Show 557, December 23, 2023: Danish Mill Bakery, Solvang, with Proprietor Rene Gross Kaerskov Part One

Renee Gross Kaerskov of Danish Mill Bakery in Solvang

The Danish-owned Danish Mill Bakery has been a family-owned tradition in Solvang for 63 years.

“Arvid Petersen, the founder of Danish Mill Bakery Inc. finished his apprenticeship as a baker in 1931. Upon receiving his degree as a journeyman baker, he went to work for one of the finest bakeries in Copenhagen, Denmark. While working there he supplied the baked goods for King Christian X of Denmark. In 1940 the Petersens started the Danish Mill Bakery in Copenhagen, Denmark. The family immigrated to the United States in 1957. On September 17th, 1960, the Danish Mill Bakery was opened in Solvang, California. Arvid’s son, Torben Petersen, learned from his father and build upon his father’s legacy, continued Danish Mill Bakery until 2020.”

Danish entrepreneur (and Solvang resident) Rene Gross Kaerskov (with no previous bakery experience) acquired the business in 2020 with the goal of delivering both a contemporary and a traditional Danish bakery experience to his customers.

“Danish Mill Bakery’s Pastry Chef Henrik Gram was born and raised in Copenhagen in Denmark and has been working as a baker for more than 40 years. Henrik received his apprenticeship as baker and has owned several of his own bakeries in Denmark until he immigrated to the United States in 2009. While working in Copenhagen he baked for H.M. Queen Margrethe II of Denmark and various Ambassadors.” A specialty year-round are the Christmas Cookies, Danish Vaniljekranse (“Vanilla Wreaths.”)

Rene Gross Kaerskov also operates two other authentic Danish dessert spots in Solvang. Newly opened by Rene next to the landmark Landsby Hotel on Solvang’s Mission Dr. is Brod & Kage (bread and cake.) It’s a mini version of Danish Mill Bakery featuring the most popular items. Also in Rene’s sweets portfolio is Aebleskivehuset, a Danish dessert shop featuring signature aebleskivers, house-made Danish ice cream flavors and handcrafted espresso drinks.

Rene Gross Kaerskov is our guest with a licorice ice cream in a waffle cone at the ready.

Show 557, December 23, 2023: Danish Mill Bakery, Solvang, with Proprietor Rene Gross Kaerskov Part Two

Renee Gross Kaerskov of Danish Mill Bakery in Solvang

The Danish-owned Danish Mill Bakery has been a family-owned tradition in Solvang for 63 years.

“Arvid Petersen, the founder of Danish Mill Bakery Inc. finished his apprenticeship as a baker in 1931. Upon receiving his degree as a journeyman baker, he went to work for one of the finest bakeries in Copenhagen, Denmark. While working there he supplied the baked goods for King Christian X of Denmark. In 1940 the Petersens started the Danish Mill Bakery in Copenhagen, Denmark. The family immigrated to the United States in 1957. On September 17th, 1960, the Danish Mill Bakery was opened in Solvang, California. Arvid’s son, Torben Petersen, learned from his father and build upon his father’s legacy, continued Danish Mill Bakery until 2020.”

Danish entrepreneur (and Solvang resident) Rene Gross Kaerskov (with no previous bakery experience) acquired the business in 2020 with the goal of delivering both a contemporary and a traditional Danish bakery experience to his customers.

“Danish Mill Bakery’s Pastry Chef Henrik Gram was born and raised in Copenhagen in Denmark and has been working as a baker for more than 40 years. Henrik received his apprenticeship as baker and has owned several of his own bakeries in Denmark until he immigrated to the United States in 2009. While working in Copenhagen he baked for H.M. Queen Margrethe II of Denmark and various Ambassadors.” A specialty year-round are the Christmas Cookies, Danish Vaniljekranse (“Vanilla Wreaths.”)

“Rene Gross Kaerskov also operates two other authentic Danish dessert spots in Solvang. Newly opened by Rene next to the landmark Landsby Hotel on Solvang’s Mission Dr. is Brod & Kage (bread and cake.) It’s a mini version of Danish Mill Bakery featuring the most popular items. Also in Rene’s sweets portfolio is Aebleskivehuset, a Danish dessert shop featuring signature aebleskivers, house-made Danish ice cream flavors and handcrafted espresso drinks.”

