Show 529, June 10, 2023: Executive Chef & Partner Raphael Lunetta, Lunetta All Day, Santa Monica Part One

Raphael Lunetta of Lunetta All Day

“Chef Raphael Lunetta and Executive Chef / Partner Emilio Cuyuch provide their guests a chef driven neighborhood diner with a rustic California dining room and bar. Both sides feature the freshest, highly sourced ingredients, cocktails great coffee, craft beers & friendly service. All are offered in a very social environment.”

“Menus for Lunetta are locally sourced and responsibly grown, using seasonal ingredients based on the abundant product available on the California Coast. Food is served either as separate items for each guest or family style to share amongst everyone at your table.”

Lunetta built spacious patios so that guests can continue the al fresco dining-out experience. Lunetta has the All-Day dining room that opens for lunch, happy hour and dinner and the Fireplace dining room and Gallery Room for dinner or a private event.

The OG patio is the outdoor seating area connected to the all-day restaurant. The Cove patio is the covered seating area in the middle of the parking lot.

Lunetta serves breakfast items until 3 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday. The dinner menu is offered in both the all-day dining room and at night in the back fireplace dining room and Moon Bar.

“At Lunetta people matter most, seasonal makes sense, authenticity rules, quality governs, deliciousness is undeniable, pretense is absurd, comfort feels good, fun tastes better, teamwork and pride sustain it all.”

On-site parking in the rear as well as street parking.

Chef Raphael is doing a guest chef dinner at Jar in Los Angeles with Suzanne Tracht on Tuesday, July 18th.

Chef / Proprietor Raphael Lunetta is our guest.

Show 366, March 28, 2020: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

It’s a disconcerting and confusing time for all of us and our “SoCal Restaurant Show” mission, until the Covid-19 crisis is abated, is to provide reliable and genuinely useful information on how the restaurant business is coping with the rapidly evolving events. With an emphasis on the health, safety and well-being of our listeners we’ll be detailing what the range of services restaurants can provide to their guests. Creativity is at the forefront. We’re keeping it upbeat…Thanks so very much for the highly positive response to last week’s restaurant guests.

Chefs and restaurateurs are the most generous people I know. In times of need they are always the very first in generously giving back and meaningfully supporting their communities. Truly remarkable…Right now restaurants urgently need our support to stay afloat. Kindly keep this in mind and please do what you possibly can to support a local restaurant….

As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without the supportive & encouraging foodie community.

Amy and Craig Nickoloff of West Coast Prime MeatsIt’s an especially difficult time to navigate the supermarkets right now (particularly with “Social Distancing”) and you want fresh proteins of the highest quality to cook at home in addition to your ability to take advantage of restaurant delivery/takeout. West Coast Prime Meats supplies the top restaurants and hotels in Southern California. Responding to the crisis they are now selling to the public for the very first time with next day pickup in their Brea facility between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. For information please call them Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can conveniently obtain a wide range of superior proteins in case packs at fair prices with their usual wonderful customer service. Available are Beef, Grinds & Patties, Poultry, Pork and even Seafood. Their exemplary sanitary practices are way above Industry requirements. Call them to get an Inventory List emailed to you. 714.255.8560.

“A newcomer to the vibrant culinary scene that can be found in and around Newport Beach, BELLO by Sandro Nardone offers a combination of traditional authentic Italian food and modern dishes in a style similar to that served at the top restaurants in Italy. Born in a small town located between Rome and Naples, Chef Sandro comes from Atina, Italy, where he was raised in a family of chefs.” We nudge Chef Sandro away from his eye-catching, wood-burning pizza oven to tell us about his take-out & delivery menu. It includes his always popular, signature pizzas.

Jar, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, commands the attention of Angelenos with the allure of Chef / Proprietor Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire. Since it’s debut in 2002, Jar’s devoted fans return again and again to enjoy her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable Seafood, Lemongrass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Bearnaise & Fennel Salt, award-winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfectly mixed martinis. During the ban on dine-in Jar continues to serve guests with Jar to-go, Jar Cocktails to-go, Wines to-go and a boxed Dinner for four. Chef Suzanne joins us with all the salivating menu details.

Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens in Corona del Mar is open for take-out and offers an ever-evolving menu courtesy of the imagination of Owner and Executive Chef Rich Mead. Designed to elevate the at-home dining experience, the Farmhouse take-out menu now offers a curbside market, produce boxes, a signature kids menu and curbside cocktails to-go in addition to weekly wine deals, fresh daily specials, family-style meals, and more through easy pick-up or local delivery options. Delivery is available from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. daily. Complimentary deliveries will be made on orders of $75 or more within a 2.5 mile radius.”

In times of crisis it’s always best to rely on the reassuring expertise of those truly knowledgeable in their specific areas. Such is the case with our always engaging resident wine authority Kyle Meyer, the Managing Partner of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange. Tragically Italy and Spain have been particularly hard-hit by the Covid-19 crisis. Listeners have been asking what impact the fast-evolving health crisis will have on the current and future wine business in both Italy and Spain. Will global sales of these popular wines be altered? We’ll gain the accurate perspective from Kyle.

It’s Ojai Pixie Tangerine season. They may be small in size but Ojai Pixie Tangerines are bursting with sunshine sweet flavor and chin-dripping juiciness. Grown in the pleasant costal climate of Ojai, California, Pixie Tangerines are picked at the peak of perfection for optimum flavor. Not only are Pixie Tangerines seedless, but their bright colored rind is very easy -to -peel and their segments separate neatly making them the perfect on-the-go, healthy snack! Melissa’s Michelle Grow (their resident expert on Ojai Pixie Tangerines) peels the 411 on Ojai Pixie Tangerines for us.

Green Flash Brewing Co. has been crafting innovative award-winning beers in San Diego since 2002. We obsess over every detail, because we believe each green flash beer should be as remarkable as the last. Green Flash was one of the original breweries in San Diego with a focus on big but approachable beers with tons of flavor and aromas.”

In 2014, Alpine Beer Company merged with San Diego’s Green Flash Brewing Company, increasing production and distribution of its ales.

“Celebrated by craft beer fanatics as “The Home of Pure Hoppiness,” Alpine Beer Company was established in 1999 by husband and wife team, Pat and Val McIlhenney, with the creation of McIlhenney’s Irish Red. Shawn McIlhenney (Pat & Val’s son) now leads brewing operations in the small town of Alpine, located in the hills at the eastern edge of San Diego County. The brewery includes a tasting room and outdoor beer garden. Just a few blocks away, Alpine beers are on tap at the Alpine Beer Company Pub and served alongside barbecue dishes.

