Tag Archives: Rob Arellano

Show 451, November 13, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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“One of the most visually stunning demonstrations of talent and creativity within the architectural and engineering communities has returned for year seven through November 14, 2021. The annual CANstruction Long Beach event provides a much-needed source of non-perishable food for Food Finders to help eliminate hunger in the Long Beach community. The 7th annual CANstruction Long Beach competition benefiting Food Finders is being held at Trademark Brewing (at 233 E. Anaheim St.) with the completed installations available for viewing through Sunday, November 14, 2021. November 4th was “build day” starting at 8 a.m. CANstruction participants had twelve hours to design and build unique structures made entirely out of canned goods. The structures may be built up to 10’ x 10’ x 10’ and are comprised of 3,000-4,000 cans each. This year’s theme is “Don’t Let Hunger DRAG-ON!”, and participating teams depicted mythical creatures in any way they chose.” Organizer Terri Henry of Terri Henry Marketing, LLC joins us with all the event details.

“Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, will celebrate its third anniversary on Thursday, November 18 with a day of specials and live music from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary, Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga has cooked up new menu items influenced by Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine that combines a love for flavor with quality ingredients. Descanso Restaurant is known for the Plancha and Taco Bars, where friends and family can gather to watch the food be prepared in front of them. The restaurant also hosts weekly happenings including Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas, weekday Happy Hour, a midweek Lunch Special, and Wine Wednesdays featuring live music on the patio.” Owner Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga take a break from the anniversary festivities preparations and are our guests.

“Horses is a recently launched California restaurant and drinkery in West Hollywood with a nod to the European bistro. The inspiration for Horses comes from the original Ye Coach & Horses, a long -time bar and hideout for celebrities. Famous for being the perfect no-maintenance hang, people were devastated when its doors shuttered. Keeping true to the space, Horses pays homage to the Hollywood of yesterday. Upon entrance, you pass through the original 1934 moldings, tiled cafe flooring, and the eponymous horse in the famed bar room. You will walk past the original red booths and tables where Quentin Tarentino and Tim Roth first met. In its new incarnation, the spirit and magic is still alive. Horses is your classic bistro with a menu that is timeless and inspired by the bounty and seasonality of California. Small bites, classic libations, and a jovial spirit, Managing Partners and Chefs Will Aghajanian and Liz Johnson cook for the pleasure of the guest and the classic fare that inspired them as young cooks.”

“Alma Sol is a family-owned and operated, micro-boutique winery, sourcing premium fruit from both Estate and other top vineyard sites in the beautiful Paso Robles appellation. From the very beginning, the mission of Proprietors John and Lisa Cuevas Shaw has been to craft exceptional Bordeaux wines, both single varietals and special blends – though they will occasionally be inspired to produce limited releases of non-Bordeaux varietals as well.  Alma Sol hand-picks their grapes in small lots, respects the fruit, guide its natural potential, and simply focus on hands-on, artisan winemaking.” Proprietors John and Lisa Cuevas Shaw are our guests to uncork all that is Alma Sol Winery.

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

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Show 451, November 13, 2021: Descanso – A Modern Taqueria’s 3rd Anniversary

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Fonzy de Zuniga of Descanso Restaurant

“Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, will celebrate its third anniversary on Thursday, November 18 with a day of specials and live music from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary, Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga has cooked up new menu items influenced by Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine that combines a love for flavor with quality ingredients.”

“We continue to receive so much support from our community and are very excited to celebrate three years of business,” said Descanso Owner Rob Arellano. “We aim to create flavorful dishes for our guests, inspired by our passion for authentic Mexican recipes and look forward to continuing to share the memorable Descanso experience in the years to come.”

“Descanso Restaurant is known for the Plancha and Taco Bars, where friends and family can gather to watch the food be prepared in front of them. The restaurant also hosts weekly happenings including Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas, weekday Happy Hour, a midweek Lunch Special, and Wine Wednesdays featuring live music on the patio.”

Rob Arellano of Descanso Restaurant

“The new dinner and brunch dishes created by Descanso’s Executive Chef, Fonzy de Zuniga, are available now and put a spin on traditional recipes by incorporating fresh seafood, like shrimp, red snapper and salmon. The new brunch entrée, Eggs Benito, is Zuniga’s take on a “Mexican-style” eggs benedict with achiote marinated chicken, two poached eggs, agave morita glaze, hollandaise, avocado, bell peppers, grilled corn and onions on two tostadas. Along with new menu items, Descanso has crafted new cocktails, such as the Desperado and Mango Margarita that incorporate tropical flavors to pair with the new savory and spicy entrées.”

Owner Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga take a break from the anniversary festivities preparations and are our guests.

