Show 558, December 30, 2023: Anne Marie Panoringan – Culture OC’s Food Columnist Part One

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is now Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist and a host of other well-respected publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her new outlet as Food Columnist for Culture OC and preview her next column.

First it’s her 2nd YouTube video adventure with content creator Dzung Lewis also known as “Honeysuckle.” Then it’s on to a favorite dish at Chef Nick Weber’s Populaire at South Coast Plaza.

Along the way Anne Marie will highlight her recent dining adventures in Las Vegas including a meal at Peter Luger Steak House (of Brooklyn) at Caesars Palace and the opening of first mainland Zippy’s (revered in Hawaii) in Las Vegas. Also an overview of the ambitious Mercado Gonzalez (a Mexican Food Wonderland) in Costa Mesa.

Show 533, July 8, 2023: Chef Nick Weber of Populaire at South Coast Plaza. Tribute Menu for “TINA -The Tina Turner Musical.”

Nick Weber of Populaire Modern Bistro

Chef Nick Weber of Populaire at South Coast Plaza has created a three-course prix-fixe gastronomic tribute to the life and music of iconic performer, Tina Turner, available nightly during the July 11-23, two-week run of the Tony Award-winning musical, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.”

“Weber, a music fan, has crafted a culinary journey naming dishes for Turner’s hit songs such as Be Tender with Me Baby (heirloom tomato, ricotta maison, jambon de Bayonne crumble), Nutbush City Limits (select either Duroc pork belly or swordfish, Nardello peppers, hazelnuts, charred soubise, black garlic) and Proud Mary Reprise (Paris Brest – white chocolate crémeux, peaches, pistachio). The menu is served starting at 4 p.m. and is $55 with optional wine pairings $25, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations encouraged.”

Chef Nick Weber is our guest.

Show 531, June 24, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

El Cholo, perhaps Los Angeles’ most iconic, honored and beloved Mexican Restaurant is celebrating its 100th Anniversary during 2023 under the watchful eye of Ron Salisbury, 3rd generation proprietor of The El Cholo Family of Restaurants. Ron Salisbury also celebrates his 90th Birthday during 2023.” “In conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of El Cholo, the Salisbury Family has launched their ambitious Charitable Gift Campaign Benefitting Pediatric Cancer Research with the goal of raising a cool $1 Million dollars. Monies raised through the campaign will be donated equally to L.A. Children’s Hospital and to Orange County’s Children’s Hospital / CHOC Foundation. To participate in this charitable campaign, every El Cholo customer who makes a $100- donation while visiting any one of the six Southern California El Cholos will receive a VIP NACHOS CARD by which they can enjoy Carmen’s Nacho’s free throughout the rest of 2023.” Ron also has a unique booth naming campaign in progress at the original El Cholo with the proceeds going to the charitable fundraising campaign. 3rd generation proprietor, Ron Salisbury, is our guest with a plate of Carmen’s Original Nachos in hand.

Proprietor and Chef Alfonso Curti has assembled an outstanding menu of fine Italian dishes, an extensive wine list, specialty cocktails, and original desserts, which he is offering in the cozy elegance of the Trattoria Uliveto Italian Restaurant, located in the quaint town of Old Orcutt near Santa Maria, California. Join him in the celebration of authentic Italian cuisine paired with some of the finest wines available. Trattoria Uliveto also offers catering services for wedding receptions and banquets and daily Family Meals to go.” Trattoria Uliveto is open for lunch as well as dinner. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Chef Alfonso Curti takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Executive Chef Juan Morales oversees all the distinctive dining options at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Rancho Mirage. This is the only Agua Caliente Casino in Greater Palm Springs with a Forbes 4- Star luxury hotel on the property. Chef Juan and his team are the menu makers for The Steakhouse, Waters Café, 360 Sports and the casual, quick-service Java Caliente. Chef Juan Morales takes a brief pause from his busy kitchens to join us.

Bravo’s Top Chef just concluded 20th season was “World All-Stars” set in London. The current season of the Emmy-winning series featured 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs battled it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) was one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants. Chef Amar did California proud. He almost went the distance but did get to Paris for the Finale. “Top Chef” regular, Gail Simmons, has graciously anointed Chef Amar as one of the “Top Chef Final Five.” Not bad company to be in. Chef Amar was also in the running for “Top Chef” Fan Favorite which goes along with a $10,000 cash prize. We’ll hear the official results from Chef Amar.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew has shared with us previously that the business model for 3rd party delivery services does not seem sustainable. Grubhub just laid off staff. We’ll “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew will also tell us about California Black Gill Rock Cod. It’s delicious and local…(Postponed from last week.)

