Show 479, June 18, 2022: Alex Weiser, Weiser Family Farms, Tehachapi, CA Part Two

Alex Weiser of Weiser Family Farms

Weiser Family Farms began in 1977 when Sid Weiser, a chemistry teacher and counselor at Garfield High School in East Los Angeles decided to pack up the family and follow his dream of working off the land. Sidney and his wife Raquel laid down roots in Tehachapi, California. There, they learned to tend to the fruit trees… apples, peaches, and pears. In the ensuing years, they acquired farmland in other locations where they branched out into a variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.”

“In 1982 their son Alex jumped in to assist the family in selling at local Farmers’ Markets. There he encountered chefs, the public and specialty produce buyers who wanted seasonal, high quality and superior tasting produce. Listening to this input, Alex began to focus on creating a bio-diverse farm dedicated to applying sustainable farming techniques. His overriding desire was to supply people with unique fruits and vegetables at their peak, rather than picked for commercial usage. Today, Weiser Family Farms grows in the Greater Bakersfield area, Tehachapi and the Lucerne Valley, cultivating a tapestry of high- quality produce year round.”

“Older brother Dan joined the family business in 2001, after a long stint with The Walt Disney Co. Dan, a graduate of USC’s Marshall School of Business, brought with him a real-world business sensibility to the farm that has helped bring the overall operation to the next level. Not long after Dan came aboard, older sister Esther left her established teaching career to help keep her knuckle-headed brothers in line. Her common sense approach and no nonsense communication style help to keep everything in focus and moving forward.”

Weiser Family Farms is, and has always been, a family farming entity in the true sense of the word. When you buy from Weiser, you are truly buying from The Weiser Family.

Weiser Family Farms specialty potatoes are served at The Hollywood Bowl in the Farmers Market Salad created by Chef Suzanne Goin for Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine.

Alex Weiser continues with us with Shishito Peppers in hand.

Show 478, June 11, 2022: Restaurateur Caroline Styne for Hollywood Bowl Food + Beverage – Hollywood Bowl 100 Part One

Caroline Styne of Lucques Restaurant Group

“The 2022 Season at the Hollywood Bowl is a celebration of the Bowl’s 100th anniversary milestone. Now into the seventh year with award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne, Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine promises exceptional dining for visitors to the iconic venue. Goin and Styne’s culinary history has defined Los Angeles tastes since 1998 when they opened Lucques, their legendary first restaurant.”

“At the Hollywood Bowl, their California-inspired offerings include three restaurants and three marketplaces. Additionally, menus for the Terrace and Garden Boxes, which can be ordered a day in advance, are created by four-time James Beard Foundation award-winner Suzanne Goin. Goin’s vibrant new summer dishes pair beautifully with the exceptional wine and beer programs curated by Caroline Styne, the recipient of the James Beard Foundation’s 2018 Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year award. Overseeing the broad range of dining options serving Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s thousands of nightly guests is Executive Chef Jeff Rogers.”

“Returning for the 2022 season are the fan-favorites Winemaker Wednesdays and Sunday Market Tastings – an eight-week program of complimentary wine tastings at the Plaza Marketplace with guest winemakers, importers, sommeliers, and breweries hand-selected by Caroline Styne. Caroline also introduces a broad selection of vegan and organic wines this year that can be discovered in the marketplaces with other new natural wines on the restaurants’ lists, including Scribe, Broc Cellars and Perichor.”

“Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s many dining options include three sit-down restaurants, street-food kiosks, pre-ordered picnic boxes, and a full-service dinner delivered to your box seat. For private events, Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine provides catering at several locations for groups both large and small.”

Restaurateur Caroline Styne (representing Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine) joins us with corkscrew in hand.

Show 478, June 11, 2022: Restaurateur Caroline Styne for Hollywood Bowl Food + Beverage – Hollywood Bowl 100 Part Two

Caroline Styne of Lucques Restaurant Group

“The 2022 Season at the Hollywood Bowl is a celebration of the Bowl’s 100th anniversary milestone. Now into the seventh year with award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne, Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine promises exceptional dining for visitors to the iconic venue. Goin and Styne’s culinary history has defined Los Angeles tastes since 1998 when they opened Lucques, their legendary first restaurant.”

