Show 681, May 30, 2026: Hello, You’re Welcome, Pasadena with Gigi di Bernardo

Gigi di Bernardo of Hello You're Welcome Bakery

“Hello, You’re Welcome is a (female-owned) neighborhood specialty café and bakery located in the heart of the playhouse district of Pasadena, CA, where neighbors and visitors gather for specialty coffees, teas, and baked goods. There is always something for all eaters – including gluten-free and vegan options. They feature their famous breakfast biscuit Sammie to fuel your morning and sammies on house-baked bread for lunch. They prioritize clean ingredients and partner with responsible growers, roasters, and tea farms that embrace the same ethos of sustainable-regenerative growing practices!” Second generation co-proprietress Gigi di Bernardo joins us with her whisk at the ready.

“Hello, You’re Welcome takes great pride in working exclusively with coffee and tea purveyors that source through a direct trade model. This commitment to quality and sustainability was inspired in part by the founding sisters – Deborah, JoJo, Chef Leah, and Chef’s daughter, Gigi Rose, who recently joined their female family business.”

“Hello, You’re Welcome believes that what you put in your cup matters. It matters for the farmers who grow the beans, the roasters who craft the perfect blend, and the community that enjoys the final product. They are passionate about what they do, and are committed to making a positive impact on both their customers and the environment.”

“At Hello, You’re Welcome, the journey started with a simple idea: to offer damn good coffee, unique baked goods, and clean food that everyone can enjoy. They emphasize “everyone” because it’s surprisingly difficult to find gluten-free and vegan baked goods that are delicious and made with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and respect the planet.”

Show 674, April 11, 2026: Masters of Taste Preview with Host Chefs Thomas & Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery

Vanessa Tilaka Kalb and Thomas Kalb of Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery

“Masters of Taste, Los Angeles’ premier outdoor luxury food and beverage festival, returns for its eagerly anticipated eighth annual event, taking place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 3 to 7:00 p.m. once again on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl Stadium. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.”

Special offer for “SoCal Restaurant Show” Listeners: At ticket checkout use Promo Code LAMEDIA26 (all caps) for a cool $10 discount.

“Masters of Taste’s 2026 Host Chefs are the acclaimed husband-and-wife team of Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, widely recognized for their refined, ingredient-driven approach and their impact on Pasadena’s modern dining scene.”

“As the founders of the celebrated Old Pasadena restaurant and cheese shop, the Tilaka Kalbs have earned critical praise and a devoted following for their elevated Californian comfort food rooted in classic American regional cooking, guided by a seasonal, farm-to-table philosophy and a deep commitment to sourcing from the region’s best farmers, makers, and producers. Celebrated for their mastery of cheese, polished technique, and exceptional hospitality, Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb bring a level of culinary excellence and leadership that makes them a natural and exciting choice to host the eighth annual Masters of Taste.”

Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa join us unwrapping all that is the 8th annual Masters of Taste.

Show 621, March 22, 2025: Masters of Taste – Generous Plates Benefit with Chef Bret Thompson

Bret Thompson of Pez Coastal Kitchen

“Due to the devastating impact of the Los Angeles wildfires, Masters of Taste has made the difficult decision to postpone the highly anticipated 8th Annual Masters of Taste event. However, in the spirit of resilience, generosity, and community, Masters of Taste is proud to introduce Generous Plates – A Benefit for Union Station Homeless Services, a one-night-only premier dining experience set to take place on Sunday, April 6th, 2025, in the iconic Locker Rooms at the Historic Pasadena Rose Bowl!”

“This exclusive event will offer guests an intimate and immersive dining experience featuring Two Exquisite Five-Course Tasting Menus created by some of Los Angeles’ most celebrated Culinary Masters, including Chef Bret Thompson of Pez Coastal Kitchen. Accompanied by premier selections of Spirits, Cocktails, Wine, Beer, and Non-Alcoholic Beverages from top-tier Beverage Masters, and Delectable Desserts from L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, this night promises to be an unparalleled culinary journey.”

