Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her current columns. Of course, more tasty Orange County morsels will be part of the conversation including a discussion of Darkroom restaurant in Santa Ana. First Anne Marie provides an overview of her trip to Chicago to attend the James Beard Awards, the Oscars of the food world. How did the Orange County nominees fare?
“The Sobon family first staked their claim to this historic site (Amador County, CA) in 1989 when Shenandoah Vineyards founders, Leon and Shirley Sobon, acquired the D’Agostini Vineyards for each other as a 30th anniversary present. After having reestablished Shenandoah Vineyards in 1977, the Sobon Family set their sights on reestablishing and renovating this once proud property. After nearly five arduous years of replanting and rehabilitating the over 200 acres of prime hillside vineyards, the family’s dream of producing small batch, estate grown Zinfandel was set to become a reality. Sobon Wine Company is now one of only a handful of independent regional wineries that is completely family- owned, operated and managed, with a portfolio of fine, hand-crafted artisanal wines. Winemaker and Winegrower Paul Sobon (2nd generation) joins us to pull the cork on all that is Sobon Wine Company.”
“Located in a historic train depot in San Juan Capistrano, Trevor’s at theTracks(Trevor Baird) lives by the motto “Locally Acquired | Globally inspired.” They offer a rotating seasonal menu, plus Chef’s specials that rotate every couple of weeks. They’re open 7 days a week with live music nightly (and all -day on the weekends). Never repeating a musician throughout the month, Trevor’s at the Tracks hires over 50 local musicians monthly to play on the patio. With their commitment to sustainability and community, Trevor’s at the Tracks is redefining what it means to eat responsibly—without sacrificing flavor or experience. Trevor’s at the Tracks offers one menu from open to close with operating hours of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.” Restaurateur and Farmer Trevor Baird is our guest.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) was waylaid with some airline travel glitches. His “Ask the Chef Segment” returns on July 12th after a well-deserved Family vacation. Meantime Executive Producer Andy Harris fills in on the tipping challenge. Prods to tip in unexpected places seem to be getting a bit out of hand. Tip lines appear on credit card payment screens and tip jars are everywhere. Should you really tip the counterperson at a gas station convenience store who hands you a wrapped sandwich? Executive Producer Andy Harris shares his informed thoughts. (Rescheduled from last week.)
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) was waylaid with some airline travel glitches. His “Ask the Chef Segment” returns on July 12th after his well-deserved Family vacation.
Meantime Executive Producer Andy Harris fills in on the tipping challenge dilemma. Prods to tip in unexpected places seem to be getting a bit out of hand. Tip lines appear on credit card payment screens and tip jars are everywhere. Should you really tip the counterperson at a gas station convenience store who hands you a wrapped sandwich? When staying at a hotel do tip the hard-working housekeeper in cash on a daily basis. Executive Producer Andy Harris shares his informed thoughts. (Rescheduled from last week.)
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-Host previews the show.
Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her current columns. Of course, more tasty Orange County morsels will be part of the conversation including a discussion of Darkroom restaurant in Santa Ana. First Anne Marie provides an overview of her trip to Chicago to attend the James Beard Awards, the Oscars of the food world. How did the Orange County nominees fare?
“The Sobon family first staked their claim to this historic site (Amador County, CA) in 1989 when Shenandoah Vineyards founders, Leon and Shirley Sobon, acquired the D’Agostini Vineyards for each other as a 30th anniversary present. After having reestablished Shenandoah Vineyards in 1977, the Sobon Family set their sights on reestablishing and renovating this once proud property. After nearly five arduous years of replanting and rehabilitating the over 200 acres of prime hillside vineyards, the family’s dream of producing small batch, estate grown Zinfandel was set to become a reality. Sobon Wine Company is now one of only a handful of independent regional wineries that is completely family- owned, operated and managed, with a portfolio of fine, hand-crafted artisanal wines. Winemaker and Winegrower Paul Sobon (2nd generation) joins us to pull the cork on all that is Sobon Wine Company.”
