Tag Archives: restaurant business

Show 516, March 11, 2023: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Posted on by
Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

If you have a successful restaurant concept what’s the best way (least risky) to finance the contemplated expansion? Should the restaurateur seek investors, private financing or perhaps franchising? Chef Andrew has been down this winding path previously. His best suggestion is to bootstrap the endeavor and proceed modestly closely watching expenses. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 514, February 25, 2023: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Posted on by
Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

We’re picking up the conversation about some tipping oddities. Some full-service restaurants are now adding a “Mandatory Service Charge” to restaurant bills for parties of less than 6 guests. Is this a tip? Does this all go to the server? What about a 4 to 5 per cent surcharge added for “employee health care”? What’s right? We’ll ask the chef.

Chef Andrew and Lauren Gruel have a new fast casual concept, Burger 101, coming soon to the 2-level, Kitchen United complex on the 3rd St. Promenade in Santa Monica. It’s Chef Andrew’s version of a value-priced, honest burger (and loaded fries) using quality ingredients including a premium burger patty sourced from West Coast Prime Meats. He’ll also launch a casual Mexican concept there, Lolo’s Tacos, specializing in clean and simple tacos, burritos and standout specialty sauces.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 498, November 5, 2022: Ron Salisbury, 3rd Generation Proprietor, El Cholo Family of Restaurants Part One

Posted on by
Ron Salisbury of El Cholo

“El Cholo, perhaps Los Angeles’ most iconic, honored and beloved Mexican Restaurant is now gearing up for its 100th Anniversary during 2023 under the watchful eye of Ron Salisbury, 3rd generation proprietor of The El Cholo Family of Restaurants. Ron Salisbury will also celebrate his 90th Birthday during 2023. Mr. Salisbury has been working with the El Cholo restaurant chain for 68-years! Several of his descendants also currently work within his family’s business, including fourth, fifth and even sixth generation family members!”

“As part of the 100th Anniversary festivities El Cholo has unveiled its new Logo and Slogan: “Creating Memories for 100 Years!” El Cholo is actively planning a series of special events and promotions during 2023 for its longtime customers and Southern California guests.” “A series of Special Food Items will be offered, including: “A Taste of History” Plate, served on a commemorative plate (available for separate purchase.) Also, several Classic Old Dishes will return as special features, including the Spanish Omelet; Enchiladas with Fried Egg; Tostada Compuesta; Sopa de Fideo, and many others!”

“Says Mr. Salisbury, “Many other restaurants, when they approach 100, start slowing down or taking their eye off the ball. But we still stand firmly at the top of our game. We continue to be aggressive in providing the best Mexican restaurant experience possible – one that only El Cholo can offer. Myself, my kids, my grandkids and even my great-grandkids are proudly committed to continuing the El Cholo tradition – one that my grandparents began way back in 1923 – well into the future!””

“Today, El Cholo is one of Southern California’s oldest restaurants, as well as one of LA’s very first Mexican restaurants. El Cholo has been and remains a family-owned business for 100 years! The six El Cholo restaurants currently operating in Southern California – the original site on Western Ave., Downtown Los Angeles, Anaheim Hills, Corona del Mar, La Habra, and Santa Monica – are all owned by Ron Salisbury (grandson of the founders) and his family, through their company, Restaurant Business, Inc.”

“The successful legacy of El Cholo lies in its commitment to the highest-quality ingredients, renowned service, truly unique atmosphere, a long, family-owned history, and remarkably loyal employees (many of whom have put in 20-50 years of continuous service!) Says Ron Salisbury, “El Cholo isn’t just a place to eat. It’s part of the culture of Los Angeles and has been for a century now. To me, El Cholo represents a cross-section of what LA is really all about – we have people coming in Rolls-Royce’s and people taking the bus. We have students, wealthy people, people barely getting along, and even some struggling actors. You name it, they come here. To me, that’s always been a big part of our everlasting charm.””

Ron shares the story of the famous El Cholo Margarita which was introduced back in 1967. As Salisbury freely admits initially it wasn’t very good. A regular customer then shared his perfected recipe for what now is the signature, and ever-popular, El Cholo Margarita.

El Cholo’s current executive chef, Felix Salcedo, has been with them since 1986.