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November 13: CANstruction Long Beach, Descanso Restaurant, Horses, Alma Sol

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: CANstruction Long Beach 2021 with Producer Terri Henry
Segment Three: Descanso – A Modern Taqueria’s 3rd Anniversary
Segment Four: Chef Liz Johnson, Managing Partner, Horses Restaurant, West Hollywood Part One
Segment Five: Chef Liz Johnson, Managing Partner, Horses Restaurant, West Hollywood Part Two
Segment Six: John Shaw and Lisa Cuevas Shaw, Alma Sol Winery, Paso Robles Part One
Segment Seven: John Shaw and Lisa Cuevas Shaw, Alma Sol Winery, Paso Robles Part Two

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

“One of the most visually stunning demonstrations of talent and creativity within the architectural and engineering communities has returned for year seven through November 14, 2021. The annual CANstruction Long Beach event provides a much-needed source of non-perishable food for Food Finders to help eliminate hunger in the Long Beach community. The 7th annual CANstruction Long Beach competition benefiting Food Finders is being held at Trademark Brewing ( at 233 E. Anaheim St.) with the completed installations available for viewing through Sunday, November 14, 2021. November 4th was “build day” starting at 8 a.m. CANstruction participants had twelve hours to design and build unique structures made entirely out of canned goods. The structures may be built up to 10’ x 10’ x 10’ and are comprised of 3,000-4,000 cans each. This year’s theme is “Don’t Let Hunger DRAG-ON!”, and participating teams depicted mythical creatures in any way they chose.” Organizer Terri Henry of Terri Henry Marketing, LLC joins us with all the event details.

“Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, will celebrate its third anniversary on Thursday, November 18 with a day of specials and live music from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary, Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga has cooked up new menu items influenced by Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine that combines a love for flavor with quality ingredients. Descanso Restaurant is known for the Plancha and Taco Bars, where friends and family can gather to watch the food be prepared in front of them. The restaurant also hosts weekly happenings including Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas, weekday Happy Hour, a midweek Lunch Special, and Wine Wednesdays featuring live music on the patio.” Owner Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga take a break from the anniversary festivities preparations and are our guests.

“Horses is a recently launched California restaurant and drinkery with a nod to the European bistro. The inspiration for Horses comes from the original Ye Coach & Horses, a long-time bar and hideout for celebrities. Famous for being the perfect no-maintenance hang, people were devastated when its doors shuttered. Keeping true to the space, Horses pays homage to the Hollywood of yesterday. Upon entrance, you pass through the original 1934 moldings, tiled cafe flooring, and the eponymous horse in the famed bar room. You will walk past the original red booths and tables where Quentin Tarentino and Tim Roth first met. In its new incarnation, the spirit and magic is still alive. Horses is your classic bistro with a menu that is timeless and inspired by the bounty and seasonality of California. Small bites, classic libations, and a jovial spirit, Managing Partners and Chefs Will Aghajanian and Liz Johnson cook for the pleasure of the guest and the classic fare that inspired them as young cooks.”

“Alma Sol is a family-owned and operated, micro-boutique winery, sourcing premium fruit from both Estate and other top vineyard sites in the beautiful Paso Robles appellation. From the very beginning, the mission of Proprietors John and Lisa Shaw has been to craft exceptional Bordeaux wines, both single varietals and special blends – though they will occasionally be inspired to produce limited releases of non-Bordeaux varietals as well. Alma Sol hand-picks their grapes in small lots, respects the fruit, guide its natural potential, and simply focus on hands-on, artisan winemaking.” Proprietors John and Lisa Shaw are our guests to uncork all that is Alma Sol Winery.

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

Terri Henry of Dine LBC and Terri Henry Marketing

“One of the most visually stunning demonstrations of talent and creativity within the architectural and engineering communities returned for year through November 14, 2021. The annual CANstruction Long Beach event provides a much-needed source of unperishable food for Food Finders to help eliminate hunger in the Long Beach community.”

“The 7th annual CANstruction Long Beach competition benefiting Food Finders is being held at Trademark Brewing ( at 233 E. Anaheim St.) with the completed installations available for viewing through Sunday, November 14, 2021.”

“November 4th was “build day” starting at 8 a.m., CANstruction participants had twelve hours to design and build unique structures made entirely out of canned goods. The structures may be built up to 10’ x 10’ x 10’ and are comprised of 3,000-4,000 cans each. This year’s theme is “Don’t Let Hunger DRAG-ON!”, and participating teams depicted mythical creatures in any way they chose.”

“Three skilled teams made up from local architectural and engineering firms transformed thousands of cans of food into larger-than-life artistic masterpieces. The 2021 participants are WSP Engineering, Tuchscher Engineering Group and Precision Property Measurements.”

“Food Finders is excited to again be the beneficiary of the 7th annual Long Beach CANstruction”, said Diana Lara, Executive Director of Food Finders. “Postponed in 2020 due to COVID, the 2019 event generated a 10,000 pound plus donation of canned goods, and this unique event will continue to heighten awareness of food insecurity in our community and will play an important role in helping to feed those in need in our own backyard.”

“Our three talented teams have spent months designing their structures and are allowed only 12 hours to meticulously stack and color-coordinate their cans into ingenious feats of design”, added Terri Henry of terri henry marketing LLC, who organizes the event. “The ultimate donation of thousands of cans of food to feed the food insecure in our community makes it all worthwhile to the teams.”

Terri Henry of Terri Henry Marketing, LLC joins us with all the event details.

Fonzy de Zuniga of Descanso Restaurant

“Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria located in Costa Mesa, will celebrate its third anniversary on Thursday, November 18 with a day of specials and live music from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary, Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga has cooked up new menu items influenced by Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine that combines a love for flavor with quality ingredients.”

“We continue to receive so much support from our community and are very excited to celebrate three years of business,” said Descanso Owner Rob Arellano. “We aim to create flavorful dishes for our guests, inspired by our passion for authentic Mexican recipes and look forward to continuing to share the memorable Descanso experience in the years to come.”