Rene Gross Kaerskov continues as our guest with a double scoop of licorice ice cream in a waffle cone at the ready.

Show 552, November 18, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“Solvang, California has added new features for this year’s Solvang Julefest (pronounced ‘Yule-Fest’), the Santa Ynez Valley wine country town’s annual celebration of all things “holidays.” The season’s event stretch will begin Friday, November 24, 2023, and run through Saturday, January 6, 2024. Solvang Julefest 2023 will include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the walkable California Central Coast travel destination, frequently described as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns.”” Susan Lee (a native) of the Solvang Visitor Center joins us to provide the festive Holiday Cheer.

The partners in the popular Luchador Brewing Company are hosting the family-friendly Desert Brewfest: The First Coachella Valley Beer Festival on Sunday December 10th at the Cathedral City Amphitheater in Cathedral City. It’s a festive holiday-themed outdoor craft beer festival with music, Lucha Libre wrestling, local food vendors, pictures with Santa, and beer sampling from distinctive craft breweries near and far. In the spirit of the season the Luchador Brewing Company is also raising funds for charities along with a Holiday Toy Drive. It’s truly a beer lovers paradise. The partners in Luchador Brewing Company, Jaime Benson and Brent Miller join us to tap the keg on Desert Brewfest.

What is sourdough and why is San Francisco Sourdough held in such high esteem? A few weeks ago we introduced you to Baker Matt Kosoy of Rosalind Bakery in Pacifica with a newly launched retail bakery store in Downtown San Francisco near the Ferry Building. Matt is a recognized sourdough specialist and is with us providing the 411 on this popular bread variety. “Pacifica’s Rosalind Bakery’s delectable sourdough bread, pizzas, and pastries are made with a dash of love, a sprinkle of nostalgia, and a lot of dedication by proprietor and baker Matt Kosoy. They do more than just bake bread; they bring people together, creating moments of joy and connection. Named after the Matt’s maternal grandmother, Rosalind Bakery began in 2017 by building a community around food.”

Discover and Learn at Discovery Center at Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation in Carlsbad. “An extraordinaire collection of hands-on nature activities that allow visitors to taste nature experiencing both the lagoon and the ecological reserve that resides in Carlsbad.
The mission of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is to energize people through education and outreach to preserve Agua Hedionda Lagoon as an accessible and healthy watershed. Their vision is to be Stewards of the Watershed as they inspire future generations so all of us have access to a healthy lagoon. A safe place in nature…for all.”

Erin Hardin, Director of Community Relations for Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is our well-informed guide.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. The Holidays are here and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. As a working chef Andrew has plenty of experience with cooking wisely for the Holidays for both demanding guests and Family. Chef Andrew joins us with his continuing series of genuinely useful “Turkey Talk” cooking tips. Chef Andrew shares a simple recipe for cranberry sauce that easily outshines the version in the can. Also hints on crave-worthy gravy that adds excitement to the Holiday Table.

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

Show 552, November 18, 2023: “Solvang Julefest” with Susan Lee, Solvang Visitor Center Part One

Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitors Center

Solvang, California has added new features for this year’s Solvang Julefest (pronounced ‘Yule-Fest’), the Santa Ynez Valley wine country town’s annual celebration of all things “holidays.” The season’s event stretch will begin Friday, November 24, 2023, and run through Saturday, January 6, 2024. Solvang Julefest 2023 will include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the walkable California Central Coast travel destination, frequently described as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns.”

“The Month-Long Holiday Event includes Daily Light & Music Shows, Ongoing “Nisser Adventure” Scavenger Hunt, Nighttime Makers Market, and Newly-Added Candlelight Tours. Solvang, also known as “The Danish Capital of America,” presents an ideal getaway opportunity for travelers looking for a European-style holiday atmosphere without the transatlantic travel, whether a midweek or weekend escape.” Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitor Center joins us to provide the Holiday Cheer.

“The popular Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will be offered December 8, 9, 15, and 16, and as schools traditionally pause for the holiday season, the Candlelight Tours will run weeklong, Monday, December 18, through Saturday, December 23. Starting at 5:00 PM, the Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will provide special holiday experiences for locals and visitors as they traverse the streets of Solvang, accompanied by Christmas carols and an entertaining education about some Danish traditions and Solvang history. Guided by a costumed host, all tour participants will receive an LED candle to hold during the tour. Advance purchase is required.”