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

June 24: El Cholo, Trattoria Uliveto Italian Restaurant, Aqua Caliente Casino Resort Rancho Mirage, Amar Santana on Top Chef World All-Stars

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ron Salisbury, El Cholo and The Restaurant Business – Raising Money for Charity while Celebrating 100 Years of El Cholo
Segment Three: Executive Chef Alfonso Curti of Trattoria Uliveto, Orcutt, CA
Segment Four: Executive Chef Juan Morales, Agua Caliente Casino Resort, Rancho Mirage Part One
Segment Five: Executive Chef Juan Morales, Agua Caliente Casino Resort, Rancho Mirage Part Two
Segment Six: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part One
Segment Seven: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef & Co-Host Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

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

“El Cholo, perhaps Los Angeles’ most iconic, honored and beloved Mexican Restaurant is celebrating its 100th Anniversary during 2023 under the watchful eye of Ron Salisbury, 3rd generation proprietor of The El Cholo Family of Restaurants. Ron Salisbury also celebrates his 90th Birthday during 2023.” “In conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of El Cholo, the Salisbury Family has launched their ambitious Charitable Gift Campaign benefitting Pediatric Cancer Research with the goal of raising a cool $1Million dollars. Monies raised through the campaign will be donated to L.A. Children’s Hospital and to Orange County’s Children’s Hospital / CHOC Foundation. To participate in this charitable campaign, every El Cholo customer who makes a $100 donation while visiting any one of the six Southern California El Cholos will receive a VIP NACHOS CARD by which they can enjoy Carmen’s Nacho’s free throughout the rest of 2023.” Ron also has a unique booth naming campaign in progress at the original El Cholo with the proceeds going to the charitable fundraising campaign. 3rd generation proprietor, Ron Salisbury, is our guest with a plate of Carmen’s Original Nachos in hand.

“Proprietor and Chef Alfonso Curti has assembled an outstanding menu of fine Italian dishes, an extensive wine list, specialty cocktails, and original desserts, which he is offering in the cozy elegance of the Trattoria Uliveto Italian Restaurant, located in the quaint town of Old Orcutt near Santa Maria, California. Join him in the celebration of authentic Italian cuisine paired with some of the finest wines available. Trattoria Uliveto also offers catering services for wedding receptions and banquets and daily Family Meals to go.” Trattoria Uliveto is open for lunch as well as dinner. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Chef Alfonso Curti takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Executive Chef Juan Morales oversees all the distinctive dining options at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Rancho Mirage. This is the only Agua Caliente Casino in Greater Palm Springs with a Forbes 4- Star luxury hotel on the property. Chef Juan and his team are the menu makers for The Steakhouse, Waters Café, 360 Sports and the casual, quick-service Java Caliente. Chef Juan Morales takes a brief pause from his busy kitchens to join us.

Bravo’s “Top Chef”just concluded 20th season was “World All-Stars” set in London. The current season of the Emmy-winning series featured 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs battled it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) was one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants. Chef Amar did California proud. He almost went the distance but did get to Paris. “Top Chef” regular, Gail Simmons, has graciously anointed Chef Amar as one of the “Top Chef Final Five.” Not bad company to be in. Chef Amar was also in the running for “Top Chef” Fan Favorite which goes along with a $10,000 cash prize. We’ll hear the official results from Chef Amar.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the< full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew has shared with us previously that the business model for 3rd party delivery services does not seem sustainable. Grubhub just laid off staff. We’ll “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew will also tell us about California Black Gill Rock Cod. It’s delicious and local…(Postponed from last week.)

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

Ron Salisbury of El Cholo

El Cholo, perhaps Los Angeles’ most iconic, honored and beloved Mexican Restaurant is celebrating its 100th Anniversary during 2023 under the watchful eye of Ron Salisbury, 3rd generation proprietor of The El Cholo Family of Restaurants. Ron Salisbury also celebrates his 90th Birthday during 2023. Mr. Salisbury has been working with the El Cholo restaurant chain for 68 years! Several of his descendants also currently work within his family’s business, including fourth, fifth and even sixth generation family members!”

In conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of El Cholo, the Salisbury Family has launched their ambitious Charitable Gift Campaign benefiting Pediatric Cancer Research with the goal of raising as cool $1 Million dollars. Monies raised through the campaign will be donated to L.A. Children’s Hospital and to Orange County’s Children’s Hospital / CHOC Foundation. To participate in this charitable campaign, every El Cholo customer who makes a $100 donation while visiting any one of the six Southern California El Cholos will receive a VIP NACHOS CARD by which they can enjoy Carmen’s Nacho’s free throughout the rest of 2023.

