Show 563, February 3, 2024: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“Celebrity chef and best-selling author Carla Hall takes viewers on a global adventure to explore the unexpected roots of popular dishes within today’s American food culture on the new original Max series Chasing Flavor now available for streaming on MAX. Follow along as Carla’s curiosity about America’s most delicious dishes from chicken pot pie to ice cream leads her to Ghana, Italy, Turkey, and more. Along the way, Carla traces the history and lineage of dishes, discovering the interconnected, international origins and cultures that paved the way for today’s American cuisine – because if you don’t know the history, then you don’t know the dish. Join Carla as she chases flavor across the globe to find out how it all comes together on the American plate.” Chef Carla Hall is our energetic guide as we embark on the global journey of Chasing Flavor.

Michael Crupain M.D. is a board-certified preventive medicine physician, Emmy® Award-winning producer, cookbook author, and self-described “wellness crusader,” who recently released his third book, The Power Five – A Cookbook. He’s also a certified foodie. Unlike other health books that are all about what not to eat, this book is a celebration of eating more.  Within its pages, Dr. Crupain spotlights five food categories—fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, fish—that not only support health and longevity, but are also incredibly delicious, especially when home cooks are armed with his insights.  Healthy cooking and eating shouldn’t mean boring.  With 85 vibrant, nourishing recipes, The Power Five brings smart, creative, and practical ideas to the table.” Dr. Crupain trades his stethoscope for a wire whisk and joins us.

Bar Chelou is Pasadena’s first true neo-bistro, a casual, convivial space that is both a distillation of Chef Doug Rankin‘s broad gastronomic interests and a deeply personal expression of his individualistic style. ‘Chelou’ (French slang for ‘strange’ or ‘unexpected’) is both the name and unifying theme of the restaurant, which draws from a range of culinary traditions and service styles to create something personal, novel and fun. The restaurant is located within the historic Pasadena Playhouse complex.” Standout dishes include “Carrots,” a salad with coconut dressing, lime leaf, peanuts and shoestring potatoes, and Rainbow Trout with corn rice and garlic chive pil-pil. Chef Doug Rankin takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

The Los Angeles International Wine Competition {LAIWC) at Fairplex in Pomona is celebrating 89 years, the oldest wine competition in the USA, tracing its heritage back to the end of the Prohibition era in 1935. As the original L.A.-based competition, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition was established to celebrate the resurgence of winemaking and has continued to uphold its legacy as one of the United States’ foremost wine competitions. With a rich history and a global reach, this competition has attracted entries from wine regions across the world.” Chairwoman Spreti Valente, a certified sommelier, joins us to uncork all that is the Los Angeles International Wine Competition.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. “The Big Game” with the 49ers and the Chiefs is coming up on February 11th. Chef Andrew will share his salivating ideas for the tastiest in “Big Game Edibles.” Think enhanced chicken wings purest guacamole.

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

Show 563, February 3, 2024: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

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

“The Big Game” with the 49ers and the Chiefs is coming up on Sunday, February 11th. Chef Andrew will share his salivating ideas for the tastiest in worthy “Big Game Edibles.” Think enhanced Chicken Wings and a purist’s guacamole.

Look for Chef Andrew’s new cooking video with Cathy Thomas on Orange Coast Magazine. He prepares One-Pan Seared Salmon with Sweet Potatoes (from Melissa’s), mushrooms, and garbanzo beans.

Check out Chef Andrew’s handy and practical cooking tips on Substack at “American Gravy.” There is an accessible free level as well as a premium option with a modest cost.

February 3: Carla Hall, Michael Crupain M.D., Bar Chelou, Los Angeles International Wine Competition

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Carla Hall with Max’s “Chasing Flavor” Part One
Segment Three: Chef Carla Hall with Max’s “Chasing Flavor” Part Two
Segment Four: Michael Crupain, M.D. with The Power Five – A Cookbook Part One
Segment Five: Michael Crupain, M.D. with The Power Five – A Cookbook Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Doug Rankin, Bar Chelou, Pasadena
Segment Seven: The L.A. International Wine Competition with Chairperson Spreti Valente, MS
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”

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

“Celebrity chef and best-selling author Carla Hall takes viewers on a global adventure to explore the unexpected roots of popular dishes within today’s American food culture on the new original Max series Chasing Flavor now available for streaming on MAX. Follow along as Carla’s curiosity about America’s most delicious dishes from chicken pot pie to ice cream leads her to Ghana, Italy, Turkey, and more. Along the way, Carla traces the history and lineage of dishes, discovering the interconnected, international origins and cultures that paved the way for today’s American cuisine – because if you don’t know the history, then you don’t know the dish. Join Carla as she chases flavor across the globe to find out how it all comes together on the American plate.” Chef Carla Hall is our energetic guide as we embark on the global journey of Chasing Flavor.

