September 19: Andrew Gruel, John Terlato, The Habit, Ventura County Farm Day, Moulin Bistro, Eric Klein, Sipsmith Independent Spirits

Executive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, and now, Irvine at UCI, is back as today’s special Guest Host.

Next an appetizing preview of Saturday’s high-energy and appropriately fully-loaded show and not, with apologies, for dieters. With any luck we will always leave you hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a good thing…

The proudly Family-owned Terlato Wine Group is a holding company for several independent businesses specializing in the marketing and production of exceptional wines. They are probably best known for pioneering the popularity of Pinot Grigio in the United States. Representing the 2nd generation of Family ownership is John Terlato, our guest.

The Habit Burger Grill (which started in Santa Barbara in 1969) has partnered with No Kid Hungry for the month of September to raise funds to wipe out childhood hunger in the United States. A minimum of $200,000 will be contributed. The Habit’s CEO, Russ Bendel, joins us with all the details.

Discover California agriculture first hand and learn about fun farm-specific facts and specialties at SEEAG’s (Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture) third annual Ventura County Farm Day on Saturday, September 26, 2015. This free event welcomes visitors to enjoy both guided and self-guided tours from over 20 working farms in Ventura County. SEEAG’s Founder & Executive Director Mary Maranville is our guest.

Moulin Bistro in Newport Beach, celebrating their first anniversary, is an incredible success story. It’s a busy French bistro, epicerie, boulangerie and patisserie under one roof. (“Always Fresh Always French.”) The ambitious proprietor (unbelievably) had no previous restaurant experience. Proprietor Laurent Vrignaud joins us.

Executive Chef Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” In the last two weeks he has cooked a private dinner for The President, been the celebrity guest chef aboard Holland America Line’s ms Maasdam, and cooked at one of the most prestigious charity funds-raisers in Las Vegas. We’ll catch-up with the busy Chef Eric.

Our friends at The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are at it again. Their next Los Angeles Program is “Gin! A Botanical Mystery Tour” on Tuesday evening, September 22nd at 6:30 p.m. at the newly renovated Clifton’s Cafeteria in Downtown Los Angeles. Jared Brown, Master Distiller at Sipsmith Independent Spirits in London is our guest.

Mussels seem to be the forgotten and underappreciated mollusk in the United States. They are incredibly popular in Europe. The meat is a bit tougher than an oyster or clam but it’s still delicious with a mildly sweet flavor. Our resident seafood authority, Chef Andrew Gruel, will spread the joy of mussels. They are really good eating. There is life beyond oysters !

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

John TerlatoThe proudly Family-owned Terlato Wine Group, based in a Chicago suburb, is a holding company for several independent businesses specializing in the marketing and production of exceptional wines. They are probably best known for pioneering the popularity of Pinot Grigio in the United States.

The Terlatos started out in the wine business as retailers in 1955. Over the years, they have been involved in every facet of the business as wine distributors and importers, as well as winery owners and vineyard developers. No other company in the industry has successfully operated throughout all channels. This vertical integration and diversity of experience shaped the Terlato family’s unique perspective and approach to luxury wine marketing, sales and production.

Chairman Anthony Terlato’s philosophy that “Quality Endures” has guided the growth of the Terlato family’s businesses and provided opportunities to lead, rather than follow, industry trends.

Representing the 2nd generation of Family ownership is Vice Chairman John Terlato, our guest.

Russ BendelThe Habit Burger Grill (which started in Santa Barbara in 1969) has partnered with No Kid Hungry for the month of September to raise funds to wipe out childhood hunger in the United States. A minimum of $200,000 will be contributed.

Doing its part to help end the problem of childhood hunger in America, The Habit Restaurants, Inc.  has launched a partnership with No Kid Hungry in which guests are encouraged to donate at the register and, in return, receive a certificate to enjoy a complimentary Charburger with cheese on their next visit through October 14, 2015.

The campaign, which runs nationwide at participating Habit Burger Grill locations now through September 30, 2015, addresses the serious issue of childhood hunger in the United States where 1 in 5 children cannot count on their next meal.  During the campaign guests at The Habit who donate $2 to No Kid Hungry, a national campaign from the nonprofit Share Our Strength, will receive a certificate for a free Charburger with cheese good on a future visit .

The Habit/No Kid Hungry partnership will raise funds from 120 Habit restaurants nationwide and donations will directly support No Kid Hungry’s mission to wipe out childhood hunger in the U.S. by connecting kids in need with nutritious food and teaching families how to cook healthy, affordable meals.

The Habit’s CEO, Russ Bendel, joins us with all the details.

Ventura County Farm DayDiscover California agriculture first hand and learn about fun, farm-specific facts and specialties at SEEAG’s (Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture) third annual Ventura County Farm Day on Saturday, September 26, 2015. This free event welcomes visitors to enjoy both guided and self-guided tours, hands-on activities and educational demonstrations from over 20 working farms in Ventura County, followed by a ticketed outdoor BBQ at Limoneria Ranch.

A perfect family event, Ventura County Farm Day is free to attend at participating Ventura County farms in Camarillo, Fillmore, Ojai, Oxnard, Santa Paula, Saticoy and Somis.

This year, Ventura County Farm Day will also feature the new Farm Day Mercantile Hub at Hansen Agricultural Research and Extension Center. The Mercantile Hub will host a collection of local artisanal vendors displaying their goods and demonstrating the beautiful products that can be created from the raw bounty grown by our farmers. The market will include meat curers, bread makers, goat milk soaps, honey, jam, pickles, chocolate and more.