Chef Bill Bracken, the Founder of Bracken’s Kitchen, is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” In response to even more economic and social restrictions due to the coronavirus, Bracken’s Kitchen, a growing non-profit that recovers food and feeds those in need, is stepping up its meal production to a goal of at least 25,000 meals a week. That’s nearly four times their average! They cannot do this alone. They are seeking donations to keep moving forward. They’ve changed their meal production at Bracken’s Kitchen to meet the demand in our community. Chef Bill Bracken is our guest detailing the community need.

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

Show 366, March 28, 2020: Chef / Proprietor Suzanne Tracht of Jar Restaurant in Los Angeles

Suzanne Tracht of Jar RestaurantJar, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, commands the attention of Angelenos with the allure of Chef / Proprietor Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire. Since it’s debut in 2002, Jar’s devoted fans return again and again to enjoy her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable Seafood, Lemongrass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Bearnaise & Fennel Salt, award-winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfectly mixed martinis.

During the prohibition on dine-in Jar continues to serve guests with Jar to-go, Jar Cocktails to-go, Wines to-go and a boxed Dinner for four.

Chef Suzanne has a long tradition of hosting a welcoming Passover Seder at Jar. While that can’t happen this year she will, instead, create a special Passover family dinner for take-out.

Chef Suzanne joins us with all the salivating menu details.

March 28: Sandro Nardone, Suzanne Tracht, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, Wine Exchange, Melissa’s Ojai Pixie Tangerines, Green Flash Brewing, Bracken’s Kitchen

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef & Proprietor Sandro Nardone of Bello in Newport Beach
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Suzanne Tracht of Jar Restaurant in Los Angeles
Segment Four: Owner / Executive Chef Rich Mead of Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden in Corona del Mar
Segment Five: Kyle Meyer, Managing Partner, Wine Exchange in Santa Ana
Segment Six: Ojai Pixie Tangerines with Melissa’s Michelle Grow
Segment Seven: Green Flash Brewing Co. and Alpine Beer Company with Certified Cicerone and Vice President of Hospitality Dave Adams
Segment Eight: Bracken’s Kitchen with Founder, Chef Bill Bracken

It’s a disconcerting and confusing time for all of us and our “SoCal Restaurant Show” mission, until the Covid-19 crisis is abated, is to provide reliable and genuinely useful information on how the restaurant business is coping with the rapidly evolving events. With an emphasis on the health, safety and well-being of our listeners we’ll be detailing what the range of services restaurants can provide to their guests. Creativity is at the forefront. We’re keeping it upbeat…Thanks so very much for the highly positive response to last week’s restaurant guests.

Chefs and restaurateurs are the most generous people I know. In times of need they are always the very first in generously giving back and meaningfully supporting their communities. Truly remarkable…Right now restaurants urgently need our support to stay afloat. Kindly keep this in mind and please do what you possibly can to support a local restaurant….

As always, we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience. Truly couldn’t do it without the foodie community.

“A newcomer to the vibrant culinary scene that can be found in and around Newport Beach, BELLO by Sandro Nardone offers a combination of traditional authentic Italian food and modern dishes in a style similar to that served at the top restaurants in Italy. Born in a small town located between Rome and Naples, Chef Sandro comes from Atina, Italy, where he was raised in a family of chefs.” We nudge Chef Sandro out of his kitchen to tell us about his take-out & delivery menu. It includes his always popular, signature pizzas.

“Jar, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, commands the attention of Angelenos with the allure of Chef / Proprietor Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire. Since it’s debut in 2002, Jar’s devoted fans return again and again to enjoy her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable Seafood, Lemongrass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Bearnaise & Fennel Salt, award-winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfectly mixed martinis. During the ban on dine-in Jar continues to serve guests with Jar to-go, Jar Cocktails to-go, Wines to-go and a boxed Dinner for four. Chef Suzanne joins us with all the salivating menu details.

“Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens in Corona del Mar is open for take-out and offers an ever-evolving menu courtesy of the imagination of Owner and Executive Chef Rich Mead. Designed to elevate the at-home dining experience, the Farmhouse take-out menu now offers a curbside market, produce boxes, a signature kids menu and curbside cocktails to-go in addition to weekly wine deals, fresh daily specials, family-style meals, and more through easy pick-up or local delivery options.   Delivery is available from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. daily. Complimentary deliveries will be made on orders of $75 or more within a 2.5 mile radius.”

In times of crisis it’s always best to rely on the reassuring expertise of those truly knowledgeable in their specific areas. Such is the case with our always engaging resident wine authority Kyle Meyer, the Managing Partner of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange. Tragically Italy and Spain have been particularly hard-hit by the Covid-19 crisis. Listeners have been asking what impact the fast-evolving health crisis will have on the current and future wine business in both Italy and Spain. Will global sales of these popular wines be altered? We’ll gain the accurate perspective from Kyle.

It’s Ojai Pixie Tangerine season. They may be small in size but Ojai Pixie Tangerines are bursting with sunshine sweet flavor and chin-dripping juiciness. Grown in the pleasant costal climate of Ojai, California, Pixie Tangerines are picked at the peak of perfection for optimum flavor. Not only are Pixie Tangerines seedless, but their bright colored rind is very easy -to -peel and their segments separate neatly making them the perfect on-the-go, healthy snack! Melissa’s Michelle Grow (their resident expert on Ojai Pixie Tangerines) peels the 411 on Ojai Pixie Tangerines for us.

“Green Flash Brewing Co. has been crafting innovative award-winning beers in San Diego since 2002. We obsess over every detail, because we believe each green flash beer should be as remarkable as the last. Green Flash was one of the original breweries in San Diego with a focus on big but approachable beers with tons of flavor and aromas.”

In 2014, Alpine Beer Company merged with San Diego’s Green Flash Brewing Company, increasing production and distribution of its ales.

“Celebrated by craft beer fanatics as “The Home of Pure Hoppiness,” Alpine Beer Company was established in 1999 by husband and wife team, Pat and Val McIlhenney, with the creation of McIlhenney’s Irish Red. Shawn McIlhenney (Pat & Val’s son) now leads brewing operations in the small town of Alpine, located in the hills at the eastern edge of San Diego County. The brewery includes a tasting room and outdoor beer garden. Just a few blocks away, Alpine beers are on tap at the Alpine Beer Company Pub and served alongside barbecue dishes.