“Descanso Restaurant is known for the Plancha and Taco Bars, where friends and family can gather to watch the food be prepared in front of them. The restaurant also hosts weekly happenings including Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas, weekday Happy Hour, a midweek Lunch Special, and Wine Wednesdays featuring live music on the patio.”

“The new dinner and brunch dishes created by Descanso’s Executive Chef, Fonzy de Zuniga, are available now and put a spin on traditional recipes by incorporating fresh seafood, like shrimp, red snapper and salmon. The new brunch entrée, Eggs Benito, is Zuniga’s take on a “Mexican-style” eggs benedict with achiote marinated chicken, two poached eggs, agave morita glaze, hollandaise, avocado, bell peppers, grilled corn and onions on two tostadas. Along with new menu items, Descanso has crafted new cocktails, such as the Desperado and Mango Margarita that incorporate tropical flavors to pair with the new savory and spicy entrées.”

Owner Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga take a break from the anniversary festivities preparations and are our guests.

Liz Johnson of Horses Restaurant

“Horses is a recently launched California restaurant and drinkery with a nod to the European bistro. The inspiration for Horses comes from the original Ye Coach & Horses, a long-time bar and hideout for celebrities. Famous for being the perfect no-maintenance hang, people were devastated when its doors shuttered.”

“Keeping true to the space, Horses pays homage to the Hollywood of yesterday. Upon entrance, you pass through the original 1934 moldings, tiled cafe flooring, and the eponymous horse in the famed bar room. You will walk past the original red booths and tables where Quentin Tarentino and Tim Roth first met. In its new incarnation, the spirit and magic is still alive.”

“Horses is your classic bistro with a menu that is timeless and inspired by the bounty and seasonality of California. Small bites, classic libations, and a jovial spirit, Managing Partners and Chefs Will Aghajanian and Liz Johnson cook for the pleasure of the guest and the classic fare that inspired them as young cooks.”

“Horses is the first solo venture, and the most important work to date, for Chefs Will Aghajanian and Liz Johnson. As the visionaries behind the project, the duo is responsible for concept creation, interior design, menu development, as well as the day-to-day operations of the restaurant.”

“Running the kitchen, Aghajanian and Johnson have tapped Brittany Ha and Lee Pallerino as Co-Executive Chefs of Horses. Ha began her culinary career at Roberta’s in New York City. During those three years at an ambitious, creative and wild restaurant, she serendipitously met Lee Pallerino, who was the sous chef at the Michelin star Brooklyn eatery. Their journey continued together through restaurant openings, busy services, cross country moves, and now as co-chefs.”

Chef and Managing Partner Liz Johnson takes a break from her busy kitchen and joins us.

John Shaw of Alma Sol Winery

“Alma Sol is a family-owned and operated, micro-boutique winery, sourcing premium fruit from both Estate and other top vineyard sites in the beautiful Paso Robles appellation. From the very beginning, the mission has been to craft exceptional Bordeaux wines, both single varietals and special blends – though they will occasionally be inspired to produce limited releases of non-Bordeaux varietals as well. Alma Sol hand-picks their grapes in small lots, respects the fruit, guide its natural potential, and simply focus on hands-on, artisan winemaking.”

“It all began in 2002, during weekend trips to the family’s vineyard in Paso Robles and spending more time with the family business. In Paso Robles, they found the winemakers and winery owners highly accessible and approachable – so much so, that they came to know the area and the industry extremely well in little time. It started with learning about vineyard practices, the kinds of varietals that grow well in the area, and then gradually extended into learning about the entire winemaking operation.”

“John and Lisa became officially licensed in 2009 under the name of Alma Sol, which brings together two critical elements needed to craft exceptional wines – “soul” and “sun”. While Paso is well-known for its Zinfandel – and more recently, award-winning Rhone varietals and blends – John and Lisa decided that they wanted to make the best Cabernet Sauvignon they could by using Paso Robles fruit, to prove that a great Bordeaux could be realized in the Central Coast. Their first commercial vintage was in 2009. The inaugural releases received numerous accolades, including 90 Pts from Wine Enthusiast.”

“John and Lisa run the entire operation on their own. On the operations side, this includes overseeing the Alma Sol estate vineyard, scouting and selecting fruit sources beyond the estate vineyard, harvesting and processing the fruit, selecting and managing the barrel program to draw out distinctive flavor profiles, designing and creating the wine label and packaging, bottling, warehousing, and marketing and selling. All of this is done with a primary goal of sharing and distributing these hand-crafted wines among local communities in Southern California and beyond.”

Proprietors John and Lisa Shaw are our guests to uncork all that is Alma Sol Winery.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: CANstruction Long Beach 2021 with Producer Terri Henry
Segment Three: Descanso – A Modern Taqueria’s 3rd Anniversary
Segment Four: Chef Liz Johnson, Managing Partner, Horses Restaurant, West Hollywood Part One
Segment Five: Chef Liz Johnson, Managing Partner, Horses Restaurant, West Hollywood Part Two
Segment Six: John Shaw and Lisa Cuevas Shaw, Alma Sol Winery, Paso Robles Part One
Segment Seven: John Shaw and Lisa Cuevas Shaw, Alma Sol Winery, Paso Robles Part Two

Show 394, October 10, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Caroline Styne is the Co-Proprietor (with Chef Suzanne Goin) of The Lucques Group. Caroline is an active member of the nationwide Independent Restaurant Coalition. Their main objective is to get the Federal Restaurants Act passed. a.o.c. in Los Angeles is back with dine-in. The wholesale Larder Baking Co. now has a variety of bread and pastry packages available To-Go at retail. Cassoulet Night by Lucques Catering returns on Saturday evening, October 24th for socially distanced sit-down dining in The Courtyard at Maple Drive in Beverly Hills and for takeout / delivery orders via TOCK. Caroline joins us to talk about the efforts of the Independent Restaurant Coalition and what is available for guests from the Lucques Group establishments at present.