After tour hours have concluded, attendees are invited to enjoy a rustic outdoor BBQ from 4-9 p.m. at Limoneira Ranch in Santa Paula. The BBQ will feature live music by Grammy Award-winning artist Todd Hannigan, a kiss-the-farmer photo booth, tractor rides, gourmet salads prepared by farm-to-table Chef Jason Collis, craft beers from Poseidon Brewing Company, small-batch wines from Four Brix Winery and barbeque fired up by the Young Farmers & Ranchers of Ventura County.

SEEAG’s Founder & Executive Director Mary Maranville is our guest.

Laurent VrignaudMoulin Bistro in Newport Beach, celebrating their first anniversary, is an incredible success story. It’s a busy French bistro, epicerie, boulangerie and patisserie under one roof. (“Always Fresh, Always French.”) All the appointments and fixtures are French. The ambitious proprietor (unbelievably) had no previous restaurant experience.

It’s already the darling of Orange County Food writers. Moulin is one of three nominees for “Best New Restaurant” at The Golden Foodie Awards on Sept. 27th at The Fairmont Newport Beach.

The French Rotisserie Chicken is a standout.

Laurent wanted to close at 7:00 p.m. but his French guests had another opinion. By popular demand he opened on Tuesday evenings for Dinner at Moulin. It’s a weekly changing appetizer, main dish, and dessert for $25.00. It now sells out at capacity way in advance. Laurent then added Thursday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. It’s Entrecote Frites night with unlimited fries. It’s also $25.00.

The Orange County Register’s long-time food writer Cathy Thomas recently did a feature on Moulin’s Le Croque Madame. The video (demonstrating the recipe with Laurent and French-born Chef Jeoffrey Offer) is available for viewing on YouTube.

Proprietor Laurent Vrignaud joins us.

Eric KleinExecutive Chef Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” In the last two weeks he has cooked a private dinner for The President, been the celebrity guest chef aboard Holland America Line’s ms Maasdam, and cooked with Wolfgang Puck as the host chef at one of the most prestigious charity funds-raisers in Las Vegas.

Earlier in the week Chef Eric was the host chef for Chef Wolfgang Puck’s 3rd annual “Sip & Savor” benefit at Spago Las Vegas. It benefits Keep Memory Alive.

It’s a mix-and-mingle, wine-and-dine event which gave the guests the opportunity to indulge in an interactive culinary affair sampling the signature cuisine of each of Puck’s six Las Vegas restaurants, paired with a number of Chef Puck’s favorite wines.

We’ll catch-up with Chef Eric.

Our friends at The Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) are at it again. Their next interactive Los Angeles Program is Gin! A Botanical Mystery Tour” on Tuesday evening, September 22nd at 6:30 p.m. at the newly (and expensively) renovated Clifton’s Cafeteria in Downtown Los Angeles.

Master Distiller Jared Brown, (a MOTAC co-founder) will lead participants on a historical and global tour of gins, including London Dry, New World and Old Tom.

The evening also celebrates the eagerly anticipated reopening of Clifton’s Cafeteria, a Los Angeles culinary icon, now extensively renovated and the future home of MOTAC’s next Los Angeles gallery. Admission includes gourmet appetizers courtesy of Clifton’s kitchen.

Jared Brown, Master Distiller at Sipsmith Independent Spirits in London is our guest.

Andrew GruelMussels seem to be the forgotten and underappreciated mollusk in the United States. They are incredibly popular in Europe. The meat is a bit tougher than an oyster or clam but it’s still delicious with a mildly sweet flavor.

Mussels are an ancient food of early man going back over 20,000 years.

The “SoCal Restaurant Show” was recently on Prince Edward Island in Canada. We enjoyed mussels there cooked in white wine, craft beer, and with tomatoes. The broth is equally delicious, too.

Our resident seafood authority, Chef Andrew Gruel, will spread the joy of mussels. They are really good eating. There is life beyond raw oysters!

Show 111, February 21, 2015: Show Preview with Chef Andrew Gruel (Guest Host) and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Andrew GruelChef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish is back in the Guest Host seat this morning along with Producer and Color Commentator Andy Harris. Now a preview of today’s abundantly overstuffed show.

Chef Margarita Martinez hosts the Emmy-award winning New England travel and food series, “Neighborhood Kitchens” on WGBH (PBS.) She also is the spokesperson for The Cabot Creamery Cookbook: Simple, Wholesome Dishes from America’s Best Dairy Farms.More than a recipe book, The Cabot Creamery Cookbook tells the story of how premium quality and local ownership have been the key to a decades-long, award-winning cooperative, and will be a must-have for anyone who loves delicious, farm-fresh food.

Executive Chef & Partner Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas was a sous chef at the original Spago. He had he share of working Oscar nights there and at The Governors’ Ball. Wolfgang Puck has been associated with serving food at the Oscars for some 21 years. On Sunday, February 22nd Chef Eric is hosting an Awards Night Party at Spago Las Vegas. The 7-course tasting menu is inspired by the cuisine (some 50 dishes) Puck will be serving the same night at The Governors’ Ball at Hollywood & Highland. One of the official desserts will be on Chef Eric’s menu.

Planned Parenthood Los Angeles’ annual Food Fare is Southern California’s highly anticipated gastronomic event where food lovers and Planned Parenthood supporters are invited to enjoy Los Angeles’ best restaurants all under one roof at Barker Hangar is Santa Monica on Thursday, March 5th. It’s their 36th big year! This year’s Food Fare will honor “Top Chef Seattle’s” runner-up cheftestant, Brooke Williamson, and her husband, Nick Roberts, as the 2015 Chefs of the Year and their three restaurants, Playa Provisions, Hudson House, and The Tripel will all be serving at the event. Chefs Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts are our guests.

