Show 698, September 26, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

We’re live from Westdrift Manhattan Beach – An Autograph Collection Hotel to celebrate the Saturday night finale of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine festival. Westdrift is hosting the Festival taking over the entire spacious grounds of the property. We’re chatting with a handful of the acclaimed celebrity chefs participating from both out-of-town as well as Greater Los Angeles.

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser are responsible for the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”

Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening brings together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.

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

Show 697, September 19, 2026: Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival Preview with Christy Lucchese of Wife and The Somm

Christy Luchesse of Wife and the Somm

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser have orchestrated the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”

“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”

“Tickets are on sale now for the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine and guests are encouraged to purchase early and begin planning an unforgettable weekend of world-class culinary experiences, exceptional wines and spirits, luxury accommodations, and the relaxed sophistication of beautiful Manhattan Beach. Exclusive Hotel Packages at westdrift Manhattan Beach are also available, inviting guests to stay, sip, savor, and experience Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival all weekend long.”

Special Offer: At Checkout type “Andy26” in Promo Code Box for a Discount.

The Wife & the Somm is one of the Friday night participating restaurants in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Co-owner, Wife, and Pastry Chef Christy Lucchese joins us with her rolling pin in hand.

Show 697, September 19, 2026: 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Preview with Winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine Co.

Paul Warson of Warson Wine Company

“Festival Founder & Producer Shelby Russell and Culinary Curator & Host Chef Neal Fraser have orchestrated the return of the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival. Taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, the eagerly anticipated two-night celebration introduces an All-Star Chef Lineup and debut at its exciting new home, westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel.”

“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with two Grand Tasting Celebrations on Friday, September 25, 2026, and Saturday, September 26, 2026. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”

“Tickets are on sale now for the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine and guests are encouraged to purchase early and begin planning an unforgettable weekend of world-class culinary experiences, exceptional wines and spirits, luxury accommodations, and the relaxed sophistication of beautiful Manhattan Beach. Exclusive Hotel Packages at westdrift Manhattan Beach are also available, inviting guests to stay, sip, savor, and experience Southern California’s premier luxury coastal culinary festival all weekend long.”

Winemaker Paul Warson of Warson Wine is one of the participating wineries in Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. He’s there pouring both nights. Paul joins us to pop the cork on all this is Warson Wine.

“Paul Warson grew up in Los Angeles, attended UC Davis where he eventually studied Fermentation Science. Before his final year he worked at a sparkling winery in Carneros when he decided he would spend his career doing what he did for his summer vacation. Upon completion of his degree, he was invited back to see, “the other side of things.””

“Warson Wine Company started as a need Paul felt he had to fulfill. An inner call, to again make wine on his terms, for people to enjoy, but now with the fruit he chooses. There’s so much on the horizon for Warson Wine Company and you can taste for yourself at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.”

Special Offer: At Checkout type “Andy26” in Promo Code Box for Discount.

Show 679, May 16, 2026: Terranea Resort, Rancho Palos Verdes with Executive Chef Andrew Vaughan

Andrew Vaughan of the Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes

Terranea Resort located on 102-ocean front acres in luxurious Rancho Palos Verdes features a world-class culinary program led by Executive Chef Andrew Vaughn. With Memorial Day Weekend on the horizon Chef Vaughn joins us to talk about the variety of Summer culinary offerings including a new chef de cuisine at bashi, their acclaimed Asian-inspired restaurant.

“Located on Southern California’s Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terranea Resort is a luxurious 102-acre oceanfront destination. Opened in 2009, the resort offers unparalleled views and world-class accommodations ranging from hotel suites to bungalows, ocean-view casitas and private villas.”

“Amenities include The Spa at Terranea, an award-winning 50,000-square-foot wellness destination recently enhanced by a $4.5 million refresh that elevates its breezy indoor and outdoor oceanfront spaces, The Links at Terranea, a nine-hole, par-3 golf course; four swimming pools; a 140-foot waterslide; marea luxury boutique; 135,000 square feet of event space, ideal for meetings and weddings alike; and five scenic restaurants showcasing the resort’s farm-to-Terranea philosophy utilizing Terranea’s herb and vegetable gardens, lemon groves and more.”

“The resort also offers unique activities such as falconry, archery, kayaking, paddleboarding, guided coastal hikes, and exploration of nearby ocean coves and beaches.”

Executive Chef Andrew Vaughan joins us to talk about the diversity of Summer culinary happenings at Terranea including the 3rd Annual Food and Wine Festival at Terranea on Sunday, July 26th.

