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

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck Catering

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 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 29th 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 12th.

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

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

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck CateringFor 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

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

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 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.

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!

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA StudioLots 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.”

Kyle Meyer of Wine ExchangeWhy 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.

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck CateringFor 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.

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.

Scalia Sisters of Melting Pot Food ToursOne 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 the background tour for 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.”

Eric Spivey of the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary ArtsThe 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.

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

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

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

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 25th 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 25th 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

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck CateringFor the 25th 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.

 

February 16: Matthew Kaner, Eric Klein, Jo-Jo Doyle, Upper West

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Sommelier Matthew Kaner, Cavas Codorniu, “Creating Cava” Masterclass
Segment Three: Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Governors Ball 2019
Segment Four: Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle, Director of Operations, Honda Center, Anaheim Part One
Segment Five: Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle, Director of Operations, Honda Center, Anaheim Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Nick Shipp, The Upper West, Santa Monica, CA
Segment Seven: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group – “Ask the Chef”

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 25th 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 at Honda Center which celebrated its 25th 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 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 it’s 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. Please do join us.

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

Matthew KanerSommelier 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 including the Ars Collecta Cavas. Matthew recently conducted a masterclass on Cavas Codorniu for somms and wine retailers in West Hollywood.

Three of the Ars Collecta wines were among the first 12 single-estate Cavas designated by the Spanish Minister for Agriculture for the Cava de Paraje Calificado designation. The Cava de Paraje Calificado designation is, as of July 2017, a new distinction which sets requirements, characteristics and quality control standards that certify the excellence of Spain’s best premium Cavas.

The ambitious Ars Collecta project also created the 457 – the world’s most expensive Cava. 457, the masterpiece of the Ars Collecta collection is a cava that pays homage to the 457 harvests completed by the Codorníu Estate.

“The Codorníu Raventós Group is the oldest family business in Spain and one of the oldest of the world, in addition to being the business group which created cava. With vineyards in our property since 1551, we are proud to say that we have more than 450 years of experience in the manufacture of quality wines and cavas. We currently have ten wineries, eight of which are in Spain (Bilbaínas, Legaris, Scala Dei, Raimat, Bach, Nuviana, Abadía de Poblet, and Codorníu Wineries), one in Napa Valley in California (Artesa) and another in Mendoza, Argentina (Séptima).”

We’ll artfully pop the bubbly cork with him.

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck CateringFor the 25th 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.

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.

Jo Jo DoyleChef Jo-Jo Doyle is the Executive Chef & Director at Honda Center which celebrated its 25th 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 pasta to sit-down dining options in the Club Restaurants. Gluten-free and healthy snacks, too, from the Melissa’s carts.

We’ll find out what’s new on the menu with Chef Jo-Jo.

Honda Center Food & Beverage Highlights :

  • Wine Cellar preserved by Sub-Zero: opened in December 2018 and features over 250 bottles from over 200 winemakers. It is the first of its kind in U.S. arenas. Sommeliers assist guests with bottle purchases that are poured into a decanter and can be enjoyed from their seats. Bottles are available for purchase from suites, in-seat, and at onsite restaurants. Wine is also available by the glass. (Open to guests on the Pacific Premier Club Level.)
  • Specialty Cocktails: Honda Center staff creates a specialty cocktail for each concert that comes to the building. Each one being handcrafted to the audience and themed to the artist/tour. We’ve received great feedback from guests who love to see what we have for each show.
  • Express Eats & The Kitchen: this unique location opened at the beginning of the ’17-’18 hockey season and features quick grab and go options at Express Eats and fresh sharable items at The Kitchen. The most popular item in this area are the three types of loaded fries: chicken, pastrami, and tri-tip.
  • Southern California: This stand is fresh twist on Southern favorites with a SoCal twist! Items like shrimp po’boy burritos, hot chicken sandwiches, and beignets are among the top sellers.

We’ll find out what’s new on the menu as we continue our conversation with Chef Jo-Jo.

Nick ShippLocally owned and operated, The Upper West opened its doors in 2010 and not long after it’s 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.

“Our bar offers a nightly happy hour from 5-7 p.m. as well an all -night happy hour every Monday that serves refreshing craft cocktails, handcrafted beer, and a unique array of small bites that can only be enjoyed during this time frame. Some of the local favorites happy small bites are braised pork belly lettuce wraps, sausage and goat cheese quesadilla and lamb nachitos.”

“Our lunch and dinner menu is always evolving and includes ingredients sourced locally from the Santa Monica Farmers Market as well as local farmers such as Weiser Farms, Niman Ranch, Jimenez Family Farm and Harries Berries. Our chef, Nick Shipp, has been described by food critics as a “mad scientist, where no two dining experiences are ever alike.”

