Show 669, March 7, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on March 9, 2026 by Adam Bell

We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high-profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later 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 three-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2026 is the 32nd year of Wolfgang Puck Catering creating the incredible menu for the Governors Ball. Chef Wolfgang and his team crafted a bevy of new dishes to add to the always eye-popping menu. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 15th . Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.

op of the V at The Viv Anaheim, one of the participating restaurants in OC Restaurant Week, “has been reimagined as Orange County’s tallest rooftop Spanish steakhouse, perched on the 12th floor with sweeping panoramic views and an elevated open-air dining experience. Top of the V offers a vibrant destination where skyline views meet unforgettable cuisine. The menu, under the direction of Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, draws inspiration from Spain’s rich culinary traditions, featuring shareable starters like Croquetas de Jamón, Beef Empanadas with smoked tomato and guindilla aioli, and Grilled Spanish Octopus, alongside fresh plates such as Goddess Gems and Roasted Beets and Cheese. Signature entrées include Spanish Short Rib, Basque-Style Black Cod, traditional paellas cooked to order, and prime steaks including Bone-In Ribeye, Filet Mignon, and Rack of Lamb.” Chef Jayro Martinez takes a break from his busy open exhibition kitchen to join us.

Chef Henry Pineda’s Lola’s by MFK in Anaheim (a long foul ball away from Angel Stadium) is one of the participating restaurants in OC Restaurant Week launching Sunday, March 8th. Their special menu item is the abundant Kamayan Brunch feast served daily from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Chef Henry takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

This modern Filipino brunch Kamayan feast (easily serves one to two guests) marries the rich culinary experience that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.

Restaurateur Rob Arellano’s Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa is one of the participating restaurants in OC Restaurant Week launching Sunday, March 8th. Their value-priced menus for OC Restaurant Week include options for Featured Cocktails, Brunch, Lunch and Dinner. Rob Arellano joins us highlighting all the salivating menu options.

For our concluding segment at 11:45 a.m. 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. Today Chef Andrew provides a guide to setting up a basic “Cooking Toolkit.” He assures that if you build this home pantry you’ll never panic about Dinner again…

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

Show 669, March 7, 2026: Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering – Governors Ball

Posted on March 9, 2026 by Adam Bell

2026 is the 32^nd year of Wolfgang Puck Catering creating the incredible menu for the Governors Ball. Chef Wolfgang and his team crafted a bevy of new dishes to add to the eye-popping menu. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein and executed by the global culinary team of WPC. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 15^th. Look for Wolfgang and (son) Byron Puck walking the Red Carpet with Eric Klein. Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.

It takes a talented team of 75 savory chefs and 45 pastry chefs to support the Governors Ball! In terms of ingredients how about 1,000 pounds of premium chocolate and 30 pounds of Kaluga Caviar?

Think smoked salmon Oscar lavosh with dill crème fraiche and caviar, truffle chicken pot pie, Chinois-style rice paper spring rolls, Wagyu and Steak Frites Carving Station, Thai Town hot dog, and Oscar gold spraying station.

March 7: Eric Klein, OC Restaurant with Top of the V, Lola’s by MFK, Descanso Restaurant

Posted on March 5, 2026 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: Eric Klein, Top of the V
Hour Two: Top of the V, Lola’s by MFK, Descanso Restaurant, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering – Governors Ball
Segments Four and Five: Top of the V, Anaheim with Executive Chef Jayro Marinez, OC Restaurant Week
Segment Six: Lola’s by MFK, Anaheim with Chef Henry Pineda, OC Restaurant Week
Segment Seven: Descanso Restaurant, Costa Mesa with Rob Arellano, OC Restaurant Week
Segment Eight: Chef, Restaurateur and Show Co-host, Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House, Huntington Beach

We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high-profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later 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 three-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2026 is the 32^nd year of Wolfgang Puck Catering creating the incredible menu for the Governors Ball. Chef Wolfgang and his team crafted a bevy of new dishes to add to the always eye-popping menu. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 15^th. Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.