“At the Hollywood Bowl, their California-inspired offerings include three restaurants and three marketplaces. Additionally, menus for the Terrace and Garden Boxes, which can be ordered a day in advance, are created by four-time James Beard Foundation award-winner Suzanne Goin. Goin’s vibrant new summer dishes pair beautifully with the exceptional wine and beer programs curated by Caroline Styne, the recipient of the James Beard Foundation’s 2018 Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year award. Overseeing the broad range of dining options serving Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s thousands of nightly guests is Executive Chef Jeff Rogers.”

“Returning for the 2022 season are the fan-favorites Winemaker Wednesdays and Sunday Market Tastings – an eight-week program of complimentary wine tastings at the Plaza Marketplace with guest winemakers, importers, sommeliers, and breweries hand-selected by Caroline Styne. Caroline also introduces a broad selection of vegan and organic wines this year that can be discovered in the marketplaces with other new natural wines on the restaurants’ lists, including Scribe, Broc Cellars and Perichor.”

“Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s many dining options include three sit-down restaurants, street-food kiosks, pre-ordered picnic boxes, and a full-service dinner delivered to your box seat. For private events, Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine provides catering at several locations for groups both large and small.”

Restaurateur Caroline Styne (representing Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine) continues with us with a bottle of California Pinot Noir at the ready.

Show 434, July 17, 2021: Diego Aguirre, Co-Proprietor, FINCA restaurant, Paso Robles

Diego Aguirre of Finca Paso Robles

FINCA Paso Robles is a casual restaurant which highlights Baja and Sonora style Mexican food with an emphasis on wood-grilled seafood and carne asada. Located in the historic farmhouse of the Old Hometown Nursery of Paso Robles adjacent to the Paso Market Walk comes the latest project from the owners of La Taquiza – a casual Napa based Mexican restaurant launched in 2006 that has been in the Michelin Guide over the years.”

“With over 20 years experience in the service industry, co-owner Patrick Aguirre has worked under the likes of Thomas Keller at Bouchon Bakery and Suzanne Goin of A.O.C. His business partner and wife Stephanie, has managed multiple businesses, from aiding in her family’s seafood distribution company to running restaurants in both Napa and Los Angeles.”

“Accompanying them in opening FINCA is son, Diego, and daughter-in-law, Cecilia, who both graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and have been in the area since 2013. With a combined 15 years experience in the wine and service industry between them, they are excited to bring their passion and love for their community to this home-grown venture.”

Everything on the menu that can be scratch-made, is. Also hand-selected wines and beers.

Diego Aguirre, a 3rd generation restaurateur, is our guest.

Show 432, July 3, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Happy 4th of July Weekend to all! Dine well and be safe!

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

“Creator of the award-winning website Nibbles and Feasts, Ericka Sanchez delivers a refreshing take on Mexican drinks and popsicles, just in time for Summer in the cookbook, Aguas Frescas & Paletas – Refreshing Mexican Beverages and Frozen Treats, Traditional and Reimagined. Aguas Frescas and Paletas highlights 40 amazing treats that use less sugar than the traditional recipes, and adds unique flavor twists into the mix alongside nostalgia-inducing classics.” “Ranging from familiar flavors like horchata and lime to more unique combinations like Hibiscus & Spiced Orange, Mint Blackberry, and Avocado Coconut the recipes in Aguas Frescas & Paletas use simple and refreshing ingredients that can be found at your local supermarket.” Ericka Sanchez joins us Mango & Chamoy Pop in hand.

“Inspired by the timeless charm of horses, riders, and traditional whitewashed stables, Paso Robles’ The Stables Inn, a celebration of the great outdoors, is a totally renovated 19-room hotel located three short blocks from Paso Robles historic Downtown City Park and town center where shops, restaurants and tasting rooms abound.” “Featuring modern, stylish and unpretentious accommodations with touches of Western chic, The Stables Inn is the perfect spot to call home as you enjoy and explore all that the Paso Robles AVA has to offer.” Hotel Manager Lindsey Sparkman is graciously at our service.

Chef Suzanne Goin and business partner Caroline Styne, owners and operators of The Lucques Group, debuted the long-in-the-works A.O.C. Brentwood early last month. Located at 11648 San Vicente Boulevard in Brentwood, the restaurant features the small plates format that A.O.C. originated with Suzanne’s regularly changing menu inspired by California’s seasons and regional farmers’ markets which helped her win the coveted Outstanding Chef Award from the James Beard Foundation in 2016.” “Caroline, who similarly won Outstanding Restaurateur in 2018, curates the wine program for which A.O.C. is known. Designed for discovery and exploration, the A.O.C. wine list highlights small-production wines from grapes that are either sustainably, organically or biodynamically grown and features a large selection available by the glass and carafe.” Caroline Styne uncorks the new Brentwood A.O.C. for us.

