Show 556, December 16, 2023: OC Baking’s Festive Christmas Pop-Up Store Part One

Dean Kim of OC Baking Company at KLAA Studios

Baker Dean Kim is again hosting his Annual Festive Christmas Pop-Up Store by OC Baking at his commercial bakery in Orange on Friday, December 22nd from 8:00 a.m. until sell out. It’s an incredible array of scrumptious food and sweet treats from small producers who are passionate about their gourmet specialty food products. It’s everything from baked goods from Crema Artisan Bakery (Panettone) to Pascal Coffee. Cash is best as not all merchants can process credit cards.

Chef Lisa Gilmore will be there with her popular line of seasonally-changing Soup’d Up soups packaged in quart containers. Look fer her Italian Wedding, Cream of Mushroom and Potato Sausage soups.

Baker Dean Kim, Trait Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan Bakery and Chef Lisa Gilmore join us with all the delectable specifics.

Show 556, December 16, 2023: OC Baking’s Festive Christmas Pop-Up Store Part Two

Lisa GIlmore of Soup'd Up at KLAA Studios

Baker Dean Kim is again hosting his Annual Festive Christmas Pop-Up Store by OC Baking at his commercial bakery in Orange on Friday, December 22nd from 8:00 a.m. until sell out. It’s an incredible array of scrumptious food and sweet treats from small producers who are passionate about their gourmet specialty food products. It’s everything from baked goods from Crema Artisan Bakery (2 styles of Holiday artisan Italian Panettone) to Pascal Coffee. Cash is best as not all merchants can process credit cards.

Chef Lisa Gilmore will be there with her popular line of seasonally-changing Soup’d Up soups packaged in quart containers. Look fer her Italian Wedding, Cream of Mushroom and Potato Sausage soups.

Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan Bakers at KLAA Studios

Baker Dean Kim, Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan Bakery and Chef Lisa Gilmore continue with us providing all the delectable specifics.

Show 497, October 29, 2022: Executive Chef and General Manager Chad Urata, Artisan Restaurant & Café, Fountain Valley Part One

Chad Urata of Artisan 7 Leaves

“On the heels of celebrating its first anniversary, Fountain Valley-based ARTISAN has introduced new, hand-crafted pizzas to its celebrated menu. The elevated fast-casual restaurant and café, a marriage of Orange County-born concepts, 7 Leaves Café and Crema Bakery, has gained a loyal following for its energetic and unique teas, and focused, chef-driven menu of brunch-focused anytime dishes and premium baked goods. Now, the concept takes the same quality ingredients and attention to detail and extends it to an innovative selection of ARTISAN Café Pizza offerings prepared under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Chad Urata.”

“Each pizza features an artisanal crust that begins with pillowy dough created by award-winning baker Tarit Tanjasiri, owner of Crema Bakery and co-founder of ARTISAN. “While each ARTISAN Café Pizza is baked to order, great care is taken in the preparation of the dough,” explained Tanjasiri, who oversees all of the baked goods served at ARTISAN. “Our ingredients are simple – flour, water, salt, natural starter, and time – the latter being key, as flavor is developed through a 48-hour cold fermentation.””

“Upon entering the 3,000 square-foot restaurant and café, guests are immersed into an environment that revolves around chic European style, reminiscent of a fine Parisian boulangerie, complete with a display of fresh-baked bread and pastries.”

Chef & Manager Chad Urata takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us with pizza peel in hand.

Show 497, October 29, 2022: Executive Chef and General Manager Chad Urata, Artisan Restaurant & Café, Fountain Valley Part Two

Chad Urata of Artisan 7 Leaves

“On the heels of celebrating its first anniversary, Fountain Valley-based ARTISAN has introduced new, hand-crafted pizzas to its celebrated menu. The elevated fast-casual restaurant and café, a marriage of Orange County-born concepts, 7 Leaves Café and Crema Bakery, has gained a loyal following for its energetic and unique teas, and focused, chef-driven menu of brunch-focused anytime dishes and premium baked goods. Now, the concept takes the same quality ingredients and attention to detail and extends it to an innovative selection of ARTISAN Café Pizza offerings prepared under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Chad Urata.”