Halleck Vineyard, known for their award-winning Pinot Noirs, is a family journey of business partners Jennifer and Ross Halleck. They planted the Halleck Vineyard in 1993, the very first in the hills of Sebastopol, in western Sonoma County. Intended as a college fund for their infant son, two more sons and six years later until their first harvest, this seemed a flight of fancy. “A one- acre site, Halleck Vineyard is perched above the Russian River watershed and flanked on the west by the slopes to the Pacific Ocean. It commands an expansive view of the rolling Sonoma County hills to the northeast. A passion for Pinot leads the charge of the Halleck wines.” Proprietor & Vintner Ross Halleck pulls the cork on Halleck Vineyard for us.

“Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa delivers a unique Mexican dining experience as a modern taqueria that celebrates authentic Mexican flavors and recipes executed on a traditional Plancha and prepared a la minute in front of the guest. With new Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga at the helm, the full-service restaurant is committed to providing only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and does not believe in cooking with lard or using can openers. Drawing guests into the cooking experience as classic Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is made to order, the restaurant’s lively setting celebrates tradition while bringing in the music, smells, and energy of a busy Mexican town.” Managing Partner & Concept Creator Rob Arellano joins us with all the enticing details of what Descanso has available for the dining public right now.

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. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. We hear the term “sustainable” used quite often. It’s a lofty goal. What does it actually entail for a restaurant to be sustainable? Sustainable equals quality. Takeout and delivery are burgeoning right now. Disposable containers and packaging are in high use. What can a restaurant do so their food arrives intact and at the right temperature but uses packaging that is more environmentally friendly, too. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Show 394, October 10, 2020: Rob Arellano, Managing Partner, Descanso Restaurant, Costa Mesa

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Rob Arellano of Descanso Restaurant“Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa delivers a unique Mexican dining experience as a modern taqueria that celebrates authentic Mexican flavors and recipes executed on a traditional Plancha and prepared a la minute in front of the guest. With new Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga at the helm, the full-service restaurant is committed to providing only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and does not believe in cooking with lard or using can openers. Drawing guests into the cooking experience as classic Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is made to order, the restaurant’s lively setting celebrates tradition while bringing in the music, smells, and energy of a busy Mexican town.”

Descanso Restaurant has just resumed midweek lunch service. Featuring all-new items, the menu of Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is available inside, to-go and al fresco on the restaurant’s 1,500 square-foot patio.

“The modern taqueria’s fresh and vibrant menu introduces the Mexibol, a new offering filled with bold flavors and nourishing ingredients including refried pinto beans, Mexican fried rice, pico de gallo, avocado toreado salsa, salsa frita, tortilla chips and a choice of protein or vegetables.”

Descanso hosts weekly Wine Wednesday from 3 to 9:00 p.m. The bonus is live music on the patio with TIAN playing acoustic Latin hits and modern favorites with a Latin twist. Five Dollar wines by the glass are available plus half-off on select bottles.

Managing Partner and Concept Creator Rob Arellano joins us with all the details of what Descanso has available for the hungry dining public right now.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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October 10: Caroline Styne, Halleck Vineyard, Descanso Restaurant

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group Part One
Segment Three: Restaurateur Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group Part Two
Segment Four: Halleck Vineyard with Proprietor Ross Halleck Part One
Segment Five: Halleck Vineyard with Proprietor Ross Halleck Part Two
Segment Six: Rob Arellano, Managing Partner, Descanso Restaurant, Costa Mesa
Segment Seven: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef” Part One
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef” Part Two

James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Caroline Styne is the Co-Proprietor (with Chef Suzanne Goin) of The Lucques Group. Caroline is an active member of the nationwide Independent Restaurant Coalition. Their main objective is to get the Federal Restaurants Act passed. a.o.c in Los Angeles is back with dine-in. The wholesale Larder Baking Co. now has a variety of bread and pastry packages available To-Go at retail. Cassoulet Night by Lucques Catering returns on Saturday evening, October 24th for socially distanced sit-down dining in The Courtyard at Maple Drive in Beverly Hills and for takeout / delivery orders via TOCK. Caroline joins us to talk about the efforts of the Independent Restaurant Coalition and what is available for guests from the Lucques Group establishments at present.

Halleck Vineyard, known for their award-winning Pinot Noirs, is a family journey of business partners Jennifer and Ross Halleck. They planted the Halleck Vineyard in 1993, the very first in the hills of Sebastopol, in western Sonoma County. Intended as a college fund for their infant son, two more sons and six years later until their first harvest, this seemed a flight of fancy. “A one- acre site, Halleck Vineyard is perched above the Russian River watershed and flanked on the west by the slopes to the Pacific Ocean. It commands an expansive view of the rolling Sonoma County hills to the northeast.  A passion for Pinot leads the charge of the Halleck wines.” Proprietor & Vintner Ross Halleck pulls the cork on Halleck Vineyard for us.

“Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa delivers a unique Mexican dining experience as a modern taqueria that celebrates authentic Mexican flavors and recipes executed on a traditional Plancha and prepared a la minute in front of the guest. With new Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga at the helm, the full-service restaurant is committed to providing only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and does not believe in cooking with lard or using can openers. Drawing guests into the cooking experience as classic Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is made to order, the restaurant’s lively setting celebrates tradition while bringing in the music, smells, and energy of a busy Mexican town.” Managing Partner & Concept Creator Rob Arellano joins us with all the enticing details of what Descanso has available for the dining public right now.

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. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. We hear the term “sustainable” used quite often. It’s a lofty goal. What does it actually entail for a restaurant to be sustainable? Takeout and delivery are burgeoning right now. Disposable containers and packaging are in high use. What can a restaurant do so their food arrives intact and at the right temperature but uses packaging that is more environmentally friendly, too. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Caroline Styne of Lucques Restaurant GroupJames Beard Award-winning restaurateur Caroline Styne is the Co-Proprietor (with Chef Suzanne Goin) of The Lucques Group. Caroline is an active member of the nationwide Independent Restaurant Coalition. Their primary objective is to get the Federal Restaurants Act passed. The Independent Restaurant Coalition is fighting to save local restaurants affected by COVID-19.

a.o.c. in Los Angeles is back with dine-in as well as takeaway. The wholesale Larder Baking Co. has a variety of bread and pastry packages available To-Go at retail. Cassoulet Night by Lucques Catering returns on Saturday evening, October 24th for socially distanced sit-down dining in The Courtyard at Maple Drive in Beverly Hills and for takeout / delivery orders via TOCK.

Caroline joins us to talk about the efforts of the Independent Restaurant Coalition and what is currently available for hungry guests from the Lucques Group establishments.

Ross Halleck of Halleck VineyardHalleck Vineyard, known for their award-winning Pinot Noir’s, is a family journey of business partners Jennifer and Ross Halleck.

“They planted the Halleck Vineyard in 1993, the very first in the hills of Sebastopol, in western Sonoma County. Intended as a college fund for their infant son, two more sons and six years later until their first harvest, this seemed a flight of fancy.”

“A one- acre site, Halleck Vineyard is perched above the Russian River watershed and flanked on the west by the slopes to the Pacific Ocean. It commands an expansive view of the rolling Sonoma County hills to the northeast. A passion for Pinot leads the charge of the Halleck wines.”

“In 2019, Halleck Vineyard was again judged “BEST OF CLASS” in the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition in North America. Sunset Magazine anointed the Halleck Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc “BEST OF CLASS” in the United States, and the California State Fair judged the Halleck Dry Gewurztraminer #1 White Wine in California.”

“The Halleck Vineyard logo represents an H for Halleck. More importantly, it expresses “one-to-one”, depicted as Roman numerals.  We hope to foster a personal connection with everyone who enjoys our wine. Hence we invite people to our home, travel to meet them, share meals, and invite them on trips around the world.”

“Viewing the dot as a grape, it has served as a plant of power for over 8,000 years, 1,000 years before Mesopotamia and the birth of civilization. It was most certainly in the realm of the spiritual practitioner, healer, or shaman. Wine is viewed as sacred in almost all the major religions. And for good reason. It has the unique ability to connect us, elevating a conversation and enhancing intimacy, building community.”

“The circle represents our community. Our mission is “Building Community Through Wine.””

We’ll meet Owner & Vintner Ross Halleck.

Rob Arellano of Descanso Restaurant“Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa delivers a unique Mexican dining experience as a modern taqueria that celebrates authentic Mexican flavors and recipes executed on a traditional Plancha and prepared a la minute in front of the guest. With new Executive Chef Fonzy de Zuniga at the helm, the full-service restaurant is committed to providing only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and does not believe in cooking with lard or using can openers. Drawing guests into the cooking experience as classic Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is made to order, the restaurant’s lively setting celebrates tradition while bringing in the music, smells, and energy of a busy Mexican town.”

Descanso Restaurant has just resumed midweek lunch service. Featuring all-new items, the menu of Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine is available inside, to-go and al fresco on the restaurant’s 1,500 square-foot patio.

“The modern taqueria’s fresh and vibrant menu introduces the Mexibol, a new offering filled with bold flavors and nourishing ingredients including refried pinto beans, Mexican fried rice, pico de gallo, avocado toreado salsa, salsa frita, tortilla chips and a choice of protein or vegetables.”

Managing Partner and Concept Creator Rob Arellano joins us with all the details of what Descanso has available for the hungry dining public right now.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant GroupOur 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. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Dine-in is slowly, with multiple hiccups, starting to come back but with a lot of new rules that restrict guest counts. Alternately Take-Out / Delivery when you can surely helps…

We hear the term “sustainable” used quite often. It’s a goal. What does it entail for a restaurant to be sustainable? Takeout and delivery are burgeoning right now. Disposable containers and packaging are in high use. What can a restaurant do so their food arrives intact and at the right temperature but uses packaging that is environmentally friendly, too. We’ll “Ask the Chef”.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurateur Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group Part One
Segment Three: Restaurateur Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group Part Two
Segment Four: Halleck Vineyard with Proprietor Ross Halleck Part One
Segment Five: Halleck Vineyard with Proprietor Ross Halleck Part Two
Segment Six: Rob Arellano, Managing Partner, Descanso Restaurant, Costa Mesa
Segment Seven: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef” Part One
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef” Part Two

Show 363, March 7, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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Now an inspiring preview of this Saturday’s scrumptious show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will hopefully leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without you.