“Located in a historic train depot in San Juan Capistrano, Trevor’s at theTracks(Trevor Baird) lives by the motto “Locally Acquired | Globally inspired.” They offer a rotating seasonal menu, plus Chef’s specials that rotate every couple of weeks. They’re open 7 days a week with live music nightly (and all -day on the weekends). Never repeating a musician throughout the month, Trevor’s at the Tracks hires over 50 local musicians monthly to play on the patio. With their commitment to sustainability and community, Trevor’s at the Tracks is redefining what it means to eat responsibly—without sacrificing flavor or experience. Trevor’s at the Tracks offers one menu from open to close with operating hours of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.” Restaurateur, Chef and Farmer, Trevor Baird is our guest.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House(located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Prods to tip in unexpected places seem to be getting a bit out of hand. Tip lines appear on credit card payment screens and tip jars are everywhere. Should you really tip the counterperson at a gas station convenience store who hands you a wrapped sandwich? Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts. (Rescheduled from last week.)
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications.
Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her current columns. Of course, more tasty Orange County morsels will be part of the conversation including a discussion of Darkroom restaurant in Santa Ana.
First Anne Marie provides an overview of her trip to Chicago to attend the James Beard Awards, the Oscars of the food world. How did the Orange County nominees fare?
Anne Marie then continues with us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her current columns. Of course more Orange County morsels will be part of the conversation including a further discussion of Darkroom restaurant in Santa Ana. Also Anne Marie provides an overview of her recent Culture OC’s suggestions for Summer dining and beverage picks.
“With a heritage dating back to the California Gold Rush, Sobon Estate (Amador County) has now been recognized as the oldest continuously operating winery in the state. This historic estate dates back to 1856 when the Uhlinger family planted the first vines in Amador County to maintain ownership of the land and prevent gold prospectors from staking a claim.”
“The Sobon family first staked their claim to this historic site in 1989 when Shenandoah Vineyards founders, Leon and Shirley Sobon, acquired the D’Agostini Vineyards for each other as a 30th anniversary present. After having reestablished Shenandoah Vineyards in 1977, the Sobon Family set their sights on reestablishing and renovating this once proud property. After nearly five arduous years of replanting and rehabilitating the over 200 acres of prime hillside vineyards, the family’s dream of producing small batch, estate grown Zinfandel was set to become a reality. Sobon Wine Company is now one of only a handful of independent regional wineries that is completely family owned, operated and managed, with a portfolio of fine, hand-crafted artisanal wines.”
“Sobon Estate wines (since the 2008 vintage) are all produced by 2nd generation winemaker Paul Sobon. He has been making wines, as well as tending to the families estate vineyards alongside his father and family patriarch, Leon Sobon, for over three decades before fully assuming the reigns of production. UC Davis trained with apprenticeships in both South Australia and Bordeaux, Paul has an innate feeling for the land, vineyard and wines in this region unlike any others.”
“Natural winemaking is their goal, with special care given to every barrel and every bottle. Sobon Estate strives to produce the highest quality wine possible and to fully express the true flavors and aromas of each grape variety and the soil from which they are grown.”
Winemaker and Winegrower Paul Sobon (2nd generation) joins us to pull the cork on all that is Sobon Wine Company.
“Located in a historic train depot in San Juan Capistrano, Trevor’s at theTracks(Trevor Baird) lives by the motto “Locally Acquired | Globally inspired.” They offer a rotating seasonal menu, plus Chef’s specials that rotate every couple of weeks. They’re open 7 days a week with live music nightly (and all day on the weekends). Never repeating a musician throughout the month, Trevor’s at the Tracks hires over 50 local musicians monthly to play on the patio.”
“With their commitment to sustainability and community, Trevor’s at the Tracks is redefining what it means to eat responsibly—without sacrificing flavor or experience. Trevor’s at the Tracks offers one menu from open to close with operating hours of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.”
“True to its motto, Locally Acquired | Globally Inspired, Trevor’s at the Tracks is now growing a vibrant assortment of high-yield produce, including lettuce, carrots, radishes, cabbage and herbs. Every ingredient grown at the farm is purposefully incorporated into the restaurant’s globally inspired dishes, adding freshness and depth of flavor while keeping the supply chain tight and local.”