“Each pizza features an artisanal crust that begins with pillowy dough created by award-winning baker Tarit Tanjasiri, owner of Crema Bakery and co-founder of ARTISAN. “While each ARTISAN Café Pizza is baked to order, great care is taken in the preparation of the dough,” explained Tanjasiri, who oversees all of the baked goods served at ARTISAN. “Our ingredients are simple – flour, water, salt, natural starter, and time – the latter being key, as flavor is developed through a 48-hour cold fermentation.””

“Upon entering the 3,000 square-foot restaurant and café, guests are immersed into an environment that revolves around chic European style, reminiscent of a fine Parisian boulangerie, complete with a display of fresh-baked bread and pastries.”

Chef & Manager Chad Urata takes a 2nd break from his busy kitchen to continue with us with pizza peel in hand.

Show 490, September 10, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Chef Amy Riolo’s latest, Italian Recipes For Dummies, is your roadmap to cooking like an Italian at your own home. For those of us not lucky enough to have our very own Italian grandmother or have attended culinary school in Italy, Italian Recipes For Dummies is stepping in to fill the gap. Award-winning chef and author Amy Riolo delivers a step-by-step guide to creating authentic Italian dishes, starting from the basics and progressing to more advanced techniques and recipes. You’ll discover how to shop for, plan, and cook authentic Italian meals properly. You’ll also find guidance on how to incorporate the cultural, nutritional, and historical influences that shape classic Italian cuisine. This book includes more than 150 authentic Italian recipes with step-by-step instructions.”

Amy Riolo is our guest with Italian extra virgin olive oil in hand.

The 6th Annual Tastemakers of Orange County celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the benefiting OCAPICA is set for Wednesday, Sept. 14th at 6 p.m. at the Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. “Tastemakers of Orange County is a culinary event celebrating Asian and Pacific Islander inspired cuisine created by distinguished chefs throughout Orange County. Proceeds from the event go to support OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and anti-asian racism.” OCAPICA’s Sora Tanjasiri (Board Member) and participating chef Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan join us with all the mouthwatering details.

Solvang Danish Days is back this year, for its 85th celebration!

The event runs Friday through Sunday, September 16 to 18, in the Danish-rooted town of Solvang just 45 minutes north of Santa Barbara.

The three-day event weekend includes family-friendly entertainment and activities including fan-favorite food events all about Æbleskiver [ay·bluh·skee·vr], those famous Danish pastry rounds, including an Æbleskiver Eating Contest. Also, a Danish-style beer and wine garden serving local brews, wines and festival foods, an axe throwing arena, and story time sessions with Hans Christian Andersen. Overall admission to Danish Days is free, and the weekend features plentiful free entertainment with three parades, Danish folk dancers and musicians, and an afternoon and evening of live concerts in downtown Solvang. Saturday and Sunday Æbleskiver Breakfast tickets are available online, as are “Dane For A Day” VIP ticket bundles.

Baker Thomas Birkholm of Birkholm’s Bakery (Solvang Danish Days Foundation Board Member) is our guest with all the festive specifics.

“On Monday, October 17, 2022, LA Chef Conference returns after a close to three-year pandemic induced hiatus with a full day of programming at the Jonathan Club in downtown LA featuring some of Los Angeles’ preeminent chef talent engaging in hot topic panel discussions, cooking demonstrations, one-of-a-kind pop-ups from sought-after restaurant concepts and chefs, and an after party—all included in the price of admission ($180.00). LA Chef Conference is a production of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions—a Southern California-based hospitality recruitment and placement firm—in partnership with Open Table and benefitting the James Beard Foundation.” Organizer Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions and participants Chef Jet Tila and Elissa Phillips of Mise En Place Restaurant Services join us to highlight the specifics.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. What’s the problem with Lionfish in American waters (it’s an invasive species) and why is this fish now appearing as an appealing menu item in select seafood restaurants? Chef Andrew has the engaging answers.

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

Show 490, September 10, 2022: Preview of “Tastemakers of Orange County” with OCAPICA’s Sora Tanjasiri and Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan

Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan

The 6th Annual Tastemakers of Orange County celebrating the 25th Anniversary of OCAPICA is set for Wednesday, Sept. 14th at 6 p.m. at the Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa.

