Show 675, April 18, 2026: Vegas Unstripped Festival (Las Vegas) with Chef Johnny Church, Johnny C’s Catering and “Chopped” Champion on Food Network

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Adam Bell

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m. Produced by The Feast of Friends, the annual event brings together many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and inventive chefs and bartenders for a one-night-only culinary showcase. Each participant debuts an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culinary talent in a single, immersive setting.”

Special Offer from Vegas Unstripped: At ticket checkout use Promo Code: SOCALRESTAURANTSHOW (all caps) for a $10 discount per ticket.

Participating chef, Johnny Church of Johnny C’s Catering and a previous “Chopped” Champion from Food Network, joins us to unwrap all the specifics.

“As a celebrated private chef and luxury caterer, Chef Johnny specializes in VIP private dining, high-profile events, and custom culinary experiences. From intimate fine-dining affairs paired with Louis XIII cognac to large-scale festival catering, his bold creativity, commitment to quality, and use of locally sourced ingredients set him apart.”

Show 674, April 11, 2026: Vegas Unstripped Preview at Palms Casino Resort with Founder Eric Gladstone

Posted on April 13, 2026 by Adam Bell

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m.”

“Produced by The Feast of Friends, the annual event brings together many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and inventive chefs and bartenders for a one-night-only culinary showcase. Each participant debuts an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culinary talent in a single, immersive setting.”

Special Offer from Vegas Unstripped: At ticket checkout use Promo Code: SOCALRESTAURANTSHOW (all caps) for a $10 discount per ticket.

Co-creator and Producer Eric Gladstone joins us to unwrap all the specifics.

“This is the most exciting line up of chefs and bar stars yet,” says Gladstone. “We are truly excited to show Las Vegas the cutting edge of our culinary scene all in one place!”

“Created by Eric Gladstone and Chef James Trees in 2018 as a reaction to the Strip-focused Vegas Uncork’d event (now defunct), Vegas Unstripped initially only invited chefs working off-Strip but now welcomes Vegas chefs regardless of where they cook, offering open submissions. All necessary expenses of the independent chef / restaurateur are covered by event revenue to the extent possible, with net proceeds going to underserved local charities. To date, VU has donated nearly $70,000.”

Show 674, April 11, 2026: Vegas Unstripped Preview at Palms Casino Resort with Celebrity Chef James Trees

Posted on April 13, 2026 by Adam Bell

James Trees of Ada's and Esthers Kitchen in Las Vegas

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m.”

Special Offer from Vegas Unstripped: At ticket checkout use Promo Code: SOCALRESTAURANTSHOW (all caps) for a $10 discount per ticket.

We now chat with Chef and Restaurateur James Trees of the Timeless Hospitality Portfolio, the Co-founder of Vegas Unstripped and a past James Beard Award nominee. His newest properties include High Steaks atop The Rio Hotel and Bar Boheme in the Downtown Arts District.

Chef James takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Show 622, April 5, 2025: The 6th Vegas Unstripped with Eric Gladstone and Chef & Restaurateur James Trees

Posted on April 7, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Vegas Unstripped producers Eric Gladstone & Chef & Restaurateur James Trees have announced the initial list of chefs and bartenders participating in this year’s Vegas Unstripped food festival. As always, the festival will gather many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and creative culinary leaders, who will each create a new dish or drink for one night only, taking place from 6-9 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 at the Palms Casino Resort.” A sampling of the culinary talent on display includes Pizzaiolo John Arena of Metro Pizza, Brian Howard of Sparrow + Wolf, Bruce Kalman of SoulBelly BBQ, Gina Marinelli of La Strega and James Trees of the just debuted Bar Boheme. Prominent Vegas Bartenders mixing it up include Tony Abou-Ganim (The Modern Mixologist) and Adam Rains of The Golden Tiki.

“The Las Vegas food & cocktail scene is so vibrant that every year of Vegas Unstripped becomes a new adventure,” said Gladstone. “We’re excited to have a fantastic mix of Vegas favorites returning alongside a lot of new faces, and some veterans we have wanted to include for years. This is going to be an unforgettable night!”

“General Admission tickets are now available, remaining at the pre-inflation price of $150 plus the lowest fees possible, via Vegas Unstripped. All attendees must be 21+. A small number of tickets will be available on the day of the event for a higher price.”