Top of the V at The Viv Anaheim, one of the participating restaurants in OC Restaurant Week, “has been reimagined as Orange County’s tallest rooftop Spanish steakhouse, perched on the 12th floor with sweeping panoramic views and an elevated open-air dining experience. Top of the V offers a vibrant destination where skyline views meet unforgettable cuisine. The menu, under the direction of Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, draws inspiration from Spain’s rich culinary traditions, featuring shareable starters like Croquetas de Jamón, Beef Empanadas with smoked tomato and guindilla aioli, and Grilled Spanish Octopus, alongside fresh plates such as Goddess Gems and Roasted Beets and Cheese. Signature entrées include Spanish Short Rib, Basque-Style Black Cod, traditional paellas cooked to order, and prime steaks including Bone-In Ribeye, Filet Mignon, and Rack of Lamb.” Chef Jayro Martinez takes a break from his busy open exhibition kitchen to join us.

Chef Henry Pineda’s Lola’s by MFK in Anaheim (a long foul ball away from Angel Stadium) is one of the participating restaurants in OC Restaurant Week launching Sunday, March 8^th. Their special menu item is the abundant Kamayan Brunch feast served daily from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Chef Henry takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

This modern Filipino brunch Kamayan feast (easily serves one to two guests) marries the rich culinary experience that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.

Restaurateur Rob Arellano’s Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesais one of the participating restaurants in OC Restaurant Week launching Sunday, March 8^th. Their value priced menus for OC Restaurant Week include options fur Featured Cocktails, Brunch, Lunch and Dinner. Rob Arellano joins us highlighting all the salivating menu options.

For our concluding segment at 11:45 a.m. 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. Today Chef Andrew provides a guide to setting up a basic “Cooking Toolkit.” He assures that if you build this home pantry you’ll never panic about Dinner again…

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

2026 is the 32^nd year of Wolfgang Puck Catering creating the incredible menu for the Governors Ball. Chef Wolfgang and his team crafted a bevy of new dishes to add to the eye-popping menu. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 15^th. Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.

It takes a talented team of 75 savory chefs and 45 pastry chefs to support the Governors Ball! In terms of ingredients how about 1,000 pounds of premium chocolate and 30 pounds of Kaluga Caviar?

Jayro Martinez of Westwood Coast Steakhouse

“The menu, under the direction of Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, draws inspiration from Spain’s rich culinary traditions, featuring shareable starters like Croquetas de Jamón, Beef Empanadas with smoked tomato and guindilla aioli, and Grilled Spanish Octopus, alongside fresh plates such as Goddess Gems and Roasted Beets and Cheese. Signature entrées include Spanish Short Rib, Basque-Style Black Cod, traditional paellas cooked to order, and prime steaks including Bone-In Ribeye, Filet Mignon, and Rack of Lamb.”

“A Spanish-forward cocktail program highlights favorites like the TOV Old Fashioned, Besito de Fuego, and Spanish 75, complemented by sangria, local craft beers, and a curated wine list from Spain, California, and the Old World.”

Chef Jayro takes a break from his busy open exhibition kitchen to join us.

Chef Henry Pineda’s Lola’s by MFK in Anaheim (a long foul ball away from Angel Stadium) is one of the participating restaurants in OC Restaurant Week launching Sunday, March 8^th. Their special menu item is the abundant Kamayan Brunch feast served daily from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Chef Henry takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

“This modern Filipino brunch Kamayan feast (serves one to two guests) marries the rich culinary experience that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.”

“Served individually on plates lined with banana leaves, each dish features steamed rice at the center, surrounded by traditional breakfast items such as Beef Tapa, Longanisa, Tocino, and Chicken Adobo.

Garnished with a sunny-side-up egg, fried garlic, microgreens, and flowers, the vibrant medley of colors and textures invited diners to partake in a unique and personal touch to the traditional communal dining experience.”

Restaurateur Rob Arellano’s Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa is one of the participating restaurants in OC Restaurant Week launching Sunday, March 8^th. Their value priced menus for OC Restaurant Week include options for Featured Cocktails, Brunch, Lunch and Dinner. Rob joins us highlighting all the salivating options.