“Michael Crupain M.D. is a board-certified preventive medicine physician, Emmy® Award-winning producer, cookbook author, and self-described “wellness crusader,” who recently released his third book, The Power Five – A Cookbook. Unlike other health books that are all about what not to eat, this book is a celebration of eating more. Within its pages, Dr. Crupain spotlights five food categories—fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, fish—that not only support health and longevity, but are also incredibly delicious, especially when home cooks are armed with his insights. Healthy cooking and eating shouldn’t mean boring. With 85 vibrant, nourishing recipes, The Power Five brings smart, creative, and practical ideas to the table.” Dr. Crupain trades his stethoscope for a wire whisk and joins us.

“Bar Chelou is Pasadena’s first true neo-bistro, a casual, convivial space that is both a distillation of Chef Doug Rankin’s broad gastronomic interests and a deeply personal expression of his individualistic style. ‘Chelou’ (French slang for ‘strange’ or ‘unexpected’) is both the name and unifying theme of the restaurant, which draws from a range of culinary traditions and service styles to create something personal, novel and fun. The restaurant is located within the historic Pasadena Playhouse complex.” Standout dishes include “Carrots,” a salad with coconut dressing, lime leaf, peanuts and shoestring potatoes, and Rainbow Trout with corn rice and garlic chive pil-pil. Chef Doug Rankin takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

“The Los Angeles International Wine Competition {LAIWC) at Fairplex in Pomona is celebrating 89 years, the oldest wine competition in the USA, tracing its heritage back to the end of the Prohibition era in 1935. As the original L.A.-based competition, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition was established to celebrate the resurgence of winemaking and has continued to uphold its legacy as one of the United States’ foremost wine competitions. With a rich history and a global reach, this competition has attracted entries from wine regions across the world.” Chairwoman Spreti Valente, a certified sommelier, joins us to uncork all that is the Los Angeles International Wine Competition.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm(New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. “The Big Game” with the 49ers and The Chiefs is coming up on February 11th. Chef Andrew will share his salivating ideas for the tastiest in “Big Game Edibles.”

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

Celebrity Chef Carla Hall

“Celebrity chef and best-selling author Carla Hall takes viewers on a global adventure to explore the unexpected roots of popular dishes within today’s American food culture on the new original Max series Chasing Flavor now available for streaming on MAX. Follow along as Carla’s curiosity about America’s most delicious dishes from chicken pot pie to ice cream leads her to Ghana, Italy, Turkey, and more. Along the way, Carla traces the history and lineage of dishes, discovering the interconnected, international origins and cultures that paved the way for today’s American cuisine – because if you don’t know the history, then you don’t know the dish. Join Carla as she chases flavor across the globe to find out how it all comes together on the American plate.”

“Chasing Flavor brings together so many of the things I am passionate about. It’s about food, and family, and sharing stories and history and travel. And more importantly, giving credit to the cultures that had a hand in a particular dish,” said Hall. “I’m really proud of this show. Everyone involved in making it, myself included, put their heart and souls into it. It was a wonderful adventure, and I can’t wait for others to share it.”

“Throughout the six half-hour episodes, Carla dives into American classics from shrimp and grits to hot chicken, to barbeque, and more. On one episode, Carla is on an unexpected dairy adventure that takes her from the United States, to Italy, and to Turkey to discover the origins of ice cream. Stopping at the top ice cream spots in New York and Philadelphia, Carla learns the unique churning methods used to give the classic dessert its smooth, creamy texture. Then, in Italy Carla gets a lesson on the difference between ice cream and gelato, and in Turkey, Carla is like a kid again playing with her food as she uncovers a unique ingredient that gives ice cream its silkiness.”

“Carla’s travels do not end there as she goes on a taco trip to Mexico and discovers how a vertical flame helped cultures collide to create tacos al pastor. She also explores how Jamaica helped to shape the flaky crust of chicken pot pie, and in Ghana, she gets a spicy taste of the roots of hot chicken with chef Eric Adjepong. With every bite in every country, Carla’s journey highlights the influences that have shaped American cuisine.”

