary conversation. Why is there no certified organic fish and seafood available in the United States? Chef Andrew explains.

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

Show 618, March 1, 2025: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel

Posted on March 3, 2025 by Adam Bell

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Calico Fish House

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.

Organic foods are very much part of the current culinary conversation. Why is there no certified organic fish and seafood available in the United States? Chef Andrew explains.

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.

March 1: Bridgetown Roti, Team USA at the 2025 Bocuse d’Or, Big Island Chocolate Festival

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: Chefs Love LA, Bridgetown Roti, Stefani di Palma
Hour Two: Stefani di Palma, Big Island Chocolate Festival, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction and Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Bridgetown Roti, East Hollywood, with Co-Proprietor Malique Smith
Segments Four and Five: Team USA 2025 with Head Chef Stefani De Palma
Segments Six and Seven: 12th Big Island Chocolate Festival with Organizer Farsheed Bonakdar – The Chocolate Guy – Hawaii
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel

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

“In 2019, chef Rashida Holmes, a past James Beard Award Nominee, inspired by her diverse culinary background and personal cravings, envisioned Bridgetown Roti, filling a gap in LA’s food scene with Caribbean patties and rotis. Initially starting as a pop-up, the business gained traction during the pandemic, receiving a surge of support for Black-owned businesses and earning accolades. Holmes, along with her mother Joy Clarke-Holmes and Malique Smith, expanded the menu to include family recipes and secured a commercial kitchen, laying the groundwork for a permanent location (with a kitchen) which opened last year on N. Vermont Ave. in East Hollywood.” Think Macaroni & Cheese Pie, Oxtail & Peppers Patty, Rotis and Honey Jerk Whole Wings. Proprietors Chef Rashida Holmes and Malique Smith join us.

“Culinary Team USA competed on January 26^th at the (biannual) 2025 Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, France, the world’s most prestigious and rigorous culinary competition, finishing 7th place out of 24 teams. France took home the Gold. This international event is often referred to as the “Culinary Olympics.” Team USA’s participation is a testament to their culinary prowess, following Team USA’s groundbreaking wins in 2015 for Silver and 2017 for Gold. Team USA placed 1^st in the preliminary Bocuse’ d’Or Americas competition in New Orleans last June.” Team USA’s Head Chef, Stefani De Palma joins us with thoughts of Lyon.

“Step right up ladies and gentlemen to the spectacular “Cirque de Chocolate-A Whimsical World of Chocolate Wonders” at the 12th Big Island Chocolate Festival presented by the non-profit Kona Cacao Association on April 10^th to 12^th at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa on the Big Island of Hawaii. The annual festival offers chocolate-themed culinary demonstrations for the home cook, cacao growing and processing seminars by industry experts, a farm tour and a festive evening gala with walkaround savory and sweet culinary booths, chocolate fountain, entertainment, DJ dancing and a silent auction. At the 5:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday gala, guests can enjoy unlimited wine, beer, special edition Ola Brew chocolate seltzer and beer, iced tea and coffee. The galaalso offers VIP seating with two specially curated drinks paired with pupus.” Founder Farsheed Bonakdar, The Chocolate Guy Hawaii, is our guide to pure chocolate decadence.

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. Organic foods are very much part of the current culinary conversation. Why is there no certified organic fish and seafood available in the United States? Chef Andrew explains.

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

“In 2019, chef Rashida Holmes, a past James Beard Award Nominee, inspired by her diverse culinary background and personal cravings, envisioned Bridgetown Roti, filling a gap in LA’s food scene with Caribbean patties and rotis. Initially starting as a pop-up, the business gained traction during the pandemic, receiving a surge of support for Black-owned businesses and earning accolades. Holmes, along with her mother Joy Clarke-Holmes and Malique Smith, expanded the menu to include family recipes and secured a commercial kitchen, laying the groundwork for a permanent location (with a proper restaurant kitchen) which opened last year on N. Vermont Ave. in East Hollywood.”

“Taste, value and efficiency are the cornerstones of Chef Rashida Holmes’s food and approach to the restaurant business. If those are in place, the love will flow onto the plate.”

Think Macaroni & Cheese Pie, Oxtail & Peppers Patty, Rotis and Honey Jerk Whole Wings.

Proprietors Chef Rashida Holmes and Malique Smith join us.

“Team USA’s participation is a testament to their culinary prowess, following Team USA’s groundbreaking wins in 2015 for Silver and 2017 for Gold.” Team USA placed 1^st in the preliminary Bocuse’ d’Or Americas Competition in New Orleans last June.