Specializing in ultra premium wines grown in Paso Robles, California, Artisan Uprising was created by brothers David and William Vondrasek after years of making wines solely for their family. “Originally inspired to try out what we had learned from our grandfather and our heritage of making wine each year, we found ourselves making more than the family could drink. Now that we make enough to share, we have held true to our process and mindset of how our wine should be made.” We are joined by the Vondrasek Brothers.

The kickoff event for San Francisco Beer Week is <The Bistro Double IPA Fest in Hayward. For the Third year our own El Segundo Brewing Co. entered their craft beers into this prestigious competition. Their Hammerland took the Gold! ESBC’s certified Cicerone, Thomas Kelley, is with us to celebrate the big win and explain!

We’re continuing our preview of Chocolate Decadence and the Pechanga Wine Festival set for Friday evening, February 27th and Saturday afternoon, February 28th at the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula. Europa Village winery in Temecula is part of both events. Their new winemaker, George Bursick, joins us to provide an overview of what they are doing at Europa Village. We’ll also be joined by their Events Director, Lisa Ferguson, and Executive Chef and Innkeeper (The Inn at Europa Village,) Dean Thomas.

On Saturday morning, February 28th we’re broadcasting live from the Pechanga Wine Festival at the Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula.

Don’t forget…OC Restaurant Week is March 1st to 7th.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

February 21: Andrew Gruel, Margarita Martinez, Spago Las Vegas, Brooke Williamson, Nick Roberts, Artisan Uprising, El Segundo Brewing, Europa Vlillage

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Chef Andrew Gruel (Guest Host) and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Margarita Martinez and The Cabot Creamery Cookbook
Segment Three: Executive Chef Eric Klein, Spago Las Vegas
Segment Four: Chefs Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts, Playa Provisions
Segment Five: Artisan Uprising winery, Paso Robles
Segment Six: El Segundo Brewing Co. – Hammerland takes The Gold
Segment Seven: George Bursick, Winemaker, Europa Village, Temecula
Segment Eight: Executive Chef & Innkeeper Dean Thomas and Events Director Lisa Ferguson, Europa Village

Andrew GruelChef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish is back in the Guest Host seat this morning along with Producer and Color Commentator Andy Harris. Now a preview of today’s abundantly overstuffed show.

Chef Margarita Martinez hosts the Emmy-award winning New England travel and food series, “Neighborhood Kitchens” on WGBH (PBS.) She also is the spokesperson for The Cabot Creamery Cookbook : Simple, Wholesome Dishes from America’s Best Dairy Farms. More than a recipe book, The Cabot Creamery Cookbook tells the story of how premium quality and local ownership have been the key to a decades-long, award-winning cooperative, and will be a must-have for anyone who loves delicious, farm-fresh food.

Executive Chef & Partner Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas was a sous chef at the original Spago. He had he share of working Oscar nights there and at The Governors’ Ball. Wolfgang Puck has been associated with serving food at the Oscars for some 21 years. On Sunday, February 22nd Chef Eric is hosting an Awards Night Party at Spago Las Vegas. The 7-course tasting menu is inspired by the cuisine (some 50 dishes) Puck will be serving the same night at The Governors’ Ball at Hollywood & Highland. One of the official desserts will be on Chef Eric’s menu.

Planned Parenthood Los Angeles annual Food Fare is Southern California’s highly anticipated gastronomic event where food lovers and Planned Parenthood supporters are invited to enjoy Los Angeles’ best restaurants all under one roof at Barker Hangar is Santa Monica on Thursday, March 5th. It’s their 36th big year! This year’s Food Fare will honor “Top Chef Seattle’s” runner-up cheftestant, Brooke Williamson, and her husband, Nick Roberts, as the 2015 Chefs of the Year and their three restaurants, Playa Provisions, Hudson House, and The Tripel will all be serving at the event. Chefs Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts are our guests.

Specializing in ultra premium wines grown in Paso Robles, California, Artisan Uprising was created by brothers David and William Vondrasek after years of making wines solely for their family. “Originally inspired to try out what we had learned from our grandfather and our heritage of making wine each year, we found ourselves making more than the family could drink. Now that we make enough to share, we have held true to our process and mindset of how our wine should be made.” We are joined by the Vondrasek Brothers.

The kickoff event for San Francisco Beer Week is The Bistro Double IPA Fest in Hayward. For the Third year our own El Segundo Brewing Co. entered their craft beers into this prestigious competition. Their Hammerland took the Gold! ESBC’s certified Cicerone, Thomas Kelley, is with us to celebrate the big win and explain!

We’re continuing our preview of Chocolate Decadence and the Pechanga Wine Festival set for Friday evening, February 27th and Saturday afternoon, February 28th at the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula. Europa Village winery in Temecula is part of both events. Their new winemaker, George Bursick, joins us to provide an overview of what they are doing at Europa Village. We’ll also be joined by their Events Director, Lisa Ferguson, and Executive Chef and Innkeeper (The Inn at Europa Village,) Dean Thomas.

On Saturday morning, February 28th we’re broadcasting live from the Pechanga Wine Festival at the Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Margarita MartinezChef Margarita Martinez hosts the Emmy-award winning New England travel and food series “Neighborhood Kitchens” on WGBH (PBS.) She loves to discover new ingredients, flavors, and cooking approaches that she can bring to her own home kitchen and share with others. She also is the spokesperson for The Cabot Creamery Cookbook: Simple, Wholesome Dishes from America’s Best Dairy Farms.

The American love affair with fresh, flavorful ingredients goes well beyond vegetables. When it comes to milk, cheese, and yogurt, the Cabot Creamery, home of the “world’s best cheddar” and other award-winning dairy products, is recognized across the country as the best in its class. The Cabot farmers that comprise the 1,200-strong dairy cooperative, employ techniques that have been honed over decades using their exceptional quality milk.