Special Offer: Exclusively for listeners for a $10.00 discount per ticket (for up to 4 tickets.) At the bottom of the ticket buying form put “SOCAL10” in the Coupon Code box and you’re set.

“Vegas Unstripped is Las Vegas’ only festival by chefs, about chefs, and for the Vegas community. Participating chefs represent the cutting edge of independent talent in Las Vegas, and are challenged to create unique dishes for the night reflecting their culinary passions. The evening is augmented by beverages from Las Vegas’ best local bars, local musicians, local art and more. Created in 2018 as a reaction to the Strip-focused Vegas Uncork’d event (now defunct), Vegas Unstripped initially only invited chefs working off-Strip but now welcomes Vegas chefs regardless of where they cook, offering open submissions. All necessary expenses of the independent chef/restaurateur are covered by event revenue to the extent possible, with net proceeds going to underserved local charities. To date, Vegas Unstripped has donated nearly $30,000.”

Vegas Unstripped creator Eric Gladstone joins us with Las Vegas Celebrity Chef James for the tempting preview.

Show 575, April 27, 2024: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on April 28, 2024 by Adam Bell

Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her new outlet as Food Columnist for Culture OC and discuss her current columns. Along the way Anne Marie will highlight a fast-growing female-owned artisan bread bakery started in a garage in Laguna Beach, the new Bar Becky in Long Beach and the 10th Anniversary of Watertable at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Manfred Lassahn.

“Amar Santana, a Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) alum, serves as the Executive Chef and owner at Broadway By Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, and Vaca in Costa Mesa, California adjacent to South Coast Plaza. Born in the Dominican Republic, he immigrated to the US at 13 and began his culinary career at 16. He has been mentored by some of the world’s most renowned chefs, including Charlie Palmer, who helped him develop his skills of expressing his passion through food. By combining flavors and culinary traditions from all over the world, Amar provides a truly unforgettable gastronomical experience. Chef Amar was the runner-up on Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 13 in California and has also competed internationally for the Korean culinary series “Korean Food Battle,” finishing as a finalist.” Amar has also appeared as a judge on more recent seasons of “Top Chef.” For “Top Chef” Season 21 in Wisconsin Amar cameos in one of episode and also appears in “Top Chef: The Dish with Kish” a new behind-the-scenes weekly Bravo commentary series recapping each episode with new host Kristen Kish. Chef Amar Santana is our guest.

It’s that time of the year where we eagerly break bread with Legends Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe to chat about what’s new in salivating food and beverage options at Angel Stadium. This year there are new Casa Modelo stands serving Birria and Veggie Quesadillas. The always popular Brewery X has a host of new menu items. A fresh dessert item that’s already attracting a lot of attention is the crave-worthy Walk Off Waffles (Section 232) featuring decadent Strawberries & Cream Waffles and S’mores Waffles. Chef Dennis Radcliffe takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us along with Pastry Chef L.A. Tracy.

“Las Vegas’ The Feast of Friends is encoring the wildly popular Vegas Unstripped food festival this spring, with a notable new home. This year, the event takes place from 7-10:00 p.m. on Saturday May 18 at the Palms Casino Resort on the Resort Pool Deck conveniently located just off The Strip. Thirty of the city’s most acclaimed and creative chefs will be brought together to present one-night-only original dishes, accompanied by cocktails from many of the city’s best bars, live local entertainers, art activations and more. Tickets are available via TicketSpice. Price has remained at $150 plus fees (and the fees have gone down!). Attendees must be 21+.” Founder and Event Producer Eric Gladstone joins us with all the enticing details. Producer Eric has a very special discount offer for our listeners.

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

Show 575, April 27, 2024: Vegas Unstripped at Palms Casino Resort with Founder Eric Gladstone

Posted on April 28, 2024 by Adam Bell

“Tickets are available via TicketSpice. Price has remained at $150 plus fees (and the fees have gone down!). Attendees must be 21+.” Parking is free.

Ex-Pat Southern California Chefs participating who now reside in Las Vegas include James Trees of Esther’s Kitchen and Bruce Kalman of SoulBelly BBQ.