“Descanso is a contemporary kitchen & bar that blends traditional Mexican recipes with modern influence highlighting the flavors of Michoacan. Created by restaurateur Rob Arellano, the concept draws inspiration from his Mexican heritage, offering a unique and nostalgic dining experience. At Descanso, you can choose to dine at a standard dining table or a la Plancha. Dining a la Plancha, you’ll witness skilled chefs prepare authentic Mexican dishes at your table in a lively setting, immersing you in the ambiance of a bustling Mexican town.”

“Led by Chef Jose Angulo, Descanso serves Michoacán inspired cuisine, featuring fresh bold flavors and seasonal ingredients. The dishes and cocktails are rich in history and flavor, reflecting traditional Mexican dining.”

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.

Chef Andrew provides a guide to setting up a basic “Cooking Toolkit.” He assures that if you build this home pantry you’ll never panic about Dinner again…

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

Podcasts

Hour One: Eric Klein, Top of the V
Hour Two: Top of the V, Lola’s by MFK, Descanso Restaurant, Andrew Gruel

Show 617, February 22, 2025: The Governors Ball (Post Oscars) Menu with Chef Eric Klein, Wolfgang Puck Catering

Posted on February 24, 2025 by Adam Bell

2025 is the 31^st year of Wolfgang Puck Catering designing the menu for the Governors Ball. Chef Wolfgang and his team created 70 new dishes to add to the eye-popping menu. As for the past several years this luxe menu was crafted by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. The exquisite pastry design is by Kamel Guechida and Garry Larduinat. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 2^nd

Wolfgang Puck is even flying in from London Executive Chef Elliott Grover, the Culinary Director of 45 Park Lane, to oversee the Taste of London Station with Traditional Fish & Chips, Classic Toad in the Hole, and Classic Beef Wellington. Think tray-passed Smoked Salmon Oscars on Matzah for starters. A new creation for this year is (tray-passed) Bougie Tots with Crème Fraiche and Caviar.

In Hollywood it’s all about billing and credit. In all the publicity materials for the Governors Ball it says : “Menu Designed by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein, Senior Vice President of Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering.”

Show 515, March 4, 2023: Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President Culinary & Partner, Wolfgang Puck Catering. The Oscars’ Governors Ball Cuisine

Posted on March 5, 2023 by Adam Bell

Every year for over two-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2023 is the 29^th 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 is by Kamel Guechida and Gary Larduinat. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 12^th.

Wolfgang Puck is flying in his Executive Chef at CUT London, Elliott Grover, to prepare Fish and Chips and oversee the Beef Wellington Carving Station. New creations for this year are the Ma Maison Chicken Salad and Wolfgang’s spin on Chicken & Waffles (made to order.)

Chef Eric takes a break from his active kitchens to join us.

Show 358, February 2, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on February 2, 2020 by Adam Bell

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s tempting show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will hopefully leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without you.

Lots going on in the wide world of specialty produce. Our own produce guru, Robert Schueller of Mellissa’s, joins us to chat about captivating tends in fruits and veggies for the new decade. Just in time for serious Big Game Sunday snacking is the Tropical Avocado as the base for that special guacamole.

Why is Bordeaux region of Southwest France considered one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world ? Our resident wine expert, Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange, artfully pulls the cork for us on this. Last week in Los Angeles was the annual tasting of the soon-to-be-released 2017 vintage organized by the Union Des Grands Crus de Bordeaux.

For the 26th year Wolfgang Puck Catering will design and prepare the exquisite cuisine for The Oscars Governors Ball at Hollywood & Highland which is held after the conclusion of the Oscar broadcast in the Dolby Theater. For this year the menu will be 70 per cent plant-based with the remaining 30 per cent of the menu vegetarian, meat and fish selections. The menu was developed by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein, Senior Vice President of Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering. Chef Eric takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us.

One of the best ways to come to know a city is through its food. When we go to a new city we’ve found our best insiders introduction is by partaking of a highly regarded, local food walking tour. One of the premier food walking tour operators locally is the long-established Melting Pot Food Tours. The principals are Lisa and Diane Scalia (sisters.) The Scalias hospitably lead their tour overview for us.