Show 552, November 18, 2023: “Solvang Julefest” with Susan Lee, Solvang Visitor Center Part Two

Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitors Center

Solvang, California has added new features for this year’s Solvang Julefest (pronounced ‘Yule-Fest’), the Santa Ynez Valley wine country town’s annual celebration of all things “holidays.” The season’s event stretch will begin Friday, November 24, 2023, and run through Saturday, January 6, 2024. Solvang Julefest 2023 will include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the walkable California Central Coast travel destination, frequently described as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns.”

“The Month-Long Holiday Event includes Daily Light & Music Shows, Ongoing “Nisser Adventure” Scavenger Hunt, Nighttime Makers Market, and Newly-Added Candlelight Tours. Solvang, also known as “The Danish Capital of America,” presents an ideal getaway opportunity for travelers looking for a European-style holiday atmosphere without the transatlantic travel, whether a midweek or weekend escape.” Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitor Center joins us to provide the Holiday Cheer.

“Solvang, known for its Danish-American vibe, architecture and design details, pastries and bakeries, and array of wine tasting options, also boasts dozens of unique boutiques, restaurants and gourmet food purveyors. Carefully-curated indie booksellers and high-end home goods suppliers mingle with fairy tale-like children’s stores and museum gift shops. Solvang’s foodie destinations offer everything from elevated street cuisine – like locally-sourced fish tacos on hand-made tortillas, and comforting ramen noodles – to European-style pretzels and sausages, to Italian standbys or iconic Danish dishes, to elevated new-Californian fare in the form of Michelin-honored menus.”

Keep in mind you’ll never find a parking meter or pay parking lot in Solvang. Parking is always free.

November 18: Solvang Julefest, Desert Brewfest, Rosalind Bakery, Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: “Solvang Julefest” with Susan Lee, Solvang Visitor Center Part One
Segment Three: “Solvang Julefest” with Susan Lee, Solvang Visitor Center Part Two
Segment Four: Desert Brewfest, Cathedral City with Luchador Brewing Company Part One
Segment Five: Desert Brewfest, Cathedral City with Luchador Brewing Company Part Two
Segment Six: Baker Matt Kosoy, Rosalind Bakery, Pacifica, CA
Segment Seven: Discovery Center and Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation, Carlsbad, CA
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.

Solvang, California has added new features for this year’s Solvang Julefest (pronounced ‘Yule-Fest’), the Santa Ynez Valley wine country town’s annual celebration of all things “holidays.” The season’s event stretch will begin Friday, November 24, 2023, and run through Saturday, January 6, 2024. Solvang Julefest 2023 will include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the walkable California Central Coast travel destination, frequently described as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns.” Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitor Center joins us to provide the Holiday Cheer.

The partners in the popular Luchador Brewing Company are hosting the family-friendly Desert Brewfest: The First Coachella Valley Beer Festival on Sunday December 10th at the Cathedral City Amphitheater in Cathedral City. It’s a festive holiday-themed outdoor craft beer festival with music, Lucha Libre wrestling, local food vendors, pictures with Santa, and beer sampling from distinctive craft breweries near and far. In the spirit of the season the Luchador Brewing Company is also raising funds for charities. It’s truly a beer lovers paradise. The partners in Luchador Brewing Company, Jaime Benson and Brent Miller join us to tap the keg on Desert Brewfest.

What is sourdough and why is San Francisco Sourdough held in such high esteem? A few weeks ago we introduced you to Baker Matt Kosoy of Rosalind Bakery in Pacifica with a newly launched retail bakery store in Downtown San Francisco. Matt is a recognized sourdough specialist and is with us providing the 411 on this popular bread variety. “Pacifica’s Rosalind Bakery’s delectable sourdough bread, pizzas, and pastries are made with a dash of love, a sprinkle of nostalgia, and a lot of dedication by proprietor and baker Matt Kosoy. They do more than just bake bread; they bring people together, creating moments of joy and connection. Named after the Matt’s maternal grandmother, Rosalind Bakery began in 2017 by building a community around food.

Discover and Learn at Discovery Center at Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation in Carlsbad. “An extraordinaire collection of hands-on nature activities that allow visitors to taste nature experiencing both the lagoon and the ecological reserve that resides in Carlsbad.