“Vegas Unstripped is Las Vegas’ only festival by chefs, about chefs, and for the Vegas community. Participating chefs represent the cutting edge of independent talent in Las Vegas, and are challenged to create unique dishes for the night reflecting their culinary passions. The evening is augmented by beverages from Las Vegas’ best local bars, local musicians, local art and more. Created in 2018 as a reaction to the Strip-focused Vegas Uncork’d event (now defunct), Vegas Unstripped initially only invited chefs working off-Strip but now welcomes Vegas chefs regardless of where they cook, offering open submissions. All necessary expenses of the independent chef / restaurateur are covered by event revenue to the extent possible, with net proceeds going to underserved local charities. To date, Vegas Uncorked has donated nearly $30,000.”

Eric has a very special discount offer for our Listeners. The ticket price is a reasonable $150 per guest given the value of the quality of chef created dishes and beverages available on the Resort Pool Deck at Palms Casino Resort on May 18th. For an additional $15 off each ticket (up to 4 tickets) use the “coupon code” SOCAL42 at checkout.

Remember parking is free which is unusual in Vegas resort properties.

Founder and Event Producer Eric Gladstone joins us with all the enticing details.

April 27: Anne Marie Panoringan, Amar Santana, Angels Baseball Ballpark Food, Vegas Unstripped

Posted on April 25, 2024 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two and Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Food Writer, CultureOC.org
Segment Four and Five: Amar Santana, Executive Chef and Proprietor, Vaca at Soth Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana, Laguna Beach
Segment Six and Seven: Dennis Radcliffe, Executive Chef at Angel Stadium for Legends Hospitality
Segment Eight: Vegas Unstripped at Palms Casino Resort with Founder Eric Gladstone

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

Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her new outlet as Food Columnist for Culture OC and discuss her current columns. Along the way Anne Marie will highlight a fast-growing female-owned artisan bread bakery started in a garage in Laguna Beach, the new Bar Becky in Long Beach and the 10^th Anniversary of Watertable at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Manfred Lassahn.

“Amar Santana, a Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) alum, serves as the Executive Chef and owner at Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, and Vaca in Costa Mesa, California adjacent to South Coast Plaza. Born in the Dominican Republic, he immigrated to the US at 13 and began his culinary career at 16. He has been mentored by some of the world’s most renowned chefs, including Charlie Palmer, who helped him develop his skills of expressing his passion through food. By combining flavors and culinary traditions from all over the world, Amar provides a truly unforgettable gastronomical experience. Chef Amar was the runner-up on Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 13 in California and has also competed internationally for the Korean culinary series “Korean Food Battle,” finishing as a finalist.” Amar has also appeared as a judge on more recent seasons of “Top Chef.” For “Top Chef” Season 21 in Wisconsin Amar cameos in a pair of episodes and also in “Top Chef : The Dish with Kish” a new weekly Bravo commentary series recapping each episode with host Kristen Kish. Chef Amar Santana is our guest.

It’s that time of the year where we eagerly break bread with Legends Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe to chat about what’s new in salivating food and beverage options at Angel Stadium. This year there are new Casa Modelo stands serving Birria and Veggie Quesadillas. The always popular Brewery X has a host of new menu items. A new dessert item that’s already attracting a lot of attention is the crave-worthy Walk Off Waffles (Section 232) featuring decadent Strawberries & Cream Waffles and S’mores Waffles. Chef Dennis Radcliffe takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us along with Pastry Chef Tracy.

“Las Vegas’ The Feast of Friends is encoring the wildly popular Vegas Unstripped food festival this spring, with a notable new home. This year, the event takes place from 7-10:00 p.m. on Saturday May 18at the Palms Casino Resort on the Resort Pool Deck conveniently located just off The Strip. Thirty of the city’s most acclaimed and creative chefs will be brought together to present one-night-only original dishes, accompanied by cocktails from many of the city’s best bars, live local entertainers, art activations and more. Tickets are available via Vegas Unstripped. Price has remained at $150 plus fees (and the fees have gone down!). Attendees must be 21+.” Founder and Event Producer Eric Gladstonej oins us with all the enticing details.

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

Along the way Anne Marie will highlight a fast-growing female-owned artisan bread bakery started in a garage in Laguna Beach, the new Bar Becky in Long Beach and the 10^th Anniversary of Watertable at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach under the culinary direction of long-time Executive Chef Manfred Lassahn.

Then as we resume the conversation with Anne Marie she will now chat about her recommended dining options around Angel Stadium and Honda Center.