The Cabot Creamery Cookbook is an honest-to-goodness collection of recipes and stories from real dairy farmers, who have always understood that good food begins with great ingredients. This rich collection of 150 irresistible and easy-to-follow recipes, ranging from appetizers to desserts and everything in between, will tempt the palates of home cooks everywhere and be a go-to gift for anyone who loves simple, delicious and wholesome food.

More than a recipe book, The Cabot Creamery Cookbook tells the story of how premium quality and local ownership have been the key to a decades-long, award-winning cooperative, and will be a must-have for anyone who loves delicious, farm-fresh food.

Eric KleinExecutive Chef & Partner Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas was a sous chef at the original Spago. He had his share of working pressure-packed Oscar nights there and at The Governors’ Ball.

Wolfgang Puck has been associated with serving food at the Oscars for 21 years. On Sunday, February 22nd Chef Eric is hosting an Awards Night Party at Spago Las Vegas. The 7-course tasting menu is inspired by the cuisine (some 50 dishes) Chef Puck will be serving the same night at The Governors’ Ball at Hollywood & Highland.

One of the official desserts, an Apple Millefeuille with brown butter sauce and apple cider jelly, will be on Chef Eric’s menu, too. Every lucky guest will leave with a special chocolate Oscar painted with edible gold (originally created by Chef Wolfgang’s former executive pastry chef, Sherry Yard.) The guests at the official Governors Ball in Hollywood receive the same coveted keepsake!

Chef Eric Klein is our guest.

Brooke Williamson and Nick RobertsPlanned Parenthood Los Angeles’ annual Food Fare is Southern California’s highly anticipated gastronomic event where food lovers and Planned Parenthood supporters are invited to enjoy Los Angeles’ best restaurants all under one roof at Barker Hangar is Santa Monica on Thursday, March 5th. It’s their 36th year!

This year’s Food Fare will honor “Top Chef Seattle’s” runner-up cheftestant, Brooke Williamson, and her husband, Nick Roberts, as the 2015 Chefs of the Year and their three restaurants, Playa Provisions, Hudson House, and The Tripel will all be serving at the event.

Past Food Fare Chefs of The Year will also be represented by Celestino Drago’s Drago Centro, Suzanne Goin’s A.O.C., Lucques and Tavern, Joe Miller’s Joe’s Restaurant, Susan Feniger’s and Mary Sue Milliken’s Border Grill and Alain Giraud’s Maison Giraud.

Chefs Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts are our guests to provide the 411 on the upcoming Food Fare.

David and William Vondrasek Specializing in very limited production, ultra premium wines grown in Paso Robles, California, Artisan Uprising was created by brothers David and William Vondrasek after years of making wines solely for their family.

“Originally inspired to try out what we had learned from our grandfather and our (Italian) heritage of making wine each year, we found ourselves making more than the family could drink. Now that we make enough to share, we have held true to our process and mindset of how our wine should be made.”

“This is handcrafted wine two people can make. Unfiltered and un-stripped, our wines present some sediment in the bottle that we believe enhances the overall texture and ability for the wines to develop and age for years to come. Our wines are unique, they are what we like, and while quality of this scale has a broad appeal, it cannot be mass-produced, It is a true Artisan product.”

Current releases (very limited) are a Rose of Merlot, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Sirah.

We are joined by the Vondrasek Brothers.

Hammerland by El Segundo Brewing CompanyThe kickoff event for always eagerly anticipated San Francisco Beer Week is The Bistro Double IPA Fest in Hayward. For the Third year our own El Segundo Brewing Co. entered their craft beers into this prestigious competition. Their Hammerland took the Gold!

“This competition which is in its 15th year, included 63 Double IPAs mainly from California, and all of them are in the best possible condition they could be. Most of the kegging dates are within a week, and many breweries brew beers specifically for this Fest. A win here, in our not so humble opinion, is a true distinction of having the best hoppy beer in the land.”

ESBC’s certified Cicerone, Thomas Kelley, is with us to celebrate the big win and explain the significance of this huge honor!

George BursickWe’re continuing our preview of Chocolate Decadence and the Pechanga Wine Festival set for Friday evening, February 27th and Saturday afternoon, February 28th at the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula.

Europa Village winery in Temecula is part of both events. Their new winemaker, George Bursick (ex-Ferrari-Carano,) joins us to provide an overview of what they are doing at Europa Village and the ambitious plans for the future.

“Our story is simple. It began with a vision of combining Old World European wine country charm with the modern amenities and technological advancements of California wine craft.”

“Today, more than 30 acres of prime Temecula Wine Country property has been planted with popular European-style varietal grapes. We are now crafting premium wines in the classic traditions of France, Spain and Italy. You can savor these vintages offerings and experience a taste of what’s to come at our interim Europa Village Tasting Room and event facilities.”

Dean ThomasWe’re continuing our preview of Chocolate Decadence and the Pechanga Wine Festival set for Friday evening, February 27th and Saturday afternoon, February 28th at the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula. Europa Village winery in Temecula is part of both events.

We’re now joined by their Events Director, Lisa Ferguson, and Executive Chef and Innkeeper (The Inn at Europa Village,) Dean Thomas.

The Inn at Europa Village is a unique Spanish mission-style wine country inn featuring 10 well-appointed guestrooms perfect for that romantic getaway or casual business retreat. The Inn is located on a hill overlooking the expansive Europa Village property. Hot air balloons (a Temecula signature) for visitors depart and, later, land on the property on early a.m. expeditions.