“Orange County Restaurant Week, possibly the region’s most eagerly anticipated Restaurant Week for more than a decade, returns Sunday, March 8th through Saturday, March 14th. This year, nearly 150 restaurants will participant in OC Restaurant Week, offering diners a wide variety of options, from casual and family friendly establishments, to upscale and fine dining, which will once again allow for a “luxe experience” with a select group of menus priced at a $80 price point! This year, the Cocktails of Restaurant Week will be highlighted to complete dining experiences and many participating restaurants will offer a Spicy Food Lover option for the many flavor cravers out there!”

Descanso – A Modern Taqueria’s (Costa Mesa) Proprietor (Rob Arellano) and Executive Chef (Sergio Ortega) joins us as well as the Proprietor / Executive Chef (Cathy Pavlos) of Newport Beach’s Provenance with an enticing preview.

“In 2017, Andy and Kim Busch started a business in their 50’s which they knew nothing about. Andy, coming from a long line of St. Louis beer barons, had worked not in the beverage business but rather at Grant’s Farm, the original prototype for the Busch Gardens parks started by his father, Gussie. Their newest property, Folded Hills Winery, Farmstead, Ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley, focuses on top notch wine making rather than beer.” Proprietress Kim Busch and General Manger Tymari Lore are our guests and gently pull the cork on the unusual story of Folded Hills Winery for us.

“Inspired by the mixture of fun and learning about food and drink for which Julia Child, a longtime resident and fan of Santa Barbara, advocated so passionately, the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience (SBCE) in partnership with the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, welcomes visitors and the local community from March 13th to 16th to celebrate the bounty of what is grown in and around this beautiful region.” Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger of Border Grill (Los Angeles and Las Vegas) and SOCALO (Santa Monica) fame are behind “Border Grill on the Beach: SBCE Signature Luncheon” on March 14th in Santa Barbara. Susan Feniger temps us with all the details and remembers Julia Child.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us from the road with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. Tuna in a can is represented in most home pantries. Very versatile in uses for a quick, satisfying meal. Who can resist a premium Tuna Melt? Is all canned tuna about the same ? Is it okay to buy just what’s on special ? Chef Andrew gently suggests otherwise. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

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Show 363, March 7, 2020: Descanso’s Proprietor Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Sergio Ortega Previewing OC Restaurant Week

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Sergio Ortega of Descanso Modern Taqueria“Orange County Restaurant Week, possibly the region’s most eagerly anticipated Restaurant Week for more than a decade, returns Sunday, March 8th through Saturday, March 14th. This year, nearly 150 restaurants will participant in OC Restaurant Week, offering diners a wide variety of options, from casual and family friendly establishments, to upscale and fine dining, which will once again allow for a “luxe experience” with a select group of menus priced at a $80 price point! For 2020 the Cocktails of Restaurant Week will be highlighted to complete dining experiences and many participating restaurants will offer a Spicy Food Lover option for the many flavor cravers out there!”

Executive Chef Sergio Ortega of Costa Mesa’s Descanso – A Modern Taqueria (along with Proprietor Rob Arellano) are participating in OC Restaurant Week. Descanso is featuring both a $15 Lunch menu as well as a $30 Dinner menu. Think special OC Restaurant Week cocktails, too. Chef Sergio also is highlighting a spicy food menu item, a pair of carnitas tacos with Habanero salsa.

Chef Ortega and Rob Arellano join us with a salivating menu preview.

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March 7: OC Restaurant Week, Provenance, Descanso – A Modern Taqueria, Folded Hills Winery, Susan Feniger

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Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Owner / Chef Cathy Pavlos of Provenance Previewing OC Restaurant Week
Segment Three: Descanso’s Proprietor Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Sergio Ortega Previewing OC Restaurant Week
Segment Four: Folded Hills, Winery, Farmstead and Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley Part One
Segment Five: Folded Hills, Winery, Farmstead and Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley Part Two
Segment Six: Chef Susan Feniger Previewing the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience Part One
Segment Seven: Chef Susan Feniger Previewing the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Now an inspiring preview of this Saturday’s scrumptious show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will hopefully leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without you.

“Orange County Restaurant Week, possibly the region’s most eagerly anticipated Restaurant Week for more than a decade, returns Sunday, March 8th through Saturday, March 14th. This year, nearly 150 restaurants will participant in OC Restaurant Week, offering diners a wide variety of options, from casual and family friendly establishments, to upscale and fine dining, which will once again allow for a “luxe experience” with a select group of menus priced at a $80 price point! This year, the Cocktails of Restaurant Week will be highlighted to complete dining experiences and many participating restaurants will offer a Spicy Food Lover option for the many flavor cravers out there!”

Descanso – A Modern Taqueria’s (Costa Mesa) Proprietor (Rob Arellano) and Executive Chef (Sergio Ortega) joins us as well as the Proprietor / Executive Chef (Cathy Pavlos) of Newport Beach’s Provenance with an enticing preview.