Ron also has a very special booth naming campaign in progress at the original El Cholo with the proceeds going to the charitable fundraising campaign.

“Says Mr. Salisbury, “Many other restaurants, when they approach 100, start slowing down or taking their eye off the ball. But we still stand firmly at the top of our game. We continue to be aggressive in providing the best Mexican restaurant experience possible – one that only El Cholo can offer. Myself, my kids, my grandkids and even my great-grandkids are proudly committed to continuing the El Cholo tradition – one that my grandparents began way back in 1923 – well into the future!””

3rd generation proprietor, Ron Salisbury, is our guest with a plate of Carmen’s Original Nachos in hand.

Alfonso Curti of Trattoria Uliveto

“Proprietor and Chef Alfonso Curti has assembled an outstanding menu of fine Italian dishes, an extensive wine list, specialty cocktails, and original desserts, which he is offering in the cozy elegance of the Trattoria Uliveto Italian Restaurant, located in the quaint town of Old Orcutt near Santa Maria, California. Join him in the celebration of authentic Italian cuisine paired with some of the finest wines available. Trattoria Uliveto also offers catering services for wedding receptions and banquets and daily Family Meals to go.” Trattoria Uliveto is open for lunch as well as dinner. Closed on Sunday and Monday.

“Business owner and restaurant afficionado Jim Spallino together with Alfonso Curti, former executive chef of Grappolo” in Santa Ynez, have a winning combination for Orcutt’s next big thing: a local Italian trattoria. Both Spallino and Curti have dreamed of having a restaurant of their own and when the opportunity to take on the Wine Cottage Bistro presented itself….they jumped!”

“Curti, a native Calabrian, moved to California from Italy a little over ten years ago and made a name for himself working at his family’s restaurant in Santa Ynez during that time. His culinary career began as a young teenager where he worked in a family bakery and later he served in the Italian Army as a Chef for troops. Perhaps his greatest teachers were his Nonna and Mamma where he learned the heart of Italian cooking.”

Chef Alfonso Curti takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Juan Morales of Agua Caliente Casinos

Executive Chef Juan Morales oversees all the distinctive dining options at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Rancho Mirage. This is the only Agua Caliente Casino in Greater Palm Springs with a Forbes 4 -Star rated luxury hotel on the property. Chef Juan and his team are the menu makers for The Steakhouse, Waters Café, 360 Sports and the casual, quick-service Java Caliente.

“The Steakhouse, at Rancho Mirage is a dining experience second to none. The stunning Rancho Mirage steakhouse is the recipient of a prestigious Travel Guide award and has been the winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence consecutively since 2007. The renowned restaurant has also earned additional accolades such as the AAA Four Diamond Award, the Palm Springs Life Best of the Best, and the OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award. At The Steakhouse, guests enjoy the finest prime steaks and fresh seafood in a sophisticated, comfortable setting, along with the first-class service.”

“A native of Los Angeles, Executive Chef Juan Morales’ fondest childhood memories are of family dinners and cooking with his mother, watching the passion and attention she gave to each item she prepared. She instilled that passion and drive into Chef Juan, which drove him to work with some talented chefs throughout his 20-year career. He was fortunate to begin his culinary journey as a chef with the Patina Group, where he learned from well-known chefs Joachim Splichal and Octavio Becerra.”

“Following Patina, he ventured to Las Vegas and Green Valley Ranch where he utilized his knowledge of the culinary industry to work with amazing teams. He brought new and exciting flavors and food concepts such as Kobe beef and Japanese A5 to various restaurants, one of which was rated a top 10 steakhouse in Las Vegas. As he learned that a good chef seeks out the guest’s initial response to a dish, he quickly became accustomed to adjusting and improving flavor profiles based on these reactions. Chef Juan enjoys introducing new flavors and textures to entrees using only the freshest produce and proteins, and there’s no better place to do that than right here in California.”

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

Amar Santana at the Finale of Top Chef

Bravo’s Top Chef just concluded 20th season was “World All-Stars” set in London. The new season of the Emmy-winning series featured 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs battled it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) was one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.

Chef Amar did California proud. He almost went the distance but did get to Paris. “Top Chef” regular, Gail Simmons has anointed Chef Amar as one of the “Top Chef Final Five.” Not bad company to be in. Chef Amar was also in the running for “Top Chef” Fan Favorite which goes along with a $10,000 cash prize. We’ll hear the results directly from Chef Amar.

Also there is a new Vaca in the works for early 2024 but it’s not in Orange County.