“The Hollywood Bowl’s signature culinary program is again brought to life by James Beard Award -Winning Chef Suzanne Goin and James Beard Award-Winning Restauranteur Caroline Styne (of celebrated local restaurants A.O.C., The Larder Baking Co. and Lucques Catering.) All of The Hollywood Bowl’s dining options have been updated to ensure the safety of all guests and employees. The employees are health screened before starting work, personal protective equipment is worn, sanitation measures have been amplified, and social distancing is required.” Chef Suzanne Goin takes a break from her busy kitchens to join us with an overview of all things culinary at The Hollywood Bowl for the 2021 season which reopens to the public tonight.

One of our most reliable sources of accurate restaurant news in fabulous Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is the former staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. After four and one-half years with the Review-Journal Al has now embarked on more personal entrepreneurial ventures covering the dynamic Vegas dining and beverage scene without filters. He has just launched the weekly podcast, Food and Loathing with Jason Harris. We’ll hear about the first two episodes (including the opening of the massive Resorts World on The Strip) and how the Vegas dining scene is gradually recovering from the pandemic.

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 continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery which remains a genuine concern. Chef Andrew now gives us his insider’s perspective on how the restaurant business is bouncing back from the pandemic and what’s of current concern. He also reports on the progress of his new, ambitious Save the Brave Burger” fundraiser to benefit Veterans with PTS.

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

Show 432, July 3, 2021: Chef Suzanne Goin, The Lucques Group, Hollywood Bowl 2021 Part One

Suzanne Goin of the LLucques Group

“The Hollywood Bowl’s signature culinary program is again brought to life by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Suzanne Goin and James Beard Award-Winning Restauranteur Caroline Styne (of celebrated local restaurants A.O.C., The Larder Baking Co. and Lucques Catering.) All of The Hollywood Bowl’s dining options have been updated to ensure the safety of all guests and employees. The employees are health screened before starting work, personal protective equipment is worn, sanitation measures have been amplified, and social distancing is required.”

“Supper in Your Seats” is where Bowl guests order ahead for complete, 3-course meals from Suzanne Goin’s summer supper menus and Caroline Styne’s extensive wine list, served right at the guest’s box seats. As Chef Suzanne mentions this is the quintessential Hollywood Bowl dining experience.

“Let the Hollywood Bowl pack your picnic for you! Pre-order to enjoy Chef Suzanne’s picnic-perfect menus featuring delicious options for anyone’s palette. Pick up pre-ordered Picnic Boxes in the Plaza Marketplace then enjoy at one of the Bowl’s beautiful picnic areas or at your seats.”

The Hollywood Bowl’s on-site marketplaces feature a wide selection of options to build the perfect picnic, including beer and wine. Marketplace entrances are monitored to allow for a safe experience inside.

“Inspired by Chef Suzanne’s and Caroline’s local A.O.C restaurants. Ann’s Wine Bar features a wide selection of Caroline Styne’s favorite new- and old-world wines to be explored by adventurous and less experienced wine drinkers alike, all paired with Suzanne Goin’s signature small-plates menu. Guests are encouraged to make a reservation, as walk-in space is very limited.”

Lucques at the Circle is the exclusive, fine-dining experience for subscribers of the Pool Circle, with a seasonal made-to-order menu and exceptional wine list styled from Suzanne Goin’s and Caroline Styne’s award-winning restaurant, Lucques in West Hollywood (now closed.)”

Chef Suzanne Goin takes a break from her busy kitchens on Opening Night to join us with an overview of all things culinary at The Hollywood Bowl for the 2021 season.

Show 432, July 3, 2021: Chef Suzanne Goin, The Lucques Group, Hollywood Bowl 2021 Part Two

Suzanne Goin of the LLucques Group

“The Hollywood Bowl’s signature culinary program is again brought to life by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Suzanne Goin and James Beard Award-Winning Restauranteur Caroline Styne (of celebrated local restaurants A.O.C., The Larder Baking Co. and Lucques Catering.) All of The Hollywood Bowl’s dining options have been updated to ensure the safety of all guests and employees. The employees are health screened before starting work, personal protective equipment is worn, sanitation measures have been amplified, and social distancing is required.”

