Show 150, December 12, 2015: Show Preview with Guest Host Chef Andrew Gruel and Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Executive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, soon, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

West Coast Prime Meats CookbookWe got a tremendous response to our segment last week on the publication of the West Coast Prime Meats CooksProfessional Recipes for the Home Kitchen cookbook. It’s the ideal gift for the serious home cook and it’s also a worthy coffee table volume. All the chefs’ recipes have been tested to be duplicated in the home kitchen. It’s available through their website at www.WestCoastPrimeMeats.com

for a modest $25.00. Five Dollars of the purchase price goes to a pair of outstanding supports groups for our Veterans, The Wounded Warrior Project and The Gary Sinise Foundation – Serving Honor and Need. It’s the Holiday gift you can feel really good about giving.

Next a mouthwatering preview of Saturday’s high-energy and appropriately festive show and not, with apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a good thing…

For the last seven years Chef Marlene Moore has been overseeing the busy Temptations Food Court, the Poker Room, and Bingo Parlor at Pechanga Resort & Casino. The Food Court features American, Italian, Mexican, Fried Chicken, Espresso and Pastries, Bahn Mi, Hot Dogs and Lemonade. Chef Marlene shares some tips for creative Holidays dishes with a true Southern flair. Think marination and jerk seasoning.

They always do it B-I-G in Las Vegas. What’s billed as the culinary event of the year, Ultimo – A Weekend of Excellence, hosted by The Venetian and The Palazzo, will take culinary extravagance to new levels, December 17th through the 20th. The highlight of the festivities will be the competition to select Team USA representing the United States in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international cooking competition in Lyon, France in early 2017. This is the Olympics of the culinary arts.

Chef Richard Rosendale (Richard Rosendale Collective) is our guest. He is on the Chef Jury on Dec. 17th in Las Vegas and led Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or in 2013.

In 2011, beer enthusiasts Meg Gill and Tony Yanow founded Golden Road Brewing to bring fresh beer to the local market in the most sustainable way possible.  “Golden Road is committed to engaging and supporting the growing community of socially-minded beer enthusiasts.” “Brewed and canned in Los Angeles,” Golden Road’s year-round offerings include Point the Way IPA, Golden Road Hefeweizen, Get Up Offa That Brown and Wolf Among Weeds IPA. Co-founder Meg Gill is our guest

Anita Lau is better known to regular listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” as the Mad Hungry Woman blogger. She was living in Hong Kong in the 90s before the turnover to China. Anita is just back from a 3-week visit. We’ll get a insider’s view of the dining scene there during the glory days of the British and now under Chinese authority.

One of the up-and-coming wineries in the Guadalupe Valley in Northern Baja is Lechuza, founded in 2005. It’s owned by Ray Magnussen (with his wife, Patty) who is also the hands-on winemaker. They are Americans. We’ll meet Ray.

Our regular Guest Host, Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish, was just in Chicago, a great dining out city whether you’re going for high-end gourmet or great street food. Chef Andrew will discuss his finds ranging from a true Chicago hot dog experience to the best in coal-fired pizza.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 150, December 12, 2015: Chef Richard Rosendale, Bocuse d’Or Team USA 2013

Richard Rosendale of the Greenbrier Resort in Sulphur Springs West VirginiaThey always do it B-I-G in Las Vegas. What’s billed as the culinary event of the year, Ultimo – A Weekend of Excellence, hosted by The Venetian and The Palazzo, will take culinary extravagance to new levels, December 17th through the 20th. The highlight of the festivities will be the competition to select Team USA representing the United States in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international cooking competition in Lyon, France in early 2017.

This is the Olympics of the culinary arts. Chef Richard Rosendale (Richard Rosendale Collective) is our guest. He is on the Chef Jury on Dec. 17th in Las Vegas and led Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or in 2013.

The Team USA 2017 finalist chefs are Gerald Ford, Executive Sous Chef, Westchester County Country Club, NY; Brian Lockwood, Chef de Cuisine, The NoMad, NY; Angus McIntosh, Sous Chef, The Broadmoor, CO; and Mathew Peters, Executive Sous Chef, Per Se, NY.

This competition event, modeled after the world famous Bocuse d’Or, concludes with an esteemed chef panel who judge each of the four candidates’ presentations. Guests will be treated to a spectacular display of culinary skill and artistry during the intense 4 hour and 35 minute competition. Each candidate prepares a stunning meat platter showcasing Kurobuta Pork provided by Snake River Farms and a fish dish featuring the Norwegian Seafood Council’s Fjord Trout.