Chef Bill Bracken, the Founder of Bracken’s Kitchen, is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” In response to even more economic and social restrictions due to the coronavirus, Bracken’s Kitchen, a growing non-profit that recovers food and feeds those in need, is stepping up its meal production to a goal of at least 25,000 meals a week. That’s nearly four times their average! They cannot do this alone. They are seeking donations to keep moving forward. They’ve changed their meal production at Bracken’s Kitchen to meet the need in our community. Chef Bill Bracken is our guest detailing the community need.

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

Sandro Nardone of Bello by Sandro Nardone“A newcomer to the vibrant culinary scene that can be found in and around Newport Beach, BELLO by Sandro Nardone offers a combination of traditional authentic Italian food and modern dishes in a style similar to that served at the top restaurants in Italy. Born in a small town located between Rome and Naples, Chef Sandro comes from Atina, Italy, where he was raised in a family of chefs.”

“From an early age, he adopted food as his passion as his parents ran a small chain of restaurants, with his mother, Giovanna, as chef. At BELLO, Chef Sandro’s menu revolves around the very best ingredients and simplicity, the two guiding principles that have always been the foundation of traditional Italian cuisine.”

Chef Sandro is offering some of his most popular offerings on BELLO’s menu, including his signature made-to-order, wood-fired pizzas, for curbside pick-up and delivery through Grubhub and Ubereats. Guests may order online for curbside pick-up.

Chef Sandro is preparing a limited number of Family Meals inspired by those from his youth in Italy. Meals will change nightly and feature dishes such as Baked Rigatoni Bolognese and Lasagna. Guests may check current offering and place orders by calling the restaurant at 949-520-7191 or emailing Roberto at BELLO by Sergio Nardone.

Bello is offering Cocktails to go (single servings or a “4-pack”), as well as wines by the glass and their bottle list is being offered at 25% off.

We gently pull Chef Sandro out of his kitchen to tell us about his adapted take-out & delivery menu.

Suzanne Tracht of Jar RestaurantJar, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, commands the attention of Angelenos with the allure of Chef / Proprietor Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire.

Since it’s debut in 2002, Jar’s devoted fans return again and again to enjoy her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable Seafood, Lemongrass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Bearnaise & Fennel Salt, award-winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfectly mixed martinis.

During the prohibition on dine-in Jar continues to serve guests with Jar to-go, Jar Cocktails to-go, Wines to-go and a boxed Dinner for four. Chef Suzanne joins us with all the salivating menu details.

Rich Mead of Farmhouse at Rogers GardensFarmhouse at Roger’s Gardens in Corona del Mar is open for take-out and offers an ever-evolving menu courtesy of Owner and Executive Chef Rich Mead. Designed to elevate the at-home dining experience, the Farmhouse take-out menu now offers a curbside market, produce boxes, a signature kids menu and curbside cocktails to-go in addition to weekly wine deals, fresh daily specials, family-style meals, and more through easy pick-up or local delivery options. Delivery is available from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. daily. Complimentary deliveries will be made on orders of $75 or more within a 2.5 mile radius.”

“During his 35 years of culinary expertise, Chef Rich Mead has cultivated relationships with the highest regarded local sustainable farms, allowing him to create the freshest menus using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and specially grown vegetables. In 2016, after years of planning, Chef Mead unveiled a unique and sustainable field-to-fork dining experience at Farmhouse, located within Roger’s Gardens. Nestled on over 6 acres in the garden-like setting, Farmhouse features exclusive wines, craft beers, signature cocktails, artisan refreshments and a healthy based seasonal cuisine.”

To place a take-out order, please call 949-640-1415. For more information about Farmhouse and to view the take-out menu.

Chef Rich Mead is our guest.

Kyle Meyer of Wine ExchangeIn times of crisis it’s always best to call on the calming expertise of those truly knowledgeable in their specific areas. Such is the case with our always engaging resident wine authority Kyle Meyer, the Managing Partner of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange.

Tragically Italy and Spain have been particularly hard-hit by the Covid-19 crisis. Listeners have been asking what impact the fast-evolving health crisis will have on the current and future wine business in both Italy and Spain. Will global sales of these popular wines be altered? We’ll gain the accurate perspective from Kyle.

Michelle Grow of Melissa's World Variety ProduceIt’s now Ojai Pixie Tangerine season through May. “They may be small in size but Ojai Pixie Tangerines are bursting with sunshine sweet flavor and chin-dripping juiciness. Grown in the pleasant costal climate of Ojai, California, Pixie Tangerines are picked at the peak of perfection for optimum flavor. Not only are Pixie Tangerines seedless, but their bright colored rind is very easy -to -peel and their segments separate neatly making them the perfect on-the-go, healthy snack!”

“Delicious in flavor and easy-to-eat, what more can these tangerines offer you? Well, how about their healthy goodness? Like all other citrus, these tangerines are loaded with Vitamin C, antioxidants and other essential nutrients which help maintain immunity and a healthy circulatory system. Remember, eating fruits such as tangerines and vegetables instead of higher fat and higher calories foods are a key part of maintaining a healthy diet with no-guilt.”

Melissa’s resident Pixie Tangerine expert, Michelle Grow, peels the 411 on Ojai Pixie Tangerines for us.

Dave Adams of Green Flash Brewing Company and Alpine Beer CompanyGreen Flash Brewing Co. has been crafting innovative award-winning beers in San Diego since 2002. “We obsess over every detail, because we believe each Green Flash beer should be as remarkable as the last. Green Flash was one of the original breweries in San Diego with a focus on big but approachable beers with tons of flavor and aromas. When the perfect ingredients come together at just the right moment, the result can be magical…a Green Flash.”

“Celebrated by craft beer fanatics as “The Home of Pure Hoppiness,” Alpine Beer Company was established in 1999 by husband and wife team, Pat and Val McIlhenney, with the creation of McIlhenney’s Irish Red. Shawn McIlhenney (Pat & Val’s son) now leads brewing operations in the small town of Alpine, located in the hills at the eastern edge of San Diego County. The brewery includes a tasting room and outdoor beer garden. Just a few blocks away, Alpine beers are on tap at the Alpine Beer Company Pub and served alongside barbecue dishes. In 2014, Alpine Beer Company merged with San Diego’s Green Flash Brewing Company, increasing production and distribution of its ales.

Dave Adams, Green Flash Brewing Brewing Co’s and Alpine Beer Co’s Vice President of Hospitality and a Certified Cicerone taps the keg for us on both independently-owned craft breweries.

Bill Bracken of Brackens KitchenChef Bill Bracken, the Founder of Bracken’s Kitchen, is no stranger to the “SoCal Restaurant Show.” “In response to even more economic and social restrictions due to the coronavirus, Bracken’s Kitchen, a growing non-profit that recovers food and feeds those in need is stepping up its meal production to a goal of at least 25,000 meals a week. That’s nearly four times their average! They cannot do this alone. They are seeking donations to keep moving forward. They’ve changed their meal production at Bracken’s Kitchen to meet the need in our community.”