Masters of Taste Alum Culinary Master Bret Thompson is our guest previewing all the deliciousness of his 5-course Tasting Menu.

Show 613, January 25, 2025: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel

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 remains tirelessly on the front line of providing disaster relief in his own small way for all the unfortunate victims of the Pacific Palisades and Pasadena / Altadena fires as part of a larger effort by restaurant & hospitality folks. He updates us on what is being done and what listeners can do to help. It’s an ongoing effort for the very long term. Andrew has also teamed up with Brave Books, his publisher for Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook. Through February 1st (at the minimum) they will generously donate a meal to a wildfire victim for each book sold.

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

Show 612, January 18, 2025: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel

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.

When it comes to offering vitally needed assistance when a disaster strikes chefs and restaurateurs are aways in the forefront of providing meaningful assistance. The devastating fires (now finally heading toward control) in Pacific Palisades and Pasadena / Altadena are the most recent examples. Chef Andrew explains what’s being done within his sphere. Personally he’s functioning as an OC hub for product donations going up to L.A. for the L.A. Dream Center Foundation. Providing meals for those needing assistance and volunteers at Dream Center are also part of his efforts.

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

Show 569, March 16, 2024: Masters of Taste 2024 with Hosts Executive Chef Bret Thompson and Lucy Thompson-Ramirez Part One

Bret Thompson and Lucy Thompson Ramirez of Pez Cantina and Pez Coastal Kitchen

“Come celebrate and be part of the seventh annual Masters of Taste, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival which will be taking place on Sunday, April 7th, 2024, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl. 100 per cent of the proceeds directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.”

“Masters of Taste is introducing Executive Chef Bret Thompson and Lucy Thompson-Ramirez (Pez Cantina and Pez Costal Kitchen) as the Hosts of Masters of Taste 2024 which also marks the 7th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste 2024 Culinary Master and Host Executive Chef Bret Thompson and Pez Boss Lady Lucy Thompson-Ramirez are a dynamic husband and wife team that have made a significant impact in the hospitality industry. With their passion for culinary excellence and warm hospitality, they have created a signature name for themselves in the Los Angeles dining scene and beyond.”

“Masters of Taste 2023 was a sold-out event that attracted over 3,000 guests and garnered media attention all throughout Southern California and beyond. The seventh annual Masters of Taste 2024 is also expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and top cocktail bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”

“Every dollar raised at the 2024 Masters of Taste event will benefit the work of Union Station Homeless Services (Union Station), a local organization successfully fighting to end homelessness. Over the last six years, Masters of Taste has impressively raised close to $3 Million, helping countless families and individuals find a secure and welcoming place to call home.”

Masters of Taste 2024 Hosts Executive Chef Bret Thompson and Lucy Thompson-Ramirez join us with forks in hand.

Show 569, March 16, 2024: Masters of Taste 2024 with Hosts Executive Chef Bret Thompson and Lucy Thompson-Ramirez Part Two

Bret Thompson and Lucy Thompson Ramirez of Pez Cantina and Pez Coastal Kitchen

“Come celebrate and be part of the seventh annual Masters of Taste, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival which will be taking place on Sunday, April 7th, 2024, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl. 100 per cent of the proceeds directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.”

“Masters of Taste is introducing Executive Chef Bret Thompson and Lucy Thompson-Ramirez (Pez Cantina and Pez Costal Kitchen) as the Hosts of Masters of Taste 2024 which also marks the 7th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste 2024 Culinary Master and Host Executive Chef Bret Thompson and Pez Boss Lady Lucy Thompson-Ramirez are a dynamic husband and wife team that have made a significant impact in the hospitality industry. With their passion for culinary excellence and warm hospitality, they have created a signature name for themselves in the Los Angeles dining scene and beyond.”