“Supper in Your Seats” is where Bowl guests order ahead for complete, 3-course meals from Suzanne Goin’s summer supper menus and Caroline Styne’s extensive wine list, served right at the guest’s box seats.

“Let the Hollywood Bowl pack your picnic for you! Pre-order to enjoy Chef Suzanne’s picnic-perfect menus featuring delicious options for anyone’s palette. Pick up pre-ordered Picnic Boxes in the Plaza Marketplace then enjoy at one of the Bowl’s beautiful picnic areas or at your seats.”

The Hollywood Bowl’s on-site marketplaces feature a wide selection of options to build the perfect picnic, including beer and wine. Marketplace entrances are monitored to allow for a safe experience inside.

“Inspired by Chef Suzanne’s and Caroline’s local A.O.C restaurants. Ann’s Wine Bar features a wide selection of Caroline Styne’s favorite new- and old-world wines to be explored by adventurous and less experienced wine drinkers alike, all paired with Suzanne Goin’s signature small-plates menu. Guests are encouraged to make a reservation, as walk-in space is very limited.”

Chef Suzanne Goin takes a brief break from her busy kitchens on “Opening Night” to continue with us providing an enticing overview of all things culinary at The Hollywood Bowl for the 2021 season.

July 3: Ericka Sanchez, The Stables Inn, Caroline Styne, Suzanne Goin, Al Mancini

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ericka Sanchez with Aguas Frescas & Paletas
Segment Three: Lindsey Sparkman, Hotel Manager, Stables Inn, Paso Robles, CA
Segment Four: Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group, A.O.C. Brentwood
Segment Five: Chef Suzanne Goin, The Lucques Group, Hollywood Bowl 2021 Part One
Segment Six: Chef Suzanne Goin, The Lucques Group, Hollywood Bowl 2021 Part Two
Segment Seven: Al Mancini, Food & Entertainment Journalist, “Food and Loathing” Podcast, Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Happy 4th of July Weekend to all!

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

“Creator of the award-winning website Nibbles and Feasts, Ericka Sanchez delivers a refreshing take on Mexican drinks and popsicles, just in time for Summer in the cookbook, Aguas Frescas & Paletas – Refreshing Mexican Beverages and Frozen Treats, Traditional and Reimagined. Aguas Frescas and Paletas highlights 40 amazing treats that use less sugar than the traditional recipes, and adds unique flavor twists into the mix alongside nostalgia-inducing classics.” “Ranging from familiar flavors like horchata and lime to more unique combinations like Hibiscus & Spiced Orange, Mint Blackberry, and Avocado Coconut the recipes in Aguas Frescas & Paletas use simple and refreshing ingredients that can be found at your local supermarket.” Ericka Sanchez joins us Mango & Chamoy Pop in hand.

“Inspired by the timeless charm of horses, riders, and traditional whitewashed stables, Paso Robles’ The Stables Inn, a celebration of the great outdoors, is a totally renovated 19-room hotel located three short blocks from Paso Robles historic Downtown City Park and town center where shops, restaurants and tasting rooms abound.” “Featuring modern, stylish and unpretentious accommodations with touches of Western chic, The Stables Inn is the perfect spot to call home as you enjoy and explore all that the Paso Robles AVA has to offer.” Hotel Manager Lindsey Sparkman is graciously at our service.

“Chef Suzanne Goin and business partner Caroline Styne, owners and operators of The Lucques Group, debuted the long-in-the-works A.O.C. Brentwood early last month. Located at 11648 San Vicente Boulevard in Brentwood, the restaurant features the small plates format that A.O.C. originated with Suzanne’s regularly changing menu inspired by California’s seasons and regional farmers’ markets which helped her win the coveted Outstanding Chef Award from the James Beard Foundation in 2016.” “Caroline, who similarly won Outstanding Restaurateur in 2018, curates the wine program for which A.O.C. is known. Designed for discovery and exploration, the A.O.C. wine list highlights small-production wines from grapes that are either sustainably, organically or biodynamically grown and features a large selection available by the glass and carafe. Caroline Styne uncorks the new Brentwood A.O.C. for us.