“My heart and prayers goes out to each and every person whose life is being completely turned upside down by this invisible virus,” said Bill Bracken, Founder of Bracken’s Kitchen.

“But in spite of all of this please remember my friends.  THIS TOO WILL PASS and life will go on. Now more than ever we will work to “Delivering Hope, One Tasty Meal At A Time.”

Bracken’s Kitchen is seeking donations to support their Covid-19 Response goals and can be made here.

Chef Bill Bracken is our guest explaining the community need.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Executive Chef & Proprietor Sandro Nardone of Bello in Newport Beach
Segment Three: Chef / Proprietor Suzanne Tracht of Jar Restaurant in Los Angeles
Segment Four: Owner / Executive Chef Rich Mead of Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden in Corona del Mar
Segment Five: Kyle Meyer, Managing Partner, Wine Exchange in Santa Ana
Segment Six: Ojai Pixie Tangerines with Melissa’s Michelle Grow
Segment Seven: Green Flash Brewing Co. and Alpine Beer Company with Certified Cicerone and Vice President of Hospitality Dave Adams
Segment Eight: Bracken’s Kitchen with Founder, Chef Bill Bracken

Show 314, March 9, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now a tempting preview of Saturday’s decadent show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience.

With stunning views of the track at Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles, Restaurant 917’s sleek and modern setting echoes Porsche’s world class design aesthetic. The name and décor were inspired by the legendary 917 race car. The food and beverage are champion caliber, too. Chef Matt Lee and General Manager Oliver Alexandre join us.

KCET‘s (Public Television) regional historical documentary, LA FOODWAYS Exploring Los Angeles’ Storied Agricultural Past, is a new, multi-platform series (and a KCET Original) presenting some surprising answers to challenges we now face as a city. LA Foodways Executive Producer, Raphael Sbarge, is our guest.

The internationally recognized wines of Spain’s Abadía Retuerta have enjoyed three consecutive years in the top 100 wines of the world, according to the preeminent authority, Wine Spectator. While wines were produced on the estate centuries ago, the current winery is only two-and-a-half decades old and is known for its award-winning single terroir wines. The estate also includes Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, possibly Spain’s most extraordinary luxury hotel located in a restored historic abbey on the magnificent 1,730-acre estate. Enrique Valero, both the winery’s and hotel’s accomplished General Manager joins us on the long-distance line from Spain.

On Sunday, March 10, 2019, JAR (Los Angeles) is hosting Chef John Cox with THE BEAR AND STAR POP-UP showcasing specialty selections from this Central Coast gem. Chef John and Katie Parker McDonald, the granddaughter of the late Fess Parker will be on hand with their 30′ custom-built reverse-flow Texas smoker to smoke and grill meats and produce sourced from the Fess Parker Ranch and farm for this one-night-only dinner. Chef Suzanne Tracht and her team will complement the menu with Jar’s favorite salads and desserts. Chefs John & Suzanne escape their busy kitchens to provide the menu details.

To write Fruit: A Savor the South Cookbook, best-selling author Nancie McDermott got to switch back and forth among the four careers she considered pursuing as a day-dreaming, North Carolina eight-year-old. “I had a little merry-go-round of ideas on what to be when I grew up: Missionary? Detective? Actor? Or Spy?” “Researching Fruit, I sorted and sifted, choosing 12 iconic fruits which matter in Southern cuisine. Persimmons and pawpaws, blackberries and melons, mayhaws and damsons — it’s clues and culture, traditions and creativity, flames and bowls, skillets, spoons, and celebrations. Fruit is seasons, symbols and stories. These fruit stories and recipes illuminate the world of Southern cooking.” Nancie is our guest.

Ever consider the delights of top-quality peanut butter? The style (with no sugar) that is dense with spreadable crunch and oozing with the rich taste and aroma of freshly roasted peanuts? Kiwi Pic Picot certainly has. Since founding Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter Co. in his garage in Nelson, NZ back in 2008 he is now the best-selling (and best loved) peanut butter in New Zealand. Pic’s is now conquering California, too. Two weeks ago he opened his new, greatly expanded peanut butter works in Nelson, Pic’s Peanut Butter World, with great fanfare. Pic, live from New Zealand, is our fresh & delightfully nutty guest.

Our own Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group, is again back with his “Ask the Chef” commentary. He’s a real, working chef with great insight and experience. Genuinely tasty, plant-based facsmilies of seafood are coming to market. Think artificial crab made with natural, plant-based ingredients. Chef Andrew clues us in.

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

Show 314, March 9, 2019: Chef John Cox and The Bear and Star’s (Los Olivos) Pop-Up at Jar

John CoxOn Sunday, March 10, 2019, JAR (Los Angeles) is hosting Chef John Cox with THE BEAR AND STAR POP-UP showcasing specialty selections from this Central Coast gem. Chef John and Katie Parker McDonald, the granddaughter of the late Fess Parker, will be on hand with their 30′ custom-built reverse-flow Texas smoker to smoke and grill meats and produce sourced from the Fess Parker Ranch and farm for this one-night-only dinner.

Chef Suzanne Tracht and her team will complement the menu with Jar’s favorite salads and desserts.

In 2017, Chef Cox teamed with siblings Eli and Ashley Parker of the famed Fess Parker family in Santa Barbara County to open The Bear and Star restaurant, located in the heart of Los Olivos, California, a concept of “refined ranch cuisine” inspired by Texan family recipes with a California sensibility. Cox and the Parkers combined resources to realize their dream of creating a true ecosystem on the 710-acre family ranch designed to supply the restaurant. Shepherded by John’s passion and vision, the ranch and its ecosystem exceed expectations of sustaining the restaurant with responsibly raised Wagyu beef, pork, rabbits, quail, chicken, bees and organically grown vegetables, herbs and fruits.

Suzanne TrachtJAR, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, impresses Angelenos with the allure of Chef Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire, including her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable fish, Lemon Grass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Béarnaise and Fennel Salt, award-winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfectly mixed martinis.

Chefs John & Suzanne briefly escape their busy kitchens to provide the enticing menu details.