“This farm represents a natural evolution of our mission,” says Trevor Baird, “We’re not only reducing our carbon footprint by sourcing produce mere minutes from our kitchen—we’re closing the loop and providing our customers with the best possible tasting food there is.”
“In addition to sourcing farm-fresh produce, Trevor’s is fully committed to zero-waste practices. Vegetable scraps and organic waste from the restaurant are returned to the farm in the form of nutrient-rich compost, helping cultivate the next crop and promoting healthy soil. “We believe that being a great restaurant today means more than great food,” adds Trevor “It means accountability—to the environment, to our community, and to the future.””
“Trevor’s at the Tracks has had an on-going green initiative since opening in February 2017. Trevor’s at the Tracks has had an on-going green initiative since opening in February 2017. At the heart of the restaurant has always been to limit the carbon footprint and, in turn, they have given their guests a taste of what sustainable, local dining can be.”
Restaurateur, Chef and Farmer Trevor Baird is our guest.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Prods to tip in unexpected places seem to be getting a bit out of hand. Tip lines appear on credit card payment screens and tip jars are everywhere. Should you really tip the counterperson at a gas station convenience store who hands you a wrapped sandwich? Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts. (Rescheduled from last week.)
Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook (newly published) is also available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.
“Get ready for an unforgettable night as St. Vincent Meals on Wheels presents the fourth annual “Hollywood Under the Stars gala fundraiser at the iconic Paramount Studios lot on Saturday, June 21, at 6:30 PM. Nearly a dozen of Los Angeles’ finest chefs and pâtissiers will showcase their exquisite dishes. Guests will kick off the evening with an exclusive VIP Hour in the legendary Paramount Theater, followed by a specially curated tasting menu featuring the talents of the 2025 Culinary Angels. Sip on signature cocktails and dance the night away under the stars to the lively tunes of a 10-piece live band. With Los Angeles County experiencing the fastest-growing population of seniors facing food and housing insecurities, St. Vincent’s work—and the support of their donors—becomes more important than ever.” Executive Director of St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, Veronica Dover, joins us with a preview of “Hollywood Under the Stars.” Also joining us are participating “Angel” restaurants Georgia’s (Nika Shoemaker-Machado) and Wife and the Somm (Chris Lucchese). All the restaurants are generously donating their food for the Benefit.
“Susan Lanier-Graham is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Wander With Wonder,, an online food, wine, and travel magazine. It was named one of the top four travel journalism websites of 2022 by SATW. Susan is also the managing editor of North Peoria Lifestyle, a print luxury lifestyle publication in Phoenix. Susan has been writing for the past 30 years. She is the author of more than 75 books and hundreds of magazine articles. Along with Wander, Susan’s articles appear in various print and online publications, including AAA publications, WHERE publications, TravelandLeisure.com, Marriott.com, Fairmont’s blogs, Modern Luxury, and more. She is a Certified California Wine Appellation Specialist. Susan lives and works full-time from her fifth-wheel, finding wow moments wherever she visits. Susan shares some hidden dining gems from across the USA. Travel Journalist and Publisher Susan Lanier-Graham is our guest.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) was waylaid with some unexpected airline travel glitches. His “Ask the Chef Segment” returns next week.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-Host previews the show.
“Get ready for an unforgettable night as St. Vincent Meals on Wheels presents the fourth annual “Hollywood Under the Stars” gala fundraiser at the iconic Paramount Studios lot on Saturday, June 21, at 6:30 PM. Nearly a dozen of Los Angeles’ finest chefs and pâtissiers will showcase their exquisite dishes. Guests will kick off the evening with an exclusive VIP Hour in the legendary Paramount Theater, followed by aspecially curated tasting menu featuring the talents of the 2025 Culinary Angels. Sip on signature cocktails and dance the night away under the stars to the lively tunes of a 10-piece live band. With Los Angeles County experiencing the fastest-growing population of seniors facing food and housing insecurities, St. Vincent’s work—and the support of their donors—becomes more important than ever.” Executive Director of St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, Veronica Dover, joins us with a preview of “Hollywood Under the Stars.” Also joining us are participating “Angel” restaurants Georgia’s (Nika Shoemaker-Machado) and Wife and the Somm (Chris Lucchese).
