Show 677, May 2, 2026: Culinary Careers Program (C-CAP) L.A. Annual Gala Preview with Lisa Fontanesi, National Program Director

Posted on May 4, 2026 by Adam Bell

Lisa Fontanesi of Culinary Careers Program at Manhattan Beach Food and Wine

Set for Friday evening, May 15^th is the Culinary Careers Program’s 2026 Los Angeles Gala fundraiser celebrating an evening of Alumni Culinary Excellence.

“The evening is celebrating the extraordinary alumni who have called C-CAP Los Angeles home at pivotal moments in their culinary journeys.

The night begins with rooftop cocktail hour at Sunset followed by a elegant multi-course, premium wine-paired seated dinner and program, in the historic Jonathan Club’s Grand ballroom. The Jonathan Club is an exclusive, members-only private club where the 1932 L.A. Olympics were born.”

Designing the sumptuous repast are an all-star lineup of C-CAP alumni chefs including “Top Chef” alum Amar Santana of Vaca, Anthony Greco of Porto’s and Lasheeda Perry, Food Network Star and known as the Queen of Flavor. Celebrity Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger of Border Grill fame are the evening’s hosts.

“Founded in 1990 by culinary educator and cookbook author Richard Grossman, and in partnership with board Co-chair Marcus Samuelsson, Culinary Careers Program is a national workforce development nonprofit dedicated to training and supporting the next generation of food and hospitality leaders.”

“C-CAP serves communities across Arizona, Baltimore, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Long Island, Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and Maryland. Their unparalleled network of industry contacts includes renowned chefs, hospitality leaders, restaurants, and hotels.”

“C-CAP’s methodology works, and to date has uplifted close to 400,000 students and awarded $73 million in college scholarships. Many of their alumni are enjoying successful careers at award-winning restaurants and 5-star hotels around the globe.”

Representing C-CAP today is Lisa Fontanesi, the National Program Director.

Show 677, May 2, 2026: Culinary Careers Program (C-CAP) L.A. Annual Gala Preview with C-CAP Alum Chef Anthony Greco of Porto’s

Posted on May 4, 2026 by Adam Bell

Set for Friday evening, May 15^th is the Culinary Careers Program’s 2026 Los Angeles Gala fundraiser celebrating an evening of Alumni Culinary Excellence. The evening is saluting the extraordinary alumni who have called C-CAP Los Angeles home at pivotal moments in their culinary journeys.

Representing C-CAP now is Chef Anthony Greco of Porto’s, a C-CAP Alum and Member of C-CAP’s L.A. Council.

Show 629, May 31, 2025: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on June 2, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Food lovers are invited to savor the very best of the region as Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week returns from May 30 to June 8, 2025. Presented by Visit Greater Palm Springs, this highly anticipated ten-day event celebrates the area’s culinary scene, welcoming both locals and visitors to explore outstanding dining experiences across the Coachella Valley. Restaurant Week features special prix fixe menus and exclusive offerings from a wide range of participating establishments. Diners can enjoy specially curated prix fixe lunch menus priced at $15, $25, or $35, and dinner menus at $29, $39, $49, or $59. Select restaurants will also offer distinctive Restaurant Week specials. For a complete list of participants, menu previews, and to make reservations, visit Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week.” Davis Meyer, Vice President of Government and Community Relations for Visit Greater Palm Springs joins us with all the details. Also with us is Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger representing Alice B., one of the dozens of participating restaurants in Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week.

“Founded by sibling duo Chef Philip Pretty and Lauren Pretty, Olive & Rose in Long Beach is a culinary destination born from their shared passion for exceptional food and genuine hospitality. At Olive & Rose, located in a fully restored and renovated, low-rise classic 50’s motel, The Prettys reimagined the dining experience as a neo-bistro, where classic French techniques with a twist meet vibrant flavors that are unmistakably Californian. Each dish is a reflection of Chef Philip Pretty’s entire culinary journey.” Chef Philip Pretty is our guest to discuss Olive & Rose, Heritage, Heritage Farm and the new Thursday 4^th Street Farmers Market all in Long Beach.