December 12: Andrew Gruel, Pechanga Casino and Resort, Richard Rosendale, Golden Road Brewing, Mad Hungry Woman, Lechuza VIneyard

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Chef Andrew Gruel and Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Marlene Moore, Temptations Food Court, Pechanga Resort & Casino
Segment Three: Chef Richard Rosendale, Bocuse d’Or Team USA 2013
Segment Four: Meg Gill, Co-Founder & President, Golden Road Brewing Part One”
Segment Five: Meg Gill is the Co Founder and President of Golden Road Brewing Part Two
Segment Six: Anita Lau, Mad Hungry Woman Blogger
Segment Seven: Ray Magnussen, Lechuza Winery, Guadalupe Valley, Baja
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel

Executive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, soon, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

Next a mouthwatering preview of Saturday’s high-energy and appropriately festive show and not, with apologies, for dieters. If we’re doing it right we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a good thing…

For the last seven years Chef Marlene Moore has been overseeing the busy Temptations Food Court, the Poker Room, and Bingo Parlor at Pechanga Resort & Casino. The Food Court features American, Italian, Mexican, Fried Chicken, Espresso and Pastries, Bahn Mi, Hot Dogs and Lemonade. Chef Marlene shares some suggestions for creative Holidays dishes with a true Southern flair.

They always do it B-I-G in Las Vegas. What’s billed as the culinary event of the year, Ultimo – A Weekend of Excellence, hosted by The Venetian and The Palazzo, will take culinary extravagance to new levels, December 17th through the 20th. The highlight of the festivities will be the competition to select Team USA representing the United States in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international cooking competition in Lyon, France in early 2017. This is the Olympics of the culinary arts. Chef Richard Rosendale (Richard Rosendale Collective) is our guest. He is on the Chef Jury on Dec. 17th in Las Vegas and led Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or in 2013.

In 2011, beer enthusiasts Meg Gill and Tony Yanow founded Golden Road Brewing to bring fresh beer to the local market in the most sustainable way possible.  “Golden Road is committed to engaging and supporting the growing community of socially-minded beer enthusiasts.” “Brewed and canned in Los Angeles,” Golden Road’s year-round offerings include Point the Way IPA, Golden Road Hefeweizen, Get Up Offa That Brown and Wolf Among Weeds IPA. Co-founder Meg Gill is our guest

Anita Lau is better known to regular listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” as the Mad Hungry Woman blogger. She was living in Hong Kong in the 90s before the turnover to China. Anita is just back from a return visit. We’ll get a insider’s view of the dining scene there during the glory days of the British and now under Chinese authority.

One of the up-and-coming wineries in the Guadalupe Valley in Northern Baja is Lechuza, founded in 2005. It’s owned by Ray Magnussen (with his wife, Patty) who is also the hands-on winemaker. They are Americans. We’ll toast the harvest with Ray.

Our regular Guest Host, Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish, was just in Chicago, a great dining out city whether you’re going for high-end gourmet fare or great street food. Chef Andrew will discuss his finds ranging from a true Chicago hot dog experience to the best in deep dish pizza.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Marlene MooreFor the last seven years Chef Marlene Moore has been overseeing the busy Temptations Food Court, the Poker Room, and Bingo Parlor at Pechanga Resort & Casino. The Food Court features American, Italian, Mexican, Fried Chicken, Espresso and Pastries, Bahn Mi, Hot Dogs and Lemonade.

The outlet names at Temptations are American Classics, Agave Mexican Delights, Pronto Italiano, Caffe Cocoa, Little Wok Asian Specialties, and Pechanga Fried Chicken.

This year Chef Marlene was crowned the Chili Champ at the Pechanga Microbrew Festival and Chili Cookoff with her winning creation of “Temptation” Hearty Southern Style Chili. She competed against seven other dedicated Pechanga chefs and even bested the incumbent champ, Chef Damien Stanley, who is the executive sous chef of Pechanga.

Chef Marlene shares some tempting tips for creative Holidays dishes with a true Southern flair.

Richard Rosendale of the Greenbrier Resort in Sulphur Springs West VirginiaThey always do it B-I-G in Las Vegas. What’s billed as the culinary event of the year, Ultimo – A Weekend of Excellence, hosted by The Venetian and The Palazzo, will take culinary extravagance to new levels, December 17th through the 20th. The highlight of the festivities will be the competition to select Team USA representing the United States in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international cooking competition in Lyon, France in early 2017.