Every morning Chef Dean prepares (and serves) a sumptuous, 2-course breakfast (using the freshest of local ingredients) for the Inn’s guests that surpasses anything you can get at a luxury hotel. Even the honey is local…It’s a very special, one-of-a-kind experience that brings guests back time and again.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Chef Andrew Gruel (Guest Host) and Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Margarita Martinez and The Cabot Creamery Cookbook
Segment Three: Executive Chef Eric Klein, Spago Las Vegas
Segment Four: Chefs Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts, Playa Provisions
Segment Five: Artisan Uprising winery, Paso Robles
Segment Six: El Segundo Brewing Co. – Hammerland takes The Gold
Segment Seven: George Bursick, Winemaker, Europa Village, Temecula
Segment Eight: Executive Chef & Innkeeper Dean Thomas and Events Director Lisa Ferguson, Europa Village

Show 101, December 13, 2014: Show Preview with Producer Andy Harris

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and occasional Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s abundant show…

Urban Seoul is one of the 20 plus distinctive dining destinations in the Diamond Jamboree in Irvine. It’s an energetic restaurant that celebrates passion for food and its remarkable ability to adapt. The food is mostly a creative mash-up of Korean and Mexican flavors. The highly successful concept was created by Orange County restaurateur Bronnie Lee and Chef Kacy Jun. Chef Jun is our guest.

P Moss is a tiki historian and acclaimed fiction author who also owns the legendary Double Down Saloons in Las Vegas and New York City as well as the popular Frankie’s Tiki Room in Las Vegas. Frankie’s Tiki Room is the world’s only 24/7 tiki bar, known for its blend of Polynesian tradition with a hint of Las Vegas kitsch, welcoming ambience and one-of-a-kind tropical drinks that draw tiki aficionados from all over the world. These magical libations have now been poured into a book format. 77 previously secret recipes, stunning photography and illustrations are included in the newly released, Liquid Vacation.

P Moss pulls out the little cocktail umbrellas for us.

Celebrity Chef Curtis Stone’s Maude in Beverly Hills was the Best New Restaurant of the Year for both LA Weekly and Eater L.A.

Every month there is a new theme ingredient around which a 9-course tasting menu is created. It’s only 7 tables and 25 seats with an open kitchen. General Manager and Wine Director Ben Aviram joins us to take us through the extraordinary dining experience at Maude.

Chef Vic Vegas last joined us to discuss his new restaurant in Henderson, NV, Café V. He’s now hosting (along with Laila Ali) “Late Nite Chef Fight” on FYI on Saturdays at 10:00 p.m. Based on the real after hours’ chef competition (originally created by local culinary personality Jolenne Mannina) that takes place in Las Vegas, each episode of “Late Nite Chef Fight” has two leading, Vegas-based chefs competing against each other in a food truck they have never stepped foot inside before.

ChaCha’s Latin Kitchen in Brea is kicking off its Third Annual Toy Drive to benefit local families in need. Guests are encouraged to drop off a new unwrapped toy at Cha Cha’s in exchange for a $15 certificate good toward the Flamenco Sunday Brunch to be redeemed in The New Year. Co-owner (and veteran restaurateur) Don Myers has all the details.

A festive new taco has arrived at Mercadito at Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas as part of Mercadito Hospitality’s national Tacos for Strength Campaign. This December, Mercadito will feature a winter-inspired taco created by James Beard Award finalist and Michelin Star award-winning chef Paul Virant of Vie and Perennial Virant in Chicago.A portion of the proceeds will go to Share Our Strength. Mercadito at Red Rock Resort opened mid-summer. Executive Chef & Owner Patricio Sandoval is our guest.

Eric Klein is the Executive Chef and Partner at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago Las Vegaslocated in the Forum Shops, his first fine-dining restaurant in Las Vegas. It led the way for other prominent fine-dining chefs to establish destination restaurants in Las Vegas. Chef Eric has been the highly visible face of Spago Las Vegas since 2007. Spago is now celebrating their 22nd anniversary with a throwback menu (think Smoked Salmon Pizza) and retro prices from December 15th through 19th.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

 

Show 101, December 13, 2014: Spago Las Vegas

Eric KleinEric Klein is the Executive Chef and Partner at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago Las Vegas located in the Forum Shops, his first fine-dining restaurant in Las Vegas. It led the way for other prominent fine-dining chefs to establish destination restaurants in Las Vegas.

Chef Eric has been the highly visible face of Spago Las Vegas since 2007. The adjacent more casual Café, has a people-watching view of the throngs of shoppers navigating the Forum Shops. He supervised the successful remodeling and refreshing of the classic restaurant.

Spago is now celebrating their 22nd anniversary with a throwback menu (think Smoked Salmon Pizza & House Smoked Sturgeon with crisp potato galette and horseradish cream) and retro prices from December 15th through 19th.

Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group now has seven busy destination restaurants in Las Vegas. Their first off The Strip location, Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill, just debuted in Downtown Summerlin, part of a growing, upscale Vegas suburb.

December 13: Urban Seoul, P Moss, Maude, Vic Vegas, Patricio Sandoval, Eric Klein

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Urban Seoul Borderless Kitchen
Segment Three: Frankie’s Tiki Room
Segment Four: Chef Curtis Stone’s Maude
Segment Five: Chef Vic Vegas and “Late Night Chef Fight”
Segment Six: ChaCha’s Latin Kitchen’s Toy Drive
Segment Seven: Mercadito Red Rock Resort, Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Spago Las Vegas

Andy Harris at the KLAA StudiosProducer and occasional Co-Host Andy Harris is going solo in the host chair this morning. Now a preview of today’s feast…

Urban Seoul is one of the 20 plus distinctive dining destinations in the Diamond Jamboree in Irvine. It’s an energetic restaurant that celebrates passion for food and its remarkable ability to adapt. The food is mostly a creative mash-up of Korean and Mexican flavors. The highly successful concept was created by Orange County restaurateur Bronnie Lee and Chef Kacy Jun. Chef Jun is our guest.