Tastemakers of Orange County is a culinary event celebrating Asian and Pacific Islander inspired cuisine created by distinguished chefs throughout Orange County. Proceeds from the event go to support OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and anti-asian racism.”

OCAPICA’s Sora Tanjasiri (Board Member) and participating chef Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan join us with all the mouthwatering details.

September 10: Amy Riolo, Tastemakers of Orange County, Solvang Danish Days, LA Chef’s Conference

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Amy Riolo with Italian Recipes for Dummies
Segment Three: Preview of “Tastemakers of Orange County” with OCAPICA’s Sora Tanjasiri and Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan
Segment Four: Solvang Danish Days Preview with Baker Thomas Birkholm, Birkholm’s Bakery
Segment Five: LA Chef Conference 2022 Preview with Producer Brad Metzger
Segment Six: LA Chef Conference 2022 Preview with Chef Jet Tila
Segment Seven: LA Chef Conference 2022 Preview with Elissa Phillips of Mise En Place Restaurant Services
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel (Co-Host) with “Ask the Chef”

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

“Chef Amy Riolo’s latest, Italian Recipes For Dummies, is your roadmap to cooking like an Italian at your own home. For those of us not lucky enough to have our very own Italian grandmother or have attended culinary school in Italy, Italian Recipes For Dummies is stepping in to fill the gap. Award-winning chef and author Amy Riolo delivers a step-by-step guide to creating authentic Italian dishes, starting from the basics and progressing to more advanced techniques and recipes. You’ll discover how to shop for, plan, and cook authentic Italian meals properly. You’ll also find guidance on how to incorporate the cultural, nutritional, and historical influences that shape classic Italian cuisine.

This book includes more than 150 authentic Italian recipes with step-by-step instructions.” Amy Riolo is our guest with Italian extra virgin olive oil in hand.

The 6th Annual Tastemakers of Orange County celebrating the 25th Anniversary of OCAPICA is set for Wednesday, Sept. 14th at 6 p.m. at the Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa.

“Tastemakers of Orange County is a culinary event celebrating Asian and Pacific Islander inspired cuisine created by distinguished chefs throughout Orange County. Proceeds from the event go to support OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and anti-asian racism.” OCAPICA’s Sora Tanjasiri (Board Member) and participating chef Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan join us with all the mouthwatering details.

Solvang Danish Days is back this year, for its 85th celebration!

The event runs Friday through Sunday, September 16 to 18, in the Danish-rooted town of Solvang just 45 minutes north of Santa Barbara.

The three-day event weekend includes family-friendly entertainment and activities including fan-favorite food events all about Æbleskiver [ay·bluh·skee·vr], those famous Danish pastry rounds, including an Æbleskiver Eating Contest. Also, a Danish-style beer and wine garden serving local brews, wines and festival foods, an axe throwing arena, and story time sessions with Hans Christian Andersen. Overall admission to Danish Days is free, and the weekend features plentiful free entertainment with three parades, Danish folk dancers and musicians, and an afternoon and evening of live concerts in downtown Solvang. Saturday and Sunday Æbleskiver Breakfast tickets are available online, as are “Dane For A Day” VIP ticket bundles.

Baker Thomas Birkholm of Birkholm’s Bakery (Solvang Danish Days Foundation Board Member) is our guest with all the festive specifics.

“On Monday, October 17, 2022, LA Chef Conference returns after a close to three-year pandemic induced hiatus with a full day of programming at the Jonathan Club in downtown LA featuring some of Los Angeles’ preeminent chef talent engaging in hot topic panel discussions, cooking demonstrations, one-of-a-kind pop-ups from sought-after restaurant concepts and chefs, and an after party—all included in the price of admission ($180.00). LA Chef Conference is a production of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions—a Southern California-based hospitality recruitment and placement firm—in partnership with Open Table and benefitting the James Beard Foundation.” Organizer Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions and participants Chef Jet Tila and Elissa Phillips of Mise En Place Restaurant Services join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. What’s the problem with Lionfish and why is this fish now appearing as a menu item in select seafood restaurants? Chef Andrew has the answers.