March 9: Restaurant 917, KCET LA Foodways, Enrique Valero, John Cox, Suzanne Tracht, Nancie McDermott, Pic’s Peanut Butter

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurant 917 at Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles (Carson)
Segment Three: “LA FOODWAYS Exploring Los Angeles’ Storied Agricultural Past” with Executive Producer Raphael Sbarge
Segment Four: Enrique Valero, General Manager, Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, Winery & Boutique Luxury Hotel, Spain
Segment Five: Chef John Cox and The Bear and Star’s (Los Olivos) Pop-Up at Jar
Segment Six: Author & Cooking Teacher Nancie McDermott, Fruit – a Savor The South Cookbook
Segment Seven: Pic Picot, Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter, New Zealand
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Now a tempting preview of this Saturday’s decadent show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, and upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… As always we greatly appreciate you being a part of our loyal listening audience.

With stunning views of the track at Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles, Restaurant 917’s sleek and modern setting echoes Porsche’s world class design aesthetic. The name and décor were inspired by the legendary 917 race car. The food and beverage is champion caliber, too. Chef Matt Lee and General Manager Oliver Alexandre join us.

KCET’s (Public Television) regional historical documentary, LA FOODWAYS Exploring Los Angeles’ Storied Agricultural Past, is a new, multi-platform series (and a KCET Original) presenting some surprising answers to challenges we now face as a city. LA Foodways Executive Producer, Raphael Sbarge, is our guest.

The internationally recognized wines of Spain’s Abadía Retuerta have enjoyed three consecutive years in the top 100 wines of the world, according to the preeminent authority, Wine Spectator. While wines were produced on the estate centuries ago, the current winery is only two-and-a-half decades old and is known for its award-winning single terroir wines. The estate also includes Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, possibly Spain’s most extraordinary luxury hotel located in a restored historic abbey on the magnificent 1,730-acre estate. Enrique Valero, both the winery’s and hotel’s accomplished General Manager joins us on the long-distance line from Spain.

On Sunday, March 10, 2019, JAR (Los Angeles) is hosting Chef John Cox with THE BEAR AND STAR POP-UP showcasing specialty selections from this Central Coast gem. Chef John and Katie Parker McDonald, the granddaughter of the late Fess Parker, will be on hand with their 30′ custom-built reverse-flow Texas smoker to smoke and grill meats and produce sourced from the Fess Parker Ranch and farm for this one-night-only dinner. Chef Suzanne Tracht and her team will complement the menu with Jar’s favorite salads and desserts. Chefs John & Suzanne escape their busy kitchens to provide the menu details.

To write Fruit: A Savor the South Cookbook, best-selling author Nancie McDermott got to switch back and forth among the four careers she considered pursuing as a day-dreaming, North Carolina eight-year-old. “I had a little merry-go-round of ideas on what to be when I grew up: Missionary? Detective? Actor? Or Spy?” “Researching Fruit, I sorted and sifted, choosing 12 iconic fruits which matter in Southern cuisine. Persimmons and pawpaws, blackberries and melons, mayhaws and damsons — it’s clues and culture, traditions and creativity, flames and bowls, skillets, spoons, and celebrations. Fruit is seasons, symbols and stories. These fruit stories and recipes illuminate the world of Southern cooking.” Nancie is our guest.

Ever consider the delights of top-quality peanut butter? The style (with no sugar) that is dense with spreadable crunch and oozing with the rich taste and aroma of freshly roasted peanuts? Kiwi Pic Picot certainly has. Since founding Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter Co. in his garage in Nelson, NZ back in 2008 he is now the best-selling (and best loved) peanut butter in New Zealand. Pic’s is now conquering California, too. Two weeks ago he opened his new, greatly expanded peanut butter works in Nelson, Pic’s Peanut Butter World, with great fanfare. Pic, live from New Zealand, is our fresh & nutty guest.

Our own Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group, is again back with his “Ask the Chef” commentary. He’s a real, working chef with great insight and experience.

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

Oliver AlexandreWith stunning views of the track at Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles, Restaurant 917’s sleek and modern setting echoes Porsche’s world class design aesthetic. The name and décor were inspired by the legendary 917 race car. The food and beverage is champion caliber, too. It’s located on the second floor to enhance the vistas.

Restaurant 917’s refined yet approachable seasonal menu is composed of ingredient-driven dishes that merge diverse flavors, inventive techniques and playful compositions.

A special fine-dining experience worthy of a special trip or serving as the perfect finish to an adrenaline-packed day, it is also an unforgettable venue for special celebrations and meetings.

Matt LeeFormerly the Executive Chef for the Restaurant at the Getty, Matt Lee has a quiet passion for culinary integrity and innovation. His exquisite eye for detail is evident in everything from his careful flavor composition to the stunning and playful visual presentation of each element on the plate. At 917, his facility with fresh, locally caught fish and other seafood complements his mastery of more traditional steak, chicken, and pork offerings, which he tends to balance with a bright vegetable accompaniment.

Originally from Nîmes, France, General Manager Oliver Alexandre holds dual MBA degrees in hospitality and tourism management as well as international hotel management, giving him a deep understanding of fine dining operations. Oliver brings a wealth of diverse experience to Restaurant 917 including an innate skill for hospitality and a passion for creating unique and memorable guest experiences.

Restaurant 917 offers Lunch on Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5 to 8:00 p.m.

Restaurant 917’s Executive Chef Matt Lee and General Manager Oliver Alexandre join us.

Raphael SbargeKCET‘s (Public Television) regional historical documentary, LA FOODWAYS Exploring Los Angeles’ Storied Agricultural Past, is a new multi-platform series (and a KCET Original) presenting some surprising answers to challenges we now face as a city.

LA FOODWAYS examines the history of food in Los Angeles. This documentary from filmmaker Raphael Sbarge (A Concrete River; Reviving the Waters of Los Angeles) and KCET looks at the storied agricultural history of Los Angeles to understand present food waste challenges.

From the importance of orange crops in the 19th century to the massive scale of food waste in the U.S., the film is a deep dive into how local organizations are coming together to ensure the future of agriculture in the region.

““Foodways” was first coined in 1942 by anthropologists, folklorists and food scholars to describe the study of why we eat what we eat, and what it means: “Food at the intersection of culture, tradition and history.” Our attitudes, practices and rituals around food are a window onto our most basic beliefs about the world and ourselves.”

Executive Producer, Raphael Sbarge, is our guest.

Enrique ValeroThe internationally recognized wines of Spain’s Abadía Retuerta have enjoyed three consecutive years in the top 100 wines of the world, according to the preeminent authority, Wine Spectator. While wines were produced on the estate centuries ago, the current winery is only two-and-a-half decades old and is known for its award-winning single terroir wines.

“There are 54 vine plots each with very distinct characteristics, each analysed, controlled, worked, vinified and tasted separately. Each terroir is planted with a single varietal or grape variety. The planting is 70% Tempranillo grapes, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah, with the remaining 10% divided between Merlot and Petit Verdot (an innovation used to make a single-varietal wine).”