Chef Carla Hall is our energetic guide as we embark on the global journey of Chasing Flavor.

Author Michael Crupain MD

Michael Crupain M.D. is a board-certified preventive medicine physician, Emmy® Award-winning producer, cookbook author, and self-described “wellness crusader,” who recently released his third book, The Power Five – A Cookbook. Unlike other health books that are all about what not to eat, this book is a celebration of eating more. Within its pages, Dr. Crupain spotlights five food categories—fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, fish—that not only support health and longevity, but are also incredibly delicious, especially when home cooks are armed with his insights. Healthy cooking and eating shouldn’t mean boring. With 85 vibrant, nourishing recipes, The Power Five brings smart, creative, and practical ideas to the table.”

“Recipe spotlights include Eggplant Parmigiana a doctor can actually approve of, Miso “Creamed” Corn, Lasagna Bread, Roasted Harissa Carrots with Carrot-Top Pesto and Avocado, Shrimp Fried Oats, along with desserts like spiced brownies and fruit filled cakes.”

“Eating the Power Five foods doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or your favorite meals – you can still have pastas, breads and sweets. After years of research and hours in the kitchen, Dr. Crupain has crafted a collection of more than 85 mouthwatering recipes that put flavor on the front burner while helping to ward off illness and increase longevity.”

“Michael Crupain, MD, MPH, is a board-certified preventive medicine physician, Emmy® Award-winning producer, co-author of What to Eat When and the What to Eat When Cookbook, and self-described “wellness crusader,” who just released his third book, The Power Five. He’s spent years studying culinary practices in his travels around the world and in kitchens of both grandmas and great chefs, bringing this wisdom to his medical career that spans EVP at the digital health company Sharecare, director of food safety testing at Consumer Reports, chief medical officer at The Dr. Oz Show, and faculty member at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.”

Dr. Crupain trades his stethoscope for a wire whisk and joins us.

Doug Rankin of Bar Chelou

Bar Chelou is Pasadena’s first true neo-bistro, a casual, convivial space that is both a distillation of Chef Doug Rankin’s broad gastronomic interests and a deeply personal expression of his individualistic style. ‘Chelou’ (French slang for ‘strange’ or ‘unexpected’) is both the name and unifying theme of the restaurant, which draws from a range of culinary traditions and service styles to create something personal, novel and fun. The restaurant is located within the historic Pasadena Playhouse complex.”

Standout dishes include “Carrots,” a salad with coconut dressing, lime leaf, peanuts and shoestring potatoes, and Rainbow Trout with corn rice and garlic chive pil-pil.

Chef Doug Rankin takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Certified Sommelier Spreti Valente

“The Los Angeles International Wine Competition {LAIWC) at Fairplex in Pomona is celebrating 89 years, the oldest wine competition in the USA, tracing its heritage back to the end of the Prohibition era in 1935.”

“As the original L.A.-based competition, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition was established to celebrate the resurgence of winemaking and has continued to uphold its legacy as one of the United States’ foremost wine competitions. With a rich history and a global reach, this competition has attracted entries from wine regions across the world.”

“Under the expert leadership of Chairwoman Spreti Valente, CS, the competition is set for a momentous 2024 edition. Valente, a passionate advocate for exceptional wines, has embarked on a mission to survey diverse wine regions, having already journeyed through much of California, New Mexico, Missouri, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and the Finger Lakes Region of New York in search of outstanding wines to enter into the competition.”

The final entry deadline is Feb. 23, 2024, with judging scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on March 20 and 21, 2024.

“Medal-winning wines from LAIWC are featured in the LA County Fair’s wine education program and are poured at a special consumer event in the summer, Cheers. Cheers offers wine aficionados and casual wine drinkers an opportunity to explore the best of the best from the competition, providing them with guidance as they select wines to drink at home and at play.”

Chairwoman Spreti Valente joins us to uncork all that is the Los Angeles International Wine Competition.