The Hollywood Bowl’s signature culinary program is again brought to life by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Suzanne Goin and James Beard Award-Winning Restauranteur Caroline Styne (of celebrated local restaurants A.O.C., The Larder Baking Co. and Lucques Catering.) All of The Hollywood Bowl’s dining options have been updated to ensure the safety of all guests and employees. The employees are health screened before starting work, personal protective equipment is worn, sanitation measures have been amplified, and social distancing is required. Chef Suzanne Goin takes a break from her busy kitchens to join us with an overview of all things culinary at The Hollywood Bowl for the 2021 season.

One of our most reliable sources of accurate restaurant news in fabulous Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is the former staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. After four and one-half years with the Review-Journal Al has now embarked on more personal entrepreneurial ventures covering the dynamic Vegas dining and beverage scene without filters. He has just launched the weekly podcast, “Food and Loathing” with Jason Harris. We’ll hear about the first two episodes (including the opening of the massive Resorts World on The Strip) and how the Vegas dining scene is recovering from the pandemic.

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 continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery which remains a genuine concern. Chef Andrew gives us his insider’s perspective on how the restaurant business is bouncing back from the pandemic. He also reports on the progress of his new, ambitious “Save the Brave Burger” fundraiser to benefit Veterans with PTS.

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

Ericka Sanchez of Nibbles and Feasts

“Creator of the award-winning website Nibbles and Feasts, Ericka Sanchez delivers a refreshing take on Mexican drinks and popsicles, just in time for Summer in her new cookbook, Aguas Frescas & Paletas – Refreshing Mexican Beverages and Frozen Treats, Traditional and Reimagined. Aguas Frescas and Paletas highlights 40 amazing treats that use less sugar than the traditional recipes, and adds unique flavor twists into the mix alongside nostalgia-inducing classics.”

“Ranging from familiar flavors like horchata and lime to more unique combinations like Hibiscus & Spiced Orange, Mint Blackberry, and Avocado Coconut the recipes in Aguas Frescas & Paletas use refreshing, simple ingredients that can be found at your local supermarket.”

“Ericka Sanchez is a recipe developer, food stylist, and the creator of the award-winning culinary website nibblesandfeasts.com. Ericka’s cooking style is inspired by her life as a bicultural Latina living in California and her cherished memories in the kitchen with her grandmother and mother in Mexico. Ericka was born in Torreón Coahuila, Mexico, and immigrated with her family to El Paso, Texas, at eight years old.”

Ericka Sanchez joins us Mango & Chamoy Pop in hand.

Lindsay Starkman of the Stables Inn

“Inspired by the timeless charm of horses, riders, and traditional whitewashed stables, Paso Robles’ The Stables Inn, a celebration of the great outdoors, is a totally renovated 19-room hotel located three short blocks from Paso Robles historic Downtown City Park and town center where shops, restaurants and tasting rooms abound.”

“Featuring modern, stylish and unpretentious accommodations with touches of Western chic, The Stables Inn is the perfect spot to call home as you enjoy and explore all that the Paso Robles AVA has to offer.”

Hotel Manager Lindsey Sparkman is graciously at our service.

Caroline Styne of Lucques Restaurant Group

Chef Suzanne Goin and business partner Caroline Styne, owners and operators of The Lucques Group, debuted the long-in-the-works A.O.C. Brentwood early last month. Located at 11648 San Vicente Boulevard in Brentwood, the restaurant features the small plates format that A.O.C. originated with Suzanne’s regularly changing menu inspired by California’s seasons and regional farmers’ markets which helped her win the coveted Outstanding Chef Award from the James Beard Foundation in 2016.”

“Caroline, who similarly won Outstanding Restaurateur in 2018, curates the wine program for which A.O.C. is known. Designed for discovery and exploration, the A.O.C. wine list highlights small-production wines from grapes that are either sustainably, organically or biodynamically grown and features a large selection available by the glass and carafe. The beverage program features local beer producers and a seasonal selection of market-driven cocktails.

“The decor encompasses three interior dining spaces: the main bar room with cozy velvet booths and banquettes, a long rough-hewn communal table and a spectacular charcoal wood back bar with mirror detail. A second dining room in gorgeous hues of green runs along the Darlington Avenue side of the building. And with an eye to the post-Covid future, there is an intimate private dining room perfect for gatherings of up to 40 guests. The rooms are vibrant and cozy with beautifully textured fabrics, lively yet sophisticated wallpapers and charming Nickey-Kehoe-designed lighting throughout.”