“The winery’s gold-standard wine is the Selección Especial, which reflects the essence of the estate – 75% Tempranillo, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. Proof of its superb quality, the 2001 Selección Especial was awarded “Best Red Wine in the World – Red Wine Trophy” in 2005 by London’s prestigious International Wine Challenge competition. In addition, Selección Especial is the first Spanish wine to be included for three consecutive years on the list of the 100 Best Wines in the World, which has been published annually since 1988 by Wine Spectator magazine.”

The estate also includes Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, possibly Spain’s most extraordinary luxury hotel located in a restored historic abbey on the magnificent 1,730-acre estate.

Under a vaulted ceiling of pure Gothic style at LeDomaine, framed by thick stone walls and anchored by a 17th-century fresco of The Last Supper, the Refectorio is a sanctuary of haute cuisine with one Michelin star, maintained since 2014. Executive Chef Marc Segarra prepares innovative and seasonal gastronomic fare in the contemporary kitchen, using the freshest local ingredients procured from specialty local suppliers as well as LeDomaine’s own fields.

In addition to the Refectorio, located in the abbey’s former refectory, guests dine on specialty dishes, tapas and small plates in the Vinoteca restaurant with a wine-cellar atmosphere, and al fresco on seasonal dishes in spring and summer in the Jardin del Cloustro and at the Pool Bar. Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine uses the resources from the estate to produce specially Crafted Spanish Foods: wine salt, pine nuts and honey.

Enrique Valero, both the winery’s and hotel’s accomplished General Manager joins us on the long-distance line from Spain.

John CoxOn Sunday, March 10, 2019, JAR (Los Angeles) is hosting Chef John Cox with THE BEAR AND STAR POP-UP showcasing specialty selections from this Central Coast gem. Chef John and Katie Parker McDonald, the granddaughter of the late Fess Parker, will be on hand with their 30′ custom-built reverse-flow Texas smoker to smoke and grill meats and produce sourced from the Fess Parker Ranch and farm for this one-night-only dinner.

Chef Suzanne Tracht and her team will complement the menu with Jar’s favorite salads and desserts.

In 2017, Chef Cox teamed with siblings Eli and Ashley Parker of the famed Fess Parker family in Santa Barbara County to open The Bear and Star restaurant, located in the heart of Los Olivos, California, a concept of “refined ranch cuisine” inspired by Texan family recipes with a California sensibility. Cox and the Parkers combined resources to realize their dream of creating a true ecosystem on the 710-acre family ranch designed to supply the restaurant. Shepherded by John’s passion and vision, the ranch and its ecosystem exceed expectations of sustaining the restaurant with responsibly raised Wagyu beef, pork, rabbits, quail, chicken, bees and organically grown vegetables, herbs and fruits.

Suzanne TrachtJAR, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, impresses Angelenos with the allure of Chef Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire, including her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable fish, Lemon Grass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Béarnaise and Fennel Salt, award-winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfectly mixed martinis.

Chefs John & Suzanne briefly escape their busy kitchens to provide the enticing menu details.

Nancie McDdermottTo write Fruit: A Savor the South Cookbook, best-selling author Nancie McDermott got to switch back and forth among the four careers she considered pursuing as a day-dreaming North Carolina eight-year-old. “I had a little merry-go-round of ideas on what to be when I grew up: Missionary? Detective? Actor? Or Spy?”

“Researching Fruit, I sorted and sifted, choosing 12 iconic fruits which matter in Southern cuisine. Persimmons and pawpaws, blackberries and melons, mayhaws and damsons — it’s clues and culture, traditions and creativity, flames and bowls, skillets, spoons, and celebrations. Fruit is seasons, symbols and stories. These fruit stories and recipes illuminate the world of Southern cooking.”

Fruit collects a dozen of the South’s bountiful locally sourced fruits in a cook’s basket of fifty-four luscious dishes, savory and sweet. Demand for these edible jewels is growing among those keen to feast on the South’s natural pleasures, whether gathered in the wild or cultivated with care. Indigenous fruits here include blackberries, mayhaws, muscadine and scuppernong grapes, pawpaws, persimmons, and strawberries. From old-school Grape Hull Pie to Mayhaw Jelly–Glazed Shrimp, McDermott’s recipes for these less common fruits are of remarkable interest–and incredibly tasty. The non-native fruits in the volume were eagerly adopted long ago by southern cooks, and they include damson plums, figs, peaches, cantaloupes, quince, and watermelons. McDermott gives them a delicious twist in recipes such as Fresh Fig Pie and Thai-Inspired Watermelon-Pineapple Salad.

McDermott also illuminates how the South–from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Lowcountry, from the Mississippi Delta to the Gulf Coast–encompasses diverse subregional culinary traditions when it comes to fruit. Her recipes, including a favorite piecrust, provide a treasury of ways to relish southern fruits at their ephemeral peak and to preserve them for enjoyment throughout the year.

McDermott is a North Carolina native, cooking teacher, and author of 14 cookbooks, including Southern Cakes: Sweet and Irresistible Recipes for Everyday Celebrations.

Nancie is our perfectly ripe guest.

Pic PicotEver consider the delights of top-quality peanut butter? The style (with no sugar) that is dense with spreadable crunch and oozing with the rich taste and aroma of freshly roasted peanuts? Kiwi Pic Picot certainly has. Since founding Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter Co. in his garage in Nelson, NZ back in 2008 he is now the best-selling (and best loved) peanut butter in New Zealand. Pic’s is now conquering California with availability in Pavilions, Gelson’s and Bristol Farms.

“In 2008 I sold 48 jars to our local supermarket and took to the road. Within a year you could buy Pic’s in 50 outlets around the country. Then we were picked up by both of NZ’s supermarket chains and suddenly Pic’s was available pretty much anywhere in New Zealand.” – Pic Picot

Just launched in Nelson is Pic’s Peanut Butter World, a new 25,000 square foot production facility designed to also accommodate comprehensive factory tours as a tourist attraction. It doubles Pic’s previous production capabilities. At capacity Pic’s can now produce up to 50,000 jars of smooth or crunchy peanut butter per day!