3rd generation proprietor, Ron Salisbury, is our guest with a plate of Carmen’s Original Nachos, in hand.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 498, November 5, 2022: Ron Salisbury, 3rd Generation Proprietor, El Cholo Family of Restaurants Part Two

Posted on by
Ron Salisbury of El Cholo

“El Cholo, perhaps Los Angeles’ most iconic, honored and beloved Mexican Restaurant is now gearing up for its 100th Anniversary during 2023 under the watchful eye of Ron Salisbury, 3rd generation proprietor of The El Cholo Family of Restaurants. Ron Salisbury will also celebrate his 90th Birthday during 2023. Mr. Salisbury has been working with the El Cholo restaurant chain for 68-years! Several of his descendants also currently work within his family’s business, including fourth, fifth and even sixth generation family members!”

“As part of the 100th Anniversary festivities El Cholo has unveiled its new Logo and Slogan: “Creating Memories for 100 Years!” El Cholo is actively planning a series of special events and promotions during 2023 for its longtime customers and Southern California guests.” “A series of Special Food Items will be offered, including: “A Taste of History” Plate, served on a commemorative plate (available for separate purchase.) Also, several Classic Old Dishes will return as special features, including the Spanish Omelet; Enchiladas with Fried Egg; Tostada Compuesta; Sopa de Fideo, and many others!”

“Says Mr. Salisbury, “Many other restaurants, when they approach 100, start slowing down or taking their eye off the ball. But we still stand firmly at the top of our game. We continue to be aggressive in providing the best Mexican restaurant experience possible – one that only El Cholo can offer. Myself, my kids, my grandkids and even my great-grandkids are proudly committed to continuing the El Cholo tradition – one that my grandparents began way back in 1923 – well into the future!””

“Today, El Cholo is one of Southern California’s oldest restaurants, as well as one of LA’s very first Mexican restaurants. El Cholo has been and remains a family-owned business for 100 years! The six El Cholo restaurants currently operating in Southern California – the original site on Western Ave., Downtown Los Angeles, Anaheim Hills, Corona del Mar, La Habra, and Santa Monica – are all owned by Ron Salisbury (grandson of the founders) and his family, through their company, Restaurant Business, Inc.”

“The successful legacy of El Cholo lies in its commitment to the highest-quality ingredients, renowned service, truly unique atmosphere, a long, family-owned history, and remarkably loyal employees (many of whom have put in 20-50 years of continuous service!) Says Ron Salisbury, “El Cholo isn’t just a place to eat. It’s part of the culture of Los Angeles and has been for a century now. To me, El Cholo represents a cross-section of what LA is really all about – we have people coming in Rolls-Royce’s and people taking the bus. We have students, wealthy people, people barely getting along, and even some struggling actors. You name it, they come here. To me, that’s always been a big part of our everlasting charm.””

Ron shares the surprising story of the famous El Cholo Margarita which was introduced back in 1967. As Salisbury freely admits initially it wasn’t very good. A regular customer then shared his perfected recipe for what now is the signature, and ever-popular, El Cholo Margarita. The mix is house-made with fresh ingredients.

El Cholo’s current executive chef, Felix Salcedo, has been with them since 1986.

3rd generation proprietor, Ron Salisbury, continues as our guest with a plate of Chicken Mole Enchiladas in hand.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 496, October 22, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on by

“The fun and family-friendly atmosphere a guest experiences in any Anna Maria Oyster Bar location comes from the warm smiles and gratitude their wonderful and loyal staff bring to the guests. Their dedication to keeping their restaurants fresh and fun for all who dine with Anna Maria Oyster Bar stems from the desire to make the guest experience memorable. From their managers and servers, cooks and kitchen staff, AMOB aims to provide you pleasant service at a great value. AMOB was founded on the Anna Maria City Pier in 1996, and the City Pier will always be their home. While this location closed in 1999, this is where AMOB established regulars and made a name for themselves with fresh seafood and fun atmosphere.” Fortunately in 2015 Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier launched on the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach, FL with unrivaled views of the Intercoastal Waterway. We reel in Managing Partner and Director of Purchasing Lynn Horne to discuss all that is Anna Maria Oyster Bar.