Our wall decor changes regularly, as we host one local artist for each season of the year. Make sure you come and celebrate them at our quarterly art openings.”

“Every month, Chef Nick gets to show off his culinary talents with a special pairing dinner co-hosted by select liquor brands who will walk you through each of the individual tasting notes in accompaniment with each course. We offer whiskey, gin, and wine dinners, with a small intimate group, and we always have a great time!”

We pull Chef Nick away from his busy kitchen for a chat.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at the Fifth Anniversary of the SoCal Restaurant ShowCo-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. Having grown up in Jersey, Chef Andrew knows his way around a worthy pie. We’re grabbling the perfect slice this week, instead!

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Sommelier Matthew Kaner, Cavas Codorniu, “Creating Cava” Masterclass
Segment Three: Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Governors Ball 2019
Segment Four: Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle, Director of Operations, Honda Center, Anaheim Part One
Segment Five: Executive Chef Jo-Jo Doyle, Director of Operations, Honda Center, Anaheim Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Nick Shipp, The Upper West, Santa Monica, CA
Segment Seven: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group – “Ask the Chef”

Show 262, February 24, 2018: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s crave-worthy 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, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… Keep in mind we’re always here with you live every Saturday with a fresh show.

For the 24th 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.

Recognized as a warm and welcoming neighborhood eatery for creative modern New Mexican cuisine, lively happy hours, and communal gatherings, Long Beach’s Panxa Cocina solidifies its standing as a go-to staple for food and fun with the launch of “Mimosas & Mutts,” which started on February 17, 2018. Chef Proprietor Art Gonzalez puts on the just dog for us. (He has three canine charges in his own household.)

“In October 2011, Smog City Brewing Co. began brewing beer at the Tustin Brewing Co. (TBC) brewpub. By utilizing TBC’s excess fermentation capacity, Smog City was able to brew well-crafted beers, and personally distribute to restaurants and bars throughout Los Angeles County. We worked to create a presence in the craft brewing community and brewed and distributed 240 barrels in the first year.” In May of 2013 Smog City debuted their own brewery taproom in Torrance. Since then the Taproom has become an amazing home for locals and visitors alike.

Co-founder Laurie Porter taps the keg for us. She is also the President of the Los Angeles County Brewers Guild.

Cochon555, one of the nation’s most talked about premium food, wine and spirit celebration and live-event series, is back on the road in 2018, returning to the Los Angeles area on Sunday, March 11, 2018. Viceroy Santa Monica will play host to a hundred-plus prominent chefs, farmers, sommeliers, distillers, brewers and barkeeps all working in concert to create luxurious moments at this stand-up, all-inclusive bacchanal celebration of tasty heritage breed pork. Founder Brady Lowe is our “hog wild” guest.

Ever think much about the seemingly innocuous plastic straw ? Ultimately plastic doesn’t belong in the ocean yet that’s where millions of straws end up poisoning the ocean with a non-biodegradable item and actually harming sea creatures. Long Beach’s Berlin Bistro’s proprietress, Kerstin Kansteiner, is now taking the lead on making plastic straws “request only’ in a concerted effort to reduce straw pollution and “auto strawing.” Kerstin joins us with the 411 how you can help.

Our always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, encores with his “Ask the Chef” series. Ceviche and Poke are on a lot of restaurant menus these days. There is also a flood of Poke shops opening all over. How do they maintain consistent quality? The fish used needs to be super fresh. It’s the 411 on both Poke and Ceviche. Chef Andrew weighs in.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Show 262, February 24, 2018: Executive Chef Eric Klein, Vice President, Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck CateringFor the 24th 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.

Some 32,000 plates of food will be enjoyed by the guests served by a team of 10 maitre d’ staff, 850 service and support staff and 300 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, 300 pounds of Miyazaki Wagyu beef, and 800 stone crab claws.

For the first time Ruby Chocolate, a 100 per cent sustainable varietal of limited production premium chocolate from Callebaut is on the menu.

The guests will toast with 1,400 bottles of Piper-Heidsieck (more than 12,000 glasses) and 2,400 bottles of fine wine from Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s Director’s Cut wine collection.

We’ll have an exclusive kitchen chat with Chef Eric.

February 24: The Oscars and Governors Ball, Panxa Cocina, Smog City Brewing, Cochon555, Berlin Bistro

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef Eric Klein, Vice President, Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering
Segment Three: Art Gonzalez, Chef / Proprietor, Panxa Cocina, Long Beach
Segment Four: Laurie Porter, Smog City Brewing Co. & President, L.A. County Brewers Guild Part One
Segment Five: Laurie Porter, Smog City Brewing Co. & President, L.A. County Brewers Guild Part Two
Segment Six: Brady Lowe, Founder, Cochon555
Segment Seven: Kerstin Kansteiner, Proprietress, Berlin Bistro, Long Beach
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel’s “Ask the Chef”

Now an enticing preview of this Saturday’s crave-worthy 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, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… Keep in mind we’re always here with you live every Saturday with a fresh show.