The inspirational NZ peanut butter baron, Pic Picot, is our return guest live from Nelson, NZ.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoOur own Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group, returns with another installment of “Ask the Chef.” As a real, working professional chef doing everything from fine-dining to backyard burgers he has an incredible knowledge base to share.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Restaurant 917 at Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles (Carson)
Segment Three: “LA FOODWAYS Exploring Los Angeles’ Storied Agricultural Past” with Executive Producer Raphael Sbarge
Segment Four: Enrique Valero, General Manager, Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, Winery & Boutique Luxury Hotel, Spain
Segment Five: Chef John Cox and The Bear and Star’s (Los Olivos) Pop-Up at Jar
Segment Six: Author & Cooking Teacher Nancie McDermott, Fruit – a Savor The South Cookbook
Segment Seven: Pic Picot, Pic’s Really Good Peanut Butter, New Zealand
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel, Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

Show 292, September 29, 2018: C-CAP’s “4 Chefs 4 Kids Benefit” at Jonathan Club Preview with Executive Chef Jason McClain

Jason McClain of the Jonathan ClubThe Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is hosting their 4 Chefs 4 Kids Harvest Dinner Benefit at Jonathan Club on Thursday evening, October 18th. Jonathan Club’s Executive Chef Jason McClain is the Host Chef along with courses prepared by talented culinarians including Tony Esnault (Church & State,) Sally Camacho Mueller (Tesse,) and Suzanne Tracht (Jar.)

C-CAP LA Alum, Mixologist Anthony Greco, will be preparing a exclusive specialty cocktail for the pre-Dinner Cocktail Reception featuring passed hors d’oeuvres from Jonathan Club’s Chef Jason McClain. It’s then a mouthwatering, four-course dinner paired with premium wines selected by Jonathan Club’s Sommelier.

Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger of Border Grill fame is the Special Guest Auctioneer.

Chef Jason McClain takes a break from his busy kitchens and rooftop vegetable garden to provide the Benefit’s enticing details.

Show 291, September 22, 2018: Proprietress / Executive Chef Suzanne Tracht, Jar, Los Angeles

Suzanne TrachtJar, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, dazzles Angelenos with the allure of Chef Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire, including her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable Fish, Lemon Grass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Bearnaise and Fennel Salt, award -winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfect martinis. It’s been an L.A. staple since 2001.

“Suzanne Tracht, chef and owner of the critically-acclaimed Jar Restaurant, was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. She began cooking professionally at the age of 19, when she left college for an apprenticeship under Siegbert Wendler, legendary chef at the four-star Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa. After three years she moved to Southern California to work in the kitchen of the prestigious Hotel Bel-Air and later served as sous-chef at Noa Noa. In 1992, she became chef de cuisine at Nancy Silverton and Mark Peel’s Campanile. Four years later, she embarked on her first solo venture at executive chef at the Cal-Asian restaurant, Jozu. In its debut year, Jozu ranked number two for “L.A.’s Best New Restaurants” in Los Angeles magazine’s restaurant issue.”

“In 2001, she opened her modern chophouse, Jar, with her longtime chef de cuisine Preech Narkthong. Quickly, Tracht and Narkthong built a reputation for cooking cozily familiar American retro food – pot roast, steaks, pork chops, braised lamb shanks — with a modern twist.”

Chef / Proprietress Suzanne Tracht is our guest.

September 22: Mad Hungry Woman, Suzanne Tracht, Antonia Lofaso, Golden Road Brewing, Break of Dawn, LA Kitchen

Podcasts

Segment One: Anita Lau, Diary of a Mad Hungry Woman
Segment Two: Proprietress / Executive Chef Suzanne Tracht, Jar, Los Angeles
Segment Three: Executive Chef Antonia Lofaso, DAMA, City Market South, Downtown Los Angeles
Segment Four: Brewmaster Victor Novak, Golden Road Brewing, Los Angeles & Anaheim
Segment Five: Chef/Proprietor Dee Nguyen, Break of Dawn, Laguna Hills
Segment Six: Robert Egger, L.A. Kitchen, Founder & CEO Part One
Segment Seven: Robert Egger, L.A. Kitchen, Founder & CEO Part Two

Program Note:
Please join us at the special time this Saturday afternoon from 1 to 3:00 p.m. following Fighting Irish Football. It’s not the same without you.

Now an inspiring preview of this Saturday afternoon’s mouthwatering show. Let us temp you…It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing…

Our favorite Mad Hungry Woman blogger, Anita Lau, has been traveling in Northern Baja. She was recently an esteemed judge at the 5th Annual Sabor de Baja, an annual food and wine pairing event staged on the lawn of the iconic Rosarita Beach Hotel overlooking the beach and blue Pacific. Sabor de Baja is a friendly culinary competition among 25 of Baja’s top chefs, each paired with the finest Mexican wines and artisanal beer producers. It’s an all-white affair.

Jar, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, dazzles Angelenos with the allure of Chef Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire, including her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable Fish, Lemon Grass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Bearnaise and Fennel Salt, award -winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfect martinis. It’s been an L.A. staple since 2001. Chef Suzanne Tracht is our guest.

DAMA is a Latin-inspired restaurant just launched in Fashion District of Downtown Los Angeles in City Market South featuring culinary dishes from Executive Chef Antonia Lofaso (Venice’s Scopa Italian Roots) and standout cocktails from Pablo Moix and Steve Livigni. Chef Antonia takes a break from her busy kitchens to join us.

It’s time to again “Ask the Brewers.” Joining us in-studio is the dynamic duo of Golden Road Brewing’s distinguished Brewmaster, Victor Novak, and Anaheim Head Brewer Steven Torres. On tap is a discussion of the trend of craft brewers to now create their take on Baja-style lagers brewed with premium ingredients and what craft beer styles match with pickles and other fermented veggies. Thirst-quenching conversation for sure…

Back in 2006 rising-star, fine-dining chef Dee Nguyen (Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel) was looking to simplify his life and spend more time with his growing Family. He bravely branched out on his own to launch the modest Break of Dawn in Laguna Hills. Fortunately he quickly developed a loyal following of inspired guests. It’s a very personal statement for Chef Dee who serves breakfast, lunch and brunch Wednesday through Sunday only. It’s creative, fine-dining comfort foods with a Vietnamese twist. Chef Dee puts down the spatula and joins us.

L.A. Kitchen, a pioneering non-profit, is again rallying Angelenos to take a stand and participate in a city-wide party (October 5 to 7) to raise awareness and fight food waste, hunger and unemployment. Shared Plates is L.A Kitchen’s anti-gala, a weekend of dinner parties for good that invites thousands of Angelenos to sit around the table in their backyards, restaurants, businesses and schools across Los Angeles. Robert Egger, L.A. Kitchen Founder & CEO sets the table for us.

100% of the ticket sales help in feeding LA’s homeless and senior population, offering culinary job training to the formerly incarcerated or formerly homeless and towards diverting thousands of pounds of food that would have otherwise gone to waste.