“Amar Santana, a Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) alum, serves as the Executive Chef and owner at Broadway By Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, and Vaca in Costa Mesa, California adjacent to South Coast Plaza. Born in the Dominican Republic, he immigrated to the US at 13 and began his culinary career at 16. He has been mentored by some of the world’s most renowned chefs, including Charlie Palmer, who helped him develop his skills of expressing his passion through food. By combining flavors and culinary traditions from all over the world, Amar provides a truly unforgettable gastronomical experience.”

“Chef Amar was the runner-up on Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 13 in California and has also competed internationally for the Korean culinary series “Korean Food Battle,” finishing as a finalist.” Amar has also appeared as a judge on more recent seasons of “Top Chef.” For “Top Chef” Season 21 in Wisconsin Amar cameos in a pair of episodes and also in “Top Chef: The Dish with Kish” a new weekly Bravo commentary series recapping each episode with host Kristen Kish.

Chef Amar is our guest.

It’s that time of the year where we eagerly break bread with Legends Executive Chef Dennis Radcliffe to chat about what’s new in salivating food and beverage options at Angel Stadium.

This year there are newly created Casa Modelo stands serving Birria and Veggie Quesadillas. Ther always popular Brewery X has a host of new menu items. A new dessert item that’s already attracting a lot of deserved attention is Walk Off Waffles (Section 232) featuring decadent Strawberries & Cream Waffles and S’mores Waffles.

Chef Dennis Radcliffe takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us along with Pastry Chef Tracy.

“Tickets are available via TicketSpice. Price has remained at $150 plus fees (and the fees have gone down!). Attendees must be 21+.”

Ex-Pat Southern California Chefs participating who now reside in Las Vegas include James Trees of Esther’s Kitchen and Bruce Kalman of SoulBelly BBQ.

“Vegas Unstripped is Las Vegas’ only festival by chefs, about chefs, and for the Vegas community. Participating chefs represent the cutting edge of independent talent in Las Vegas, and are challenged to create unique dishes for the night reflecting their culinary passions. The evening is augmented by beverages from Las Vegas’ best local bars, local musicians, local art and more. Created in 2018 as a reaction to the Strip-focused Vegas Uncork’d event (now defunct), Vegas Unstripped initially only invited chefs working off-Strip but now welcomes Vegas chefs regardless of where they cook, offering open submissions. All necessary expenses of the independent chef / restaurateur are covered by event revenue to the extent possible, with net proceeds going to underserved local charities. To date, Vegas Uncorked has donated nearly $30,000.”

Founder and Event Producer Eric Gladstone joins us with all the enticing details.

Podcasts

Show 481, July 2, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on July 3, 2022 by Adam Bell

Happy (and safe) 4th of July Weekend!

“Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards is hosting its second annual fundraiser to support mental health: Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction on Saturday, July 23, 2022. To support community services as well as mental health research, the 2022 Peace of Mind event will be a walk of approximately 10,000 steps or 4.5 miles across the Alma Rosa estate in Buellton benefiting two organizations: the Mental Wellness Center and One Mind.” Alma Rosa’s Winemaker, Samra Morris, joins us with all the details.

“Since 2008 it has been a key mission for the Ment’or BKB Foundation to enable the best young talent in America to effectively train for the privilege and honor of representing the United States at the Bocuse d’Or in Lyon. The result of that patience and determination was realized for the first time in 2015 when Team USA stood on the podium with the Silver Bocuse, garnering the recognition and respect of the international culinary community. In January of 2017 Team USA returned from Lyon with the Bocuse d’Or, having realized Monsieur Paul Bocuse’s dream of USA winning Gold.” Team USA 2023 includes Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi and Commis Franco Fugel. The Head Coach is Bocuse d’Or veteran, Chef Robert Sulatycky. The next stop for Team USA on the long road to Lyon in January is the Bocuse d’Or Americas competition in Santiago, Chile on July 14th, representing all the countries of the American continent. Eight teams will be vying for the five places to advance to the Grand Finale in Lyon. Taking a short break to join us from the intensive practice sessions at the Ment’or Training Kitchen at the Copia Campus in Napa of the Culinary Institute of America are Team USA’s Head Coach Robert Sulatycky and Head Chef Jeffrey Hayashi.

Under the direction of Guittard Chocolate Company’s acclaimed Executive Pastry Chef Donald Wressell, the Guittard Chocolate Studio in Culver City offers hands-on workshops with prominent chefs, chocolatiers and bakers for a unique opportunity for cooking professionals and serious home cooks to learn new skills, finesse techniques and expand on their chocolate knowledge.