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

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

“The Big Game” with the 49ers and the Chiefs is coming up on Sunday, February 11th. Chef Andrew will share his salivating ideas for the tastiest in worthy “Big Game Edibles.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Carla Hall with Max’s “Chasing Flavor” Part One
Segment Three: Chef Carla Hall with Max’s “Chasing Flavor” Part Two
Segment Four: Michael Crupain, M.D. with The Power Five – A Cookbook Part One
Segment Five: Michael Crupain, M.D. with The Power Five – A Cookbook Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Doug Rankin, Bar Chelou, Pasadena
Segment Seven: The L.A. International Wine Competition with Chairperson Spreti Valente, MS
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 561, January 20, 2024: Lil’ Luna’s So Easy & So Yummy – The Ultimate Resource for Feeding Your Friends and Family with Author Kristyn Merkley Part One

Kristyn Merkley of Lil Luna's

Lil’ Luna’s So Easy & So Yummy – The Ultimate Resource for Feeding Your Friends and Family by Kristyn Merkley invites the reader to cook with joy and feed the ones you love with 200 plus recipes for all occasions from the creator of the wildly popular Lil’ Luna cooking blog.”

“Need a hand in the kitchen? Lil’ Luna has you covered. From hearty breakfasts to festive apps to mouthwatering main courses, Lil’ Luna’s So Easy & So Yummy helps you navigate everything from meal prep and party planning to last-minute dinner solutions for your family. With more than 200 go-to, no-fail recipes—many ready in thirty minutes or less!—this innovative and approachable cookbook will revolutionize your mealtime routine.”

“With Lil’ Luna, you can whip up showstopping breakfast treats, bring the best game-day snacks with out of this world dips and bites, get cozy with warming soups and stews, fix tempting veggie sides and bright, flavorful salads, celebrate summer with barbecue and picnic classics and feel festive with irresistible holiday treats.”

“Featuring tips, tricks, bonus recipes, and even links to online video instructions, most of the recipes within are designed with a big family or a bunch of friends in mind. Cooking for a smaller crew? Hello leftovers! You’ll also find inspiration and support throughout with handy charts, checklists, and meal-planning guides. Whether you’re feeding your family or a whole crowd, this crave-worthy cookbook is the ultimate resource for nourishing, tried-and-true recipes that are, above all, so easy and so yummy.”

Kristyn graciously shares the two recipes that she demonstrated virtually for the Melissa’s / World Variety Produce Food Media Group in late December. They are the recipes for Apple Brickle Dip and Fruit Dip.

Good suggestions for yummy “Big Game” snacks on Super Sunday, February 11th.

Author Kristyn Merkley is our guest with a whisk at the ready.

Show 561, January 20, 2024: Lil’ Luna’s So Easy & So Yummy – The Ultimate Resource for Feeding Your Friends and Family with Author Kristyn Merkley Part Two

Kristyn Merkley of Lil Luna's

Lil’ Luna’s So Easy & So Yummy – The Ultimate Resource for Feeding Your Friends and Family by Kristyn Merkley invites the reader to cook with joy and feed the ones you love with 200 plus recipes for all occasions from the creator of the wildly popular Lil’ Luna cooking blog.”

“Need a hand in the kitchen? Lil’ Luna has you covered. From hearty breakfasts to festive apps to mouthwatering main courses, Lil’ Luna’s So Easy & So Yummy helps you navigate everything from meal prep and party planning to last-minute dinner solutions for your family. With more than 200 go-to, no-fail recipes—many ready in thirty minutes or less!—this innovative and approachable cookbook will revolutionize your mealtime routine.”

“Creating this cookbook has been a labor of love,” said Merkley. “I wanted to share my passion for cooking and my belief in the power of food to bring people together. With ‘Lil’ Luna’s So Easy & So Yummy,’ I hope to inspire others to cook with joy and connect with their loved ones over delicious meals.”

“Featuring tips, tricks, bonus recipes, and even links to online video instructions, most of the recipes within are designed with a big family or a bunch of friends in mind. Cooking for a smaller crew? Hello leftovers! You’ll also find inspiration and support throughout with handy charts, checklists, and meal-planning guides. Whether you’re feeding your family or a whole crowd, this crave-worthy cookbook is the ultimate resource for nourishing, tried-and-true recipes that are, above all, so easy and so yummy.”

“Kristyn Merkley is married to her best friend Lo. They have six kids ages 6-16 who keep them busy, but they wouldn’t have it any other way. Coming from a long line of cooks and bakers, it was inevitable that Kristyn would fall in love with the same hobbies. The Lil’ Luna website was born right after her second child in early 2010. She started sharing all of her favorite Mexican recipes she got from her mom, aunts, and grandma as well as some of the traditional American recipes that came from her dad’s family.”

