Show 527, May 27, 2023: Zov’s Restaurants 35th Anniversary with Armen Karamardian Part One

Armen Karamardian of Zovs

Zov’s Bistro and Bakery, the renowned restaurant (started in Tustin) that has been delighting diners for 35 years with its unique Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, is celebrating multiple milestones this year – its 35th anniversary and expansion into San Clemente. What began as a catering company in 1987 has become one of Orange County’s most iconic multi-unit mainstays, continuing to make waves as it expands throughout Southern California.”

“Founded in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, Zov’s has been a staple in Orange County’s dining scene, earning numerous awards and accolades for its flavorful dishes, warm hospitality, and elegant ambiance. The Armenian immigrant credits family support as the foundation and inspiration throughout her culinary career. Her son, Armen, now leads the brand’s expansion as Zov’s CEO, and her daughter, Taleene, envisions its creative direction.”

“As Zov’s marks its 35th anniversary, Karamardian and her family look back on the restaurant’s journey with pride and gratitude for the loyal guests and dedicated staff who have supported its growth.”

“It’s been an incredible journey. My dream was fueled by my passion for cooking and a desire to bring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine to Orange County,” reflects Zov Karamardian. “Our loyal customers have been the driving force behind our success, and we’re excited to continue to serve them and new diners in the years to come.”

“In celebration of their 35th anniversary, Zov’s restaurant is proud to partner with the UCI Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute. A collaboration between Chef Zov Karamardian and UCI Samueli Institute’s Executive Chef Jessica VanRoo, the menu is a celebration of a shared commitment to the transformative power of the culinary arts to our health. Started in early May, Zov’s now offers a special 3-course menu for $35 complete with Roasted Beet Dip with tahini swirl and toasted pita, Pan Roasted Sea Bass, with seared zucchini cake and toasted feta in a lemon caper sauce, and for dessert, Chia Seed Yogurt with turmeric and fresh mango.”

“As a family-owned business, we are thrilled to be celebrating our 35th anniversary in Orange County,” said Armen Karamardian, CEO of Zov’s. “As we expand into San Clemente, our team provides a memorable dining experience with fresh, healthy ingredients and exceptional service. We can’t wait to share our passion for food and hospitality with the South Orange County community.”

Zov’s currently has three locations in Orange County, including Tustin, Irvine, and Newport Beach, and a sister concept, Roxy’z, in Anaheim.”

2nd generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian is our guide to all things Zov’s.

Show 527, May 27, 2023: Zov’s Restaurants 35th Anniversary with Armen Karamardian Part Two

Armen Karamardian of Zovs

Zov’s Bistro and Bakery, the renowned restaurant (started in Tustin) that has been delighting diners for 35 years with its unique Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, is celebrating multiple milestones this year – its 35th anniversary and expansion into San Clemente. What began as a catering company in 1987 has become one of Orange County’s most iconic multi-unit mainstays, continuing to make waves as it expands throughout Southern California.”

“Founded in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, Zov’s has been a staple in Orange County’s dining scene, earning numerous awards and accolades for its flavorful dishes, warm hospitality, and elegant ambiance. The Armenian immigrant credits family support as the foundation and inspiration throughout her culinary career. Her son, Armen, now leads the brand’s expansion as Zov’s CEO, and her daughter, Taleene, envisions its creative direction.”

“In celebration of their 35th anniversary, Zov’s restaurant is proud to partner with the UCI Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute. A collaboration between Chef Zov Karamardian and UCI Samueli Institute’s Executive Chef Jessica VanRoo, the menu is a celebration of a shared commitment to the transformative power of the culinary arts to our health. Started in early May, Zov’s now offers a special 3-course menu for $35 complete with Roasted Beet Dip with tahini swirl and toasted pita, Pan Roasted Sea Bass, with seared zucchini cake and toasted feta in a lemon caper sauce, and for dessert, Chia Seed Yogurt with turmeric and fresh mango.”

“As a family-owned business, we are thrilled to be celebrating our 35th anniversary in Orange County,” said Armen Karamardian, CEO of Zov’s. “As we expand into San Clemente, our team provides a memorable dining experience with fresh, healthy ingredients and exceptional service. We can’t wait to share our passion for food and hospitality with the South Orange County community.”

Zov’s currently has three locations in Orange County, including Tustin, Irvine, and Newport Beach, and a sister concept, Roxy’z, in Anaheim.”

2nd generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian continues as our guide to all things Zov’s.

Show 453, November 27, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s is a new concept with a full patio in the space at the corner of E. Katella Ave. and S. State College Blvd. in Anaheim that was originally opened as a Zov’s. The establishment just debuted at the start of the month. It’s a bit more casual than Zov’s. Perfect for a business lunch, a group gathering or a quick bite with a craft beer before heading off to Angel Stadium or Honda Center. Everything is scratch-made including the bar mixers. Roxy was Zov’s astute Mother and the restaurant is a loving tribute to her. Ample free parking is on-site. Second generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian is our guest with a Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich at the ready.

Farley Elliott is the always well-informed Senior Editor of Eater LA, covering the daily restaurant news beat in greater Los Angeles and, more recently, in Orange County. He’s also the author of Los Angeles Street Food: A History From Tamaleros to Taco Trucks. His work appears nationally in the online, print, and digital video space. He’s also the guy from that Tiny Hamsters Eating Tiny Burritos video. Farley joins us to discuss how restaurants are regrouping as the COVID-19 crisis mitigates and restaurants reopen with new challenges. Eater LA has also made a conscious decision to increase their coverage of the vibrant Orange County dining scene. Where is the SoCal restaurant business headed? We’ll ask Farley.

One of our most reliable sources of accurate restaurant news in fabulous Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is the former staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. After four and one-half years with the Review- Journal Al earlier this year embarked on more personal entrepreneurial ventures covering (without filters) the dynamic Vegas dining and beverage scene. He launched the weekly podcast, Food and Loathing focusing on a fresh approach conversing with Vegas food personalities and other local characters of note. Al Mancini is in the house.

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. Earlier in the month Chef Andrew was invited to Washington, DC to participate in a Congressional Small Business Roundtable with seven Members of Congress and a handful of select small business owners from around the USA. The Roundtable focused on small business taxes, regulations and reduced workforces. Chef Andrew details the unusual experience. (Rescheduled from two weeks ago.)

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

Show 453, November 27, 2021: Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s, Anaheim, with Armen Karamardian Part One

Armen Karamardian of Zovs

Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s is a new concept with a full patio in the space at the corner of E. Katella Ave. and S. State College Blvd. in Anaheim that originally opened as a Zov’s. The establishment just debuted at the start of the month. It’s a bit more casual than Zov’s. Perfect for a business lunch, a group gathering or a quick bite with a craft beer before heading off to Angel Stadium or Honda Center. Everything is scratch-made including the bar mixers. Roxy was Zov’s astute Mother and the restaurant is a loving tribute to her. Ample free parking is on-site.

On tap there is a serious bar program at Roxy’z. There are a rotating selection of Signature Cocktails and ten craft beers on tap plus a hand-selected assortment of distinctive bottled brews. Signature Cocktails include the Cucumber Greenie which is Tito’s Vodka, fresh-pressed cucumber and lime juice with pineapple/habanero shrub and house-made ginger beer. A complimentary selection of wines by the glass and bottle, too.

Naturally there is an assortment of hand-crafted pizzas on the menu. A standout is the Spicy Lamb Sausage with house-made lamb sausage, caramelized onions, pickled fresno chile, harissa, feta and organic tomato sauce. A signature is the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich with crispy buttermilk fried chicken, kale and napa cabbage slaw, a fresh pickle spear, chipotle and served on a toasted brioche bun. An appealing starter is the Pork Belly Hummus with slow-braised Duroc pork belly, house hummus, sumac, harissa and served with warm pita. An eye-catching dessert is the Apple Pie Pizza which is perfect for sharing.

Happy Hour is from 3 to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. $9.95 cocktails including Roxy’z House Margarita and Tito’s Moscow Mule with snacks like Eggplant Fries ($7.95) and Two Shrimp Tostados ($9.95.)

Roxy’z is part of the long-running and still growing Zov’s restaurant collection. “Founded in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, legendary Zov’s Bistro and Bakery in Tustin, CA has become a culinary institution and a locals favorite. The restaurants feature her unique cuisine that blends contemporary with Eastern Mediterranean influences, in an upscale chic environment.”

Second generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian is our guest with a Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich at the ready.

Show 453, November 27, 2021: Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s, Anaheim, with Armen Karamardian Part Two

Armen Karamardian of Zovs

Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s is a new concept with a full patio in the space at the corner of E. Katella Ave. and S. State College Blvd. in Anaheim that originally opened as a Zov’s. The establishment just debuted at the start of the month. It’s a bit more casual than Zov’s. Perfect for a business lunch, a group gathering or a quick bite with a craft beer before heading off to Angel Stadium or Honda Center. Everything is scratch-made including the bar mixers. Roxy was Zov’s astute Mother and the restaurant is a loving tribute to her. Ample free parking is on-site.

On tap there is a serious bar program at Roxy’z. There are a rotating selection of Signature Cocktails and ten craft beers on tap plus a hand-selected assortment of distinctive bottled brews. Signature Cocktails include the Cucumber Greenie which is Tito’s Vodka, fresh-pressed cucumber and lime juice with pineapple/habanero shrub and house-made ginger beer. A complimentary selection of wines by the glass and bottle, too.

Naturally there is an assortment of hand-crafted pizzas on the menu. A standout is the Spicy Lamb Sausage with house-made lamb sausage, caramelized onions, pickled fresno chile, harissa, feta and organic tomato sauce. A signature is the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich with crispy buttermilk fried chicken, kale and napa cabbage slaw, a fresh pickle spear, chipotle and served on a toasted brioche bun. An appealing starter is the Pork Belly Hummus with slow-braised Duroc pork belly, house hummus, sumac, harissa and served with warm pita. An eye-catching dessert is the Apple Pie Pizza which is perfect for sharing.

Happy Hour is from 3 to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. $9.95 cocktails including Roxy’z House Margarita and Tito’s Moscow Mule with snacks like Eggplant Fries ($7.95) and Two Shrimp Tostados ($9.95.)

Roxy’z is part of the long-running and still growing Zov’s restaurant collection. “Founded in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, legendary Zov’s Bistro and Bakery in Tustin, CA has become a culinary institution and a locals favorite. The restaurants feature her unique cuisine that blends contemporary with Eastern Mediterranean influences, in an upscale chic environment.”

Second generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian continues as our guest with a Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich at the ready.

November 27: Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s, Farley Elliott, Al Mancini

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s, Anaheim, with Armen Karamardian Part One
Segment Three: Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s, Anaheim, with Armen Karamardian Part Two
Segment Four: Farley Elliott, Senior Editor, Eater LA Part One
Segment Five: Farley Elliott, Senior Editor, Eater LA Part Two
Segment Six: Al Mancini, Las Vegas-based Food & Entertainment Journalist and creator of the “Food and Loathing” podcast Part One
Segment Seven: Al Mancini, Las Vegas-based Food & Entertainment Journalist and creator of the “Food and Loathing” podcast Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

No Thanksgiving leftovers here…

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

Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s is a new concept with a full patio in the space at the corner of E. Katella Ave. and S. State College Blvd. in Anaheim that was originally opened as a Zov’s. The establishment just debuted at the start of the month. It’s a bit more casual than Zov’s. Perfect for a business lunch, a group gathering or a quick bite with a craft beer before heading off to Angel Stadium or Honda Center. Everything is scratch-made including the bar mixers. Roxy was Zov’s astute Mother and the restaurant is a loving tribute to her. Ample free parking is on-site. Second generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian is our guest with a Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich at the ready.

Farley Elliott is the always well-informed Senior Editor of Eater LA, covering the daily restaurant news beat in greater Los Angeles and, more recently, in Orange County. He’s also the author of Los Angeles Street Food: A History From Tamaleros to Taco Trucks. His work appears nationally in the online, print, and digital video space. He’s also the guy from that Tiny Hamsters Eating Tiny Burritos video. Farley joins us to discuss how restaurants are regrouping as the COVID -19 crisis mitigates and restaurants reopen with new challenges. Eater LA has also made a conscious decision to increase their coverage of the vibrant Orange County dining scene. Where is the SoCal restaurant business headed? We’ll ask Farley.

One of our most reliable sources of accurate restaurant news in fabulous Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is the former staff writer for The Las Vegas Review- Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. After four and one-half years with the Review- Journal Al earlier this year embarked on more personal entrepreneurial ventures covering (without filters) the dynamic Vegas dining and beverage scene. He launched the weekly podcast, “Food and Loathing” focusing on a fresh approach conversing with Vegas food personalities and other local characters of note. Al Mancini is in the house.

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. Earlier in the month Chef Andrew was invited to Washington, DC to participate in a Congressional Small Business Roundtable with seven Members of Congress and a handful of select small business owners from around the USA. The Roundtable focused on small business taxes, regulations and reduced workforces. Chef Andrew details the unusual experience. (Rescheduled from two weeks ago.)

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

Armen Karamardian of Zovs

Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s is a new concept with a full patio in the space at the corner of E. Katella Ave. and S. State College Blvd. in Anaheim that was originally a Zov’s. The establishment just debuted at the start of the month. It’s a bit more casual than Zov’s. Perfect for a business lunch, a group gathering or a quick bite with a craft beer before heading off to Angel Stadium or Honda Center. Everything is scratch-made including the bar mixers. Roxy was Zov’s astute Mother and the restaurant is a loving tribute to her. Ample free parking is on-site.

On tap there is a serious bar program at Roxy’z. There are a rotating selection of Signature Cocktails and ten craft beers on tap plus a hand-selected assortment of distinctive bottled brews. Signature Cocktails include the Cucumber Greenie which is Tito’s Vodka, fresh-pressed cucumber and lime juice with pineapple/habanero shrub and house-made ginger beer. A complimentary selection of wines by the glass and bottle, too.

Naturally there are a variety of hand-crafted pizzas on the menu. A standout is the Spicy Lamb Sausage with house-made lamb sausage, caramelized onions, pickled fresno chile, harissa, feta and organic tomato sauce. A signature is the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich with crispy buttermilk fried chicken, kale and napa cabbage slaw, a fresh pickle spear, chipotle and served on a toasted brioche bun. An appealing starter is the Pork Belly Hummus with slow-braised Duroc pork belly, house hummus, sumac, harissa and served with warm pita. An eye-catching dessert is the Apple Pie Pizza which is perfect for sharing.

Happy Hour is from 3 to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. $9.95 cocktails including Roxy’z House Margarita and Tito’s Moscow Mule with snacks like Eggplant Fries ($7.95) and Two Shrimp Tostados ($9.95.)

Roxy’z is part of the growing Zov’s restaurant collection. “Founded in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, legendary Zov’s Bistro and Bakery in Tustin, CA has become a culinary institution and a locals favorite. The restaurants feature her unique cuisine that blends contemporary with Eastern Mediterranean influences, in an upscale chic environment.”

Second generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian is our guest with a Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich at the ready.

Farley Elliott at the KLAA Studios

Farley Elliott is the always well-informed Senior Editor of Eater LA, covering the daily restaurant news beat in greater Los Angeles and, more recently, in Orange County. He’s also the author of Los Angeles Street Food: A History From Tamaleros to Taco Trucks. His work appears nationally in the online, print, and digital video space. He’s also the guy from that Tiny Hamsters Eating Tiny Burritos video.

Farley joins us to discuss how restaurants are regrouping as the COVID -19 crisis mitigates and restaurants reopen with new challenges. Eater LA has also made a conscious decision to increase their coverage of the vibrant Orange County dining scene. Where is the evolving SoCal restaurant business headed? We’ll ask Farley.

Al Mancini of the Las Vegas Review Journal

One of our most reliable sources of accurate restaurant news in fabulous Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is the former staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. After four and one-half years with the Review-Journal Al earlier this year embarked on more personal entrepreneurial ventures covering (without filters) the dynamic Vegas dining and beverage scene. He launched the weekly podcast, Food and Loathing focusing on a fresh approach conversing with Vegas food personalities and other local characters of note.

We’ll hear about the standout restaurants in the massive, newly opened Resorts World on The Strip and Virgin Hotel Las Vegas. Also, the best in memorable sandwiches in the area and how the Vegas dining scene is bouncing back from the pandemic.

Al has been working the Vegas food scene for 20 years. He was one of the creators of the popular, and widely referenced, Eating Las Vegas restaurant guidebook series. Al joins us with his insider’s Las Vegas update.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

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

Earlier in the month Chef Andrew was invited to Washington, DC to participate in a Congressional Small Business Roundtable with seven Members of Congress and a handful of select small business owners from around the USA. The Roundtable focused on small business taxes, regulations and reduced workforces. Chef Andrew details the unusual experience. (Rescheduled from two weeks ago.)

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s, Anaheim, with Armen Karamardian Part One
Segment Three: Roxy’z Eat & Drink by Zov’s, Anaheim, with Armen Karamardian Part Two
Segment Four: Farley Elliott, Senior Editor, Eater LA Part One
Segment Five: Farley Elliott, Senior Editor, Eater LA Part Two
Segment Six: Al Mancini, Las Vegas-based Food & Entertainment Journalist and creator of the “Food and Loathing” podcast Part One
Segment Seven: Al Mancini, Las Vegas-based Food & Entertainment Journalist and creator of the “Food and Loathing” podcast Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”