Show 665, February 7, 2026: Andrew Vaughan, Executive Chef, Terranea Resort, Palos Verdes

Andrew Vaughan of the Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes

If you’re looking to go all out for Valentine’s Day Weekend you might want to consider the ocean front Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes. Executive Chef Andrew Vaughan joins us with what’s on his romantic menu.

“Located on Southern California’s Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terranea Resort is a luxurious 102-acre oceanfront destination. Opened in 2009, the resort offers unparalleled views and world-class accommodations ranging from hotel suites to bungalows, ocean-view casitas and private villas. Amenities include The Spa at Terranea, an award-winning 50,000-square-foot wellness destination recently enhanced by a $4.5 million refresh that elevates its breezy indoor and outdoor oceanfront spaces, The Links at Terranea, a nine-hole, par-3 golf course; four swimming pools; a 140-foot waterslide; marea luxury boutique; 135,000 square feet of event space, ideal for meetings and weddings alike; and five scenic restaurants showcasing the resort’s farm-to-Terranea philosophy utilizing Terranea’s herb and vegetable gardens, lemon groves and more.”

“The resort also offers unique activities such as falconry, archery, kayaking, paddleboarding, guided coastal hikes, and exploration of nearby ocean coves and beaches.”

Show 650, October 25, 2025: Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival 2025 – Recap with Lawrence Moore

Lawrence Moore of Lawrence Moore and Associates

The 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine in Manhattan Village took place on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Based on the success of last year both nights were sold out.

“Over the two-nights 46 All-Star Chefs prepared world-class cuisine along with premier wines, top spirits, handcrafted cocktails, and craft beer pairing seamlessly with pulse-raising beats. Guests discovered a dynamic flow of music and flavor, spotlighting the unmistakable spirit of the South Bay.”

Lawrence Moore of Lawrence Moore and Associates joins us to provide a postscript on Manhattan Beach Food & Wine 2025 with a look into the return in 2026. She served as the very busy restaurant coordinator and public relations representative for MBF&W.

Show 644, September 13, 2025: Chris Feldmeier, Executive Chef, Love & Salt, Manhattan Beach

Chris Feldmeier of Love and Salt at Manhattan Beach Food and Wine

Chef Christopher (Chris) Feldmeier of Manhattan Beach’s Love & Salt began cooking as a child when he simply asked his mother to make breakfast. She replied by saying, “I will buy you anything you want to cook, but you are going to make it yourself.” That first breakfast sparked a passion and adoration for cooking, which grew into an undeniable desire to learn more. Feldmeier then began to cook with his grandmother who became his first mentor, and ultimately, his culinary influence.

“In September 2018 and now again in 2024, Feldmeier assumed the role of executive chef at Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach. In this role, Feldmeier works closely with Love & Salt owner Sylvie Gabriele to bring their shared vision for the Italian-inspired menu to life.”

Tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Chef Chris is preparing Arancini Bolognese and Arancini with Tomato and Basil.

Show 644, September 13, 2025: Swietlana Cahill, General Manager, Westdrift Manhattan Beach, An Autograph Collection Hotel by Marriott

Swietlana Cahill at Manhattan Beach Food and Wine

“For travelers seeking an inspired Southern California escape, Westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection, (the official Hotel of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine) is a lifestyle hotel that captures the essence of coastal living. Guests can drift into an endless summer with experiences that balance relaxation and connection—from their nine-hole golf course and pickleball to Jute Coastal Bar, where globally inspired flavors meet a beachy, laid-back atmosphere.”

“Unlike traditional hotels, Westdrift offers an effortless blend of style, community, and California cool, making every stay feel both elevated and refreshingly local.”

Their newly arrived General Manager, Swietlana Cahill, joins us with the overview of the expansive property. She is very visible around the property greeting guests and supportively interacting with the Staff.

Sweitlana was delayed in traffic getting to the Hotel. It’s live radio… Be patient as Andy talks about Westdrift Manhattan Beach pending Ms. Cahill’s om-air arrival.

Show 642, August 30, 2025: Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Preview with Founder Shelby Russell

Shelby Russell of Electric Avenue Events

“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025.

“Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”

Newly added is the Beachlife DJ Music Stage courtesy of Redondo Beach’s BeachLife Festival.

The Founder of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Shelby Russell, joins us with an enticing overview of the event.

Show 641, August 23, 2025: Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Preview with Host Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird

Neal Fraser of Redbird

“Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful cities, Manhattan Beach Food & Wine (the 2nd Annual) is a spectacular two-night strolling culinary extravaganza with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Grand Tasting on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and culinary enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 23 of the best chefs and restaurants each night, illustrious wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.”

Host Chef Neal Fraser (Redbird and Vibiana) joins us to preview the upcoming festivities.