“The 10th annual Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure will feature more than 40 wineries from across California, including ten L.A.-based wineries showcasing the depth and breadth of the rising micro-production wine movement in Los Angeles. Among the L.A.-based winemakers showcased at the festival are Adorato Wines, Bivium Wine, Cavaletti Vineyards, Flowers & Cheese Winery, Fuil Wines, Hoi Polloi, Montage Vineyards, Pagter Winery, Pulchella Winery, and Sunland Vintage Winery, The Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure takes place on June 21st at the Glendale Civic Auditorium.” Garagiste Co-founder, Doug Minnick, is also the winemaker for his own label, Hoi Polloi. We’ll meet him.
“Susan Lanier-Graham is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Wander With Wonder, an online food, wine, and travel magazine. It was named one of the top four travel journalism websites of 2022 by SATW. Susan is also the managing editor of North Peoria Lifestyle, a print luxury lifestyle publication in Phoenix. Susan has been writing for the past 30 years. She is the author of more than 75 books and hundreds of magazine articles. Along with Wander, Susan’s articles appear in various print and online publications, including AAA publications, WHERE publications, Travel and Leisure, Marriott, Fairmont’s blogs, Modern Luxury, and more. She is a Certified California Wine Appellation Specialist. Susan lives and works full-time from her fifth-wheel, finding wow moments wherever she visits. Travel Journalist and Publisher Susan Lanier-Graham is our guest.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Prods to tip in unexpected places seem to be getting a bit out of hand. Tip lines appear on credit card payment screens and tip jars are everywhere. Should you really tip the counterperson at a gas station convenience store who hands you a wrapped sandwich? Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“Veronica Dover, Executive Director of St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, emphasizes the importance of community support: “At St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, we are dedicated to serving the most vulnerable individuals in our community every day. The generosity of our donors, sponsors, and event attendees is what keeps our program strong and allows us to continue delivering not just meals, but also love and compassion to those in need. Together, we can make a significant impact in the lives of our neighbors who rely on us.””
“With Los Angeles County experiencing the fastest-growing population of seniors facing food and housing insecurities, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels’ work—and the support of their donors — becomes more important than ever.”
Veronica Dover joins us with a preview of “Hollywood Under the Stars.”
Then, Nika Shoemaker-Machado of Georgia’s and Chris Lucchese of Wife and the Somm (both participating restaurants) join us to preview their “Hollywood Under the Stars” menus.
“It’s not widely known, but Los Angeles was once called the ‘City of Vines,’ in fact 200 years ago, this was where American wine began, until prohibition and urban sprawl (and Pierce’s disease) got in the way,” shared Garagiste Festival Co-founder, Doug Minnick. Now, we’re seeing a wine comeback right here in Los Angeles, and though some of the winemakers source grapes from a wide range of California AVAs, including Paso Robles, Santa Barbara County, and Sonoma as well as LA County, there’s a growing number of L.A. based micro-wineries now with tasting rooms in the area that Southern Californians can experience without having to make the drive to wine country.””
“Renowned for its handcrafted wines from professional artisan winemakers who make less than 1,500 cases, its renegade spirit, and rules-breaking ‘no snobs allowed’ ethos, The Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure is the only festival to provide Angelenos with the opportunity to be first to discover not only the next wave of winemakers in their own backyard, but also many under-the-radar wines, wineries, wine styles, and grape varieties from almost every AVA in the state, from Napa to San Diego, and all regions in between.”
Garagiste Co-founder, Doug Minnick, is also the winemaker for his own label, Hoi Polloi. “Sourcing fruit from some of the most renowned vineyards in the Central Coast (including Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and more), Hoi Polloi is one of, if not the only winery to make Syrah’s from several different AVAs in the state, exploring the range of the wonderfully versatile grape, from the cool climate Sta. Rita Hills, to a deep and powerful, dry-farmed version from the Adelaida District of Paso Robles, and more.”
Garagiste Festival Co-founder, Doug Minnick (also a winemaker) is our guest.