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

Cookbook Author Amy Riolo

Chef Amy Riolo’s latest, Italian Recipes For Dummies, is your roadmap to cooking like an Italian at your own home. For those of us not lucky enough to have our very own Italian grandmother or have attended culinary school in Italy, Italian Recipes For Dummies is stepping in to fill the gap. Award-winning chef and author Amy Riolo delivers a step-by-step guide to creating authentic Italian dishes, starting from the basics and progressing to more advanced techniques and recipes. You’ll discover how to shop for, plan, and cook authentic Italian meals properly. You’ll also find guidance on how to incorporate the cultural, nutritional, and historical influences that shape classic Italian cuisine. This book includes more than 150 authentic Italian recipes with step-by-step instructions.”

“The perfect book for amateur chefs, Italy aficionados, homemakers, and anyone else looking for culinary inspiration, Italian Recipes For Dummies is also an indispensable guide for people seeking healthier ways of shopping, cooking, and eating without giving up amazing flavors and rich foods.”

“Amy Riolo is an award-winning, best-selling author, chef, television personality, and educator. She is one of the world’s foremost authorities on culinary culture. In 2019 she launched her private label collection of premium Italian imported culinary ingredients called Amy Riolo Selections which includes an extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and pesto sauce from award-winning artisan companies in Italy. Amy also leads private, small group tours to Italy, Greece, and Morocco.”

Amy Riolo is our guest with Italian extra virgin olive oil in hand.

Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan

The 6th Annual Tastemakers of Orange County celebrating the 25th Anniversary of OCAPICA is set for Wednesday, Sept. 14th at 6 p.m. at the Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa.

Tastemakers of Orange County is a culinary event celebrating Asian and Pacific Islander inspired cuisine created by distinguished chefs throughout Orange County. Proceeds from the event go to support OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and anti-asian racism.”

OCAPICA’s Sora Tanjasiri (Board Member) and participating chef Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan join us with all the mouthwatering details.

Thomas Birkholm of Birkholm's Bakery

Solvang Danish Days is back this year, for its 85th celebration!

The event runs Friday through Sunday, September 16 to 18, in the Danish-rooted town of Solvang just 45 minutes north of Santa Barbara.

The three-day event weekend includes family-friendly entertainment and activities including fan-favorite food events all about Æbleskiver [ay·bluh·skee·vr], those famous Danish pastry rounds, including an Æbleskiver Eating Contest.

Also, a Danish-style beer and wine garden serving local brews, wines and festival foods, an axe throwing arena, and story time sessions with Hans Christian Andersen.

Overall admission to Danish Days is free, and the weekend features plentiful free entertainment with three parades, Danish folk dancers and musicians, and an afternoon and evening of live concerts in downtown Solvang.

Saturday and Sunday Æbleskiver Breakfast tickets are available online, as are “Dane For A Day” VIP ticket bundles.

Baker Thomas Birkholm of Birkholm’s Bakery (Solvang Danish Days Foundation Board Member) is our guest with all the festive specifics.

Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions

“On Monday, October 17, 2022, LA Chef Conference returns after a close to three-year pandemic induced hiatus with a full day of programming at the Jonathan Club in downtown LA featuring some of Los Angeles’ preeminent chef talent engaging in hot topic panel discussions, cooking demonstrations, one-of-a-kind pop-ups from sought-after restaurant concepts and chefs, and an after party—all included in the price of admission ($180.00). LA Chef Conference is a production of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions—a Southern California-based hospitality recruitment and placement firm—in partnership with Open Table and benefiting the James Beard Foundation.”

“Founded in 2018, the unparalleled hospitality industry gathering was born from Metzger’s close to 40 years in the LA restaurant industry and his seeing a real need for an event that was not only educational but brought the community together. Metzger says, “Everyone in our LA restaurant community works so hard and there is never a chance to come together to discuss topics that affect us all and to celebrate and connect with each other in person.” Metzger sees this year’s event as being more purposeful than ever. “Independent restaurants in LA have weathered more than two years of pandemic related challenges and face new economic, social and environmental challenges daily. LA Chef Conference 2022 gives us all a place to come together and try on forward thinking solutions to help the industry that we love.””

“LA Chef Conference events are held at The Jonathan Club, 545 S. Figueroa St. The day-long event commences at 8:45 a.m. with registration and wraps at 5 p.m., followed by an after party from 5-8:30 p.m., also at The Jonathan Club. Tickets are priced at $180 per person and are available at their website. Admission includes access to panel discussions, cooking demos; meals including breakfast, lunch, and after party. All attendees must be 21 or older.”