For the 24th 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.

Recognized as a warm and welcoming neighborhood eatery for creative modern New Mexican cuisine, lively happy hours, and communal gatherings, Long Beach’s Panxa Cocina solidifies its standing as a go-to staple for food and fun with the launch of “Mimosas & Mutts,” which started on February 17, 2018. Chef Proprietor Art Gonzalez puts on the just dog for us. (He has two canine charges in his own household.)

“In October 2011, Smog City Brewing Co. began brewing beer at the Tustin Brewing Co. (TBC) brewpub. By utilizing TBC’s excess fermentation capacity, Smog City was able to brew well-crafted beers, and personally distribute to restaurants and bars throughout Los Angeles County. We worked to create a presence in the craft brewing community and brewed and distributed 240 barrels in the first year.” In May of 2013 Smog City debuted their own brewery taproom in Torrance. Since then the Taproom has become an amazing home for locals and visitors alike.

Co-founder Laurie Porter taps the keg for us. She is also the President of the Los Angeles County Brewers Guild.

Cochon555, one of the nation’s most talked about premium food, wine and spirit celebration and live-event series, is back on the road in 2018, returning to the Los Angeles area on Sunday, March 11, 2018. Viceroy Santa Monica will play host to a hundred-plus prominent chefs, farmers, sommeliers, distillers, brewers and barkeeps all working in concert to create luxurious moments at this stand-up, all-inclusive bacchanal celebration of tasty heritage breed pork. Founder Brady Lowe is our “hog wild” guest.

Ever think much about the seemingly innocuous plastic straw ? Ultimately plastic doesn’t belong in the ocean yet that’s where millions of straws end up poisoning the ocean with a non-biodegradable item and actually harming sea creatures. Long Beach’s Berlin Bistro’s proprietress, Kerstin Kansteiner, is now taking the lead on making plastic straws “request only’ in a concerted effort to reduce straw pollution and “auto strawing.” Kerstin joins us.

Our always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, encores with his “Ask the Chef” series. Ceviche and Poke are on a lot of restaurant menus these days. There is also a flood of Poke shops opening all over. How do they maintain consistent quality? The fish used needs to be super fresh. It’s the 411 on both Poke and Ceviche. Chef Andrew weighs in.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s show!

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck CateringFor the 24th 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 50 imaginative dishes from one-bite hors d’oeuvres to small-plate entrees that will be passed throughout the evening.

Some 32,000 plates of food will be enjoyed by the guests served by a team of 10 maitre d’ staff, 850 service and support staff and 300 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, 300 pounds of Miyazaki Wagyu beef, and 800 stone crab claws.

The guests will toast with 1,400 bottles of Piper-Heidsieck (more than 12,000 glasses) and 2,400 bottles of fine wine from Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s Director’s Cut wine collection.

We’ll have an exclusive kitchen chat with Chef Eric.

Arthur GonzalezRecognized as a warm and welcoming neighborhood eatery for creative modern New Mexican cuisine, lively happy hours, and communal gatherings, Long Beach’s Panxa Cocina solidifies its standing as a go-to staple for food and fun with the launch of “Mimosas & Mutts,” which started on February 17, 2018.

This monthly brunch gathering features a special invite to our four-legged friends as Executive Chef and Owner Arthur Gonzalez welcomes brunch-goers to bring their canine companions to the sunny patio at Panxa Cocina located in the buzzing Belmont Heights neighborhood on the third Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The convivial brunch event launched on the first weekend of the Year of the Dog in the Chinese Lunar calendar, with much fanfare and Instagram-worthy local dogs. The monthly gathering provides a dog-friendly menu of Southwestern staples like rice and beans for the slobbery set, as well as a free juice flight to accompany bottles of champagne for thirsty dog moms and dads.

“Panxa Cocina encourages all dog-owners to enjoy favorites from the New Mexican-inspired brunch menu, including Blue Corn Piñon Pancakes, Chilaquilas Roja, Smothered Breakfast Burrito, and Stacked Enchiladas, as well as classic and new-fangled brunch libations from accomplished Bar Manager Greg Goins. Guests are also encouraged to use the hashtag: #pupsatpanxa to share their experiences on social media.”

Chef Proprietor Art Gonzalez puts on the just dog for us. (He has two canine charges in his own household.)