This is the Olympics of the culinary arts. Chef Richard Rosendale (Richard Rosendale Collective) is our guest. He is on the Chef Jury on Dec. 17th in Las Vegas and led Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or in 2013.

This competition event, modeled after the world famous Bocuse d’Or, concludes with an esteemed chef panel who judge each of the four candidates’ presentations. Guests will be treated to a spectacular display of culinary skill and artistry during the intense 4 hour and 35 minute competition. Each candidate prepares a stunning meat platter showcasing Kurobuta Pork provided by Snake River Farms and a fish dish featuring the Norwegian Seafood Council’s Fjord Trout.

Meg Gill of Golden Road BrewingIn 2011, beer enthusiasts Meg Gill and Tony Yanow founded Golden Road Brewing to bring fresh beer to the local market in the most sustainable way possible. “Golden Road is committed to engaging and supporting the growing community of socially-minded beer enthusiasts.”

“Brewed and canned in Los Angeles,” Golden Road’s year-round offerings include Point the Way IPA, Golden Road Hefeweizen, Get Up Offa That Brown and Wolf Among Weeds IPA. Co-founder Meg Gill is our guest.

In a stellar example of private industry supporting worthy truly causes in a meaningful way Golden Road Brewing created Heal the Bay IPA as a seasonal style (May to July) for one season. It’s now an incredible success story and is an annuity style for Golden Road. Of course water quality is of prime importance to Golden Road so there is logic to the association!

Construction has started in Anaheim (across the street from the South entrance to Angel Stadium) of a new production brewery, restaurant, and tasting room for Golden Road. The temporary tasting room is already serving thirsty guests. The greatly respected brewmaster there, Victor Novak (ex-TAPS), is well-known to Orange County craft beer enthusiasts. We’ll talk to our guest, Meg Gill, about this ambitious new project.

It’s no secret that the mega breweries have started acquiring regional craft breweries to learn more about this fast growing area of the business. Golden Road was acquired earlier this year by Anheuser-Busch InBev which already owns Chicago-based craft brewer, Goose Island. Meg Gill will continue with the company. We’ll hear about what this means for Golden Road’s future expansion.

Anita Lau of Mad Hungry WomanAnita Lau is better known to regular listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” as the Mad Hungry Woman blogger. She was living in Hong Kong in the 90s before the turnover by the British to China.

Anita was just back to Hong Kong from a visit. We’ll get a insider’s view of the dining scene there during the glory days of the British and now under Chinese authority.

Anita will fill us in on the impact of Michelin Stars in Hong Kong dining and also the best street food. We’ll get the morsel-by-morsel details of her favorite dining experience of the trip.

Born in Hong Kong and now living in Orange County, California, Anita Lau is an international author and writer who has lived in Malaysia, Australia, Nebraska, Oregon, San Francisco and also, Hawaii. Her obsession with food began at an early age but it wasn’t until her early 20s when her experimentation with cooking led her to start a small catering business which she would run in her spare time while at college in Australia.

Ray Magnussen One of the promising, up-and-coming wineries in the Guadalupe Valley in Northern Baja is Lechuza, founded in 2005. It’s owned by Ray Magnussen (with his wife, Patty) who is also the hands-on winemaker. They are Americans.

“Lechuza” is Spanish for “burrowing ground owl.” This bird frequents the Lechuza vineyard property. The modest vineyard estate is adjacent to Laja, one of the most well-reviewed restaurants in Baja, California.

Lechuza currently offers Lechuza Amantes (Blend), Lechuza Cabernet Sauvignon, Lechuza Nebbiolo, Lerchuza Merlot, Lechuza Tempranillo and Lechuza Grenache Rose.

Their wines are conveniently available on-line via their San Diego-based distributor. This is a lot easier than bringing Mexican wines back through the border. www.LMAwines.com.

We’ll meet Ray.

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosOur regular Guest Host, Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish, was just in Chicago, a great dining out city whether you’re going for high-end gourmet or great street food. Chef Andrew will discuss his finds ranging from a true Chicago hot dog experience to the best in deep dish pizza.