The Santa Barbara Culinary Experience (SBCE), in partnership with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, is organizing an expansive citywide calendar of events for the three-day weekend on March 13-15, 2020. The SBCE will be an epicurean celebration of both Julia Child and Santa Barbara’s culinary scene involving chefs, mixologists, restaurateurs and the local community, with guest appearances from nationally renowned food and beverage talents. Eric Spivey, Chair of the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts is our guest with the enticing preview.

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

Show 358, February 2, 2020: Executive Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President, Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering – Previewing the Oscars Governors Ball

Posted on February 2, 2020 by Adam Bell

For the 26th year Wolfgang Puck Catering will create the exquisite cuisine for the 92nd Oscars Governors Ball at Hollywood & Highland in the Ray Dolby Ballroom which is held after the conclusion of the Oscar broadcast in the Dolby Theater. For this year the menu will be 70 per cent plant-based with the remaining 30 per cent of the menu vegetarian, meat and fish selections. The standout menu was developed by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein, Senior Vice President of Culinary & Partner, Wolfgang Puck Catering.

The incredible menu includes Amuse Bouche, Tray-Passed Hors d’Oeuvre, Passed Small Plates (Hot & Cold,) Chef Action Station, Sweets, Boozy Milkshakes, Housemade Valrhona Chocolate Bars, and a Dessert Chef Action Station featuring scooped to order Sorbets on Chinese Donuts.

Since 2013, the Governors Ball has been dedicated to sustainable farming, with more than 50 per cent plant-based and vegetarian dishes offered. The extensive menus have taken into account a number of food allergies and lifestyle eating choices.

Chef Eric Klein takes a brief break from his incredibly busy kitchens to join us.

February 1: Melissa’s World Variety Produce, Wine Exchange, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Melting Pot Food Tours, Santa Barbara Culinary Experience

Posted on January 30, 2020 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Robert Schueller of Melissa’s – 2020 Produce Trends
Segment Three: Kyle Meyer, Wine Exchange, Santa Ana – Bordeaux, Tasting the 2017 Vintage
Segment Four: Executive Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President, Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering – Previewing the Oscars Governors Ball
Segment Five: Melting Pot Food Tours Part One
Segment Six: Melting Pot Food Tours Part Two
Segment Seven: Preview of Santa Barbara Culinary Experience Part One
Segment Eight: Preview of Santa Barbara Culinary Experience Part Two

Lots going on in the wide world of specialty produce. Our own produce guru, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s, joins us to chat about captivating tends in fruits and veggies for the new decade. Just in time for serious Big Game Sunday snacking is the Tropical Avocado as the base for that special guacamole.

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

Lots going on in the wide world of specialty produce. Our own produce guru, Robert Schueller of Mellissa’s, joins us to chat about captivating trends in produce for the new decade.

Just in time for serious Big Game Sunday snacking is the Tropical Avocado as the base for that special guacamole. Also on the menu are Sapurana Mangoes, Jackfruit Pods, Organic EZ Open Young Coconuts (available year-round,) Charentais Melons and lots more…

“Melissa’s Tropical Avocados are a large green-skinned, water-based variety that is available year-round out of the Dominican Republic. The pale green flesh of the fruit features that classic creamy avocado flavor you know and love but has a slightly firmer texture when compared to Hass. The firm flesh of Melissa’s Tropical Avocados makes them great for slicing and adding to sandwiches or salads, or dice and mix into your favorite ceviche recipes. The large size makes this an excellent variety for families – you can spend less time prepping multiple avocados when you can use one Tropical Avocado. You’ll appreciate the slow oxidation. Use part of the avocado, and then store the rest without it turning brown too quickly.”

Why is Bordeaux region of Southwest France considered one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world? Our resident wine expert, Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange, artfully pulls the cork for us on this. Last week in Los Angeles was the eagerly anticipated annual tasting of the soon-to-be-released 2017 vintage organized by the Union Des Grands Crus de Bordeaux.