“Led by Head Chef Stefani De Palma and Commis Bradley Waddle, with Head Coach Sebastian Gibrand, Team USA competed on January 26th, the first day of the competition, and presented their homage to California, where Chef De Palma hails from. Competing against 23 other countries and given 5 hours and 30 minutes to finish, they presented two platters designed by Martin Kastner of Crucial Detail, LLC: “Theme on Plate” presentation with the mandatory proteins of Stone Bass fish, Lobster and Celeriac. “Theme On Platter” presentation with the mandatory proteins of Venison, Foie Gras and Tea.”

“This has been an incredible experience that has created memories for a lifetime. I am grateful and appreciative for the unwavering support of our team, mentors, family and friends throughout this journey. It has been an honor competing with this distinguished group of chefs, and every team should take pride in their accomplishments,” says Head Chef Stefani De Palma.

“Team USA is supported by Ment’or, the nonprofit foundation founded by Chefs Daniel Boulud and Thomas Keller. A team of advisors has also provided culinary guidance for Team USA throughout their journey to the finals in France: Chefs Grant Achatz, Erik Anderson, Dave Beran, William Bradley, Kyle Connaughton, Evan Funke, Timothy Hollingsworth, Devin Knell, Brian Lockwood, Mathew Peters and Robert Sulatycky.”

Team USA’s Head Chef, Stefani De Palma joins us with thoughts of Lyon and the last year of intensive training.

Farsheed Bonakdar of the Kona Cacao Association

“It’s where tempting chocolate wonders come alive as attendees are invited to don masks and party finery amid roaming circus-themed performers at the “greatest show on earth.””

“The annual festival offers chocolate-themed culinary demonstrations for the home cook, cacao growing and processing seminars by industry experts, a farm tour and a festive evening gala with walkabout savory and sweet culinary booths, chocolate fountain, entertainment, DJ dancing and a silent auction. At the 5:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday gala, guests can enjoy unlimited wine, beer, special edition Ola Brew chocolate seltzer and beer, iced tea and coffee. The galaalso offers VIP seating with two specially curated drinks paired with pupus.”

“At the gala, a panel of invited judges and attendees will again critique chef and confectionary offerings while culinary stations will vie in a spirited contest for Best Booth decorated to this year’s circus theme. A photo booth will stage fun, playful props for selfies.”

“Also on tap is a college culinary competition where the next generation of Hawai‘i culinarians showcase their sweet and savory skills utilizing chocolate and the cocoa bean.”

“A general admission gala ticket is $109 with VIP for $179. Also available are specially priced event room packages at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort. Educational activities and prices will be announced on the website. All event tickets are sold online and additional tax and ticketing fees apply.

Founder Farsheed Bonakdar, The Chocolate Guy Hawaii, is our guide to pure chocolate decadence.

Organic foods are very much part of the current culinary conversation. Why is there no certified organic fish and seafood available in the United States? Chef Andrew explains.

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: Chefs Love LA, Bridgetown Roti, Stefani di Palma
Hour Two: Stefani di Palma, Big Island Chocolate Festival, Andrew Gruel

Show 597, October 5, 2024: Ask the Chef with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House

Posted on October 7, 2024 by Adam Bell

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) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

Lots of premium options available for tastier chicken. What do all the various labels means and which are actually worth the extra cost? What is Jidori chicken and why is it so special? What is the meaning when associated with fresh chicken of words like “All-Natural,” “Free-Range,” “Pasture-Raised” and “Cage-Free” ? Chef Andrew explains…

Show 580, June 1, 2024: Long Beach Cambodian Restaurant Week with CaliTea

Posted on June 2, 2024 by Adam Bell

The second annual Long Beach Cambodian Restaurant Week returns June 2 to 9, 2024. “The 2024 event and future events are now owned / organized by United Cambodian Community (UCC) of Long Beach, a California registered 501(c)3 non-profit. The 2023 inaugural event was organized by non-profit Long Beach Food & Beverage, who transitioned the event to UCC earlier this month for the token amount of $1, and will remain involved in 2024 to insure a smooth transition.”

“Long Beach Cambodian Restaurant Week is an avenue to bring everyone to the table, from all walks of life, to showcase the city’s delicious and diverse Cambodian food scene. The eight-day event also seeks to highlight Cambodian-owned food businesses as well as Cambodian chefs and bartenders.”

“We are excited to take the reins of Cambodian Restaurant Week beginning this year, and owning this successful brand!” stated Susana Sngiem, Executive Director at UCC. “This will again give our local Cambodian community the opportunity to share our culture and cuisine with all food lovers in Long Beach and encourage them to try something they may not have experienced before.”