Chef Amar takes a break from his busy kitchens for his insider’s report on “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

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

Chef Andrew has shared with us previously that the business model for 3rd party delivery services for restaurants does not seem sustainable in the long term. Grubhub just laid off staff. We’ll “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew will also tell us about California Black Gill Rock Cod. It’s incredibly delicious and local… (Postponed from last week.)

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ron Salisbury, El Cholo and The Restaurant Business – Raising Money for Charity while Celebrating 100 Years of El Cholo
Segment Three: Executive Chef Alfonso Curti of Trattoria Uliveto, Orcutt, CA
Segment Four: Executive Chef Juan Morales, Agua Caliente Casino Resort, Rancho Mirage Part One
Segment Five: Executive Chef Juan Morales, Agua Caliente Casino Resort, Rancho Mirage Part Two
Segment Six: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part One
Segment Seven: Restaurateur & Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana Part Two
Segment Eight: Chef & Co-Host Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Show 521, April 15, 2023: Anne Marie Panoringan, The Voice of OC’s Food Columnist Part Two

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Saturday. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles and other well-respected publications.

Anne Marie continues with us in-studio for her regular bi-monthly visit. We move on to highlighting a limited-time Afternoon Tea in the ocean-view Raya Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel under the direction of Chef de Cuisine Irving Nunez and Chef Michael Doctulero’s new Tiki Brunch at Mah Jong’s by Chef Mike at South Coast Plaza.

Show 515, March 4, 2023: Chef Amar Santana of Vaca and Broadway. Cheftestant for Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 20 London Part One

Amar Santana at the Finale of Top Chef

Bravo’s Top Chef” debuts its 20th season with “World All-Stars” in London, on Thursday evening, March 9th. The new season of the Emmy-winning series feature 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs will battle it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) will be one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.

Chef Amar is a “Top Chef” veteran and characterized as a fierce competitor. In a spectacular and memorable finale he was judged the 1st runner up for “Top Chef” Season 13 – California narrowly missing the coveted top spot. He was then invited back for “Top Chef” Season 18 – Portland as a member of the elite judging panel.

Chef Amar takes a break from his busy kitchens to join us with a preview of “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.

Sail in style with Chef Amar on a premium Douro River Valley (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) cruise for 7 nights (starting November 5th.) around Porto, Portugal (the City of Bridges) on a Uniworld boutique river cruise. Also a visit to Spain’s glorious city of Salamanca. On-board cooking classes with Chef Amar will feature fresh, regional produce. Also learn the art of Spanish winemaking and Ports from Porto with visits to some of Chef Amar’s favorite wineries in the region featured on the Wine Lists at Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana.

Show 515, March 4, 2023: Chef Amar Santana of Vaca and Broadway. Cheftestant for Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season 20 London Part Two

Amar Santana at the Finale of Top Chef

Bravo’s Top Chef” debuts its 20th season with “World All-Stars” in London, on Thursday evening, March 9th. The new season of the Emmy-winning series feature 16 of its greatest competitors, representing 11 different “Top Chef” versions around the world. The chefs will battle it out throughout scenic London, before the grand finale in Paris. Orange County’s own Chef Amar Santana (Vaca adjacent to South Coast Plaza and Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach) will be one of the esteemed returning Cheftestants.

Chef Amar is a “Top Chef” veteran and characterized as a fierce competitor. In a spectacular and memorable finale he was judged the 1st runner up for “Top Chef” Season 13 – California narrowly missing the coveted top spot. He was then invited back for “Top Chef” Season 18 – Portland as a member of the elite judging panel.

Chef Amar takes another break from his busy kitchens to join us with a preview of “Top Chef” Season 20 – London.

Sail in style with Chef Amar on a premium Douro River Valley (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) cruise for 7 nights (starting November 5th.) around Porto, Portugal (the City of Bridges) on a Uniworld boutique river cruise. Also a visit to Spain’s glorious city of Salamanca. On-board cooking classes with Chef Amar will feature fresh, regional produce. Also learn the art of Spanish winemaking and Ports from Porto with visits to some of Chef Amar’s favorite wineries in the region featured on the Wine Lists at Vaca and Broadway by Amar Santana.

Show 514, February 25, 2023: Preview of OC Restaurant Week with Chef & Restaurateur Ross Pangilinan of Populaire, Terrace by Mix Mix and Verdant

Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

“The 15th Anniversary of Orange County Restaurant Week returns on Sunday, March 5 and runs through Saturday, March 11. This year’s event highlights more than 165 restaurants that have crafted thoughtful menus and cocktails designed to showcase Orange County’s diverse dining options.”