The Union is an affiliation of the best Bordeaux producers from all of the major Bordeaux winegrowing regions including Margaux, St Julien, Pauillac, St Estèphe, Listrac, Moulis, Haut-Médoc, Graves, Pessac-Léognan, Saint-Emilion, Pomerol, Sauternes and Barsac! More than 60 châteaux attended and winemakers and owners poured over 100 wines from the exciting, soon-to-be-released 2017 vintage.

For the 26th year Wolfgang Puck Catering will create the exquisite cuisine for the 92nd Oscars Governors Ball at Hollywood & Highland which is held after the conclusion of the Oscar broadcast in the Dolby Theater. For this year the menu will be 70 per cent plant-based with the remaining 30 per cent of the menu vegetarian, meat and fish selections. The standout menu was developed by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein, Senior Vice President of Culinary & Partner, Wolfgang Puck Catering.

Chef Eric Klein takes a brief break from his incredibly busy kitchens to join us.

“Melting Pot Food Tours offers delicious food tasting tours throughout the LA area that will indulge your taste buds and delight your senses! Whether you’re looking to explore the Original Farmers Market and the eclectic Third Street area of mid-city Los Angeles, discover the vibrant past of Old Pasadena, or enjoy a fabulous guided tour through the flavors of East Los Angeles, Melting Pot Food Tours will be your guide.”

One of Melting Pot’s proprietary tours is the La Espanola Meats VIP Tour and Paella Lunch. This tour, dining and shopping experience is produced by Melting Pot Food Tours in cooperation with the Dona Juana family of La Espanola Meats in Harbor City, CA. “Our two-generation family of hosts are the premier purveyors of fine, authentic Spanish charcuterie, cheeses, wines, and a myriad of imported specialties.”

“The experience begins with an exclusive tour of La Espanola’s manufacturing facilities, where premium sausages and cured meats are crafted with recipes procured from Spain’s finest master artisans. Following the tour, a specially-prepared patio lunch of tapas and paella is served with wine, plus homemade churros with dark chocolate dipping sauce.”

The late cookbook author, chef and TV personality Julia Child was passionate about teaching others about the culinary arts—and was an aficionado of Santa Barbara, as a longtime resident herself. The Santa Barbara Culinary Experience aims to gather the community and visitors to celebrate the bounty of Santa Barbara’s abundant resources found in its local farms, ranches, vineyards and ocean, inspired by the spirit of Julia and her legacy of culinary education.

“The Santa Barbara Culinary Experience (SBCE) is a world-class three-day event celebrated throughout greater Santa Barbara from March 13-15, 2020. Immersed in the American Riviera and showcasing a taste of Santa Barbara by bringing together local and national talent in the spirit of Julia Child, the public will enjoy Santa Barbara—Julia’s final home—with its dynamic food and wine scene.”

“In partnership with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, participating restaurants, bars and hotels across the city and waterfront will offer their inspired spin on classic Julia Child dishes, signature Julia and Paul Child cocktails, educational programming, memorable stays, tours, talks and other creative programming, all to benefit The Julia Child Foundation.”

“The net proceeds of the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience will flow to The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts. The majority of those funds will be used to support a range of nonprofits in Santa Barbara County. Click here for more information on the foundation.”

“The mission of The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts is to honor and further Julia’s legacy, which centers on the importance of understanding where food comes from, what makes for good food, and the value of cooking. Headquartered in Santa Barbara, California, the Foundation is a nonprofit organization, which makes grants to support research in culinary history, scholarships for professional culinary training, food writing and media, as well as professional development and food literacy programs.”

“Over the last decade, the Foundation has made more than $2 million in grants to other non-profits. In 2015, the Foundation created the Julia Child Award, presented at an annual Food History Gala hosted by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. This annual award honors an individual who has made a profound and significant difference in the way America cooks, eats and drinks and is accompanied by a $50,000 grant from the Foundation to a food-related non-profit selected by the recipient.” Learn more about the Julia Child Foundation.