Chef Andrew was extensively quoted (representing his expertise in Social Media) in a lengthy New York Times article entitled “A Bad Review Is Forever: How to Counter Online Complaints” which appeared on December 9th.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Guest Host Chef Andrew Gruel and Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Marlene Moore, Temptations Food Court, Pechanga Resort & Casino
Segment Three: Chef Richard Rosendale, Bocuse d’Or Team USA 2013
Segment Four: Meg Gill, Co-Founder & President, Golden Road Brewing Part One”
Segment Five: Meg Gill is the Co Founder and President of Golden Road Brewing Part Two
Segment Six: Anita Lau, Mad Hungry Woman Blogger
Segment Seven: Ray Magnussen, Lechuza Winery, Guadalupe Valley, Baja
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel

Show 149, December 5, 2015: Ultimo – A Weekend of Excellence, Las Vegas

Ultimo A Weekend ExcellenceThey always do it B-I-G in Las Vegas. What’s billed as the culinary event of the year, Ultimo – A Weekend of Excellence, hosted by The Venetian and The Palazzo, will take culinary extravagance to new levels, December 17th through the 20th.

The highlight of the festivities will be the competition to select Team USA representing the United States in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international cooking competition in Lyon, France in early 2017. This is the Olympics of the culinary arts. For the first time ever Team USA (Chef Philip Tessier and Commis Skyler Stover) was awarded the Silver Medal at the Bocuse d’Or this year. Chef Tessier will be part of Ultimo Weekend.

For the third year in a row, Ultimo will celebrate the romance of Italy with lavish feasts and exceptional experiences from an A-team of award-winning chefs as it unfolds around The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas. Renowned culinary luminaries participating in the weekend will include Chefs Jérôme Bocuse, Daniel Boulud, Josiah Citrin, Shaun Hergatt, Gavin Kaysen, Thomas Keller, James Kent, Roland Passot, Philip Tessier, Ming Tsai, Richard Rosendale, and Dario Cecchini, the famed Chianti “Butcher of Panzano.”

“This will be, without a doubt, the most spectacular gathering of world-renowned chefs in Las Vegas,” said Sebastien Silvestri, vice president of food & beverage for The Venetian and The Palazzo.  “For the culinary enthusiast, this will be a weekend to remember.”

This exceptional winter weekend will feature the return of The Venetian’s Grand Banquet, a landmark collaboration between several of the world’s best culinarians including Chefs Keller, Tessier, Hergatt and Tsai.

Sebastien Silvestri, Vice President of Food & Beverage for The Venetian and The Palazzo is our guest.

 

Show 105, January 10, 2015: Chefs Philip Tessier and Skylar Stover, Bocuse d’Or USA Team

Philip Tessier and Skylar StoverChef Philip Tessier and his young Commis, Skylar Stover, of Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry in Yountville, CA are going for the gold in 2015. The pair is the newest Bocuse d’Or USA Team, representing the nation at the World Cooking Contest in Lyon, France on January 27th and 28th. Often described as the “Culinary Olympics,” the Bocuse d’Or (staged every other year) is among the most demanding international cooking competitions, pitting chefs from twenty-four countries against one another in an intense five and a half hour cooking challenge in front of thousands of cheering fans.

Leading the rigorous training program – which requires the level of dedication seen in professional athletes – is Team USA Head Coach (and former Bocuse d’Or competitor) Chef Gavin Kaysen (ex-Café Boulud, New York.) Alongside Kaysen will be Coaches Chef Grant Achatz (Alienea and Next, Chicago, IL), Chef Gabriel Kreuther (formerly of The Modern, New York, NY), and Chef Richard Rosendale (formerly of The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, WV and the 2013 Bocuse d’Or competitor for the USA), as well as The Foundation’s (ment’or BKB Foundation) Board of Directors, Chefs Jerome Bocuse, Daniel Boulud, and Thomas Keller.

A contribution of any size to support Team USA in Lyon is greatly appreciated by their support group, ment’or BKB Foundation.

Team USA 2015 joins us on the road to Lyon.

Show 103, December 27, 2014: Show Preview with Kedric Francis (Guest Host) and Producer Andy Harris

Kedric Francis and Andy HarrisKedric Francis (our always dashing, debonair OC gentleman-about-town,) Editor of Coast Magazine, is today’s special Guest Host.

It’s a great time to reflect on the high points of the past year and look ahead. Kedric will share some of his thoughts on 2014 and look ahead to the anticipated edible treats of 2015. He’ll also preview the upcoming food and beverage options of the new $185 million ARTIC transit hub (67,000-square feet) adjacent to Angel Stadium and Honda Center..