The mission of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is to energize people through education and outreach to preserve Agua Hedionda Lagoon as an accessible and healthy watershed. Their vision is to be Stewards of the Watershed as they inspire future generations so all of us have access to a healthy lagoon. A safe place in nature…for all.”

Erin Hardin, Director of Community Relations for Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is our well-informed guide.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. As a working chef Andrew has plenty of experience with cooking wisely for the Holidays for both demanding guests and Family. Chef Andrew joins us with his continuing series of genuinely useful “Turkey Talk” cooking tips. Chef Andrew shares a simple recipe for cranberry sauce that easily outshines the version on the can. Also hints on gravy and vegetable sides that add excitement to the Holiday Table.

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

Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitors Center

Solvang, California has added new features for this year’s Solvang Julefest (pronounced ‘Yule-Fest’), the Santa Ynez Valley wine country town’s annual celebration of all things “holidays.” The season’s event stretch will begin Friday, November 24, 2023, and run through Saturday, January 6, 2024. Solvang Julefest 2023 will include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the walkable California Central Coast travel destination, frequently described as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns.”

“The Month-Long Holiday Event includes Daily Light & Music Shows, Ongoing “Nisser Adventure” Scavenger Hunt, Nighttime Makers Market, and Newly-Added Candlelight Tours. Solvang, also known as “The Danish Capital of America,” presents an ideal getaway opportunity for travelers looking for a European-style holiday atmosphere without the transatlantic travel, whether a midweek or weekend escape.” Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitor Center joins us to provide the Holiday Cheer.

“The popular Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will be offered December 8, 9, 15, and 16, and as schools traditionally pause for the holiday season, the Candlelight Tours will run weeklong, Monday, December 18, through Saturday, December 23. Starting at 5:00 PM, the Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will provide special holiday experiences for locals and visitors as they traverse the streets of Solvang, accompanied by Christmas carols and an entertaining education about some Danish traditions and Solvang history. Guided by a costumed host, all tour participants will receive an LED candle to hold during the tour. Advance purchase is required.”

“Solvang, known for its Danish-American vibe, architecture and design details, pastries and bakeries, and array of wine tasting options, also boasts dozens of unique boutiques, restaurants and gourmet food purveyors. Carefully-curated indie booksellers and high-end home goods suppliers mingle with fairy tale-like children’s stores and museum gift shops. Solvang’s foodie destinations offer everything from elevated street cuisine – like locally-sourced fish tacos on hand-made tortillas, and comforting ramen noodles – to European-style pretzels and sausages, to Italian standbys or iconic Danish dishes, to elevated new-Californian fare in the form of Michelin-honored menus.”

Jamie Benson of Luchador Brewing Company

“The partners in the popular Luchador Brewing Company are hosting the family-friendly Desert Brewfest: The First Coachella Valley Beer Festival on Sunday December 10th at the Cathedral City Amphitheater in Cathedral City. It’s a festive holiday-themed outdoor craft beer festival with music, Lucha Libre wrestling, local food vendors, pictures with Santa, and beer sampling from distinctive craft breweries near and far. In the spirit of the season the Luchador Brewing Company is also raising funds for charities. It’s a beer lovers paradise.”

CRAFT BEER: Unlimited craft beers to sample from local and non-local breweries.

LIVE BANDS: They have some amazing performances lined up for you! Enjoy the incredible sounds of Queen Nation, a Queen tribute band, and Metalachi, a heavy metal Mariachi band. Their MC, DJ Carlos, will keep the energy high with great tunes and even give out prizes in between sets.

Brent Miller of Luuchador Brewing

LUCHA LIBRE WRESTLING: Throughout the day, there will be thrilling Lucha Libre matches.

FOOD TRUCKS: They know that good food is essential, so they have many outstanding food trucks on-site to keep guests’ bellies full and satisfied throughout the day.

SANTA CLAUS: Get into the holiday spirit and take your picture with jolly old St. Nick himself! Don’t forget to wear your UGLY SWEATERS to impress Santa and everyone around you.

TOY DRIVE: Help Desert Brewfest spread joy this holiday season by bringing an unwrapped toy valued over $10. By doing so, you’ll have a chance to win prizes. The goal is to collect over 250 gifts for children in need, so let’s make a difference together.