Laurie Porter“In October 2011, Smog City Brewing Co. began brewing beer at the Tustin Brewing Co. (TBC) brewpub. By utilizing TBC’s excess fermentation capacity, Smog City was able to brew well-crafted beers, and personally distribute to restaurants and bars throughout Los Angeles County. We worked to create a presence in the craft brewing community and brewed and distributed 240 barrels in the first year.”

“By 2012, we’d grown faster than ever expected. After the purchase of our own full-scale brewing equipment, we formalized plans for our new brewery and taproom in Torrance, CA. In 2013, we received final building and license approvals and began brewing and opened our brewery taproom in May of 2013. Our Taproom in Torrance has become an amazing home for locals and visitors alike.”

“In January of 2017, we had an opportunity to join a unique and progressive project called SteelCraft in Long Beach. SteelCraft is a re-purposed outdoor food hall made entirely out of recycled shipping containers. This gorgeous outdoor beer garden has plenty of flavorful food options to choose from while you drink a delicious Smog City Beer.”

“Stop in and see us for a taste of our proven and experimental beers in Long Beach or a tour of our brewery & taproom in Torrance.”

Co-founder Laurie Porter taps the keg for us. She is also the President of the Los Angeles County Brewers Guild.

Laurie Porter is also The President of the L.A. County Brewers Guild with over 50-member breweries in Los Angeles County.

The mission of the Los Angeles County Brewers Guild is to promote and protect local independently-owned craft breweries and advocate for the strengthening of the craft beer industry. The LABG strives to encourage the growth of world-class beer culture within L.A. county through various educational efforts and aims to stimulate growth through community engagement. Formally founded in 2013, the LABG is a federally recognized 501(c)6 non-profit organization.

Brady Lowe of Cochon 555Cochon555, one of the nation’s most talked about premium food, wine and spirit celebration and live-event series, is back on the road in 2018, returning to the Los Angeles area on Sunday, March 11, 2018. Viceroy Santa Monica will play host to a hundred-plus prominent chefs, farmers, sommeliers, distillers, brewers and barkeeps all working in concert to create luxurious moments at this stand-up, all-inclusive bacchanal celebration of tasty heritage breed pork.

Cochon555’s 2018 group of cutting-edge chefs from across the city has each participant cooking one whole heritage breed pig raised by a family farm. The competing chefs include Sammy Monsour of Preux & Proper, Brian Redzikowski of Kettner Exchange, Thomas Bille of Otium, Lord Maynard Llera of Mason and Hugo Bolanos of Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air.

One week before the event, each chef receives a 200-pound heritage breed pig sustainably sourced from Cook Pigs Ranch, Rancho Llano Seco, Winfield Farm, Sowbelly Sustainable Farm, and Peads & Barnetts to create a maximum of 6 dishes for competition. With dozens of bites from iconic local chefs, boutique distillers, and artisan winemakers, the event is akin to an epic tasting menu of heritage breed pork with endless beverage pairings taken standing up.

To win the friendly competition for a cause, a chef’s menu must woo twenty celebrity judges with their “Judge’s Plate” scored on utilization; technique; and overall flavor and be voted “best bite of the day” by guests. The winning “Prince or Princess of Pork” in Los Angeles will advance to the national finale, Grand Cochon, a head-to-tail, winner-takes-all showdown for the crown in Chicago on September 30th.

Founder Brady Lowe is our “hog wild” guest.

Kerstin KansteinerEver think much about the seemingly innocuous plastic straw? Ultimately plastic doesn’t belong in the ocean yet that’s where millions of straws end up poisoning the ocean with a non-biodegradable item and harmful to sea creatures.

Long Beach’s Berlin Bistro’s community-minded proprietress, Kerstin Kansteiner, is now taking the lead on making plastic straws “request only’ in a concerted effort to reduce straw pollution and “auto strawing.”

  • Americans go through 500 million plastic straws a day!
  • The USA can fill up 127 school buses with the straws we use every single day in this country

Kerstin joins us.

Andrew Gruel and his son WilliamOur always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, encores with his Ask the Chef series. Ceviche and Poke are on a lot of restaurant menus these days. There is also a flood of Poke shops opening all over. How do they maintain consistent quality? The fish used needs to be super fresh. It’s the 411 on both Poke and Ceviche.

Chef Andrew weighs in.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef Eric Klein, Vice President, Culinary, Wolfgang Puck Catering
Segment Three: Art Gonzalez, Chef / Proprietor, Panxa Cocina, Long Beach
Segment Four: Laurie Porter, Smog City Brewing Co. & President, L.A. County Brewers Guild Part One
Segment Five: Laurie Porter, Smog City Brewing Co. & President, L.A. County Brewers Guild Part Two
Segment Six: Brady Lowe, Founder, Cochon555
Segment Seven: Kerstin Kansteiner, Proprietress, Berlin Bistro, Long Beach
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel’s “Ask the Chef”