It’s time for another seasonal update of “Best of the Season Fruits” with our resident produce expert, Robert Schueller (also known as The Prince of Produce) of Melissa’s. First we’re talking about Tree Ripen Mangoes. The varieties of mangos available include Hadens, Kents, Manzanillos, Tommy Atkins, or Keitts. Tree-ripened mangos are seasonal and far superior when it comes to other varieties of mangos. This fruit gets special treatment by staying on the tree longer than most which results in an unmatched richness with a perfectly sweet finish. We’re also discussing the grand finale of the season of Ojai Pixie Tangerines and Harry’s Berries Strawberries. Then it’s on to a preview of Melissa’s new line of premium dessert sauces imported from Italy and an introduction to Melissa’s expansive line of Organic Snax™ trail mixes.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Our beloved In-N-Out Burger is highly secretive about their operations and rarely makes menu changes. Recently announced is their pending move to eliminate artificial colors/food dyes with natural colors. Highly unusual move for them but truly significant and, possibly, a trend center for fast food. Chef Andrew explains the healthful implications.

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

Show 629, May 31, 2025: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week with Restaurateur & Chef Susan Feniger of Alice B.

Posted on June 2, 2025 by Adam Bell

Susan Feniger of Socalo and Border Grill

“Food lovers are invited to savor the very best of the region as Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week returns from May 30 to June 8, 2025. Presented by Visit Greater Palm Springs, this highly anticipated ten-day event celebrates the area’s culinary scene, welcoming both locals and visitors to explore outstanding dining experiences across the Coachella Valley. Restaurant Week features special prix fixe menus and exclusive offerings from a wide range of participating establishments.”

“Restaurant Week is truly a showcase of our region’s remarkable hospitality and ever-evolving dining landscape,” said Colleen Pace, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at Visit Greater Palm Springs. “Year after year, our community comes together to celebrate local flavors, connect over shared meals, and support our talented culinary and hospitality professionals. We invite everyone to discover new favorites, revisit cherished classics, and experience the incredible spirit of Greater Palm Springs through Restaurant Week.”

“Diners can enjoy specially curated prix fixe lunch menus priced at $15, $25, or $35, and dinner menus at $29, $39, $49, or $59. Select restaurants will also offer distinctive Restaurant Week specials. For a complete list of participants, menu previews, and to make reservations, visit Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week. In addition to showcasing delicious food, Restaurant Week gives back to the community. For every reservation made through their website, $1 will be donated to FIND Food Bank, helping to fight hunger throughout the Coachella Valley.”

Alice B. in Palm Springs is one of the dozens of participating restaurants. It’s an inspired menu blending Southern California’s seasonal bounty with the lively flavors of the Mediterranean, brought to life by James Beard and Julia Child award-winning chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. They are particularly famous for their Instagrammable Cornmeal Cheddar Drop Biscuits with cardamom honey butter. Susan Feniger is our guest to preview Alice B.’s menu for Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week.

May 31: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week with Susan Feniger, Olive & Rose, Melissa’s World Variety Produce

Posted on May 28, 2025 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week, Olive & Rose
Hour Two: Olive & Rose, Melissa’s World Variety Produce, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction and Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week with Davis Meyer, Vice President, Government & Community Relations, Visit Greater Palm Springs
Segment Three: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week with Restaurateur & Chef Susan Feniger of Alice B.
Segments Four and Five: Restaurateur & Chef Philip Pretty, Olive & Rose, Long Beach
Segments Six and Seven: Robert Schueller, Prince of Produce at Melissa’s, with “Best of the Season Fruits” and New Products
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House with “Ask the Chef”

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

“Founded by sibling duo Chef Philip Pretty and Lauren Pretty, Olive & Rose in Long Beach is a culinary destination born from their shared passion for exceptional food and genuine hospitality. At Olive & Rose, located in a fully restored and renovated, low-rise classic 50’s motel, The Prettys reimagined the dining experience as a neo-bistro, where classic French techniques with a twist meet vibrant flavors that are unmistakably Californian. Each dish is a reflection of Chef Philip Pretty’s entire culinary journey.” Chef Philp Pretty is our guest to discuss Olive & Rose, Heritage, Heritage Farm and the new Thursday 4^th Street Farmers Market all in Long Beach.