The partners in Luchador Brewing CompanyJaime Benson and Brent Miller join us to tap the keg on Desert Brewfest.

Matt Kosoy of Rosalind Bakery

What is sourdough and why is San Francisco Sourdough held in such high esteem? A few weeks ago we introduced you to Baker Matt Kosoy of Rosalind Bakery in Pacifica with a newly launched retail bakery store in Downtown San Francisco. Matt is a recognized sourdough specialist and is with us providing the 411 on this ever popular bread variety.

“Pacifica’s Rosalind Bakery’s delectable sourdough bread, pizzas, and pastries are made with a dash of love, a sprinkle of nostalgia, and a lot of dedication by proprietor and baker Matt Kosoy. They do more than just bake bread; they bring people together, creating moments of joy and connection. Named after the Matt’s maternal grandmother, Rosalind Bakery began in 2017 by building a community around food. They take pride in every step of the baking process, from selecting the finest ingredients to handcrafting each loaf, pizza, and pastry. The result? Unparalleled flavors that ignite your senses.” Matt has recently closed an unusual, oversubscribed, $124,000 bond offering and expanded to a new location in Downtown San Francisco at 4 Embarcadero Center as part of the “Vacant to Vibrant Program.”

Erin Hardin of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation

Discover and Learn at Discovery Center at Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation in Carlsbad. “An extraordinaire collection of hands-on nature activities that allow visitors to taste nature experiencing both the lagoon and the ecological reserve that resides in Carlsbad.”

“The mission of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is to energize people through education and outreach to preserve Agua Hedionda Lagoon as an accessible and healthy watershed. Their vision is to be Stewards of the Watershed as they inspire future generations so all of us have access to a healthy lagoon. A safe place in nature…for all.”

“The Discovery Center is open to the public, and they primarily serve families with school-aged children who visit for active ways to involve their kids in fun, hands-on, educational experiences that give them a sense of accomplishment. The Foundation’s three initiatives include Environmental Education, Conservation and Access through Trails.”

Erin Hardin, Director of Community Relations for Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is our well-informed guide.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

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

The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. As a working chef Andrew has plenty of experience with cooking wisely for the Holidays for both demanding guests and Family. Chef Andrew joins us with his continuing series of genuinely useful “Turkey Talk” cooking tips. Chef Andrew shares an easy recipe for cranberry sauce that easily outshines the version on the can. Also hints on gravy and vegetable sides that add excitement to the Holiday Table.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: “Solvang Julefest” with Susan Lee, Solvang Visitor Center Part One
Segment Three: “Solvang Julefest” with Susan Lee, Solvang Visitor Center Part Two
Segment Four: Desert Brewfest, Cathedral City with Luchador Brewing Company Part One
Segment Five: Desert Brewfest, Cathedral City with Luchador Brewing Company Part Two
Segment Six: Baker Matt Kosoy, Rosalind Bakery, Pacifica, CA
Segment Seven: Discovery Center and Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation, Carlsbad, CA
Segment Eight: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 509, January 28, 2023: Jonathan Rosenson, Proprietor, Coquelicot Estate Vineyard and First & Oak restaurant, Solvang Part One

Jonathan Rosenson of FIrst and Oak

Jonathan Rosenson is the knowledgeable and personable Owner and Creative Director for Coquelicot Organic Estate Vineyards in Solvang (vineyard) with their Tasting Room in Los Olivos. He’s also a seasoned restaurateur and hotelier.

“Jonathan Rosenson, a level 2 sommelier, currently is director of hospitality for a collection of boutique hotels consisting of the Mirabelle Inn, Solvang, CA, Chateau du Sureau, Oakhurst, CA, and The Mansion on Sutter, San Francisco, CA. Each boutique hotel offers luxurious dining options in an on-site destination restaurant including the Michelin Plate awarded First & Oak in Solvang.”

“Jonathan is also the creative director and owner for Coquelicot Estate Vineyards and is heavily involved in their wine growing and wholesale practices. Past endeavors have included The Sky Room in Long Beach, Wine Cask, Santa Barbara, and Bernard’s Wine Gallery. With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry Jonathan is a seasoned pro at creating a culinary experience. Crafting elaborate menus, exquisite tastings, and special events are his forte.”

Jonathan joins us to uncork all that is First & Oak and Coquelicot Estate Vineyard.