P Moss is a tiki historian and acclaimed fiction author who also owns the legendary Double Down Saloons in Las Vegas and New York City as well as the popular Frankie’s Tiki Room in Las Vegas. Frankie’s Tiki Room is the world’s only 24/7 tiki bar, known for its blend of Polynesian tradition with a hint of Las Vegas kitsch, welcoming ambience and one-of-a-kind tropical drinks that draw tiki aficionados from all over the world. These magical libations have now been poured into a book format. 77 previously secret recipes, stunning photography and illustrations are included in the newly released, Liquid Vacation.

P Moss pulls out the little cocktail umbrellas for us.

Celebrity Chef Curtis Stone’s Maude in Beverly Hills was the Best New Restaurant of the Year for both Los Angeles Weekly and Eater L.A.

Every month there is a new theme ingredient around which an elaborate 9-course tasting menu is created. It’s only 7 tables and 25 seats with an open kitchen. General Manager and Wine Director Ben Aviram joins us to take us through the extraordinary dining experience at Maude.

Chef Vic Vegas last was with us to discuss his new restaurant in Henderson, NV, Café V. He’s now hosting (along with Laila Ali) “Late Nite Chef Fight” on FYI on Saturdays at 10:00 p.m. Based on the real after hours’ chef competition (originally created by local culinary personality Jolenne Mannina) that takes place in Las Vegas, each episode of “Late Nite Chef Fight” has two leading, Vegas-based chefs competing against each other in a food truck they have never stepped foot inside before.

ChaCha’s Latin Kitchen in Brea is kicking off its Third Annual Toy Drive to benefit local families in need. Guests are encouraged to drop off a new unwrapped toy at Cha Cha’s in exchange for a $15 certificate toward the Flamenco Sunday Brunch to be redeemed in The New Year. Co-owner (and veteran restaurateur) Don Myers has all the details.

A festive new taco is coming to Mercadito at Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas as part of Mercadito Hospitality’s national Tacos for Strength Campaign. This December, Mercadito will feature a winter-inspired taco created by James Beard Award finalist and Michelin Star award-winning chef Paul Virant of Vie and Perennial Virant in Chicago. A portion of the proceeds will go to Share Our Strength. Mercadito at Red Rock Resort opened mid-summer. Executive Chef & Owner Patricio Sandoval is our guest.

Eric Klein is the Executive Chef and Partner at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago Las Vegas located in the Forum Shops, his first fine-dining restaurant in Las Vegas. It led the way for other prominent fine-dining chefs to establish destination restaurants in Las Vegas. Chef Eric has been the highly visible face of Spago Las Vegas since 2007. Spago is now celebrating their 22nd anniversary with a throwback menu (think Smoked Salmon Pizza) and retro prices from December 15th through 19th.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Kacy Jun of Urban SeoulUrban Seoul is one of the 20 plus distinctive dining destinations in the Diamond Jamboree in Irvine. It’s an energetic restaurant that celebrates passion for food and its remarkable ability to adapt. The food is mostly a creative mash-up of Korean and Mexican flavors. The highly successful concept was created by Orange County restaurateur Bronnie Lee and Chef Kacy Jun.

Chef Jun is our guest.

Brad A. Johnson, the fare-reaching restaurant critic for The Orange County Register, is a big fan of their Chorizo Kimchi Fried Rice. It’s chorizo, pork belly, pickled red onions, kimchi, garlic, rice and a sunny side up egg.

P MossP Moss is a tiki historian and acclaimed fiction author who also owns the legendary Double Down Saloons in Las Vegas and New York City as well as the popular Frankie’s Tiki Room in Las Vegas. Frankie’s Tiki Room is the world’s only 24/7 tiki bar, known for its blend of Polynesian tradition with a hint of Las Vegas kitsch, welcoming ambience and one-of-a-kind tropical drinks that draw tiki aficionados from all over the world.

These magical libations have now been “poured” into a book format. 77 previously secret recipes, stunning photography and illustrations are included in the newly released, Liquid Vacation – 77 Refreshing Tropical Drinks from Frankie’s Tiki Room in Las Vegas.

“All of us need a break now and then, whether it’s from the stress of everyday life or the boredom that comes from routine. You’ll find Liquid Vacation, a colorful, sometimes wild walk through the tiki culture in Las Vegas, from the early days of the Stardust Hotel to the present as it’s embodied by Frankie’s Tiki Room, located just minutes from the famous Strip.”

Author P Moss is here to walk us through the swaying palms, whispering bamboo and rustling grass skirts of the tiki world.

Ben Aviram of Maude RestaurantCelebrity Chef Curtis Stone’s (Bravo’s “Top Chef Masters” and Food Network’s “Kitchen Inferno”) Maude in Beverly Hills was the Best New Restaurant of the Year for both LA Weekly and Eater L.A.

Every month there is a new theme ingredient around which a totally original, 9-course tasting menu is created. December is “Winter Squash.” The monthly ingredient themes for 2015 are already posted on Maude’s Website. Because it’s so small you politely advised to make your reservation well in advance. It’s only 7 tables and 25 seats with an open kitchen. There is a carefully considered wine pairing option available, too.

General Manager and Wine Director Ben Aviram joins us to take us through the extraordinary dining experience at Maude.

Vic VegasChef Vic Vegas last joined us to discuss his new restaurant in Henderson, NV, Café V.

He’s now hosting (along with Laila Ali) “Late Nite Chef Fight” on FYI on Saturdays at 10:00 p.m. Based on the real after hours’ chef competition (originally created by local culinary personality Jolenne Mannina) that takes place in Las Vegas, each episode of “Late Nite Chef Fight” has two leading, Vegas-based chefs competing against each other in a food truck they have never stepped foot inside before.