It’s time for another seasonal update of “Best of the Season Fruits” with our resident produce expert, Robert Schueller (also known as The Prince of Produce) of Melissa’s. First we’re talking about Tree Ripen Mangoes. The varieties of mangos available include Hadens, Kents, Manzanillos, Tommy Atkins, or Keitts. Tree-ripened mangos are seasonal and far superior when it comes to other varieties of mangos. This fruit gets special treatment by staying on the tree longer than most which results in an unmatched richness with a perfectly sweet finish. Then it’s on to a preview of Melissa’s new line of premium dessert sauces imported from Italy and an introduction to Melissa’s expansive line of Organic Snax™ trail mixes.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Our beloved In-N-Out burgers is highly secretive about their operations and rarely makes menu changes. Recently announced is their pending move to eliminate artificial colors / food dyes with natural colors. Highly unusual move for them but truly significant and, possibly, a trend center for fast food. Chef Andrew explains the healthful implications.

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

Davis Meyer of the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau

“The 2025 event is made possible with the partnership of all nine cities in the Coachella Valley, Agua Caliente Casinos, and the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians – whose ongoing support enriches the region’s culinary tradition.”

Davis Meyer, Vice President of Government and Community Relations for Visit Greater Palm Springs joins us with all the details.

Alice B. in Palm Springs is one of the dozens of participating restaurants. It’s an inspired menu blending Southern California’s seasonal bounty with the lively flavors of the Mediterranean, brought to life by James Beard and Julia Child award-winning chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. Susan Feniger is our guest to preview Alice B.’s menu for Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week.

“Founded by sibling duo Chef Philip Pretty and Lauren Pretty, Olive & Rose in Long Beach is a culinary destination born from their shared passion for exceptional food and genuine hospitality.”

“At Olive & Rose, located in a fully restored and renovated, classic low-rise 50’s motel, The Prettys reimagined the dining experience as a neo-bistro, where classic French techniques with a twist meet vibrant flavors that are unmistakably Californian. Each dish is a reflection of Chef Philip Pretty’s entire culinary journey.” There is also patio seating available around the pool in the inner courtyard of the property.

“From sourcing local, seasonal ingredients to minimizing food waste and reducing our environmental footprint, they are proud to continue the sustainable dining legacy of their sister restaurant, Heritage, by incorporating green certified and green Michelin star practices into their operations.”

Chef Philp Pretty is our guest to discuss Olive & Rose, Heritage, Heritage Farm and the new Thursday 4^th Street Farmers Market all in Long Beach.

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA Studio

It’s time for another seasonal update of “Best of the Season Fruits” with our resident produce expert, Robert Schueller (also known as The Prince of Produce) of Melissa’s.

First we’re talking about Tree Ripen Mangoes. The varieties of mangos available include Hadens, Kents, Manzanillos, Tommy Atkins, or Keitts.

Tree-ripened mangos are seasonal and far superior when it comes to other varieties of mangos. This fruit gets special treatment by staying on the tree longer than most which results in an unmatched richness with a perfectly sweet finish.

Just introduced from Melissa’s is a decadent line of premium, imported Italian gourmet dessert sauces in partnership with Fabbri.