“In 2017, Andy and Kim Busch started a business in their 50’s which they knew nothing about.  Andy, coming from a long line of St. Louis beer barons, had worked not in the beverage business but rather at Grant’s Farm, the original prototype for the Busch Gardens parks started by his father, Gussie. Their newest property, Folded Hills Winery, Farmstead, Ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley, focuses on top notch wine making rather than beer.” Proprietress Kim Busch and General Manger Tymari Lore are our guests and gently pull the cork on the unusual story of Folded Hills Winery for us.

“Inspired by the mixture of fun and learning about food and drink for which Julia Child, a longtime resident and fan of Santa Barbara, advocated so passionately, the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience (SBCE) in partnership with the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, welcomes visitors and the local community from March 13th to 16th to celebrate the bounty of what is grown in and around this beautiful region.” Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger of Border Grill (Los Angeles and Las Vegas) fame are behind “Border Grill on the Beach : SBCE Signature Luncheon” on March 14th in Santa Barbara. Susan Feniger temps us with all the details.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us from the road with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. Tuna in a can is represented in most home pantries. Very versatile in uses for a quick, satisfying meal. Who can resist a premium Tuna Melt? Is all canned tuna about the same ? Is it okay to buy just what’s on special ? Chef Andrew gently suggests otherwise. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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

Cathy Pavlos of Provenance“Orange County Restaurant Week, possibly the region’s most eagerly anticipated Restaurant Week for more than a decade, returns Sunday, March 8th through Saturday, March 14th. This year, nearly 150 restaurants will participant in OC Restaurant Week, offering diners a wide variety of options, from casual and family friendly establishments, to upscale and fine dining, which will once again allow for a “luxe experience” with a select group of menus priced at a $80 price point! For 2020 the Cocktails of Restaurant Week will be highlighted to complete dining experiences and many participating restaurants will offer a Spicy Food Lover option for the many flavor cravers out there!”

Proprietor / Executive Chef (Cathy Pavlos) of Newport Beach’s Provenance is again a participating restaurant in OC Restaurant Week. Provenance is featuring both a $20 Lunch menu as well as a $40 Dinner menu. Chef Cathy also is showcasing a spicy food menu item, a spicy chicken pasta.

Chef Cathy joins us with an enticing menu preview.

Sergio Ortega of Descanso Modern TaqueriaExecutive Chef Sergio Ortega of Costa Mesa’s Descanso – A Modern Taqueria (along with Proprietor Rob Arellano) are participating in OC Restaurant Week. Descanso is featuring both a $15 Lunch menu as well as a $30 Dinner menu. Think special OC Restaurant Week cocktails, too. Chef Sergio also is highlighting a spicy food menu item, a pair of carnitas tacos with Habanero salsa.

Chef Ortega and Rob Arellano join us with a salivating menu preview.

Kim Busch of Folded Hills“In 2017, Andy and Kim Busch started a business in their 50’s which they knew nothing about. Andy, coming from a long line of beer barons, had worked not in the beverage business but rather at Grant’s Farm, the original prototype for the Busch Gardens parks started by his father, Gussie. Folded Hills Winery, Farmstead, Ranch focuses on top notch wine making rather than beer.”

“The Busch’s own Folded Hills, a working ranch, an integrated sustainable farm is located just outside of Santa Barbara in the Santa Ynez Valley. When they purchased a contiguous piece of farming property they learned that the original farmsteader had planted a pre-prohibition vineyard and made wine in the basement of his farmhouse.”

“The Busches had purchased the property to keep the land agricultural in general and organic in particular and in 2014 decided to start farming organic grapes alongside the 18 acres of organic row crops, stone fruits, and animals.”

“As they were deciding what grape varietals to plant everyone told them to “plant what they love to drink”.  Andy loves beer – that was no help- although they do have a small patch of hops growing. Kim loved Pinot Noir but the terroir would not grow a quality Pinot.  They settled on the Rhône varietals which they knew absolutely nothing about. Now the hillsides are rolling with grape vines of syrah, grenache, Clairette blanc, grenache blanc and marsanne.”

Tasting Rooms are located at the vineyard estate in Gaviota and on Old Coast Highway in Montecito.

Tymar Llore of Folded Hills“This is a heart project for the Busches and they wanted to bring some of their mid-West roots and family heritage to the project.  Many of the wines have names that harken back to their iconic St. Louis history.”

“Their award- winning Lilly Rosé is named for six generations of Lilly’s.” From Lilly Anheuser who married Adolphus Busch in 1861, to their 3 -year old grand-daughter, Lilly. The Grant Grenache is named for the family seat in St. Louis, Grant’s Farm, which was named for Ulysses S. Grant, the original farmsteader of the that land.  The August Red and August White are named for Andy’s grandfather and father, August Busch Sr. And Jr. His father, August, Jr., or Gussie, was the one who gave his father the first Clydesdale hitch to celebrate the repeal of Prohibition in 1934.

“The Busches still ponder why they decided to launch a business that they knew so little about, so late in life, after their children had left home.  But it is working. Folded Hills has won many awards for the wines which are grown organically, following the biodynamic calendar. The wines are hand-crafted in small batches with minimal intervention.”