We last spoke with Chef Richard Rosendale just after he returned from competing in the international Bocuse d’Or in early 2013. At the time he was the executive chef of iconic The Greenbier (White Sulfur Springs, WV.) Since then he’s gone out on his own and can be seen Saturday mornings on CBS’ “Recipe Rehab.” He’s also a coach for Team USA for the upcoming Bocuse d’Or competition in Lyon in late January. We’ll talk with Richard about Team USA’s chances for 2015 and what it takes to compete in this prestigious and rigorous international competition (24 countries competing) known as the “Olympics of Cooking.”

When Chef Charlie McKenna opened the original Lillie’s Q in 2010 in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago he brought award-winning competition BBQ and timeless Southern cooking to the City of Big Shoulders. Now Chef Charlie and partner Joe Manzella of TAPS Fish House & Brewery and The Catch have launched Lillie’s Q in Brea Downtown. The joint venture marks McKenna’s fourth location for his growing barbecue concept. Chef McKenna is our guest.

Cocktail authorities David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson are back with us providing inspired advice on New Year’s Eve libations. They are the authors of The 12 Bottle BarA Dozen Bottles. Hundreds Of Cocktails. A New Way To Drink.

It’s been an epic year for our Friends at The Winery in Tustin and Newport Beach. The Orange County Concierge Association just awarded The Winery the designation of “Restaurant of the Year.” In unprecedented fashion The Winery also won this recognition from the OC Concierge Association in 2008, 2009, and 2013. At The Golden Foodie Awards this year The Winery took home the honor for “Best Wine list” for the third year in a row. Also in the Orange County Register’s restaurant critic Brad A. Johnson’s 2014 O.C. Restaurant Awards the new Winery in Newport Beach was in Johnson’s “Top 10 New Restaurants” (in the Number Three position.) Winery Managing Partner and Sommelier William Lewis joins us to share all the good news and their celebratory plans for New Year’s Eve.

It’s our pleasure to welcome back Brad A. Johnson, the Orange County Registers award-winning restaurant critic to the show. Brad is going to share his 2014 Orange County restaurant awards with us. Additionally we’ll hear about his favorite Orange County dishes of the year.

In mid-October Johnson penned an intriguing piece for The Orange County Register about the arrival of the new Italian cuisine. He characterizes it as “nothing short of a revolution.” We’ll hear about this movement along with the restaurants in Los Angeles and Orange County who are part of this exciting new wave.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Show 103, December 27, 2014: Chef Richard Rosendale

Richard Rosendale of the Greenbrier Resort in Sulphur Springs West VirginiaWe last spoke with Chef Richard Rosendale just after he returned from competing in the international Bocuse d’Or culinary competition in early 2013. At the time he was the executive chef of iconic The Greenbier (White Sulfur Springs, WV.)

Since then he’s gone out on his own and can be seen Saturday mornings on CBSRecipe Rehab.” His new catering company will serve Washington, D.C. in 2015.

He’s also a coach for Team USA for the upcoming Bocuse d’Or competition in Lyon on January 24, 2015. We talked with Richard about Team USA’s (Chef Philip Tessier and Commis Skylar Stover of The French Laundry) chances for 2015 and what it takes to compete on the world stage in this prestigious and rigorous international competition (24 countries competing) known as the “Olympics of Cooking.” It’s an intense five and a half hour cooking challenge with thousands of cheering fans watching.

Chef Richard also highlighted his volunteer work as a member of the Culinary Council for the ment’or BKB Foundation (previously known as the Bocuse d’Or USA Foundation.) It’s a nonprofit organization that aims to inspire excellence in young culinary professionals and preserve the traditions and quality of cuisine in America. Its Board of Directors includes Chefs Jerome Bocuse (Paul’s son,) Thomas Keller and Daniel Boulud.

December 27: Kedric Francis, Richard Rosendale, Charlie McKenna, David and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, William Lewis, Brad A. Johnson

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Kedric Francis (Guest Host) and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Kedric Francis, Editor, Coast Magazine
Segment Three: Chef Richard Rosendale
Segment Four: Chef Charlie McKenna, Lillie’s Q
Segment Five: David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, The 12 Bottle Bar
Segment Six: William Lewis, Managing Partner & Sommelier, The Winery Restaurant
Segment Seven: Brad A. Johnson, Restaurant Critic, Orange County Register Part One
Segment Eight: Brad A. Johnson, Restaurant Critic, Orange County Register Part Two

Kedric Francis and Andy HarrisKedric Francis (our always dashing, debonair OC gentleman-about-town,) Editor of Coast Magazine, is today’s special Guest Host.