Organizer Brad Metzger of Brad Metzger Restaurant Solutions is our first guest.

Jet Tila at Cochon 555

Then, Celebrity Chef Jet Tila will be performing a cooking demonstration with a recipe from his latest cookbook, 101 Thai Dishes You Need To Cook Before You Die as part of the Conference. Chef Jet Tila joins us.

Finally, Elissa Phillips of Mise En Place Restaurant Services is a sponsor and participant in LA Chef Conference 2022. We’ll meet her.

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

What’s the problem with Lionfish and why is this invasive fish now appearing as a menu item in select USA seafood restaurants? Chef Andrew has the answers.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Amy Riolo with Italian Recipes for Dummies
Segment Three: Preview of “Tastemakers of Orange County” with OCAPICA’s Sora Tanjasiri and Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Artisan
Segment Four: Solvang Danish Days Preview with Baker Thomas Birkholm, Birkholm’s Bakery
Segment Five: LA Chef Conference 2022 Preview with Producer Brad Metzger
Segment Six: LA Chef Conference 2022 Preview with Chef Jet Tila
Segment Seven: LA Chef Conference 2022 Preview with Elissa Phillips of Mise En Place Restaurant Services
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel (Co-Host) with “Ask the Chef”

Show 436, July 31, 2021: Artisan with Chief Executive Baker Tarit Tanjasiri Part One

Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Cafe

“Two well known and beloved Orange County-based culinary brands, 7 Leaves Café and Crema Bakery, have come together to create ARTISAN, an elevated fast-casual restaurant and café (with drive-thru) newly launched in Fountain Valley (10065 Garfield Ave. in Fountain Valley). The concept, which builds on the popularity of the 7 Leaves brand with a focused, chef-driven menu and baked goods that highlight quality ingredients and attention to detail.”

“Upon entering the 3,000-square-foot restaurant and café, guests are immersed into an environment that revolves around chic European style, reminiscent of fine Parisian boulangeries, complete with a display of fresh-baked breads and pastries. ARTISAN focuses on authenticity and dedication to quality through every facet of the brand, beginning with its well-trained staff to provide the highest quality service and an attentive and educational approach to every guest.” “The culinary team, dedicated to presenting a chef-driven experience, is led by the masterminds behind local favorite, Crema Bakery.”

“While we strive to present a menu that is rooted in carefully sourced ingredients and time-intensive preparation, we are intent on being approachable, affordable and craveable,” explained Crema Bakery Owner & Chief Executive Baker Tarit Tanjasiri, whose baked goods can be found at many of the region’s best restaurants. “The word ‘artisan’ in a food context refers to those products that are crafted by the hand of a master in the kitchen, utilizing whole ingredients that support a healthy lifestyle for the individual and the community, as a whole. In staying true to the brand, the 7 Leaves team has curated an elevated experience, while doing it in a way that will leave our guests wanting more.”

Tarit Tanjasiri joins us with a signature Coffle (Croissant & Waffle) in hand.

Show 436, July 31, 2021: Artisan with Chief Executive Baker Tarit Tanjasiri Part Two

Tarit Tanjasiri of Crema Cafe

“Two well known and beloved Orange County-based culinary brands, 7 Leaves Café and Crema Bakery, have come together to create ARTISAN, an elevated fast-casual restaurant and café (with drive-thru) newly launched in Fountain Valley (10065 Garfield Ave. in Fountain Valley). The concept, which builds on the popularity of the 7 Leaves brand with a focused, chef-driven menu and baked goods that highlight quality ingredients and attention to detail.”

“Upon entering the 3,000-square-foot restaurant and café, guests are immersed into an environment that revolves around chic European style, reminiscent of fine Parisian boulangeries, complete with a display of fresh-baked breads and pastries. ARTISAN focuses on authenticity and dedication to quality through every facet of the brand, beginning with its well-trained staff to provide the highest quality service and an attentive and educational approach to every guest.” “The culinary team, dedicated to presenting a chef-driven experience, is led by the masterminds behind local favorite, Crema Bakery.”