“Why settle for one when you can have the ultimate collection of Melissa’s Gourmet Dessert Sauces? Co-branded with the iconic Fabbri of Italy, this set is a masterclass in dessert refinement, bringing over a century of Italian craftsmanship to your kitchen. With all five luxurious flavors—Chocolate, Caramel, Pistachio, Strawberry, and Wild Cherry — this is the ultimate go-to for creating café-worthy indulgence at home, no passport required. Drizzle chocolate over ice cream, swirl caramel into milkshakes, or top pancakes and waffles for a breakfast upgrade like no other.”

Melissa’s has a new line of Melissa’s Organic Snax™ trail mixes. “These are your new go-to snack for busy days, snacky nights, and everything in between. Melissa’s Organic Snax™ Performance Trail Mix Blend (just one example) is a bold, flavorful medley made to keep up with your day. Each bite brings together roasted almonds, crunchy pumpkin seeds, buttery cashews, sweet raisins and cranberries, and superfood standouts like goji berries and blueberries. To top it all off? Rich dark chocolate chunks for just the right hint of indulgence.”

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Calico Fish House

Our beloved In-N-Out Burger is highly secretive about their operations and rarely makes menu changes. Recently announced is their pending move to eliminate artificial colors / food dyes with natural colors. Highly unusual move for them but truly significant and, possibly, a trend-setter for all of fast food. Chef Andrew explains the healthful implications.

Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook (newly published) is also available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.

Podcasts

Hour One: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week, Olive & Rose
Hour Two: Olive & Rose, Melissa’s World Variety Produce, Andrew Gruel

Show 582, June 15, 2024: Chef Susan Feniger – Alice B. in Palm Springs

Posted on June 16, 2024 by Adam Bell

“The newly launched Alice B. is a unique dining destination from James Beard and Julia Child award-winning chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken (Border Grill and Socolo) located adjacent to downtown Palm Springs. The restaurant and bar is tucked inside the lobby of Living Out, a luxury resort-style LGBTQ+ community surrounded by spectacular desert and mountain views.”

“Combining Southern California’s incredible seasonal bounty with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, the culinary vision is a collaborative effort between Feniger, Milliken, and acclaimed Executive Chef Lance Velasquez.”

“Alice B.’s dinner and brunch menus evolve frequently with the seasons. Guests can also visit the bar for seasonal bites, classic cocktails or a glass of wine with live piano music on select evenings.”

“Inspired by the extraordinary life of Alice B. Toklas and her life partner Gertrude Stein, the restaurant establishes a welcoming space where culinary excellence, art, and community converge. The inviting bar and dining room reference the iconic mid-century modern style Palm Springs is famous for.”

Not to be missed are the signature Cornmeal Cheddar Drop Biscuits with Cardamom honey!

Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with a plate of Cornmeal Cheddar Drop Biscuits at the ready.

Show 564, February 10, 2024: Journalist Farley Elliott, SF Gate, Southern California Bureau Chief Part One

Posted on February 11, 2024 by Adam Bell

We’re delighted to welcome food journalist Farley Elliott back to the show. Farley Elliott is the new SoCal Bureau Chief for SFGATE. Previously, he was the Senior Editor for Eater Los Angeles, covering food and culture around LA, and his work has also appeared in print, film, and television. He’s also the author of Los Angeles Street Food: A History From Tamaleros to Taco Trucks, a book about the long, winding saga of street food in Los Angeles.

Farley joins us to chat about his new beat and provide a preview of what’s soon to come.Along the way he’ll discuss an unusual form of Street Art in Venice with a social message which has attracted national attention and his recent visit to greater Palm Springs where (among other activities) he interviewed Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger at their new restaurant, Alice B. located in Downtown Palm Springs.

“Launched in 1994, SFGATE.com was one of the first large-market media sites in the world and served as the exclusive digital home of the San Francisco Chronicle for 19 years. The site, which was initially known as The Gate until officially becoming SFGATE in 1998, was co-founded by Allen Weiner and John Coate.”

