Show 422, April 24, 2021: Chef Brian Huskey, Proprietor, Tackle Box, Corina del Mar

Brian Huskey of Tackle Box

“Top Chef” Season 11– New Orleans Alum Brian Huskey brings his talents to Big Corona Beach in Corona del Mar serving up the freshest seafood grub beachside at Tackle Box. Established in 2016 he likes to refer to it as a “Local Grub Shack.” Beachgoers and diners can enjoy a variety of classic seafood dishes at this casual oceanfront eatery. Only open Thursday to Sunday.

For Newport Beach Restaurant Week (concluding May 2nd) Chef Brian is offering a $15 prix fixe Lunch menu available from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. It includes a choice of sandwich with house potato chips, a side and a Tackle Box cookie for dessert plus beverage. Sandwich options include BBQ Pork Sandwich, Grilled Chicken Club, Albacore Tuna Melt, Truffle Burger and an Avocado Burger.

Chef Brian joins us with tongs in hand.

Show 361, February 22, 2020: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef”

Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group at the AM830 KLAA StudiosOur own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group joins us with another informative “Ask the Chef” segment where we respond to listeners’ inquiries. Cashless restaurants are around but don’t seem to be going momentum locally. Is it hospitable to refuse cash?

We’re also reeling-in what bonus ingredients go into making the ultimate Tuna Melt. Does lettuce really have any place in this sandwich?

Show 217, April 1, 2017: Executive Chef Andrew Gruel

Andrew and William GruelTime to catch-up with our always on the run Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish. He’s been in “Silicon Flats”, Utah opening the first Slapfish located outside of California. Do the locals appreciate fresh seafood in Lehi, Utah? You bet…

Also, a spirited discussion of a controversial topic…the basic Tuna Melt. Seems to be no middle ground in the appreciation (or lack thereof) of this staple item…Thoughts on what appropriately goes into the tuna salad (along with the tuna) and then what’s the perfect bread. You’ll be surprised ?

Show 48, November 16, 2013: Joe Manzella, proprietor of TAPS Fish House & Brewery in Brea and Corona, and The Catch in Anaheim

Joe Manzella of Taps Fish House and Brewery and the CatchJoe is also a lifelong sandwich fan and a history buff. He’s traveled the country researching regional favorites. Working with his executive chef he’s launched the “Famous 50” sandwich program. Each week a different regional favorite is showcased at both TAPS in Brea and The Catch in Anaheim. Thus far the Famous 50 has included favorites including lobster roll, Mama Manzella’s meatball sub, muffuletta, Chicago Italian Beef, and the Cubano.

According to Manzella to reach true sandwich nirvana five critical points must be met. He shares them with us on the show. One clue…All his bread comes from star baker Dean Kim at the OC Baking Co. in Orange.

Joe’s three personal classic American sandwiches (when pressed) are the Hoagie (Hero Sandwich,) Philadelphia Cheese Steak, and Patty or Tuna Melt.