“Diners have an opportunity to partake in a variety of Prix-Fixe Menus ranging from $15 to $45; romance-infused Date Night Menus and thoughtfully curated Luxe Menus for indulgent experiences. Diners will be able to find participating restaurants and search menus by price online.

Chef/Restauranteur Ross Pangilinan is participating in OC Restaurant Week with Terrace By Mix Mix and Populaire (a partnership with Chef Nick Weber) at South Coast Plaza, and Verdant at the Orange County Museum of Art. Chef Ross joins us with all his salivating OC Restaurant Week menu highlights.

Show 495, October 15, 2022: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist – OC Restaurant News

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday.

Anne Marie continues with us in-studio to talk about her current column highlighting the culinary activities of Chefs Ross Pangilinan and Nick Weber at both South Coast Plaza and the nearby newly opened Orange County Museum of Art.

Anne Marie also discusses the relaunched Henry’s Coastal Cuisine at The Waterfront Resort with Chef Lewis Butler as part of a recent column on new dining spots in Huntington Beach and has a look at The Culinary Lab which is a subject of her upcoming Oct. 21st column.

Show 489, September 3, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Happy Labor Day Weekend. Enjoy something absolutely delicious!

The venerable and architecturally significant Tam O’Shanter in Atwater Village is celebrating it’s 100th birthday this year. Always a favorite of Walt Disney it’s currently overseen by the fourth-generation of the founding Frank and Van de Kamp families. Their CEO (Ryan O’Melveny Wilson) is an accomplished chef. A culmination of the anniversary festivities was a six-course centennial repast held in mid-July. The elaborate Sunday dinner highlighted significant dishes from various eras of the Tam’s historic past. Of course the signature Lawry’s Prime Rib with Yorkshire Pudding was on the evening’s menu.

LA Weekly’s well-respected Food Editor, Michele Stueven, was the co-host. Michele joins us to discuss the evening and the historical significance of the Tam O’Shanter on the ever-changing Los Angeles restaurant scene. We’ll also ask what restaurant openings on the horizon she is most anticipating for the balance of the year.

Every year Chef Marco Zapien of Zapien’s Salsa Grill and Taqueria in Pico Rivera goes all out to celebrate the short Hatch Pepper season. His concluding Hatch Chile event is Zapien’s Hatch Pepper Roast set for Saturday, September 10th from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It also includes a Hatch Brunch menu in the restaurant showcasing brunch favorites prepared with Hatch Peppers. This year’s Hatch Chile Roast allows patrons to pick-up on the spot roasted Melissa’s Hatch Chiles by the case and by the preferred level of spice from mild to hot. Pre-ordering is advised. Chef Marco takes a break from his busy kitchen to provide all the savory and flavorful Hatch roasting details.

Populaire, the much-anticipated restaurant from veteran chefs Ross Pangilinan and Nicholas Weber, opened its doors at South Coast Plaza on June 1. The two Patina Restaurant Group alums – both protégés of renowned restaurateur and Master Chef Joachim Splichal — have since forged their own respective culinary paths.” “Guests can anticipate savoring classic bistro staples with modern California flavors and twists, from Escargot Ebelskivers with Sauerkraut, Buttermilk and Parsley to Fried Chicken & Royal Osetra Caviar with Labneh and Chives, along with Ratatouille with Egg Yolk, Aged White Cheddar, Gochugaru Chili, Olive Oil & Crostini, and Dungeness Crab Chawanmushi with Sea Urchin, Red Yuzu Kosho and Saffron Dashi. Entrée-wise, there’s Spanish Octopus with Koji Crème Fraiche, Cured Green Tomato & Hemp Seed Crumble – as well as Prime Bavette Steak with Sauce Au Poivre and Whipped Potatoes.” Chef / Proprietor Nick Weber joins us.

When we last spoke with Las Vegas-based food and entertainment journalist Al Mancini he had just launched the ambitious Neon Feast dining app. “Available now on app stores for both Apple and Android, Neon Feast solves the “where to eat” dilemma for both visitors and locals with listings curated by dozens of local and nationally prominent food & beverage experts, searchable through a unique combination of filters and capabilities.” Al Mancini is our guest to discuss Labor Day dining (spotlighting the very best in regional hot dogs) in Las Vegas and provide an update on the progress of Neon Feast.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. When we think of sturgeon it’s probably best known as the source of caviar. Some of us have perhaps enjoyed smoked sturgeon in a Jewish Deli. Fresh sturgeon is a somewhat hidden delicacy. Chef Andrew shares the joys of sturgeon as a center-plate protein and its sustainability in a farm-raised system.

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