“We are incredibly excited about this as we have seen such positive response to A.O.C. at our Third Street location and feel that there is definitely a need for our small plates dining format on the Westside,” states Caroline Styne. “After the devastation and tragedy of the past year, we are beyond thrilled to reopen this restaurant with a new concept and lively, forward-looking energy. We feel so fortunate to have this moment to build on the positivity of the city and country as it comes back to life. And, more than anything, we can’t wait to get our staff back to work!”

“A.O.C. in Brentwood is now serving dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 p.m., expanding to lunch, weekend brunch and breakfast in the coming weeks with takeout and delivery options as well.”

Suzanne Goin of the LLucques Group

“The Hollywood Bowl’s signature culinary program is again brought to life by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Suzanne Goin and James Beard Award-Winning Restauranteur Caroline Styne (of celebrated local restaurants A.O.C., The Larder Baking Co. and Lucques Catering.) All of The Hollywood Bowl’s dining options have been updated to ensure the safety of all guests and employees. The employees are health screened before starting work, personal protective equipment is worn, sanitation measures have been amplified, and social distancing is required.”

“Supper in Your Seats” is where Bowl guests order ahead for complete, 3-course meals from Suzanne Goin’s summer supper menus and Caroline Styne’s extensive wine list, served right at the guest’s box seats.

“Let the Hollywood Bowl pack your picnic for you! Pre-order to enjoy Chef Suzanne’s picnic-perfect menus featuring delicious options for anyone’s palette. Pick up pre-ordered Picnic Boxes in the Plaza Marketplace then enjoy at one of the Bowl’s beautiful picnic areas or at your seats.”

The Hollywood Bowl’s on-site marketplaces feature a wide selection of options to build the perfect picnic, including beer and wine. Marketplace entrances are monitored to allow for a safe experience inside.

“Inspired by Chef Suzanne’s and Caroline’s local A.O.C restaurants. Ann’s Wine Bar features a wide selection of Caroline Styne’s favorite new- and old-world wines to be explored by adventurous and less experienced wine drinkers alike, all paired with Suzanne Goin’s signature small-plates menu. Guests are encouraged to make a reservation, as walk-in space is very limited.”

Lucques at the Circle is the exclusive, fine-dining experience for subscribers of the Pool Circle, with a seasonal made-to-order menu and exceptional wine list styled from Suzanne Goin’s and Caroline Styne’s award-winning restaurant, Lucques in West Hollywood (now closed.)”

Chef Suzanne Goin takes a break from her busy kitchens to join us with an overview of all things culinary at The Hollywood Bowl for the 2021 season.

Al Mancini of the Las Vegas Review Journal

One of our most reliable sources of accurate restaurant news in fabulous Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is the former staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. After four and one-half years with the Review-Journal Al has now embarked on more personal entrepreneurial ventures covering (without filters) the dynamic Vegas dining and beverage scene. He has just launched the weekly podcast, Food and Loathing with Jason Harris. We’ll hear about the first two episodes (including the opening of the massive Resorts World on The Strip) and how the Vegas dining scene is recovering from the pandemic.

Al has been working the Vegas food scene for 20 years. He was one of the creators of the popular, and widely referenced, Eating Las Vegas restaurant guidebook series. Al joins us with his insider’s Las Vegas update.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

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 continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery which remains a genuine concern.

Chef Andrew gives us his insider’s perspective on how the restaurant business is bouncing back from the pandemic. What will change?

He also reports on the progress of his new ambitious Save the Brave Burger” fundraiser to benefit Veterans with PTS.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Ericka Sanchez with Aguas Frescas & Paletas
Segment Three: Lindsey Sparkman, Hotel Manager, Stables Inn, Paso Robles, CA
Segment Four: Caroline Styne, The Lucques Group, A.O.C. Brentwood
Segment Five: Chef Suzanne Goin, The Lucques Group, Hollywood Bowl 2021 Part One
Segment Six: Chef Suzanne Goin, The Lucques Group, Hollywood Bowl 2021 Part Two
Segment Seven: Al Mancini, Food & Entertainment Journalist, “Food and Loathing” Podcast, Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 426, May 22, 2021: Valerie Rice, Lush Life – Food & Drinks from the Garden Part One

Valerie Rice of Lush Life and Eat Drink Garden

“Guided by the seasons and nurtured by the California sunshine, cook and gardener Valerie Rice has created a book that puts the joy back into cooking. With her signature no-fuss style and cocktail always in hand, Valerie has developed a collection of recipes, organized by season for stunning main dishes, sides, salads, soups, and desserts in her debut book, Lush Life: Food & Drinks from the Garden (Prospect Park Books) that also includes cocktails, garden planning & tips, and wine commentary from award-winning sommelier and winemaker Rajat Parr, a frequent guest at her table.”