“Susan Lanier-Graham is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Wander With Wonder, an online food, wine, and travel magazine. It was named one of the top four travel journalism websites of 2022 by SATW. Susan is also the managing editor of North Peoria Lifestyle, a print luxury lifestyle publication in Phoenix. Susan has been writing for the past 30 years. She is the author of more than 75 books and hundreds of magazine articles.”
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Prods to tip in unexpected places seem to be getting a bit out of hand. Tip lines appear on credit card payment screens and tip jars are everywhere. Should you really tip the counterperson at a gas station convenience store who hands you a wrapped sandwich? Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.
Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook (newly published) is also available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.
“Affectionately known as the “Godfather” of the Paso Robles wine region, Gary Eberle’s contributions to the California and U.S. wine trade are significant. Eberle was the first to place the Paso Robles AVA designation on the Eberle Winery Cabernet Sauvignon label and he subsequently co-founded the distinctive Paso Robles terroir as an American Viticulture Area (AVA) in 1983. With a staunch commitment to the possibility of age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles, Eberle was also the first to plant Syrah on the Central Coast and make a 100 percent Syrah varietal wine in the United States. As chief promoter for his brand, Eberle has worked relentlessly for almost 50 years building awareness of the Paso Robles and California wines through his passionate promotion to consumers, media and trade across the country. These milestones have proven to be significant as Paso Robles has become a respected force in the wine industry.” Gary Eberle joins us to uncork all that is Eberle Winery.
“Hot Tongue Pizza in Silver Lake (the creation of pizza whisperer Alex Koons) is a contemporary pizza shop (with a Vegan flair) that takes from the energy and vibrance of the best food city in the world, Los Angeles. The open floor plan of the restaurant allows for a peek inside the magic that goes on day in and day out. The pizza is not only meant to entice your tastebuds, but also to evoke the nostalgia of that slice you remember growing up.” They also have fun with their off the wall (but somewhat informative) Social Media posts. “Hot Tongue’s welcoming counter service and low- key casual ambience makes for an inviting dining experience. Come in a stranger and leave a friend. The alchemy comes in the form of classic pizza combinations, on top of the best organic grains, carefully sourced ingredients with an Angeleno attitude.”
In mid-2022 Citrus City Grille transitioned to new ownership of the longtime Orange based restaurant. “Since first opening in 1996, Citrus City Grille quickly became an iconic part of the Old Towne Orange aesthetic, serving up crave-worthy contemporary American cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean. New owner and restaurant industry veteran Charlie Cosmas alongside his family have been longtime patrons of Citrus City Grille, and as of July 2022 took over day to day operations. Former owner Steve Tsirtsis and Charlie Cosmas happen to share a Greek heritage, which has been a hugely influential part of the Citrus City Grille menu and ethos. As always, Citrus City Grille showcases the freshest seafood, steaks, pastas, and more. Other recent additions to their menu include the Citrus City Caprese, the elevated CCB Burger on a brioche bun, Chicken Caesar Wrap, Tomahawk Chicken, and Citrus City Meatloaf. Since opening in 1996, CCG has become an iconic part of the central Orange aesthetic, serving up incredible, fresh Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean flair.” Chef Charlie Cosmas takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Tipping is back in the news. Love it or hate it tipping seems to endure in the United States. Does it really motivate the serving staff? Chef Andrew has his informed perspective.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Tipping is back in the news. Love it or hate it tipping seems to endure in the United States. Does it really motivate the serving staff? Wouldn’t it be better to have the gratuity simply built into the price of the meal and compensate the staff well as is done in much of Europe? Chef Andrew has his informed perspective.
Check out Chef Andrew’s handy and practical cooking tips on Substack at “American Gravy.” There is an accessible free level as well as a premium option with a modest cost.
Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.