“Long Beach is home to the largest community of Cambodians outside of the country itself, many refugees settling in Long Beach after escaping the Khmer Rouge regime genocide of the late 1970s. The city’s own “Cambodia Town” is a bustling collection of eateries, shops and retailers.”

CaliTea, California’s first brewed-to-order Boba Milk Tea and Organic Beverages purveyor is one of the participating restaurants in Long Beach Cambodian Restaurant Week. Sopheap Diggs, a partner,is our guest with a with a thirst-quenching preview.

Show 576, May 4, 2024: Garcia de la Cruz Olive Oil from Spain

Posted on May 5, 2024 by Adam Bell

Michael McCowan of Garcia de la Cruz Olive Oils

Fun Fact… Spain is the Number One producer of olive oil and olives in the world. For over 150 years Spain’s Garcia del la Cruz has been a respected grower and producer of premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO.) Over it’s history three generations of women have managed the enterprise.

“At Garcia de la Cruz, they are dedicated to preserving Spain’s culinary legacy and the planet for generations to come. Through sustainable practices, they produce pure, organic olive oils and exquisite Spanish products. Their ambitious goal is to ensure that the magic of their land endures.”

The Family-owned Montes de Toledo orchards yield top-quality olives (Cornicabra, Picual, Arbequina, Hojiblanca), all organic.

“Picture a world where Spain’s exquisite flavors grace tables worldwide. We, a cherished family-owned brand, aspire to deliver Spain’s finest sustainably. We’re not just creating great food; we’re nurturing the Earth’s beauty for our children and yours. Join us at Garcia de la Cruz, where Spain meets the world.”

Garcia de la Cruz olive oil products are available locally at Whole Foods Markets and via the Garcia de la Cruz Website.

Michael McCowan, Garcia de la Cruz’s (Portland-based) Sales Director for the USA joins us to discover the rich history and products of Garcia de la Cruz.

Show 526, May 20, 2023: Jonny Pops Frozen Treats with Co-Founder Connor Wray

Posted on May 22, 2023 by Adam Bell

“From humble beginnings making frozen treats in the basement of their college dorm room at St. Olaf College, cofounders of JonnyPops, Erik Brust and Connor Wray perfected an amazing and wonderful formula.”

“Real fruit. Heavy cream. Cane sugar. Purified water. And a pinch of salt. Just simple, wholesome ingredients with no fillers and absolutely nothing artificial.”

“JonnyPops has worked hard to achieve the right balance of real ingredients, flavor and creaminess. The simpler the ingredients, the more delicious the pop. It’s why they use a few wholesome ingredients – like fresh Midwest dairy – and blend small batches with care.”

“JonnyPops are also completely peanut-, tree nut-, and gluten-free, as well as kosher-certified.” At the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, Jonny Pops was awarded the prestigious NEXTY for “Best New Sweet Snack” for their (dairy-free and water based) Organic Rainbow Fruit Stacks bar.

“Their frozen treats are called “JonnyPops” after Erik’s cousin and original co-conspirator, Jonathan. His passing, the result of a tragic drug overdose, filled the family with grief – but also fueled a desire to spark change.”

“In honor of their namesake, each JonnyPops stick is printed with a good deed because they believe sharing kindness, through actions big and small, helps them achieve their sincere mission of making the world a better place, one pop at a time” An example of a stick deed message that was perfect for Mother’s Day: “Remind someone you love them!”

Co-Founder Connor Wray joins us from Elk River, Minnesota with an Organic Rainbow Fruit Stack bar in hand.

Restaurateur Debbie Thomas, Thomas Hill Organics, Paso Robles

Posted on September 20, 2021 by Adam Bell

“Deemed one of the best restaurants in Paso Robles since its launch in 2009, Thomas Hill Organics is a farm-to-table restaurant dedicated to serving creative, organic cuisine and highlighting unique wines from the Central Coast.” Serving Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Brunch.

“With a dynamic menu reflecting Paso Robles’ local abundance, Thomas Hill Organics sources a vivid array of fresh ingredients to concoct bold, imaginative dishes. What began as a humble organic CSA showcasing the Central Coast’s bounty quickly evolved into a popular destination for creatively prepared, honest food.”

“Thomas Hill Organics believes in the significance of organic, regionally-produced food, working with California purveyors for their poultry, fish, beef, lamb, and exotic meats. Nearby farmers provide their fruits and vegetables, which are always straight-from-the-earth fresh, and the breads are crafted by local bakers who are celebrated artisans of their trade.”

Proprietress and Founder Debbie Thomas joins us.