“It began to grow and grow until it became what it is today. Now Lil’ Luna has thousands of recipes on the website, and through Google, email and various social media platforms, millions of people visit and make recipes every month from the Lil’ Luna website. With a team of almost a dozen people working behind the scenes, they continue to create the easiest and yummiest recipes for all to try. Her readers and followers have given her the greatest gift ever—She gets to do what she loves, and make a living doing it! She could not have done it without them!”

Kristyn graciously shares the two recipes that she demonstrated virtually for the Melissa’s / World Variety Produce Food Media Group in late December. They are the recipes for Apple Brickle Dip and Fruit Dip.

Good suggestions for yummy “Big Game” snacks on Super Sunday, February 11th.

Author Kristyn Merkley continues as our guest with a spatula at the ready.

Show 470, April 16, 2022: Robert Biebrich, Senior Executive Chef, Legends at SoFi Stadium, Hollywood Park Inglewood Part One

Robert Biebrich

Chef Robert Biebrich is the Senior Executive Chef for SoFi Stadium at Hollywood Park in Inglewood. Robert was previously the Executive Chef here at Angel Stadium. Chef Robert and his culinary team were responsible earlier this year for the food and beverage served to 70,000 VIP Guests at the Super Bowl. Talk about a challenge. We’ll meet him.

“The culinary program at SoFi was created by James Beard-Award winning Chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo in partnership with Legends, which operates the stadium’s culinary program under the direction of Legends Senior Executive Chef Robert Biebrich and Legends Vice President of Culinary Innovation Gretchen Beaumarchais. The goal was to reimagine the stadium culinary experience.”

SoFi Stadium’s culinary program is based on four core geographic concepts. These include Fairfax Avenue (Burgers, Hot Dogs and Sandwiches,) San Vicente Blvd. (Italian,) Sawtelle Blvd. (Fried Chicken and Asian) and Olvera Street (Mexican.) Each is grounded in local flavors and features creative combinations. There will be more enhancements for the upcoming 2022 Football Season.

“SoFi Stadium’s state-of-the-art amenities and indoor-outdoor design are incorporated into the presentation of its innovative food program to create a memorable experience. The stadium’s kitchens offer open-air spaces with breathtaking views of the city. Their expansive design features clear glass, with each kitchen placed in a location that always has sightlines to the field, videoboard or seating bowl. Fans are now able to leave their seats for food and drink and not worry about missing the big play.”

“The clear glass in SoFi Stadium’s kitchens allows food to be prepared in front of guest’s eyes. In a first for stadium design, SoFi Stadium features 100 percent live-fire kitchens. This allows for the stadium to produce food in each and every one of its kitchens.”

Show 470, April 16, 2022: Robert Biebrich, Senior Executive Chef, Legends at SoFi Stadium, Hollywood Park Inglewood Part Two

Robert Biebrich

Chef Robert Biebrich is the Senior Executive Chef for SoFi Stadium at Hollywood Park in Inglewood. Robert was previously the Executive Chef here at Angel Stadium. Chef Robert and his culinary team were responsible earlier this year for the food and beverage served to 70,000 VIP Guests at the Super Bowl. Talk about a challenge. Chef Robert continues with us.

“The culinary program at SoFi was created by James Beard-Award winning Chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo in partnership with Legends, which operates the stadium’s culinary program under the direction of Legends Senior Executive Chef Robert Biebrich and Legends Vice President of Culinary Innovation Gretchen Beaumarchais. The goal was to reimagine the stadium culinary experience.”

SoFi Stadium’s culinary program is based on four core geographic concepts. These include Fairfax Avenue (Burgers, Hot Dogs and Sandwiches,) San Vicente Blvd. (Italian,) Sawtelle Blvd. (Fried Chicken and Asian) and Olvera Street (Mexican.) Each is grounded in local flavors and features creative combinations. There will be more enhancements for the upcoming 2022 Football Season.

“SoFi Stadium’s state-of-the-art amenities and indoor-outdoor design are incorporated into the presentation of its innovative food program to create a memorable experience. The stadium’s kitchens offer open-air spaces with breathtaking views of the city. Their expansive design features clear glass, with each kitchen placed in a location that always has sightlines to the field, videoboard or seating bowl. Fans are now able to leave their seats for food and drink and not worry about missing the big play.”