Eric Spivey, Chair of the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts is our guest with the enticing preview.

Podcasts

Show 311, February 16, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on February 17, 2019 by Adam Bell

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s treat-filled show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always thanks for being a part of our loyal listening audience.

Sommelier Matthew Kaner is a partner in some of the best wine bars (Good Measure) in Southern California. He also represents Codorniu-Raventos, the producer of some of Spain’s most respected sparkling wines. Matthew recently conducted a masterclass on Cavas Codorniu for somms and wine retailers in West Hollywood. We’ll pop the cork with him.

For the 25^th consecutive year the celebrity chef to the stars, Wolfgang Puck, will set the stage for the Oscars’ Governors Ball menu pairing classic Hollywood glamour with culinary whimsy. Working alongside Chef Puck is Wolfgang Puck Catering’s Executive Chef and Vice President, Culinary, Eric Klein (formerly Executive Chef & Partner of Spago Las Vegas. We’ll have an exclusive kitchen chat with Chef Eric.

Chef Jo-Jo Doyle is the Executive Chef & Director of Operations at Honda Center which celebrated its 25^th birthday last year. They, unusually, manage all the food and beverage at Honda Center themselves to maintain quality control. It’s everything from a giant meatball with al dente pasta to sit-down dining. We’ll find out what’s new on the menu with Chef Jo-Jo.

Locally owned and operated, The Upper West opened its doors in 2010 and not long after its arrival on Pico Boulevard in Santa Monica has emerged as a consistent local favorite. Upper West’s ever-changing menu draws inspiration from around the world while maintaining eclectic flavors of Chef Nick Shipp’s very own. We pull Chef Nick away from his busy kitchen for a chat.

Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel joins us from the road with another informative segment of “Ask the Chef.” It’s of considerable value to have a real, working chef in our radio kitchen! We missed talking with Chef Andrew about pizza last Saturday to commemorate (that all-important Holiday) National Pizza Day. We’re grabbling the perfect slice this week, instead!

Listener note for next Saturday, February 23rd.
We’re live from The Landsby boutique hotel in historic Solvang in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. It’s a delectable taste of Denmark without the long flight. Think Ableskiver, a popular Dutch dessert served with raspberry jam and a dusting of powdered sugar. On the menu is food, wine and delectable, artisan Danish chocolates. Please do join us.

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

Show 311, February 16, 2019: Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Governors Ball 2019

Posted on February 17, 2019 by Adam Bell

For the 25^th consecutive year the celebrity chef to the stars Wolfgang Puck will set the stage for the Oscars’ Governors Ball menu pairing classic Hollywood glamour with culinary whimsy. It’s for 1,500 VIP guests including Oscar winners and Nominees in the Ray Dolby Ballroom on the top level of the Hollywood & Highland Center. It starts immediately following the Oscar telecast on ABC.

Working alongside Chef Puck is Wolfgang Puck Catering’s Executive Chef and Vice President, Culinary, Eric Klein (formerly Executive Chef & Partner of Spago Las Vegas.

The culinary team creates more than 60 imaginative dishes from one-bite hors d’oeuvres to small-plate entrees that will be passed throughout the evening. The festivities include a Raw Bar with made-to-order Nigiri.

A guest favorite, the Black Truffle Chicken Pot Pie is back along with the Smoked Salmon Oscars Matzo (shaped like a flat Oscar.) New is the Nashville Hot Fried Quail on a Red Velvet Waffle with House Made Pickles.

How about the incredible dessert offerings? The Chocolate Oscars this year are made from Valrhona Illanka Chocolate (Single Origin from Peru.) Think Piper Heidsieck Golden Champagne Strawberry Push Pop.

Service will be performed by a team of 10 maitre d’ staff, 850 service and support staff and 200 culinary staff.

On the order list for the Governors Ball is 350 pounds of Atlantic Bigeye tuna, 15 kilos of American, farm-raised caviar, 250 Maine lobsters, 450 pounds of house-smoked salmon, 240 kilos of Miyazaki Wagyu beef, 250 pounds of Parmesan Reggiano and 800 crab claws.