It’s a great time to reflect on the high points of the past year and look ahead. Kedric will share some of his thoughts on 2014 and look ahead to the anticipated edible treats of 2015. He’ll also preview the upcoming food and beverage options of the new $185 million ARTIC transit hub (67,000-square feet) adjacent to Angel Stadium and Honda Center.

We last spoke with Chef Richard Rosendale just after he returned from competing in the international Bocuse d’Or in early 2013. At the time he was the executive chef of iconic The Greenbier (White Sulfur Springs, WV.) Since then he’s gone out on his own and can be seen Saturday mornings on CBS’ “Recipe Rehab.” He’s also a coach for Team USA for the upcoming Bocuse d’Or competition in Lyon in late January. We’ll talk with Richard about Team USA’s chances for 2015 and what it takes to compete in this prestigious and rigorous international competition (24 countries competing) known as the “Olympics of Cooking.”

When Chef Charlie McKenna opened the original Lillie’s Q in 2010 in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago he brought award-winning competition BBQ and timeless Southern cooking to the City of Big Shoulders. Now Chef Charlie and partner Joe Manzella of TAPS Fish House & Brewery and The Catch have launched Lillie’s Q in Brea Downtown. The joint venture marks McKenna’s fourth location for his growing barbecue concept. Chef McKenna is our guest.

Cocktail experts David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson are back with us providing inspired advice on New Year’s Eve libations. They are the authors of The 12 Bottle BarA Dozen Bottles. Hundreds Of Cocktails. A New Way To Drink.

It’s been an epic year for our Friends at The Winery in Tustin and Newport Beach. The Orange County Concierge Association just awarded The Winery the designation of “Restaurant of the Year.” In unprecedented fashion The Winery also won this recognition from the OC Concierge Association in 2008, 2009, and 2013. At The Golden Foodie Awards this year The Winery took home the honor for “Best Wine list” for the third year in a row. Also in the Orange County Register’s restaurant critic Brad A. Johnson’s 2014 O.C. Restaurant Awards the new Winery in Newport Beach was in Johnson’s “Top 10 New Restaurants” (in the Number Three position.) Winery Managing Partner and Sommelier William Lewis joins us to share all the good news and their celebratory plans for New Year’s Eve.

It’s our pleasure to welcome back Brad A. Johnson, the Orange County Register’s award-winning restaurant critic to the show. Brad is going to share his 2014 Orange County restaurant awards with us. Additionally we’ll hear about his favorite Orange County dishes of the year.

In mid-October Johnson penned an intriguing piece for The Orange County Register about the arrival of the new Italian cuisine. He characterizes it as “nothing short of a revolution.” We’ll hear about this movement along with the restaurants in Los Angeles and Orange County who are part of this exciting new wave.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Kedric Francis of Coast Magazine and the Orange County Register MagazineKedric Francis (our always dashing, debonair gentleman-about-Orange County,) Editor of Coast Magazine, is today’s special Guest Host.

It’s a great time to reflect on the high points of the past year and look ahead. Kedric will share some of his thoughts on highlights of 2014 and look ahead to the anticipated edible treats of 2015. He’ll also preview the upcoming food and beverage options of the massive new $185 million ARTIC transit hub (67,000-square feet) adjacent to Angel Stadium and Honda Center.

Richard Rosendale of the Greenbrier Resort in Sulphur Springs West VirginiaWe last spoke with Chef Richard Rosendale just after he returned from competing in the international Bocuse d’Or culinary competition in early 2013. At the time he was the executive chef of iconic The Greenbier (White Sulfur Springs, WV.)

Since then he’s gone out on his own and can be seen Saturday mornings on CBSRecipe Rehab.” He’s also a coach for Team USA for the upcoming Bocuse d’Or competition in Lyon on January 24, 2015. We’ll talk with Richard about Team USA’s (Chef Philip Tessier and Commis Skylar Stover of The French Laundry) chances for 2015 and what it takes to compete on the world stage in this prestigious and rigorous international competition (24 countries competing) known as the “Olympics of Cooking.” It’s an intense five and a half hour cooking challenge with thousands of cheering fans watching.