“Affectionately known as the “Godfather” of the Paso Robles wine region, Gary Eberle’s contributions to the California and U.S. wine trade are significant. Eberle was the first to place the Paso Robles AVA designation on the Eberle Winery Cabernet Sauvignon label and he subsequently co-founded the distinctive Paso Robles terroir as an American Viticulture Area (AVA) in 1983. With a staunch commitment to the possibility of age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles, Eberle was also the first to plant Syrah on the Central Coast and make a 100 percent Syrah varietal wine in the United States. As chief promoter for his brand, Eberle has worked relentlessly for almost 50 years building awareness of the Paso Robles and California wines through his passionate promotion to consumers, media and trade across the country. These milestones have proven to be significant as Paso Robles has become a respected force in the wine industry.” Gary Eberle joins us to uncork all that is Eberle Winery.
“Hot Tongue Pizza in Silver Lake (the creation of pizza whisperer Alex Koons) is a contemporary pizza shop (with a Vegan flair) that takes from the energy and vibrance of the best food city in the world, Los Angeles. The open floor plan of the restaurant allows for a peek inside the magic that goes on day in and day out. The pizza is not only meant to entice your tastebuds, but also to evoke the nostalgia of that slice you remember growing up.” They also have fun with their off the wall (but somewhat informative) Social Media posts. “Hot Tongue’s welcoming counter service and low-key casual ambience makes for an inviting dining experience. Come in a stranger and leave a friend. The alchemy comes in the form of classic pizza combinations, on top of the best organic grains, carefully sourced ingredients with an Angeleno attitude.”
In mid-2022 Citrus City Grille transitioned to new ownership of the longtime Orange based restaurant. “Since first opening in 1996, Citrus City Grille quickly became an iconic part of the Old Towne Orange aesthetic, serving up incredible contemporary American cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean. New owner and restaurant industry veteran Charlie Cosmas alongside his family have been longtime patrons of Citrus City Grille, and as of July 2022 took over day to day operations. Former owner Steve Tsirtsis and Charlie Cosmas happen to share a Greek heritage, which has been a hugely influential part of the Citrus City Grille menu and ethos. As always, Citrus City Grille showcases the freshest seafood, steaks, pastas, and more. Other recent additions to their menu include the Citrus City Caprese, the elevated CCB Burger on a brioche bun, Chicken Caesar Wrap, Tomahawk Chicken, and Citrus City Meatloaf. Since opening in 1996, CCG has become an iconic part of the central Orange aesthetic, serving up incredible, fresh Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean flair.” Chef Charlie Cosmas takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Tipping is back in the news. Love it or hate it tipping seems to endure in the United States. Does it really motivate the serving staff? Chef Andrew has his informed perspective.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
“Affectionately known as the “Godfather” of the Paso Robles wine region, Gary Eberle’s contributions to the California and U.S. wine trade are significant. Eberle was the first to place the Paso Robles AVA designation on the Eberle Winery Cabernet Sauvignon label and he subsequently co-founded the distinctive Paso Robles terroir as an American Viticulture Area (AVA) in 1983. With a staunch commitment to the possibility of age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles, Eberle was also the first to plant Syrah on the Central Coast and make a 100 percent Syrah varietal wine in the United States. As chief promoter for his brand, Eberle has worked relentlessly for almost 50 years building awareness of the Paso Robles and California wines through his passionate promotion to consumers, media and trade across the country. These milestones have proven to be significant as Paso Robles has become a respected force in the wine industry.” Gary Eberle joins us to uncork all that is Eberle Winery.
“Eberle began his academic studies at Penn State University where he played football and earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He then attended Louisiana State University before heading west to California where he completed his coursework for a PhD in enology and viticulture from U.C. Davis in 1973. “I chose Paso Robles based on Dr. Olmo’s recommendation that Paso Robles was the place to grow world-class Cabernet Sauvignon,” said Eberle. “I think we’ve achieved that,” he added.””
“Once in Paso Robles, Eberle launched his career as partner and winemaker with Estrella River Winery & Vineyards. In the late 70s, he decided to pursue his own project and acquired nearly 64 acres just down the road from Estrella River Winery. Shortly thereafter, Gary released his first Eberle wine, the 1979 Cabernet Sauvignon and opened the winery and tasting room in 1983.”
“Eberle Winery has showcased the history and diversity of the Paso Robles Appellation since 1979. Eberle Winery continues to be family owned and operated. With an annual case production of 26,000, Eberle wines are distributed in 34 states and six countries. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with wine tasting and cave tours. 805-238-9607.”