Show 509, January 28, 2023: Jonathan Rosenson, Proprietor, Coquelicot Estate Vineyard and First & Oak restaurant, Solvang Part Two

Jonathan Rosenson of FIrst and Oak

Jonathan Rosenson is the knowledgeable and personable Owner and Creative Director for Coquelicot Organic Estate Vineyards in Solvang (vineyard) with their Tasting Room in Los Olivos. He’s also a seasoned restaurateur and hotelier.

“Jonathan Rosenson, a level 2 sommelier, currently is director of hospitality for a collection of boutique hotels consisting of the Mirabelle Inn, Solvang, CA, Chateau du Sureau, Oakhurst, CA, and The Mansion on Sutter, San Francisco, CA. Each boutique hotel offers luxurious dining options in an on-site destination restaurant including the Michelin Plate awarded First & Oak in Solvang.”

“Jonathan is also the creative director and owner for Coquelicot Estate Vineyards and is heavily involved in their wine growing and wholesale practices. Past endeavors have included The Sky Room in Long Beach, Wine Cask, Santa Barbara, and Bernard’s Wine Gallery. With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry Jonathan is a seasoned pro at creating a culinary experience. Crafting elaborate menus, exquisite tastings, and special events are his forte.”

Jonathan continues with us pulling the cork on all that is First & Oak and Coquelicot Estate Vineyard.

Show 508, January 21, 2023: Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks with Shelby Sim, President / CEO of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley

Shelby Sim of the Santa Ynez Valley

“The Santa Ynez Valley’s creative culinary culture has long been at the heart of its wine country experience, but its wide range of flavors are never more accessible than during Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks.”

Restaurant Weeks has returned for the 13th consecutive year, January 16-31, once again showcasing the region’s culinary bounty — and the perfect Santa Ynez Valley wines to pair with it — with a variety of special three-course prix fixe price menus.”

“The restaurants that participate in Santa Ynez Valley’s annual festival of flavor feature curated, chef-driven, three-course menus at price points of $30, $40, or $50, plus tax and gratuity. Many of the region’s wineries and tasting rooms also participate at various levels, offering two-for-one tastings, special tasting flights, and discounts on bottle purchases.”

“Restaurant Weeks brings foodies together each year for an affordable, immersive culinary experience,” said Shelby Sim, President/CEO of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley. “The region’s wines are typically what come to mind first when thinking about the Santa Ynez Valley. But Restaurant Weeks showcases our gifted local chefs and their diverse and inspired culinary creations in a way that is accessible to most everyone.”

For the latest updates on Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks, including menus and participating restaurants, wineries, and tasting rooms, visit their Restaurant Weeks website.

Shelby Sim is our guest highlighting Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks.

Later in the year is Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley 2023. The four-day, six town celebration of food, wine, and more takes place September 28th through October 1st across the towns of Solvang, Santa Ynez, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Ballard, and Buellton.

Show 493, October 1, 2022: Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, Solvang, with Co-Proprietor Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox Part One

Anthony Carron of Coast Range Restaurant

“Solvang’s Coast Range & Vaquero Bar, a Central Coast steakhouse and seafood restaurant including a full cocktail bar as well as deli counter, meat counter and pastry program launched last year.”

“Coast Range & Vaquero Bar celebrates the best that the Central Coast has to offer including steaks from the area’s storied ranches, seafood directly from Central Coast wharves, craft cocktails, and a wine program showcasing the region’s finest producers. The restaurant concept also includes proprietary product from the owner’s Santa Ynez ranch, Coast Range Ranch. Vaquero Bar displays a full cocktail menu, local wine and craft beer, and an elevated yet casual bar food menu.” Brunch served daily but dark on Tuesday.

Chris Fox of Coast Range Restaurant

“Award-winning chefs and industry veterans Anthony Carron, Lincoln Carson, and Steven Fretz joined forces with renowned sommelier and winemaker, Rajat Parr, to bring their collective experience to the new all-day dining concept in the heart of Solvang. Chris Fox is the Executive Chef.”

“They say there’s always a silver lining. While 2020 brought challenges it also allowed us to assemble a world-class team of chefs and find the perfect space to showcase our talents in a part of the world we love,” said Chef Anthony Carron.

Co-Founder Anthony Carron and Executive Chef Chris Fox join us.