Charlie MckennaWhen Chef Charlie McKenna opened the original Lillie’s Q in 2010 in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago he brought award-winning competition BBQ and timeless Southern cooking to the City of Big Shoulders. Now Chef Charlie and partner Joe Manzella of TAPS Fish House & Brewery and The Catch have launched Lillie’s Q in Brea Downtown. The joint venture marks McKenna’s fourth location for his growing barbecue concept.

Lillie’s Q specializes in slow-smoked pork shoulder, tri-tip, baby back ribs, hot links, and chicken cooked in custom-built smokers over peach wood and lump charcoal. They are also known for their incredible array of standout award-winning sauces.

“I look forward to bringing my southern BBQ roots to the West Coast,”
McKenna said. “It’s approachable, and there is something on the menu for everyone to enjoy.”

Chef McKenna is our guest.

David and Lesley Jacobs SolmonsonOpinionated cocktail authorities David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson are back with us with inspired advice on New Year’s Eve libations. They are the authors of The 12 Bottle BarA Dozen Bottles. Hundreds Of Cocktails. A New Way To Drink.

The Solmonsons are going to discuss how to get the hosts out from behind the bar on New Year’s Eve so they can enjoy their own party.

We’re perhaps thinking of a spirited punch and champagne cocktail bar.

Sir William Lewis of the Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar in TustinIt’s been an epic year for our Friends at The Winery in Tustin and Newport Beach. The Orange County Concierge Association just awarded The Winery the designation of “Restaurant of the Year.” In unprecedented fashion The Winery also won this recognition from the OC Concierge Association in 2008, 2009, and 2013.

At The Golden Foodie Awards this year at The Fairmont Newport Beach The Winery took home the honor for “Best Wine List” for the third year in a row. Also in the Orange County Register’s restaurant critic Brad A. Johnson’s 2014 O.C. Restaurant Awards the new Winery in Newport Beach was in Johnson’s “Top 10 New Restaurants” (in the Number Three position.)

The Winery’s Managing Partner and Sommelier, “Sir” William Lewis, joins us to share all the good news and their celebratory plans for New Year’s Eve.

Photography by Brad A JohnsonIt’s our pleasure to welcome back Brad A. Johnson, the Orange County Registers award-winning restaurant critic to the show. Brad is going to share his 2014 Orange County restaurant awards with us. These include his selections for Restaurant of the Year, Chef of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Outstanding Wine Service and Best New Restaurant. Additionally we’ll hear about his favorite Orange County dishes of the year.

In mid-October Brad A. Johnson penned an intriguing piece for The Orange County Register about the arrival of the new Italian cuisine. The title of the piece is “This isn’t your father’s pasta: The future of Italian cuisine has arrived.” He characterizes it as “nothing short of a revolution.”

We’ll hear about this movement from Johnson along with the restaurants in Los Angeles and Orange County who are part of this exciting new wave.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Kedric Francis (Guest Host) and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Kedric Francis, Editor, Coast Magazine
Segment Three: Chef Richard Rosendale
Segment Four: Chef Charlie McKenna, Lillie’s Q
Segment Five: David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson, The 12 Bottle Bar
Segment Six: William Lewis, Managing Partner & Sommelier, The Winery Restaurant
Segment Seven: Brad A. Johnson, Restaurant Critic, Orange County Register Part One
Segment Eight: Brad A. Johnson, Restaurant Critic, Orange County Register Part Two

Show 18, February 23, 2013: Richard Rosendale, Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage, The Greenbrier, West Virginia &amp Bocuse d’Or USA Captain 2013

Richard Rosendale of the Greenbrier Resort in Sulphur Springs West VirginiaChef Rosendale represented the United States late last month at the Bocuse d’Or culinary competition in Lyon, France. It’s held every other year and is considered the pinnacle of international cooking competitions. The chefs have an intense five-and-one half hours to prepare a dazzling meat platter and a plated fish course which is then judged by an international panel of respected chefs.

Chef Rosendale and his commis, Corey Siegel, spent a year training every day for this prestigious competition. A duplicate of their kitchen in Lyon was created at The Greenbrier to practice in.

Team USA had a sizeable rooting section cheering them on in Lyon. Thomas Keller is the Bocuse d’Or USA foundation’s President and he was in Lyon, too. USA placed a respectable 7th Place which was in the upper third of the competitors.
Congratulations to Chef Rosendale for an incredible effort!