“The clear glass in SoFi Stadium’s kitchens allows food to be prepared in front of guest’s eyes. In a first for stadium design, SoFi Stadium features 100 percent live-fire kitchens. This allows for the stadium to produce food in each and every one of its kitchens.”

Show 461, February 12, 2022: Celebrity Chef & Food TV Personality Carla Hall

Celebrity Chef Carla Hall

Celebrity Chef Carla Hall is well-known as the all-time fan favorite of Bravo’s “Top Chef” series (Seasons 5 and 8) as well as her years as one of the hosts of ABC’s Emmy Award-winning “The Chew” He most recent book is Carla and the Christmas Cornbread. Chef Carla is in town to participate in Taste Of The NFL at the Petersen Automotive Museum benefiting GENYOUth End Student Hunger Fund.

Chef Carla joins us.

“All Taste of the NFL proceeds benefit GENYOUth’s End Student Hunger Fund, which is dedicated to providing equipment and resources to help deliver and distribute school meals to the 30 million students nationwide who rely on them for their daily nutrition needs. The NFL has also earmarked a portion of funds as a donation to support the Super Bowl host city’s Los Angeles Unified School District and its Kool Kitchens renovations program, a district-wide initiative addressing student food insecurity. The PepsiCo Foundation is partnering with GENYOUth’s End Student Hunger Fund to address childhood hunger on a national level and to bring local support to the Los Angeles community through a partnership with Para Los Niños to provide nutritious weekend meals to students over the next year.”

Show 460, February 5, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“Located a block south of Sunset Boulevard at the corner of Cahuenga Blvd. and De Longpre Ave. in the heart of Los Angeles’ iconic Hollywood enclave, The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood is the first Oxford Capital Hotel to launch on the West Coast.  Exuding the energy of Hollywood, this art-centric hotel paired with its immersive interior design set the stage for an ideal city setting for leisure and dining. The ground floor features a SoCal-centric restaurant and bar, ALK(About Last Knife), offering an elevated menu featuring a wide selection of plant-based options, as well as premium fish and meat dishes utilizing California’s bright and fresh seasonal produce under the direction of Chef Steven Blackburn. Perched on top of the hotel, I|O Rooftop features the largest public rooftop venue in Hollywood, spanning over 12,000 square feet. It seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, offering two bars, lite bites and a glittering pool for the quintessential sun-soaked Southern California experience.” Joining us to highlight the dining options at The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood are Chef Steven Blackburn and Director of Restaurants Matthew Nathanson.

“Single mother Maggie McCreath couldn’t decide which was worse: the fact that her only son (not yet twenty-one) was off to war in Iraq for the second time (late 2006) or the fact that they had only five days to prepare. Even more frightening, she knew that he would be part of the Surge and, as a paratrooper in the 82nd Division of the Army, the tip of the Spear. What she did not know—what she couldn’t even bear to consider—was how this deployment would end, both for her son and for his brothers in arms, whom she had come to know and love as her own. So she turned to the one pastime that had always brought her solace: baking.” Maggie’s heartfelt experience is chronicled in 52 Weeks of Cookies – How One Mom Refused To Be Beaten By Her Son’s Deployment. It’s a recipe book for a variety of incredible cookies as well as an engaging memoir.

The newly opened Bakery By the Yard in El Segundo is an elevated neighborhood bakery imagined by James Beard Award Winning Chef, cookbook author and Food TV personality (ABC’s “Great American Baking Show”) Sherry Yard. “Chef Sherry brings together farmers market ingredients, along with her award-winning recipes, to inspire the palates of all who visit. Whether it’s large-scale events, custom catering, or VIP cooking classes with Sherry + Friends, Bakery By the Yard offers something for everyone.” Look for Sherry in late March on Food Network’s upcoming “The Julia Show” (a new competition series) hosted by Chef Antonia Lafaso.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. The “Big Game” is at SoFi on Sunday, February 13th. Chef Andrew has some thoughts about “Big Game” snacks beyond the usual chips and guacamole.

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

Show 460, February 5, 2022: Chef & Co-Host Andrew Gruel of Slapfish with “Ask the Chef”

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

The “Big Game” is at SoFi in Inglewood on Sunday, February 13th. Chef Andrew has some thoughts about “Big Game” snacks beyond the usual chips and guacamole. Pizza and wings are in the mix, too. Be creative with veggies (raw and pickled) to accompany the dips, too….