Using a diverse and exotic range of unfamiliar ingredients left behind in the food trucks, the chefs create three unique dishes in three fast-paced rounds.

Vic Vegas, a self-taught restaurant chef, worked his way up the culinary ladder from dishwasher to Executive Chef at several Las Vegas hotels including Rumor, Hard Rock Hotel and The Sahara House of Lords to mention just a few.

Don MyersChaCha’s Latin Kitchen in Brea is kicking off its Third Annual Toy Drive to benefit local families in need. Guests are encouraged to drop off a new unwrapped toy at Cha Cha’s in exchange for a $15 certificate toward the Flamenco Sunday Brunch to be redeemed in The New Year.

Once all the toys are collected and wrapped, Cha Cha’s hosts a special evening for those grateful recipient families that includes a meal featuring signature dishes. Each year, over fifty guests get to enjoy a very touching evening that concludes with a visit from a very loyal guest of Cha Cha’s (Santa Claus) who spends time passing out gifts to the appreciative children.

Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen features a California – Latin inspired menu that adapts the culinary heritage of Mexico and Latin America to a fresh modern style. The highlight of the open kitchen is the wood-fired oven.

Co-owner (and veteran restaurateur) Don Myers has all the details.

Patricio SandovalA festive new taco is coming to Mercadito at Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas as part of Mercadito Hospitality’s national Tacos for Strength Campaign. This December, Mercadito will feature a winter-inspired taco created by James Beard Award finalist and Michelin Star award-winning chef Paul Virant of Vie and Perennial Virant in Chicago. A portion of the proceeds will go to Share Our Strength.

Mercadito at Red Rock Resort opened with great anticipation among savvy locals mid-summer. Drawing from culinary experiences in Mexican Markets, Mercadito features a wide variety of creative tacos made with handmade corn masa tortillas, guacamoles, refreshing ceviche and classic dishes like enchiladas and chile rellenos.

Executive Chef & Owner Patricio Sandoval is our guest.

Eric KleinEric Klein is the Executive Chef and Partner at Wolfgang Puck’s celebrated Spago Las Vegas located in the Forum Shops, his first fine-dining restaurant in Las Vegas. It led the way for other prominent fine-dining chefs to establish destination restaurants in Las Vegas. Celebrity Chef restaurants in Las Vegas (typically located on The Strip) are now the norm.

Chef Eric has been the highly visible face of Spago Las Vegas since 2007. The adjacent more casual Café, has a people-watching view of the throngs of shoppers navigating the Forum Shops. He supervised the successful remodeling and refreshing of the classic restaurant.

Spago is now celebrating their 22nd anniversary with a throwback menu (think Smoked Salmon Pizza) and retro prices from December 15th through 19th.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Urban Seoul Borderless Kitchen
Segment Three: Frankie’s Tiki Room
Segment Four: Chef Curtis Stone’s Maude
Segment Five: Chef Vic Vegas and “Late Night Chef Fight”
Segment Six: ChaCha’s Latin Kitchen’s Toy Drive
Segment Seven: Mercadito Red Rock Resort, Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Spago Las Vegas

Show 40, September 14, 2013: Eric Klein, Executive Chef & Partner, Spago Las Vegas

Eric KleinIn 2007 Executive Chef Eric Klein (now a partner) was handed the keys to Spago Las Vegas by Wolfgang Puck and charged with freshening up the concept. This was quite a formidable assignment given that Spago is Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant in Las Vegas! They celebrated their 20th Anniversary last year.

The restaurant is a busy café (with exhibition pizza oven) in the front and an elegant fine-dining restaurant open for dinner in the back. The front patio opens onto the busy main Forum Shops walkway. The location is right by the entrance to Caesars Palace’s Casino. Chef Eric shared a great parking tip. Give your car to the valet (without Valet fee) at Gucci and you’re steps from Spago.

As with the Beverly Hills original Spago Las Vegas attracts the A-List celebrity clientele in addition to sophisticated foodies. Chef Eric is the visible personality of the establishment.

Eric’s refreshing mantra is “never rest on your laurels and always be humble.”

Chef Eric’s first assignment in Las Vegas (after relocating from Beverly Hills) was SW Steakhouse at Wynn Las Vegas.

September 14: Azunia Tequila, Vegas Food Trucks, Elizabeth Huettinger, Lena Kwak, Amar Santana, Eric Klein, Michael Passmore

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Jim Riley, founder of Azunia Tequila
Segment Three: Brock Radke, Food and Web Editor, Las Vegas Weekly
Segment Four: Elizabeth Huettinger, Wine Director, Addison Del Mar
Segment Five: Lena Kwak, Research and Development Chef, Thomas Keller Restaurant Group
Segment Six: Amar Santana, Executive Chef / Owner, Broadway by Amar Santana
Segment Seven: Eric Klein, Executive Chef & Partner, Spago Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Michael Passmore, Passmore Ranch, Sustainable Aqua Farming

Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris preview the show.

Thai 2013 Food FestivalMark Sunday afternoon, September 29th on your calendar. Our very own Jet Tila is hosting the Thai 2013 Food Festival at Paramount Pictures Studios in the heart of Hollywood. It starts at 3:00 p.m.

Celebrity chefs from around the country and outstanding local Thai chefs will be there presenting their signature dishes for the guests to sample and enjoy. Entertainment will include music, Thai dancers and fruit carving.

VIP and Regular Tickets are now on sale!

Azunia TequilaJim Riley, the founder of Azunia Tequila joins us. In his spare time Jim is a professional off-road racer of some note.