“This year Philly’s Best celebrates 30 years of true Philly flavor in California. The company was started by native Philadelphians Bob and Andrea Levey, who wanted to bring the flavors of Philadelphia to their new home of Southern California. In 1992, they opened their first Philly’s Best location in Fountain Valley (which still operates in its original location.)  All Philly’s Best cheesesteaks are prepared to order on a seasoned flat-top grill featuring thinly sliced steak or chicken breast with melted white American cheese loaded into an authentic Amoroso’s roll brought in from the East Coast.” Founder Bob Levey takes a break from working the seasoned flat-top grill to join us with spatula in hand.

“ForFriends Inn & Village is situated in downtown Santa Ynez, California and just five minutes from Los Olivos & Solvang. This immaculately detailed eight-room boutique bed & breakfast lies in the heart of the Santa Barbara County Wine Country and is surrounded by rolling hills, cattle ranches, horse farms and over 200 gorgeous vineyards and wineries. ForFriends Inn is within a short walk to tasting rooms and the area’s best restaurants and entertainment; and a short, traffic-free drive to all of the wonderful wineries and other attractions throughout the Santa Ynez Valley and the Santa Rita Hills. Newly added is the adjacent Village featuring six private, free-standing bungalows.  Each of the six, spacious units is a 650 square foot, “tiny inn” California Craftsman Bungalow. The Bungalows offer all the premium amenities found at the Inn plus extras with considerably more space and privacy.” Innkeeper Dave Pollock joins us to welcome the audience to ForFriends Inn & Village.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar located in The District in Tustin is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this month. Founding Partners William Lewis and Executive Chef Yvon Goetz join us with Champagne flutes in hand to celebrate this achievement. There are now also thriving sister Winery Restaurants on the water in Newport Beach and in La Jolla. “The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. When Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz set out 15 years ago to deliver a culinary experience straight from wine county, little did they know that they would also earn the title along the way of “Restaurateurs of the Year” for their achievements and have their restaurants in Newport Beach and Tustin earn the title of “Restaurant of the Year” multiple times!”

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. It’s no secret that finding good employees for both the front and back-of-the-house in the restaurant business is currently a challenge. Once you hire and train good employees the next hurdle is retaining them. Chef Andrew is about to debut his new, full-service Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach. We’ll explore the staffing challenge dilemma with him.

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

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

October 22: Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Philly’s Best, ForFriends Inn & Village, The Winery’s 15th Anniversary

Posted on by

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anna Maria Oyster Bar on The Pier, Bradenton Beach, FL Part One
Segment Three: Anna Maria Oyster Bar on The Pier, Bradenton Beach, FL Part Two
Segment Four: Bob Levey, Founder, Philly’s Best, Fountain Valley and Beyond Part One
Segment Five: Bob Levey, Founder, Philly’s Best, Fountain Valley and Beyond Part Two
Segment Six: ForFriends Inn & Village, Santa Ynez, CA with Innkeeper Dave Pollock
Segment Seven: William Lewis and Executive Chef Yvon Goetz, Founding Partners, The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar, Tustin
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

“The fun and family-friendly atmosphere a guest experiences in any Anna Maria Oyster Bar location comes from the warm smiles and gratitude their wonderful and loyal staff bring to the guests. Their dedication to keeping their restaurants fresh and fun for all who dine with Anna Maria Oyster Bar stems from the desire to make the guest experience memorable. From their managers and servers, cooks and kitchen staff, AMOB aims to provide you pleasant service at a great value. AMOB was founded on the Anna Maria City Pier in 1996, and the City Pier will always be their home. While this location closed in 1999, this is where AMOB established regulars and made a name for themselves with fresh seafood and fun atmosphere.” Fortunately in 2015 Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier launched on the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach, FL with unrivaled views of the Intercoastal Waterway. We reel in Managing Partner and Director of Purchasing Lynn Horne to discuss all that is Anna Maria Oyster Bar.

“This year Philly’s Best celebrates 30 years of true Philly flavor in California. The company was started by native Philadelphians Bob and Andrea Levey, who wanted to bring the flavors of Philadelphia to their new home of Southern California. In 1992, they opened their first Philly’s Best location in Fountain Valley (which still operates in its original location.) All Philly’s Best cheesesteaks are prepared to order on a seasoned flat-top grill featuring thinly sliced steak or chicken breast with melted white American cheese loaded into an authentic Amoroso’s roll brought in from the East Coast.” Founder Bob Levey takes a break from working the seasoned flat-top grill to join us with spatula in hand.