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

Anita Lau of Mad Hungry WomanOur favorite Mad Hungry Woman blogger, Anita Lau, has been traveling in Northern Baja. She was recently an esteemed judge at the 5th Annual Sabor de Baja, an annual food and wine pairing event staged on the lawn of the iconic Rosarita Beach Hotel overlooking the beach and blue Pacific.

Sabor de Baja is a friendly culinary competition among 27 of Baja’s top chefs, each paired with the finest Mexican wines and artisanal beer producers. It’s an all-white affair.

“The intent of the Sabor de Baja is to promote gastronomy and tourism between the U.S. and Baja. Each attendee enjoys a pairing of all the chefs creations together with the wine or beer producers. There are two main awards given that night: The first is decided by a panel of distinguished judges and the second is called the “People’s Choice” which is decided by popular voting from every attendee who submits a ballot.”

Suzanne TrachtJar, a modern chophouse in the heart of Los Angeles, dazzles Angelenos with the allure of Chef Suzanne Tracht’s familiar retro dishes from the American culinary repertoire, including her signature Pot Roast, Kansas City Steak, wild and sustainable Fish, Lemon Grass Chicken, Black Mussels with Lobster Bearnaise and Fennel Salt, award -winning French Fries, market-fresh sides and perfect martinis. It’s been an L.A. staple since 2001.

“Suzanne Tracht, chef and owner of the critically-acclaimed Jar Restaurant, was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. She began cooking professionally at the age of 19, when she left college for an apprenticeship under Siegbert Wendler, legendary chef at the four-star Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa. After three years she moved to Southern California to work in the kitchen of the prestigious Hotel Bel-Air and later served as sous-chef at Noa Noa. In 1992, she became chef de cuisine at Nancy Silverton and Mark Peel’s Campanile. Four years later, she embarked on her first solo venture at executive chef at the Cal-Asian restaurant, Jozu. In its debut year, Jozu ranked number two for “L.A.’s Best New Restaurants” in Los Angeles magazine’s restaurant issue.”

“In 2001, she opened her modern chophouse, Jar, with her longtime chef de cuisine Preech Narkthong. Quickly, Tracht and Narkthong built a reputation for cooking cozily familiar American retro food – pot roast, steaks, pork chops, braised lamb shanks — with a modern twist.”

Chef / Proprietress Suzanne Tracht is our guest.

Antonio Lofaso of Black Market Liquor Bar and Scopa Italian RootsDAMA is a Latin-inspired restaurant just launched in the Fashion District of Downtown Los Angeles in City Market South featuring culinary dishes from Executive Chef Antonia Lofaso (Venice’s Scopa Italian Roots) and standout cocktails from Pablo Moix and Steve Livigni.

“Chef Antonia Lofaso’s menu draws from her time spent in Mexico City, Spain, Colombia and the Caribbean. The cocktail menu, from Pablo Moix, features long-forgotten classics and spectacular blended drinks like pina coladas and daiquiris. A sprawling, multi-level outdoor patio establishes Dama as a go-to spot for taking in LA’s flawless weather.”

Think Whole Soft Shell Crab Taco with hot pickled onions, radish, Persian cucumbers and cilantro. On the cocktail side look for Sandia y Mezcal with mezcal, watermelon, citrus and salt and pepper.

Chef Antonia takes a break from her busy kitchens to join us.

Victor Novak and Steven TorresIt’s time to once again Ask the Brewers. Joining us in-studio is the dynamic duo of Golden Road Brewing’s distinguished Brewmaster, Victor Novak, and Anaheim Head Brewer Steven Torres.

On tap is a discussion of the current trend of craft brewers to now create their own take on the popular Baja-style lagers brewed with premium ingredients. Also, what craft beer styles match with pickles and other fermented veggies. Thirst-quenching conversation for sure…

Dee NguyenBack in 2006 rising-star, fine-dining chef Dee Nguyen (ex-Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel) was looking to simplify his life and spend more time with his growing family. He bravely branched out on his own to launch the modest, 50-seat Break of Dawn in Laguna Hills.

Fortunately he quickly developed a loyal following of inspired guests. It’s a very personal statement for Chef Dee who serves breakfast, lunch and brunch Wednesday through Sunday only. It’s creative, fine-dining comfort foods with a Vietnamese twist.

“Guests can select from a variety of dishes, including bison sausage, French toast crème brulee, flax seed and quinoa oatmeal and mac and cheese. All foods are prepared with fresh ingredients and are designed to meld flavors and textures together. A children’s menu and beverage list with cocktails is also available.”

Think the unexpected including Goat Chili with morita, goat cheese, Mexican chocolate and chickpeas.

Chef Dee puts down the spatula and joins us.

Robert EggarL.A. Kitchen, a pioneering non-profit, is again rallying Angelenos to take a stand and participate in a city-wide party (October 5 to 7) to raise awareness and fight food waste, hunger and unemployment. Shared Plates is L.A Kitchen’s anti-gala, a weekend of dinner parties for good that invites thousands of Angelenos to sit around the table in their backyards, restaurants, businesses and schools across Los Angeles.

100% of the ticket sales help in feeding LA’s homeless and senior population, offering culinary job training to the formerly incarcerated or formerly homeless and towards diverting thousands of pounds of food that would have otherwise gone to waste.

Robert Egger, L.A. Kitchen Founder & CEO sets the table for us.

Now in its third year, the 2017 Shared Plates campaign provided over 100 dinners arranged by participating restaurants and private individuals, engaging 1,000 Angelenos for the cause and contributing over $120,000 to the non-profit for its services to those in need.

“This is our 3rd year of Shared Plates. We love that more and more people from across the region are hosting simple dinners in their homes to support L.A. Kitchen. We love that there’s no age, income or geographic barriers to our event….anybody can be a host, anyone can participate, and everyone can benefit. This is food democracy.”

Robert Egger, L.A. Kitchen Founder & CEO

Podcasts

Segment One: Anita Lau, Diary of a Mad Hungry Woman
Segment Two: Proprietress / Executive Chef Suzanne Tracht, Jar, Los Angeles
Segment Three: Executive Chef Antonia Lofaso, DAMA, City Market South, Downtown Los Angeles
Segment Four: Brewmaster Victor Novak, Golden Road Brewing, Los Angeles & Anaheim
Segment Five: Chef/Proprietor Dee Nguyen, Break of Dawn, Laguna Hills
Segment Six: Robert Egger, L.A. Kitchen, Founder & CEO Part One
Segment Seven: Robert Egger, L.A. Kitchen, Founder & CEO Part Two