“In 2013, the Chronicle launched a paywalled premium website, sfchronicle.com. Over the next six years, varying amounts of free and premium Chronicle content appeared on SFGATE, then in 2019, the Chronicle and SFGATE officially became two separately run entities with their own editorial staffs and independent newsrooms.”

Show 444, September 25, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on September 26, 2021 by Adam Bell

“Be a part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl with 100% of the proceeds going directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services!

Masters of Taste introduces Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016.”

Chef Vanda joins us with all the tasty details.

“BBQ Mexicana, a quick service concept from celebrity Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, is located across from their Border Grill restaurant and adjacent to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas in Las Vegas and inside the new Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders (with two locations.)” Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with tongs at the ready.

“Winemaking at Matthiasson Wines (Steve and Jill) is a natural extension of farming. The Matthiasson’s have both worked for many years in the sustainable agriculture and the local food movement, and in 2003 they started Matthiasson Wines based on those values. The wines are classical expressions of different grape varieties, some well-known like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, and some rare like Ribolla Gialla and Refosco. The wines are refreshing, complement food, and are moderate in alcohol.” Matthiasson Wines is a 6-time James Beard Award nominee. Winemaker Steve Matthiasson is with us to gently pull the cork on all that is Matthiasson Winery.

“Made In California – The California-Born Burger Joints, Diners, Fast Food & Restaurants That Changed America chronicles the history and influence of some of America’s best-known California-born restaurants. A&W Root Beer. Foster’s Freeze. IHOP. Der Wienerschnitzel. See’s Candies. Jack in the Box. You name the American food icon, and chances are its roots are in California. Food historian and Chef George Geary tells the remarkable stories of the early 20th-century food startups that captured America’s hearts and stomachs, from Bob’s Big Boy to McDonald’s, Winchell’s Donuts to In-N-Out, Peet’s Coffee to Taco Bell. With more than 200 historic and contemporary photos.” Author George Geary joins us.

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. Chef Andrew is the Host Chef for the very special Outstanding in the Field Dinner on the Huntington Beach Pier on October 12th. Sustainably caught seafood fresh from the ocean is on the menu. We’ll get a preview of this unusual dining spectacular.

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

September 23: Masters of Taste with Ayara Thai, Susan Feniger, Matthiasson Wines, George Geary

Posted on September 23, 2021 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef & Restaurateur Vanda Asapahu, Ayara Thai Cuisine. Preview of Masters of Taste 2022 at The Rose Bowl
Segment Three: Chef Susan Feniger, BBQ Mexicana at Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders
Segment Four: Winemaker Steve Matthiasson, Matthiasson Wines, Napa Part One
Segment Five: Winemaker Steve Matthiasson, Matthiasson Wines, Napa Part Two
Segment Six: George Geary with Made in California – The California-Born Burger Joints, Diners, Fast Food & Restaurants That Changed America Part One
Segment Seven: George Geary with Made in California – The California-Born Burger Joints, Diners, Fast Food & Restaurants That Changed America Part Two
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

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

“Be a part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 3^rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl with 100% of the proceeds going directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services!

Masters of Taste introduces Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5^th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016.”

Chef Vanda joins us with all the details.

“BBQ Mexicana, a quick service concept from celebrity Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, is located across from Border Grill restaurant and adjacent to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas and inside the new Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders (with two locations.)” Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with tongs at the ready.

“Winemaking at Matthiasson Wines (Steve and Jill) is a natural extension of farming. The Matthiasson’s have both worked for many years in the sustainable agriculture and local food movement, and in 2003 they started Matthiasson Wines based on those values. The wines are classical expressions of different grape varieties, some well-known like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, and some rare like Ribolla Gialla and Refosco. The wines are refreshing, complement food, and are moderate in alcohol.” Matthiasson Wines is a 6- time James Beard Award nominee. Winemaker Steve Matthiasson is with us to gently pull the cork on all that is Matthiasson Winery.