“They have no commercial additives, minimal sulfur, no residual sugar and less than 1 gram of carbs. Just as Andy’s ancestors insisted before him, quality is the Folded Hills standard. The Busches create raves for guests to their two tasting rooms (at the vineyard estate and in Montecito), and have adopted Andy’s father, Gussie’s, motto,” making friends is our business”.”

Proprietress Kim Busch and General Manger Tymari Lore are our guests and gently pull the cork on the unusual story of Folded Hills Winery for us.

Susan Feniger of Socalo and Border Grill“Inspired by the mixture of fun and learning about food and drink for which Julia Child, a longtime resident and fan of Santa Barbara, advocated so passionately, the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience (SBCE) in partnership with the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, welcomes visitors and the local community from March 13th to 16th to celebrate the bounty of what is grown in and around this beautiful region. “Join us to celebrate, learn and invoke Julia’s spirit, while shining a light on Santa Barbara’s culinary, hospitality, tourism and artisan communities.””

Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger of Border Grill (Los Angeles and Las Vegas) fame are behind “Border Grill on the Beach: SBCE Signature Luncheon” on March 14th in Santa Barbara.

Mary Sue and Susan are also the past recipients of the prestigious Julia Child Award.

“Join Julia Child Award recipients Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, chefs and owners of Border Grill and Socalo restaurants, as they take you on a culinary journey through their signature modern Mexican dishes. Chefs Mary Sue and Susan are best known for their critically acclaimed conscientiously-sourced, seasonal SoCal Mexican fare in Los Angeles and Las Vegas and as Food Network’s Too Hot Tamales. Enjoy curated cocktails by Elyx Absolut, Jackson Family Wines and Calidad Mexican-Style Lager.”

Susan Feniger is with us providing all the details.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoOur own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us from the road with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment. Tuna in a can is represented in most home pantries. It’s very versatile in uses for a quick meal. Is all canned tuna really about the same? Is it okay to buy just what’s on special? Chef Andrew gently suggests otherwise.

We’ll find out why sustainably caught tuna is worthy of your attention.

We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Owner / Chef Cathy Pavlos of Provenance Previewing OC Restaurant Week
Segment Three: Descanso’s Proprietor Rob Arellano and Executive Chef Sergio Ortega Previewing OC Restaurant Week
Segment Four: Folded Hills, Winery, Farmstead and Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley Part One
Segment Five: Folded Hills, Winery, Farmstead and Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley Part Two
Segment Six: Chef Susan Feniger Previewing the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience Part One
Segment Seven: Chef Susan Feniger Previewing the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 333, July 20, 2019: Show Preview with Co Host Andy Harris

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Now an intriguing preview of Saturday’s mouthwatering show.

It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Couldn’t do it without you.

The 6th annual Stu and the Kids Flavors of Asia Food Fest Fundraiser, an exceptional Thai-flavored Food & Wine Festival hosted by Chef Stuart Skversky with the help of his friends, returns to Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, August 4, 2019. The event is a rare chance to experience original dishes created by Los Angeles’ Asian-food-loving chefs expressed through Far East influences and personal styles that have impressed guests since the inception of the event in 2014. All of the proceeds from this benefit are used towards scholarships for university education to help underserved and orphaned Hill Tribe kids in Chiang Mai, Thailand. <strong>Chef Stu and Host Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird & Vibiana crack the coconut for us.

Love and Salt is a restaurant story that begins with Cafe Pierre, a local classic restaurant birthed by Guy Gabriele in 1977 to bring a taste of France to Los Angeles’ South Bay. While Cafe Pierre was a beloved part of the community for nearly 37 years, in 2014, Guy and his daughter Sylvie Gabriele, now the owner of Love & Salt, closed the restaurant to bring new life to the iconic space with a new look and Italian flair. As of last year a creative new chef (Chris Feldmeier ex- Moruno) is behind the stoves. We now chat with Chef Chris Feldmeier about the enhancements in the menu.

“Descanso is a modern taqueria in that it celebrates authentic Mexican flavors and recipes executed on a traditional plancha and prepared a la minute in front of you, in a full-service setting. Concept creator and proprietor Rob Arellano pulled from his own Mexican heritage to create a never-before-seen restaurant experience rooted in nostalgia and comfort, that speaks to how we live and eat today. You, our guest, will come face to face with the chef as Mexican classics are made to order in a lively setting that brings in the smells, sounds and energy of a busy Mexican town.” Descanso was one of Orange Coast Magazine’s 2019 Best New Restaurants. Rob Arellano is our guest.

Time for another refreshing & effervescent installment of “Ask the Brewers” where we answer listeners’ questions about craft beer. Joining us is Golden Road’s uber-accomplished Brewmaster, Victor Novak and Anaheim Head Brewer Steven Torres.

Porto’s Bakery & Café started modestly in the greater L.A. area in the 1960s and has grown steadily since then becoming a popular, local and revered institution. Founder Rosa Porto’s life took an unexpected turn back at the beginning when she and her family made the difficult decision to leave their beloved Cuba and emigrate to the United States. Out of a job, Rosa relied on her love of baking and began selling cakes out of her house for her neighbors and friends to support her family. Porto’s has gradually grown into five existing locations in Glendale, Burbank, Downey, Buena Park, and the newly opened West Covina. Betty Porto, Vice President of Community and Guest Relations for Porto’s is our guest.

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

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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