“ForFriends Inn & Village is situated in downtown Santa Ynez, California and just five minutes from Los Olivos & Solvang. This immaculately detailed eight-room boutique bed & breakfast lies in the heart of the Santa Barbara County Wine Country and is surrounded by rolling hills, cattle ranches, horse farms and over 200 gorgeous vineyards and wineries. ForFriends Inn is within a short walk to tasting rooms and the area’s best restaurants and entertainment; and a short, traffic-free drive to all of the wonderful wineries and other attractions throughout the Santa Ynez Valley and the Santa Rita Hills. Newly added is the adjacent Village featuring six private, free-standing bungalows. Each of the six, spacious units is a 650 square foot, “tiny inn” California Craftsman Bungalow. The Bungalows offer all the premium amenities found at the Inn plus extras with considerably more space and privacy.” Innkeeper Dave Pollock joins us to welcome the audience to ForFriends Inn & Village.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar located in The District in Tustin is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this month. Founding Partners William Lewis and Executive Chef Yvon Goetzjoin us with Champagne flutes in hand to celebrate this achievement. There are now also thriving sister Winery Restaurants on the water in Newport Beach and in La Jolla. “The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. When Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz set out 15 years ago to deliver a culinary experience straight from wine county, little did they know that they would also earn the title along the way of “Restaurateurs of the Year” for their achievements and have their restaurants in Newport Beach and Tustin earn the title of “Restaurant of the Year” multiple times!”

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. It’s no secret that finding good employees for both the front and back-of-the-house in the restaurant business is currently a challenge. Once you hire and train good employees the next hurdle is retaining them. Chef Andrew is about to debut his new, full-service Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach. We’ll explore the staffing challenge dilemma with him.

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

Lynn Horne of the Anna Maria Oyster Bar

“The fun and family-friendly atmosphere a guest experiences in any Anna Maria Oyster Bar location comes from the warm smiles and gratitude their wonderful and loyal staff bring to the guests. Their dedication to keeping their restaurants fresh and fun for all who dine with Anna Maria Oyster Bar stems from the desire to make the guest experience memorable. From their managers and servers, cooks and kitchen staff, AMOB aims to provide you pleasant service at a great value.”

“AMOB was founded on the Anna Maria City Pier in 1996, and the City Pier will always be their home. While this location closed in 1999, this is where AMOB established regulars and made a name for themselves with fresh seafood and fun atmosphere. Fortunately in 2015 Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier launched on the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach, FL with unrivaled views of the Intercoastal Waterway.”

“AMOB’s coastal-inspired menu showcases traditional favorites like fresh seafood, lobster, shrimp, chicken, soups and salads, fish specials and more. Don’t miss the Tuna Stack. And of course, AMOB wouldn’t be an oyster bar if they didn’t have delicious oysters available in a variety of preparations.”

We reel in Managing Partner and Director of Purchasing Lynn Horne to discuss all that is Anna Maria Oyster Bar.

Bob Levey of Philly's Best

“This year Philly’s Best celebrates 30 years of true Philly flavor in California. The company was started by native Philadelphians Bob and Andrea Levey, who wanted to bring the flavors of Philadelphia to their new home of Southern California. In 1992, they opened their first Philly’s Best location in Fountain Valley (which still operates in its original location.)”

“The company’s authentic flavors start with proprietary recipes, along with ingredients and products direct from Philadelphia, including Amoroso’s® rolls, Wise® Chips, Taylor® Pork Roll, Hank’s Soda, Pennsylvania Dutch Birch Beer® and a variety of TastyKake® offerings. A uniquely Philly brand and concept, Philly’s Best has grown to 20 locations throughout California.”

“All Philly’s Best cheesesteaks are prepared to order on a seasoned flat-top grill featuring thinly sliced steak or chicken breast with melted white American cheese loaded into an authentic Amoroso’s roll brought in from the East Coast.”