February 23: Richard Rosendale, Daniel Shemtob, Govind Armstrong, OC Restaurant Week

Podcasts

Segment One: Richard Rosendale, Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage, The Greenbrier, West Virginia & Bocuse d’Or USA Captain 2013”
Segment Two: Daniel Shemtob of The Lime Truck and TLT Food in Westwood Village, Part One
Segment Three: Daniel Shemtob of The Lime Truck and TLT Food in Westwood Village, Part Two
Segment Four: Govind Armstrong the Executive Chef and Co-Owner of Post & Beam in Baldwin Hills
Segment Five: Orange County Restaurant Week, February 24th to March 2nd, Part One
Segment Six: Orange County Restaurant Week, February 24th to March 2nd, Part Two

We’re all over these great United States today with celebrated chefs, a local food entrepreneur, and bargain dining at extraordinary restaurants in Orange County for the next week.

Richard Rosendale of the Greenbrier Resort in Sulphur Springs West VirginiaWhen we spoke with Thomas Keller back in December he was giving us the background on the talented American chef representing the USA in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or culinary competition in Lyon, France in late January. That distinguished chef is Richard Rosendale, the executive chef of the historic Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia.

Chef Rosendale is with us this morning to share the extraordinary experience of competing in the Bocuse d’Or on the international stage. If you think “Chopped” is tough wait until you hear what is required for this intense international competition! The winner comes as close to achieving perfection in the culinary arts as humanly possible…

Daniel ShemtobYou’ve no doubt heard about The Lime Truck, one of Orange County’s pioneering gourmet food trucks. Perhaps you’ve even enjoyed one of their Ultimate Tacos. It’s been so successful that there are now three of them on the road in Orange and Los Angeles Counties. The food is both original and tasty.

The fame of The Lime Truck is now national. In a spirited competition The Lime Truck deftly maneuvered it’s way across the USA on Food Network’s “Great Food Truck Race” (Season 2) and crossed the finish line first. That earned young food entrepreneur Daniel Shemtob and his colleagues a $50,000 cash prize.

Last year Daniel debuted his first bricks and mortar spot in Westwood Village. TLT Food has an expanded menu and a thoughtful collection of craft beers and boutique wines. You’ll actually see Daniel there regularly cooking!

Chef Govind Armstrong of Post and BeamOn Tuesday evening, February 26th super chef Marcus Samuelsson will be joining forces with Chef Govind Armstrong (Table 8) to present “A Taste of Harlem” at Govind’s new restaurant, Post & Beam, located in Baldwin Hills. The menu is reimagined soul classics. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to C-CAP Los Angeles.

Unfortunately the dinner reached capacity some two weeks ago. The good news is that an After Party benefiting C-CAP has been added so foodies will have a chance to meet Chef Marcus and Chef Armstrong and enjoy some good music.

Chef Govind Armstrong will be with us to talk about the festivities and how to obtain a coveted ticket for the After Party.

orange_county_restaurant_weekOrange County Restaurant Week (The 5th Annual) starts on Sunday and it’s your chance to experience Orange County’s best for lunch and dinner at very consumer-friendly special pricing! Yes, it’s a real bargain. The 2013 OC Restaurant Week will be held Sunday, February 24th through Saturday, March 2nd.

Explains Pamela Waitt, president of the OC Restaurant Association, “This year’s five-year anniversary will serve as a grand celebration as restaurants offer the best menus and ensure that diners will be presented with a truly special weeklong celebration. After all, the goal is for everyone involved to have fun!”

Executive Chef Roy Hendrickson of Zimzala Restaurant & Bar at The Shorebreak Hotel in Huntington Beach and proprietress/restaurateur Nancy Wilhelm and Executive Chef Rayne Frey of Tabu Grill in Laguna Beach will all be in-studio to reveal their ambitious menu creations for OC Restaurant Week.

Podcasts

Segment One: Richard Rosendale, Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage, The Greenbrier, West Virginia & Bocuse d’Or USA Captain 2013”
Segment Two: Daniel Shemtob of The Lime Truck and TLT Food in Westwood Village, Part One
Segment Three: Daniel Shemtob of The Lime Truck and TLT Food in Westwood Village, Part Two
Segment Four: Govind Armstrong the Executive Chef and Co-Owner of Post & Beam in Baldwin Hills
Segment Five: Orange County Restaurant Week, February 24th to March 2nd, Part One
Segment Six: Orange County Restaurant Week, February 24th to March 2nd, Part Two