“The ARTISAN menu is innovative, energetic and authentic, with brunch-focused anytime dishes that are meant to suit a wide variety of palates. Under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Chad Urata, guests can indulge in a “Perfect” Omelette, Parisian Eggs Benedict, and classic Avocado Toast. Handheld dishes included a Bacon & Egg Sandwich and Mochiko Chicken Sandwich. Baked goods, made fresh daily, include a variety of breads, croissants, cookies, macarons, and the noteworthy Artisan Croffle.”

“While all of our baked goods are made by hand using the best ingredients – the most important being time – our stand-out offering is definitely the Artisan Croffle,” observed Tanjasiri, who explained that his baguettes have a 48-hour preparation time and are made with only flour, water, salt, and yeast. “Croffle is a portmanteau of Croissant and Waffle, since we take our signature croissant dough and cook it in a waffle iron, rather than the oven to create a unique item that is crisp, yet flaky and buttery all at once. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever had.”

Tarit Tanjasiri continues with a Mochiko Chicken Sandwich (panko crusted mochiko chicken) in hand.

Show 367, April 4, 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 fully 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. There are inspiring accomplishments out there in this time of great need. We’re keeping it upbeat…

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and CasinoAlso expect more helpful cooking tips along the way from Chef Andrew Gruel because we’re all doing more meal prep at home. Chef Andrew is an incredible resource because he’s a real, working chef who cooks simply for his own family at home.

Thanks so very much for the highly positive response to last month’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 as you are able to support a community-focused, local restaurant….

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

After a long day at work (in normal times,) heading home to cook a fussy, complicated meal is the last thing anyone wants to do. Keeping it Simple – Easy Weeknight One-Pot Recipes by Yasmin Fahr is the ultimate collection to have on hand for these moments, featuring over 60 quick, impressive, healthyish, and delicious one-pot/pan/tray dinners that can be whipped up in the time it takes to have a glass of wine.

Food writer and recipe developer Yasmin Fahr joins us.

“Those who want to support small businesses and get great, high-quality artisan-made food to take home, will enjoy an Artisan Pop-Up, every weekday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at OC Baking Company (1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865). Guests can pick up with the convenience of one-stop shopping delicious fresh-baked breads from OC Baking Company; heart-warming curries from ADYA; wholesome stews from Break of Dawn; croissants, pastries and quiche from Crema Artisan Bakery; hot sauce and dressings from Sessions; and Italian family meals from Sessions. Artisans and offerings vary daily.”

A group of community-spirited, local chefs is offering those on the front line at local Urgent Care and Emergency Rooms a free meal to take to their family. As their way of showing appreciation, Break of Dawn Chef/Owner Dee Nguyen, OC Baking Company Baker/Owner Dean Kim, and Crema Artisan Cafe Baker/Owner Tarit Tanjasiri will offer these local heroes the opportunity to pick up home-made chicken noodle soup, a loaf of fresh-baked bread, and a decadent gourmet cookie. Pickup for local Healthcare Workers is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at OC Baking Company, 1960 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92865. Chef Dee Nguyen of Break of Dawn joins us to explain the program.

One of our informed resident Meatheads from West Coast Prime Meats, Jay Henderson, has decades of practical experience with center plate proteins and the intricacies of serving the Hospitality Industry. Restaurants have been severely impacted by the current health crisis. Jay has some perspective on how restaurants are coping with the growing crisis. Since we’re now cooking more at home for the interim we might persuade Jay to share some practical cooking advice, too.

The Ranch Restaurant in Anaheim is, of course, not available for dine-in during the present health crisis. Executive Chef Michael Rossi has artfully shifted to a new, a la carte Curbside Pick-Up Menu including some of their signature house specialties that travel reasonably well. There are ample choices of Starters, Salads, Pasta, Sandwiches & Burgers, Steak, Fish & Chicken, and Pastry Chef David Rossi’s incredibly decadent desserts (including the award-winning Buttered Popcorn Ice Cream by the pint.) Contemplate an 8 oz. Prime Flat Iron Steak with Baby Dutch Potatoes, House-Made Pancetta, Saint Agur Blue Cheese and Wild Arugula. Executive Chef Michael Rossi joins us from curbside at The Ranch.

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 updating us on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the very survival of restaurants. Of course, the safety of restaurant employees and guests comes first. We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

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