“Masters of Taste 2023 was a sold-out event that attracted over 3,000 guests and garnered media attention all throughout Southern California and beyond. The seventh annual Masters of Taste 2024 is also expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and top cocktail bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”

“Every dollar raised at the 2024 Masters of Taste event will benefit the work of Union Station Homeless Services (Union Station), a local organization successfully fighting to end homelessness. Over the last six years, Masters of Taste has impressively raised close to $3 Million, helping countless families and individuals find a secure and welcoming place to call home.”

Masters of Taste 2024 Hosts Executive Chef Bret Thompson and Lucy Thompson-Ramirez continue with us proving all the salivating, lip-smacking specifics of the event.

Show 563, February 3, 2024: Executive Chef Doug Rankin, Bar Chelou, Pasadena

Doug Rankin of Bar Chelou

“Bar Chelou is Pasadena’s first true neo-bistro, a casual, convivial space that is both a distillation of Chef Doug Rankin’s broad gastronomic interests and a deeply personal expression of his individualistic style. ‘Chelou’ (French slang for ‘strange’ or ‘unexpected’) is both the name and unifying theme of the restaurant, which draws from a range of culinary traditions and service styles to create something personal, novel and fun. The restaurant is located within the historic Pasadena Playhouse complex.”

Standout dishes include “Carrots,” a salad with coconut dressing, lime leaf, peanuts and shoestring potatoes, and Rainbow Trout with corn rice and garlic chive pil-pil.

Chef Doug Rankin takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Show 515, March 4, 2023: Masters of Taste Preview with Hosts and Culinary Masters Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed Part One

Michael and Kwini Reed of Poppy and Seed

“Come celebrate and be part of the sixth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization celebrating 50 years of providing homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.”

“Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed as Hosts of Masters of Taste 2023 which also marks the 6th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste 2023 Culinary Master and Host Chef Michael Reed is a classically trained chef and restaurateur, who has spent 19 years as a chef for restaurants across New York and Los Angeles. Today, Chef Reed is the co-owner and Executive Chef behind two Los Angeles restaurants, Poppy + Rose of Downtown Los Angeles, and Anaheim’s Poppy & Seed. In addition to the two concepts, Chef Reed and his wife and co-owner, Kwini Reed also run an upscale catering company, Root of All Food.”

“In 2011, Chef Reed and Kwini Reed jointly created the high-end catering company, Root of All Food which specializes in high-end boutique catering, in-home cooking and events, and catering to Southern California. During the summer of 2014, Reed opened DTLA brunch darling, Poppy + Rose, a restaurant that specializes in classic American diner-fare made from scratch with a seasonal menu. He owns the restaurant alongside his wife, Kwini Reed. In 2021, Poppy & Seed opened, branching more upscale service and cuisine in a modern greenhouse setting. Located in the Anaheim Packing District, Poppy & Seed features a menu of refined American fare.”

“The sixth annual Masters of Taste 2023 is expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and top cocktail bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”

Ticket Information: Masters of Taste 2023 will take place on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, and this is a 21+ event. A VIP Power Hour will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and General Admission will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed are our guests.

Show 515, March 4, 2023: Masters of Taste Preview with Hosts and Culinary Masters Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed Part Two

Michael and Kwini Reed of Poppy and Seed

“Come celebrate and be part of the sixth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization celebrating 50 years of providing homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.”

“Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed as Hosts of Masters of Taste 2023 which also marks the 6th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste 2023 Culinary Master and Host Chef Michael Reed is a classically trained chef and restaurateur, who has spent 19 years as a chef for restaurants across New York and Los Angeles. Today, Chef Reed is the co-owner and Executive Chef behind two Los Angeles restaurants, Poppy + Rose of Downtown Los Angeles, and Anaheim’s Poppy & Seed. In addition to the two concepts, Chef Reed and his wife and co-owner, Kwini Reed also run an upscale catering company, Root of All Food.”

“The sixth annual Masters of Taste 2023 is expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and top cocktail bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”

Ticket Information: Masters of Taste 2023 will take place on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, and this is a 21+ event. A VIP Power Hour will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and General Admission will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed continue as our guests with all the detrails of Masters of Taste.