“Hot Tongue Pizza in Silver Lake (the creation of pizza whisperer Alex Koons) is a contemporary pizza shop (with a Vegan flair) that takes from the energy and vibrance of the best food city in the world, Los Angeles. The open floor plan of the restaurant allows for a peek inside the magic that goes on day in and day out. The pizza is not only meant to entice your tastebuds, but also to evoke the nostalgia of that slice you remember growing up.” They also have fun with their off the wall (but informative) Social Media posts.
“Hot Tongue’s welcoming counter service and low- key casual ambience makes for an inviting dining experience. Come in a stranger and leave a friend. The alchemy comes in the form of classic pizza combinations, on top of the best organic grains, carefully sourced ingredients with an Angeleno attitude.”
“With a remarkable 17-year journey in the pizza industry, proprietor Alex Koons boasts an impressive résumé that spans every role in the business, from a humble delivery driver to a visionary owner. In February 2022, he set the local pizza world on fire by inaugurating the first Hot Tongue location, which quickly garnered rave reviews and captured the hearts of pizza enthusiasts far and wide.”
“But Alex’s story didn’t start in pizza. He draws intriguing parallels between his background in the music industry and his culinary ventures. To him, running a restaurant is akin to leading a band, where your team plays the role of the band, service becomes the electrifying live show, customers transform into devoted fans, and your food, the heart-pounding music.”
Pizzaiolo Alex Koons joins us with a square slice of Vegan Tomato pizza in hand.
“In mid-2022 Citrus City Grille transitioned to new ownership for the longtime Orange based restaurant. Since first opening in 1996, Citrus City Grille quickly became an iconic part of the Old Towne Orange aesthetic, serving up incredible contemporary American cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean. New owner and restaurant industry veteran Charlie Cosmas alongside his family have been longtime patrons of Citrus City Grille, and as of July 2022 took over day to day operations. Former owner Steve Tsirtsis and Charlie Cosmas happen to share a greek heritage, which has been a hugely influential part of the Citrus City Grille menu and ethos.”
“As always, Citrus City Grille showcases the freshest seafood, steaks, pastas, and more. Other recent additions to their menu include the Citrus City Caprese, the elevated CCB Burger on a brioche bun, Chicken Caesar Wrap, Tomahawk Chicken, and Citrus City Meatloaf. Since opening in 1996, CCG has become an iconic part of the central Orange aesthetic, serving up incredible, fresh Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean flair.”
“Since the beginning Citrus City Grille has served up modern American cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean and includes a robust menu of sandwiches, steaks, salads, tacos, soups, cocktails, wines and more. They are known for dishes such as their signature Chilean sea bass and stuffed chicken breast, and also offer a popular dessert menu, breakfast served on Saturday and a wildly popular brunch hosted every Sunday. Daily lunch offerings include soups, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, pastas and freshly caught fish.”
Chef Charlie Cosmas takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.
Tipping is back in the news. Love it or hate it tipping seems to endure in the United States. Does it really motivate the serving staff? Chef Andrew has his informed perspective.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.
When you use your Visa or MasterCard for payment at your favorite restaurant there are actually only a few firms that do the bank processing and the fees to the restaurant keep escalating. Some restaurants are now even adding on a credit card fee if plastic is used for payment. What’s going on? We’ll “Ask the Chef.” Chef Andrew’s tip: If you give your server his/her gratuity in cash they get it immediately and you save the restaurant paying that (3 to 5 percent) credit card processing fee on the tip. Everyone wins.
Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the recently launched, full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.
What’s happened to cash in restaurants? The credit card companies are heavily promoting the use of credit cards exclusively over cash. Meanwhile credit card processing fees (controlled by a quasi- monopoly of firms) continues to skyrocket. Yet another added burden for restaurants trying to recover. Also did you know when you leave a 20 per cent tip the restaurant pays the 3 to 5 percent credit card fee on the gratuity? (The server, fortunately, gets the full amount of the tip.) Chef Andrew suggests leaving the tip in cash. Better for the server, too. Chef Andrew explains…