“Starting in July 2022 as we celebrate our 30th anniversary of serving up California’s most authentic cheesesteaks, we’ve taken our west coast guests on a little trip down south with the introduction of our new Nashville Hot Chicken Cheesesteak,” said Bob Levey, founder of Philly’s Best. “While always staying true to our East Coast roots, Philly’s Best is passionate about unveiling new and exciting flavors to our guests, and we know that even those most loyal to our award-winning cheesesteaks like to mix it up from time to time. We’re confident this new kickin’ chicken option is sure to become a fast favorite, especially among fans who love to load up their cheesesteaks and hoagies with our spicy pepper spread.” “This newest chicken cheesesteak is packing a sweet, savory, smokey heat with the fiery flavors of Nashville Hot!”

Founder Bob Levey takes a break from working the seasoned flat-top grill to join us with spatula in hand.

Dave Pollock of ForFriends Inn and Village

“ForFriends Inn & Village is situated in downtown Santa Ynez, California and just five minutes from Los Olivos & Solvang. This immaculately detailed eight-room boutique bed & breakfast lies in the heart of the Santa Barbara County Wine Country and is surrounded by rolling hills, cattle ranches, horse farms and over 200 gorgeous vineyards and wineries. ForFriends Inn is within a short walk to tasting rooms and the area’s best restaurants and entertainment; and a short, traffic-free drive to all of the wonderful wineries and other attractions throughout the Santa Ynez Valley and the Santa Rita Hills.”

“Completed in 2005, ForFriends Inn was built in the fashion of a large Craftsman farmhouse. Great care has been given to combine Wine Country and the New West with a touch of elegance to create a perfect wine country getaway for couples and friends seeking a brief respite from their busy lives.”

“Eight large, elegant rooms in ForFriends Inn include six in the main house and two private cottages — the two-story Sunstone Tower and the cozy Kalyra Cottage. All of the rooms offer a California king-sized bed, large private bathrooms, sitting areas, premium linens, upgraded amenities, luxurious bathrobes, balconies and porches. All are elegantly appointed to provide you with an array of personal touches and all of the amenities guests deserve.”

“Newly added is the adjacent Village featuring six private, free-standing bungalows. Each of the six, spacious units is a 650 square foot, “tiny inn” California Craftsman Bungalow. A custom studio layout features Amish-made bedroom furniture, well-appointed kitchenette with table and chairs, custom cabinets with granite countertops and premium finishes, whisper quiet appliances, private porches with rocking chairs, and on-site parking. The Bungalows offer all the premium amenities found at the Inn plus extras with considerably more space and privacy.”

“All stays include a chef-driven, homemade 3-course breakfast at the Inn and a fun and social wine and hors d’oeuvres Happy Hour featuring local wineries.”

Innkeeper Dave Pollock joins us to welcome the audience to ForFriends Inn & Village.

William Lewis, JC Clow and Yvon Goetz of the Winery Restaurants and Wine Bar

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar located in The District in Tustin is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this month. Founding Partners William Lewis and Executive Chef Yvon Goetz join us with Champagne flutes in hand to celebrate this achievement. There are now also thriving sister Winery Restaurants on the water in Newport Beach and in La Jolla.

“The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. When Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz set out 15 years ago to deliver a culinary experience straight from wine county, little did they know that they would also earn the title along the way of “Restaurateurs of the Year” for their achievements and have their restaurants in Newport Beach and Tustin earn the title of “Restaurant of the Year” multiple times!”

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

It’s no secret that finding reliable employees for both the front and back-of-the-house in the restaurant business is currently a challenge. Once you hire and train good employees the next hurdle is actually retaining them. Chef Andrew is about to debut his new, full-service Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach. We’ll explore the current staffing challenge dilemma with him.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anna Maria Oyster Bar on The Pier, Bradenton Beach, FL Part One
Segment Three: Anna Maria Oyster Bar on The Pier, Bradenton Beach, FL Part Two
Segment Four: Bob Levey, Founder, Philly’s Best, Fountain Valley and Beyond Part One
Segment Five: Bob Levey, Founder, Philly’s Best, Fountain Valley and Beyond Part Two
Segment Six: ForFriends Inn & Village, Santa Ynez, CA with Innkeeper Dave Pollock
Segment Seven: William Lewis and Executive Chef Yvon Goetz, Founding Partners, The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar, Tustin
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 490, September 10, 2022: LA Chef Conference 2022 Preview with Producer Brad Metzger