“Made In California – The California-Born Burger Joints, Diners, Fast Food & Restaurants That Changed America chronicles the history and influence of some of America’s best-known California-born restaurants. stomachs, A&W Root Beer. Foster’s Freeze. IHOP. Der Wienerschnitzel. See’s Candy. Jack in the Box. You name the American food icon, and chances are its roots are in California. Food historian and chef George Geary tells the remarkable stories of the early 20th-century food startups that captured America’s hearts and stomachs, from Bob’s Big Boy to McDonald’s, Winchell’s Donuts to In-N-Out, Peet’s Coffee to Taco Bell. With more than 200 historic and contemporary photos.” Author George Geary joins us.

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. Chef Andrew is the Host Chef for the Outstanding in the Field Dinner on the Huntington Beach Pier on October 12^th. Sustainably caught seafood fresh from the ocean is on the menu. We’ll get a preview of this unusual dining spectacular.

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

“Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5^th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016.”

“Asapahu went to college at UCLA and to graduate school at Yale, then she spent four years living, traveling, and working her way through Thailand before returning home to Los Angeles. During Asapahu’s stay in her native country, she took extensive notes, which included absorbing Bangkok’s street food scene and reviving old family recipes. After cooking with relatives and eating her way through the streets and countryside, Asapahu brought back these treasured old recipes and new flavors to share at Ayara Thai. While her mother Anna Asapahu still helms the family kitchen, Asapahu is the vanguard, taking up the torch of her family’s culinary tradition at Ayara Thai Cuisine.”

“I have had the pleasure of participating in Masters of Taste since its inaugural year,” states Asapahu. “As a proud UCLA alum (Go Bruins!), I’d give anything for the opportunity to cook, eat and dance on the field of the Rose Bowl. The most amazing thing about Masters of Taste is that 100% of the proceeds go directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services and not many food festivals can say that. Union Station Homeless Services is committed to ending homelessness in Los Angeles.”

“The fifth annual Masters of Taste 2022 is expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar featuring top Mixologists from four of L.A.’s most distinguished drinking destinations, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.”

Chef Vanda joins us with all the enticing details.

“BBQ Mexicana, a quick service concept from celebrity Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, is located across from Border Grill restaurant and adjacent to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas and inside the new Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders (with two locations.)”

“Inspired by Mary Sue and Susan’s travels to Mexico, where they fell in love with delicious barbacoa and smoked meats, the menu offers a variety of bowls, salads, and burritos filled with mesquite smoked chicken, pulled pork, slow smoked brisket and tofu in addition to aguas frescas, beers and margaritas to go. BBQ Mexicana utilizes seasonal, locally grown ingredients, organic rice and beans, and meats and poultry raised without antibiotics or hormones.”

Chef Susan Feniger is our guest with tongs at the ready.

“Winemaking at Matthiasson Wines (Steve and Jill) is a natural extension of farming. The Matthiasson’s have both worked for many years in the sustainable agriculture and local food movement, and in 2003 they started Matthiasson Wines based on those values. The wines are classical expressions of different grape varieties, some well-known like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, and some rare like Ribolla Gialla and Refosco. The wines are refreshing, complement food, and are moderate in alcohol.” Matthiasson Wines is a 6-time James Beard Award nominee.

“Matthiasson fervently believe the old maxim that “wine is made in the vineyard,” and consider themselves farmers first. They carefully tailor organic viticultural practices to each vineyard — this is how Matthiasson harvests healthy and fully ripe fruit with balanced levels of alcohol and acidity. They do their best to protect and enhance the natural environment in the process.”

“Matthiasson Winery in Napa is open for in-person tastings at the winery and vineyard! They host a limited number of outdoor tastings by appointment 7 days a week. The tastings are approximately 60-75 minutes in length and include a comprehensive lineup of 5 to 6 wines.”

Winemaker Steve Matthiasson is with us to pull the cork on all that is Matthiasson Winery.