“In her Foreword to the book, James Beard Award-Winning Chef Suzanne Goin writes, “…Whoever came up with the title Lush Life has hit the nail directly on the head. But it’s not just the beautiful setting, the glorious garden, or the flavorful and captivating food and drink—the lushness stems from Valerie’s heart and soul. Her passion for gardening, cooking, and entertaining is a triumvirate of riches to be enjoyed by anyone who finds themselves fortunate enough to be welcomed into her home. This passion and love for ingredients…and the art of time around the table are Valerie’s magic, and she has captured that spirit and meticulously passed it on in these pages.””

“Chef Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne (The Lucques Group) welcome their friend Valerie Rice, to a.o.c. to celebrate the publication of her new book, Lush Life: Food & Drinks from the Garden. The Lush Life Dinner will be held at a.o.c. in Los Angeles on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Valerie will be joined by James Beard Foundation award-winning Winemaker and Sommelier Rajat Parr, who curated the wine pairings for the dinner (and her cookbook), and both will be available to meet guests and sign cookbooks.”

“Suzanne, who contributed the foreword to the book, created a menu from the spring and summer chapters of the book, showcasing the best of the season. The four-course dinner begins with Zucchini Feta Fritters with Tahini Yogurt Sauce and Radish Tartine with Dill Butter. Next is a course of Ridgeback Prawn Chopped Salad with Spicy Thousand Island and a California Halibut Ceviche with Guacamole and Tortilla Chips.”

“For the main course, guests may choose from the vegetarian Blistered Asparagus with Pistachios, Green Garlic and Chives, plus Grilled King Trumpet Mushrooms with Sherry Marinade and Green Garden Rice, or Orange-Marinated Tri-Tip with Chimichurri & Padron Peppers and Crispy Ghee-Fried Potatoes with Fresh Bay Aïoli.”

“Finish with an Apricot Amaretto Torte with White Chocolate-Lemon Verbena Ice Cream for dessert.”

Valerie Rice is our guest to turn the pages of Lush Life for us.

Show 426, May 22, 2021: Valerie Rice, Lush Life – Food & Drinks from the Garden Part Two

Valerie Rice of Lush Life and Eat Drink Garden

“Eat and drink what’s in season and you’ll never grow bored, your menus will be less complicated, and everything will taste better. That’s Valerie Rice’s (Santa Barbara-based) motto, and it’s guided her to become an accomplished gardener, cook, and cocktail maker, three talents that—along with her charm and no-fuss style—have made her EatDrinkGarden Instagram and blog a hit. In Lush Life: Food & Drinks from the Garden, Valerie brings together her favorite seasonal recipes for entertaining, family meals, snacks, and so much more, including cocktail recipes and wine advice. Rigorously home tested and gorgeously photographed by Gemma and Andrew Ingalls, Lush Life is a California dream of a cookbook that will inspire readers to grow their own, cook it fresh, and pour a luscious beverage.”

“Chef Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne (The Lucques Group) welcome their friend Valerie Rice, to a.o.c. to celebrate the publication of her new book, Lush Life: Food & Drinks from the Garden. The Lush Life Dinner will be held at a.o.c. in Los Angeles on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Valerie will be joined by James Beard Foundation award-winning Winemaker and Sommelier Rajat Parr, who curated the wine pairings for the dinner (and her cookbook), and both will be available to meet guests and sign cookbooks.”

“For the main course, guests may choose from the vegetarian Blistered Asparagus with Pistachios, Green Garlic and Chives, plus Grilled King Trumpet Mushrooms with Sherry Marinade and Green Garden Rice, or Orange-Marinated Tri-Tip with Chimichurri & Padron Peppers and Crispy Ghee-Fried Potatoes with Fresh Bay Aïoli.”

“Finish with an Apricot Amaretto Torte with White Chocolate-Lemon Verbena Ice Cream for dessert.”

Valerie Rice continues with us turning the pages of Lush Life for us.