Posted on by
Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions

“On Monday, October 17, 2022, LA Chef Conference returns after a close to three-year pandemic induced hiatus with a full day of programming at the Jonathan Club in downtown LA featuring some of Los Angeles’ preeminent chef talent engaging in hot topic panel discussions, cooking demonstrations, one-of-a-kind pop-ups from sought-after restaurant concepts and chefs, and an after party—all included in the price of admission ($180.00). LA Chef Conference is a production of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions—a Southern California-based hospitality recruitment and placement firm—in partnership with Open Table and benefiting the James Beard Foundation.”

“Founded in 2018, the unparalleled hospitality industry gathering was born from Metzger’s close to 40 years in the LA restaurant industry and his seeing a real need for an event that was not only educational but brought the community together. Metzger says, “Everyone in our LA restaurant community works so hard and there is never a chance to come together to discuss topics that affect us all and to celebrate and connect with each other in person.” Metzger sees this year’s event as being more purposeful than ever. “Independent restaurants in LA have weathered more than two years of pandemic related challenges and face new economic, social and environmental challenges daily. LA Chef Conference 2022 gives us all a place to come together and try on forward thinking solutions to help the industry that we love.””

“LA Chef Conference events are held at The Jonathan Club, 545 S. Figueroa St. The day-long event commences at 8:45 a.m. with registration and wraps at 5 p.m., followed by an after party from 5-8:30 p.m., also at The Jonathan Club. Tickets are priced at $180 per person and are available at their website. Admission includes access to panel discussions, cooking demos; meals including breakfast, lunch, and after party. All attendees must be 21 or older.”

Organizer Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions is our guest.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 479, June 18, 2022: “Ask the Chef” with Co-host Chef Andrew Gruel

Posted on by
Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

There is a new law in California that mandates all bar and restaurant employees serving alcohol to obtain a new, special certification. It involves a training of three to four hours and then passing an open book test. At present there are very few entities certified to administer the course. In concept this is a worthy requirement but we’ll get Chef Andrew’s thoughts on this and the reality of actually meeting the August 31st deadline.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 474, May 14, 2022: “Ask the Chef” with Co-host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

Posted on by
Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

Restaurants are still suffering from the devastating economic impact of the pandemic. Last month the House of Representatives approved more than $40 billion in assistance for restaurant owners who previously applied but were unable to receive financial assistance from the federal Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Chef Andrew shares where this sits currently.

Arthur Gonzalez of Panxa Cocina

Chef Andrew also remembers his long-time friend and colleague Chef Arthur (Art) Gonzalez (Panxa Cocina and Roe Seafood in Long Beach) who sadly left us way too soon this week. He was only 47. Chef Art was our resident expert on Hatch Chiles from New Mexico and spent time there cooking in fine-dining restaurants. Chef Art was of great assistance to Chef Andrew in the early stages of Slapfish when they were operating with multiple Food Trucks.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Show 461, February 12, 2022: Entrepreneur Ellen Bennett, Founder, Hedley & Bennett, author of Dream First, Details Later Part One

Posted on by
Ellen Bennett of Hedley and Bennett

“Ellen Bennett is the founder and CEO of Hedley & Bennett, an apron and kitchen gear brand that outfits many of the best chefs in the world. Since starting the business in her L.A. home, Ellen has grown H&B into a multi-million dollar business. They have collaborated with Vans, Madewell, Chrissy Teigen, and artist Takashi Murakami, among others and create uniforms for 4,000 restaurants and coffee shops all over the U.S. The biggest part of Hedley & Bennett’s business has now shifted to home cooks.”

“Dream First, Details Later shares Ellen’s journey and her forged-in-the-fire personal playbook for starting before you stop yourself. If you’ve ever imagined doing something and immediately thought, “that’s impossible,” or “I wouldn’t even know where to start,” or “I’m not qualified to do that,” in these pages, you’ll learn how to shove aside your inner worrier and launch into action. This honest and bold illustrated book will be like having Ellen—your personal hype woman—there with you, all the while yelling, “Don’t stop! You got this!””

Savvy Entrepreneur Ellen Bennett joins us fashionably attired in a H & B apron.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS