Show 697, September 19, 2026: Executive Chef Govind Armstrong, The Lobster, Santa Monica

Posted on September 21, 2026 by Adam Bell

Santa Monica’s iconic seafood destination, The Lobster, is celebrating their 27^th Anniversary this year. “A seafood restaurant has been in this original location for over 100 years. This legendary seafood spot is an internationally recognized dining destination that is as much a part of Santa Monica’s history as it’s next-door neighbor, the Santa Monica Pier.”

“Situated at the intersection of Route 66 and the Pacific Ocean, The Lobster has been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors for decades, offering not only mesmerizing views of the Santa Monica Pier and Malibu coastline but also an award-winning seafood menu under the masterful guidance of acclaimed Chef Govind Armstrong. With Armstrong at the helm, The Lobster is Michelin recognized, a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence.”

“At the core of its menu, fresh lobster is flown in directly from Maine six days a week with no middleman, ensuring patrons enjoy the freshest catch. The menu features some of Los Angeles’ finest California cuisine, including classic menu favorites that Chef Armstrong has added his own special touch, such as: crispy calamari and prawns with garlic anchovy aioli, ponzu and sweet chili sauce; Summer Corn & Lobster Chowder with Smoked Bacon & Croutons; steamed Maine Lobster, with Gloria’s Blue Lake green beans, Weiser Farms heirloom Potatoes and drawn butter; and grilled Maine lobster with fresh herbs, lemon and drawn garlic butter.” For hot sauce fans be sure to try the flavorful house-prepared version that comes with the raw oysters.

Happy Hour daily from 3 to 6:00 p.m. and all-day on Friday.

Chef Govind Armstrong takes a break from shucking oysters to join us.

Show 682, June 6, 2026: Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine Benefit with Organizer Shelby Russell

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Adam Bell

Shelby Russell of Electric Avenue Events

“Culinary Host and Restaurateur / Chef Neal Fraser and Event Producer Shelby Russell are presenting the inaugural Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine set for Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the iconic Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica.” Shelby Russell joins us with all the event’s mouthwatering details.

“Conceived as a premier, one-night-only strolling culinary celebration at the intersection of entertainment, culinary artistry, and philanthropy, Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine will host 750 distinguished guests from across the entertainment industry and Los Angeles’ thriving food and beverage community. This exclusive gathering unites an influential mix of producers, studio executives, celebrities, tastemakers, and industry leaders for an extraordinary evening along the California coast. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Southern California’s most coveted seaside destinations, the event will unfold in a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere where creativity, culture, and world-class cuisine take center stage.”

“Beyond its star power and culinary prestige, Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine is grounded in purpose, with 100% of proceeds from the evening benefiting two of the entertainment industry’s most respected charitable organizations: Variety – The Children’s Charity of Southern California, which provides critical support and resources to children with special needs and their families, and the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation, celebrating 90 years of supporting the motion picture community offering financial assistance and vital services to industry professionals in times of hardship. With deep-rooted connections to major film studios, both organizations play a vital role in supporting the people behind the entertainment industry making this event especially meaningful to the Hollywood community.”

Special Ticket Discount for Listeners:

At checkout enter “Promo Code”: ANDY for special discount.

Show 682, June 6, 2026: Chef Dustin Trani, Trani’s Dockside, Participant in Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine Benefit

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Adam Bell

“Conceived as a premier, one-night-only strolling culinary celebration at the intersection of entertainment, culinary artistry, and philanthropy, Hollywood on the Coast Food & Wine will host on Saturday, June 11th at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica 750 distinguished guests from across the entertainment industry and Los Angeles’ thriving food and beverage community. This exclusive gathering unites an influential mix of producers, studio executives, celebrities, tastemakers, and industry leaders for an extraordinary evening along the California coast. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Southern California’s most coveted seaside destinations, the event will unfold in a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere where creativity, culture, and world-class cuisine take center stage.”

Restaurateur Chef Dustin Trani of Trani’s Dockside Station, J. Trani’s Ristorante and Majestic in San Pedro is one of the participating chefs and we’ll meet him. He’s a fourth-generation chef celebrated for his coastal Italian-inspired cuisine and deep culinary roots in San Pedro. Chef Trani has been featured on Food Network and recognized by the Los Angeles Times for his standout contributions to Southern California dining. He’s also a graduate of the Culinary Careers Program (C-CAP.)

Special Ticket Discount for Listeners:

At checkout enter “Promo Code”: ANDY for special discount.

Select Show 663, January 24, 2026: Restaurateur and Chef Raphael Lunetta of Lunetta. Dine L.A.

Posted on January 26, 2026 by Adam Bell

“Dine L.A.” returns running from Friday, January 23^rd to Sunday, February 8^th, 2026. Santa Monica’s Lunetta returns to Dine LA with two Seasonal Menus (Lunch and Dinner) from Chef Raphael Lunetta — A Dine LA participant since the beginning.

“Lunetta’s Dine LA experience highlights Chef Lunetta’s signature California – Mediterranean approach, built on pristine ingredients, seasonal flavors, and classic technique—an evolution of the cuisine he has been showcasing to Angelenos since Dine LA first began.”

“Dine LA has always been about opening doors—inviting guests to experience restaurants in a new way,” says Chef Raphael Lunetta. “I’ve loved being part of it from the start and continuing to cook menus that reflect where we are now, while honoring the foundations of our cuisine.”

Chef Lunetta takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Show 642, August 30, 2025: Pasjoli Santa Monica with Restaurateur & Chef Dave Beran

Posted on September 2, 2025 by Adam Bell

“When it opened in 2019, Pasjoli helped to usher in a new era of fine dining on Santa Monica’s bustling Main Street. Pasjoli has elolved into a neighborhood French bistro from James Beard award-winning chef Dave Beran. Inspired by classic and modern French cuisine as well as produce from the farmers’ market, Pasjoli showcases creative touches on bistro fare. An elegant dining room outfitted with arches makes every dinner here feel like a special occasion. French is fun!”

Look for French Onion Souplette, Cordon Bleu Chicken Wings, Cheddar Burger with Marrow Aioli and Duck Poutine.

“Each evening, Pasjoli has limited availability (5 orders) of spectacular tableside pressed duck dinners. Tableside pressed duck is available by reservation only and requires a deposit.” Limited to five orders per service.

Chef Beran’s other Santa Monica fine dining is the very high-end Seline, a special occasion restaurant with a multi -course prix fixe menu. “The menu, comprising 15-18 courses, showcases Chef Dave Beran’s deeply thoughtful approach to storytelling, inviting guests to embrace the experience and join on a memorable culinary journey showcasing the many inspirations of Southern California.”

Chef David Beran takes a break from his busy kitchens to be with us.

Show 639, August 9, 2025: Xuntos in Santa Monica with Proprietress Chef Sandra Cordero

Posted on August 11, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Xuntos, “together” in Gallego, is a neighborhood Tapas Bar from Chef Sandra Cordero in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica. Xuntos is the sophomore bar and restaurant venture from Chef Cordero, whose Gasolina Café (now closed) in Woodland Hills was a valley favorite for a decade. A love letter to summers in Spain and the joy of dining (and working) in restaurants, Cordero designed Xuntos to be both romantic and unrefined, where you can sit down at a cozy corner booth and eat with your hands, or stand up at the bar and give a toast.” Newly added is Lunch service with Lunch Specials.

“The menu opens with specialties you won’t find anywhere else in LA: hand-cut jamón ibérico set on the bar & huge Galician-style empanadas with golden-brown crust on display in a glass case by the entrance. It continues with a rotating selection of pintxos (finger foods), seasonal seafood like razor clams & percebes (gooseneck barnacles), and a wide-ranging menu of tapas inspired by the farmer’s market & the iconic dishes of Galicia, Catalunya and San Sebastian, prepared & served as in Spain. There are many new things to try & to share, with service anchored in Spanish hospitality: generosity, warmth, abundance & pride.”

“The wine list by Beverage Director Scott Baker is a who’s who of the top growers in Spain today—more than half of them women—and will expand to include a library of vintages & regions not found outside of Spain. One need only settle on a bottle to know that Spain is producing perhaps the most exciting natural wines in the world right now—and certainly the most fun to drink.”

“The full bar offers Spanish twists on classic cocktails by friend Kim Stodel, house gin tonics, detours to Islay & Oaxaca, rare vermouths, bone-dry sherries, cold cervezas on draft and chupitos (Galician digestivos) to finish.”

Closed on Sunday and Monday.

Chef Sandra Cordero takes a break from her busy kitchen to join us.

Show 638, August 2, 2025: Lunetta, Santa Monica with Owner / Chef Raphael Lunetta

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Dine LA Restaurant Week takes place twice a year and showcases Los Angeles as a premier dining destination while highlighting the diversity of culinary experiences L.A. has to offer. The Summer Dine LA Restaurant Week is happening now to Friday, August 8, 2025, including weekends.”

“There are no tickets or passes required for Dine LA Restaurant Week. Simply dine out at a participating restaurant, ask for the Dine LA Restaurant Week menu, and try a new dish or enjoy an old favorite. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.”

“Chef Raphael Lunetta of Santa Monica’s Lunetta invites Angelenos to experience the vibrant flavors of the season with two thoughtfully curated menus for Dine LA Summer 2025 at his acclaimed coastal California restaurant, Lunetta. A proud participant since the program’s inception, Chef Lunetta has long championed Dine LA’s mission of spotlighting culinary excellence and accessibility. This year, he believes he’s crafted one of his best offerings yet, showcasing peak seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farmers markets.”

“Now through Friday, August 8, guests can enjoy a $35 three-course lunch or a $65 three-course dinner, each designed to celebrate the richness of summer produce and the soulful, ingredient-driven cooking that defines Lunetta’s kitchen.”

“The Lunch menu keeps things light yet satisfying with a choice of starters like a crisp Greek Wedge or hearty Summer Corn Chowder, followed by main courses including the Maine Lobster Rock Shrimp Roll and Bolognese Fettuccine. Finish on a sweet note with a summery Nectarine Blueberry Crumble topped with vanilla ice cream.”

“Dinner at Lunetta during Dine LA is a market-driven affair starting with an amuse of Figs, Goat Cheese & Crispy Prosciutto. Guests will then choose from elevated starters like Duck Confit with Farmers Market Cherries or Zucchini Blossoms with Basil Ricotta. Entrées include Crispy Potato-Crusted Alaskan Halibut, Twice Cooked Kalbi Short Rib, and Jidori Brick Chicken. For dessert, highlights include Nectarine & Roasted Blueberry Cobbler with lavender vanilla ice cream or a decadent Flourless Chocolate Cake with bourbon cream.”

Chef Lunetta joins us to tease what’s on his Lunch and Dinner menus.

Show 637, July 26, 2025: New York Bagel Deli & Bakery with Adaeze Nwanonyiri and Baker Lenny Rosenberg

Posted on July 28, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Adaeze (Ah-Day-Zee) Nwanonyiri (Won-num-yeary) and Lenny Rosenberg are the Los Angeles-based, Nigerian and Jewish husband and wife duo committed to buying, selling and designing restaurants and bakeries with a multicultural twist. They are the new owners of New York Bagel Deli & Bakery in Santa Monica and still retain an interest in Bea’s in Tarzana, a much beloved Jewish bakery that is famous for their corn rye bread. At New York Bagel Deli & Bakery all the bagels (17 selections) are baked in-house as well as the pastries.”

“In Santa Monica they have added a proprietary multicultural dessert line with their Number 1 seller, French Toast Bagel served with real Maple Syrup. Also newly created are Chocolate Dipped Almond Horns and Italian Rainbow Cookies. The aim is to maintain the New York deli vibe with a hint of L.A. sophistication.”

Recently published by first-time authors Lenny and Adaeze is “It’s a Sweet World: Recipes from Around the Globe at Bea’s Bakery”.

“Bea’s Bakery is fixture of California life for almost sixty years, providing comfort and nourishment to thousands in what was once a rich tradition of Jewish bakeries in America. Originally opened in 1968 by Sol Litwak and his son Jules, it was named after Sol’s wife Beatrice, known affectionately as “Bea.” Lenny and Adaeze took the bakery over in 2023. Food brings people together and allows them to be transported back to the traditional tastes and aromas of their childhood, while bringing them up to date with healthy options that cater to all.”

“This is their first book and it’s a joyous celebration of the best recipes from Bea’s, including Jewish and Nigerian signature dishes, along with scores of tasty treats from around the globe that will appeal to people of all nations and creeds. The recipes for all the baked goods, desserts and pastries at New York Bagel Deli & Bakery are included in the book. If you love to bake and enjoy discovering new favorites as well as timeless old standards you’ll find yourself making the recipes again and again to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.”

Lenny and Adaeze put down their well-used whisk and rolling pin and join us.

Show 606, December 7, 2024: Lady & Larder, Santa Monica, with Cheesemonger Sarah Simms

Posted on December 9, 2024 by Adam Bell

“Welcome to Sarah Simms and Boo Simms (twin sisters) Lady & Larder, your destination in Santa Monica and Carmel for the finest artisanal cheese and charcuterie boards. Driven by their commitment to 100% domestic and sustainable food practices, the Simms’ champion a culture of food and entertaining that they hope will flourish for many generations to come.”

“Their ethos is simple: deliver nothing short of the very best. Time and again, they have found that unparalleled quality emerges from the dedicated hands of local, small-batch artisans. Sarah and Boo are privileged to be patrons of America’s most dedicated farmers, winemakers and cheesemakers. Their unmatched craftsmanship and dedication to their beautiful products inspire them to do what they do, every day.”

Lady & Larder Monthly Cheese Club is perhaps the ultimate foodie gift. “Each month, Lady & Larder founders (and twin sisters) Sarah and Boo Simms will select their favorite artisanal cheeses of the moment for you to enjoy at home! As a member, you’ll always have something cool in your fridge for snacking and entertaining your favorite people. By supporting this club, you are supporting the future of American cheesemaking, and it is Sarah’s and Boo’s privilege to make sure you have lots of delicious reasons to do so.”

Sarah Simms takes a break from her cheese board to join us.

Show 592, August 31, 2024: California Restaurant Foundation’s 2024 Restaurants Care Resilience Fund Grants with recipient Christina Hong of Seoulmates

Posted on September 3, 2024 by Adam Bell

“The California Restaurant Foundation (CRF), a nonprofit that invests in and empowers California restaurants and their workforce, has awarded 278 independent restaurants with $5,000 grants as part of its fourth consecutive Restaurants Care® Resilience Fund. The grants were made possible via thoughtful donations from SoCalGas, The PG&E Corporation Foundation (PG&E Foundation) and San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E), which have contributed to the fund since 2021. Recipients can use the $5,000 assistance for equipment and technology upgrades, unforeseen hardships, employee retention bonuses and employee training, all of which allow California’s independent restaurant owners and caterers to invest in the longevity of their business and employees.”

“Notably, 76 percent of the grant recipients identify as female, and 73 percent identify as people of color. More than 70 percent of this year’s recipients plan to use the $5,000 grants for kitchen equipment or technology upgrades, and 17 percent will dedicate the funds to employee retention bonuses. To qualify, the restaurants and caterers needed to have fewer than five units, and less than $3 million in revenue.”

Christina Hong of Seoulmates in Los Angeles (W. Third St.) and Santa Monica is one of the fortunate recipients of a $5,000, 2024 California Restaurant Foundation Restaurants Care Resilience Fund Grant. We’ll meet her and learn her story.

Seoulmates’ Mission: “Our mission is to share a twist on Korean food so ridiculously good that you have to talk about it, that before anyone even considers taking a bite, you’ll have to snap a picture for the ‘gram. Being a family-owned business, our aim is to deliver our heart and Seoul in every bite.”