Next on this year’s class schedule is Market Driven Desserts with Della Gossett (Executive Pastry Chef for Wolfgang Puck’s Spago) and Roxana Jullapat (Co-Proprietor and Pastry Chef for Friends & Family in Hollywood.) It’s a 2-day course on July 13 & 14th from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Chefs Donald Wressell, Della Gossett and Roxana Jullapat join us rolling pin firmly in hand.

“Exciting culinary events are now underway at the Palms Casino Resort in the wake of the Las Vegas property’s recent grand reopening. Palms and Vegas Test Kitchen have unleashed an unparalleled pop-up, Greene Street Test Kitchen, to the Las Vegas valley. Guests are now enjoying a taste test of a wide variety of cuisine from three local chefs every Friday and Saturday night, continuing through July 30. From Polynesian Chinese inspired dining to American Italian cuisine, chefs Josh Bianchi, Crystina Nguyen, Bryan Tejada and Gary FX LaMorte will be trying out new concepts at the Greene Street Test Kitchen. Two rotating concepts remain on the debut schedule.” Producer Jolene Mannina joins us from Vegas Test Kitchen.

Chef Andrew Gruel has some exciting personal business news in his “Ask the Chef” segment. Chef Andrew and his wife, Lauren, have amicably sold their interest in Slapfish (founded ten years ago) to their former Houston-based partners. Next up is the creation of a new restaurant management enterprise. First is a launch of a fresh seafood restaurant and full bar with table service in the former Fish Camp location on Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach. Look for a September opening. Also, the Big Parm NJ-style, fast-casual pizza concept will be expanding and Chef Andrew’s popular Two Birds chicken restaurant will reopen in a new location.

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

Show 481, July 2, 2022: Culinary Empresario Jolene Mannina of Vegas Test Kitchen and Greene Street Test Kitchen at Palms Casino Resort Part One

Posted on July 3, 2022 by Adam Bell

“Guests are now enjoying a taste test of a wide variety of cuisine from three local chefs every Friday and Saturday night, continuing through July 30. From Polynesian Chinese inspired dining to American Italian cuisine, chefs Josh Bianchi, Crystina Nguyen, Bryan Tejada and Gary FX LaMorte will be trying out new concepts at the Greene Street Test Kitchen. Two rotating concepts remain on the debut schedule:”

July 1-2: Makatas by Chefs Bryan Tejada and Gary FX LaMorte – Healthy, Social and Succulent Pinoy inspired dining
July 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30: Mamasan by Crystina Nguyen – Fresh and Saucy American Polynesian Chinese Cuisine

“Vegas Test Kitchen owner Jolene Mannina says, “In addition to the stellar line-up of chefs and the variety of cuisine, the pop-up experience will feature a high-energy setting with live music and nightly entertainment. With its edgy design, artwork and vibrancy, the Greene Street Kitchen is the perfect setting to showcase these culinary talents. We are looking forward to seeing the Vegas community through July 30^th and to present three wonderful chefs that each bring a unique flair to their style of cooking.”

“Pre-fixe dinners with welcome cocktail are $59 per person and reservations are currently available.

“Vegas Test Kitchen (VTK) was designed by Vegas food insider and culinary event planner Jolene Mannina during the pandemic to build a home and be a creative outlet for the talented chefs in Las Vegas community.”

“VTK is a brick & mortar location in downtown Las Vegas, located next to Fergusons Downtown. The establishment offer a variety of cuisines weekly from celebrated chefs testing new concepts. The Vegas Test Kitchen is a casual dining experience with a full bar. Don’t be surprised if a chef is serving you food, this is the way.”

Jolene Mannina joins us from Vegas Test Kitchen.

Show 481, July 2, 2022: Culinary Empresario Jolene Mannina of Vegas Test Kitchen and Greene Street Test Kitchen at Palms Casino Resort Part Two

Posted on July 3, 2022 by Adam Bell

July 1-2: Makatas by Chefs Bryan Tejada and Gary FX LaMorte – Healthy, Social and Succulent Pinoy inspired dining
July 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30: Mamasan by Crystina Nguyen – Fresh and Saucy American Polynesian Chinese Cuisine

“Pre-fixe dinners with welcome cocktail are $59 per person and reservations are currently available.

Jolene Mannina continues with us from Vegas Test Kitchen.