“A&W Root Beer. Foster’s Freeze. IHOP. Der Wienerschnitzel. See’s Candies. Jack in the Box. You name the American food icon, and chances are its roots are in California. Food historian and chef George Geary tells the remarkable stories of the early 20th-century food startups that captured America’s hearts and stomachs, from Bob’s Big Boy to McDonald’s, Winchell’s Donuts to In-N-Out, Peet’s Coffee to Taco Bell. With more than 200 historic and contemporary photos.”

“George Geary is the author of many hit books, including L.A.’s Legendary Restaurants and The Cheesecake Bible. He is a cooking teacher, pastry chef, culinary travel guide, and in-demand public speaker. A California native, he lives in the Los Angeles area.”

George Geary is our guest with a cup of Peet’s Coffee in hand.

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.

Chef Andrew is the Host Chef for the high-profile Outstanding in the Field Dinner on the Huntington Beach Pier on October 12^th. Sustainably caught seafood fresh from the ocean is on the menu. Chef Andrew is joined by Chef Craig Brady of Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar and Chef Brian Bornemann of Crudo e Nudo. We’ll get a preview of this unusual and very special dining spectacular.

Podcasts

Show 380, July 4, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on July 5, 2020 by Adam Bell

Happy 4^th of July to all. Please do celebrate safely.

“Fun illustrations and delightfully quirky characters bring the kitchen to life in The Munchy Munchy Cookbook for Kids. Join Chef Pierre A. Lamielle on a kitchen adventure as he introduces you to the Munchy Munchy Gang, a team of characters here to educate kids on the art of cooking and the range of flavors they’ll encounter. Learn how to make over 28 different recipes, including ketchup, pancakes and other kid favorites with simple, easy-to-follow instructions and illustrations for every step. Pierre’s characters make complex cooking theories, like balancing the five tastes, accessible to kids of all ages. The perfect manual for a budding chef.” Chef Pierre Lamielle is our guest.

Celebrity chef and restaurateur Susan Feniger is best known for creating Border Grill (Los Angeles & Las Vegas) with her business partner Mary Sue Milliken. She was also one of the first stars on Food Network. The partners have made their return to Santa Monica with the launch of Socalo in the Gateway Hotel which has just reopened for expanded patio dining and curbside pickup.

“In his best-selling cookbook, Fair Foods: The Most Popular and Offbeat Recipes from America’s State and County Fairs, award-winning chef, best-selling author, and renowned educator George Geary celebrates the fun, delicious, strange and wonderful foods sold at state and county fairs. Since we can’t go to the fair this year, George brings the fair to us with a volume of the most popular and iconic fair food recipes.” Think Funnel Cake with Berries and Deep-Fried Twinkies. Chef George Geary is with us, Cheesecake on a Stick in hand.

“Coming together for the very first time to celebrate restaurants all throughout Southern California, Los Angeles and Orange County unite to introduce Burger Week, which will be held from Sunday, July 12th, 2020 through Sunday, July 18th, 2020. Burger Week, produced by the Orange County Restaurant Association, will be a first-time event in Los Angeles and second annual event in Orange County. Burger Week was created to encourage diners all throughout the Southland (Orange County, Los Angeles County, Long Beach, and Pasadena) to celebrate and support SoCal restaurants while enjoying America’s favorite food – the almighty Burger!” Chef Michael Hung of Faith & Flower in Downtown Los Angeles is one of the participating chefs and restaurants in Burger Week. He’s offering three special burger creation meals To-Go including a plant-based Cheeseburger option. Chef Michael Hung temps us with all the juicy burger deliciousness.

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. Chef Andrew is regularly updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Dine-in is slowly, with multiple hiccups, starting to come back but with a lot of new rules that restrict guest counts. Alternately take-out/delivery when you can surely helps… Chef Andrew launched a new Slapfish in downtown Indianapolis this week. What’s it like opening a restaurant away from California during the Covid 19 crisis? We’ll, of course, “Ask the Chef.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness (with proper Social Distancing) on this week’s not-to-miss show!