This is a case study of how a boutique tequila company grows a brand in an environment dominated by cash-rich giants. Riley has built his brand with clever grass-roots marketing and being seen in the right places.

Azunia Tequila is organic and 100 per cent Weber Blue Agave. It is available in the styles of Platinum Blanco (great for cocktails,) Reposado, and Anejo.

Brock Radke of Las Vegas WeeklyOur man in Las Vegas, Brock Radke, is back with us. Brock is the respected Web and Food Editor for The Las Vegas Weekly.

Last month Brock had a great piece in The Weekly entitled. “Where are they now? Checking up on the first wave of Vegas food truckers.”

Fukuburger has probably been the most successful and is still on the streets. A brick and mortar location for Las Vegas is in the plans. Sloppi Jo’s was a big success with the food critics but, ultimately, not a viable business model. Proprietress Jolene Mannina has parlayed this into other food projects for herself. In fact she’s the head of Culinary Arts for the upcoming “Life is Beautiful” Festival in Downtown Las Vegas. The originator of Slidin’ Thru has moved on but the truck still does events and catering and there is a bricks and mortar drive-through.

Brock also talked about the just launched Heritage Steak at The Mirage on The Strip. The proprietor is Tom Colicchio of Bravo’s “Top Chef” fame and a James Beard Award recipient.

Elizabeth Huettinger of the Addison in Del MarSommelier Elizabeth Huettinger is the new Wine Director at Addison restaurant and The Grand Del Mar Resort in Del Mar. She was previously part of the wine team at Spago Beverly Hills.

Elizabeth just took the incredibly difficult “Advanced” certification test from the Court of Master Sommeliers. She shares that humbling experience with us.

Earlier in the Summer the Grand hosted a special screening of the documentary, “SOMM”. It’s the first effort by filmmaker Jason Wise.
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“SOMM” tells the fascinating story of four sommeliers attempting to pass the rigorous and prestigious Master Sommelier exam. This test has one of the lowest pass rates imaginable. Elizabeth’s head sommelier at Spago (her previous post) is a Master Sommelier. She talks about hosting the screening (there was wine and abundant food stations) and her reaction to the highly acclaimed documentary.

Lena KwakChef Lena Kwak is the highly acclaimed research development chef for The French Laundry and The Thomas Keller Restaurant Group in Yountville, CA. She created the position.

With the backing of Keller she developed Cup4Cup, a healthy wheat flour-substitute which has gone national over the last two years. It’s carried in Williams-Sonoma stores and also available at the Bouchon Bakeries in Yountville, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas, and New York.

Last year Kwak was named as one of Forbes Magazine’s “Top 30 Under 30” for her work with Cup4Cup.

In addition to bread mixes the proprietary line also includes a brownie mix, pizza dough, and pancake/waffle mix.

Amar SantanaChef Amar Santana is very familiar to Orange County foodies. His mentor, Chef Charlie Palmer (Aureole,) brought him out here from Manhattan in 2008 to open Charlie Palmer’s at Bloomingdales at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. Talk about a plum assignment for a young chef…

With the backing of one of his very loyal guests he later departed to open a venture of his own, Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach. Since opening in 2011 it’s been a hit with both the food critics and guests. The bar has also created its own loyal following for unusual libations and a welcoming atmosphere. Their superior Moscow Mule (not listed on the bar menu) is a thoughtful homage to the original version created in the late 30s in Hollywood and now using all fresh ingredients and from scratch ginger beer.

Eric KleinIn 2007 Executive Chef Eric Klein (now a partner) was handed the keys to Spago Las Vegas by Wolfgang Puck and charged with freshening up the concept. This was quite a formidable assignment given that Spago is Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant in Las Vegas! They celebrated their 20th Anniversary last year.

The restaurant is a busy café (with exhibition pizza oven) in the front and an elegant fine-dining restaurant in the back. The front patio opens onto the busy main Forum Shops walkway.

As with the Beverly Hills original Spago Las Vegas attracts the celebrity clientele in addition to sophisticated foodies. Chef Eric is the visible personality of the establishment.

Chef Eric’s first assignment in Las Vegas (after relocating from Beverly Hills) was SW Steakhouse at Wynn Las Vegas.

Michael Passmore of Passmore RanchMichael Passmore is an elite class freshwater fish farmer in the Sacramento area. His Passmore Ranch is sustainable aqua farming and his clientele are discriminating celebrity chefs all across the country who he, unusually, supplies directly.

They started modestly by selling live fish at Northern California farmers’ markets, and their quality and service quickly established them as premium purveyors for top restaurants and Michelin-starred chefs around the country.

Passmore Ranch offers premium freshwater white sturgeon, black bass, striped bass, catfish, silver carp and trout, plus prized domestic caviar.

Today Passmore Ranch is 86 acres and they raise fish in 80 million gallons of fresh water pumped up from the pristine Cosumnes aquifer. The ranch has a variety of open lakes and massive tanks used to increase the variety of sustainable fish they grow.

In the works is a plan to begin a thoughtful rollout of limited direct sales to serious home cooks. The info will be posted on their website.

Podcasts

Segment One: Host Jet Tila and Producer Andy Harris
Segment Two: Jim Riley, founder of Azunia Tequila
Segment Three: Brock Radke, Food and Web Editor, Las Vegas Weekly
Segment Four: Elizabeth Huettinger, Wine Director, Addison Del Mar
Segment Five: Lena Kwak, Research and Development Chef, Thomas Keller Restaurant Group
Segment Six: Amar Santana, Executive Chef / Owner, Broadway by Amar Santana
Segment Seven: Eric Klein, Executive Chef & Partner, Spago Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Michael Passmore, Passmore Ranch, Sustainable Aqua Farming