Show 674, April 11, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on April 13, 2026 by Adam Bell

“Masters of Taste, Los Angeles’ premier outdoor luxury food and beverage festival, returns for its eagerly anticipated eighth annual event, taking place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 3 to 7:00 p.m. once again on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl Stadium. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.” Masters of Taste’s 2026 Host Chefs are the acclaimed husband-and-wife team of Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, widely recognized for their refined, ingredient-driven approach and their impact on Pasadena’s modern dining scene. Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa join us unwrapping all that is the 8th Annual Masters of Taste.

“The success of Pizza City Fest proves that Los Angeles is in fact a Pizza City. For its fourth consecutive year, the two-day pizza-focused celebration will be held atop the Event Deck at L.A. LIVE on April 25th to 26th and spotlight the best pizzerias in Los Angeles and beyond. Pizza City Fest highlights the area’s vast pizza landscape and the diverse talents of the region’s top pizza makers. Aficionados and casual pizza fans alike will have the exclusive opportunity to taste unlimited offerings from 20 premier artisans, plus a pair of dessert options, each day. The pizzerias will be serving up a variety of toppings, sauces and pizza styles including: Neapolitan, Chicago Tavern-style, New York-style, Artisan, Grandma Pie, Detroit-style, New Haven Apizza, L.A.-style and more. Founded in 2022 by three-time Emmy and 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter, Steve Dolinsky, Pizza City Fest continues to delight and unite pizza lovers with events in three major U.S. cities including Dolinsky’s native Chicago, Nashville, and Los Angeles.” Mr. Pizza City Fest himself, Steve Dolinsky, joins us with a Tavern-style slice in hand.

“The eagerly anticipated Taste of Irvine returns on Thursday, April 16, 2026, bringing together the city’s vibrant culinary scene for a night of food, drinks, music, and community. The event will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Park at LAKESHORE, offering guests an immersive evening of unlimited tastings from some of Irvine’s most beloved restaurants and beverage brands. Presented by Daily Dose Hospitality, the restaurant group behind Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, and Baba G Mediterranean, Taste of Irvine continues its mission of celebrating the diverse culinary talent that defines the city. This open-air event will feature unlimited food tastings, curated cocktail samples, craft beer, wine, live music, giveaways, cash bar and more.” Organizer Leslie Nguyen joins us with all the salivating details.

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m. Produced by The Feast of Friends, the annual event brings together many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and inventive chefs and bartenders for a one-night-only culinary showcase. Each participant debuts an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culinary talent in a single, immersive setting.” Co-creator and organizer, Eric Gladstone, joins us to unwrap all the specifics.

Thereafter we chat with Chef and Restaurateur (and Vegas native) James Trees of the Timeless Hospitality Portfolio, the Co-founder of Vegas Unstripped and a past James Beard Award nominee. His newest properties include High Steaks atop The Rio Hotel and Bar Boheme in the Downtown Arts District.

“The success of Pizza City Fest proves that Los Angeles is in fact a Pizza City. For its fourth consecutive year, the two-day pizza-focused celebration will be held atop the Event Deck at L.A. LIVE on April 25th to 26th and spotlight the best pizzerias in Los Angeles and beyond.” Truly Pizza in Dana Point (and soon Laguna Beach) is one of the acclaimed pizzerias participating in Pizza City Fest L.A. “It’s a fellowship of sharing pizza – the world’s greatest communal food. Created by Las Vegas Hospitality Veteran Donna Baldwin, Steve Muller of The Muller Company and world renowned Pizzaiolo Champions Chris Decker, John Arena and Michael Vakneen, Truly Pizza is an artful union of like-minded friends combining diverse talents, like complimentary ingredients on a great pizza. Truly Pizza’s menu showcases whole pies and pizzas by the slice including crispy-airy wood fired and 5-day rise steel pan Sicilian, salads, panini, charcuterie and cheese plates, premium soft-serve desserts, and regional craft beers and wines at approachable price points.” Chefs Chris Decker and Michael Vakneen take a break from kneading the dough in preparation for their Laguna Breach opening to join us.

For our concluding segment at 11:45 a.m. 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. There is a new Food Pyramid out from the US Department of Agriculture & the Department of Health and Human Services. Chef Andrew unwraps the complexity for us (with what we really need to know) and also provides the historical perspective. What does it all mean for how we should be eating? (Rescheduled from last week.)

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

Show 674, April 11, 2026: Masters of Taste Preview with Host Chefs Thomas & Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery

Posted on April 13, 2026 by Adam Bell

Vanessa Tilaka Kalb and Thomas Kalb of Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery

“Masters of Taste, Los Angeles’ premier outdoor luxury food and beverage festival, returns for its eagerly anticipated eighth annual event, taking place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 3 to 7:00 p.m. once again on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl Stadium. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.”

Special offer for “SoCal Restaurant Show” Listeners: At ticket checkout use Promo Code LAMEDIA26 (all caps) for a cool $10 discount.

“Masters of Taste’s 2026 Host Chefs are the acclaimed husband-and-wife team of Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, widely recognized for their refined, ingredient-driven approach and their impact on Pasadena’s modern dining scene.”

“As the founders of the celebrated Old Pasadena restaurant and cheese shop, the Tilaka Kalbs have earned critical praise and a devoted following for their elevated Californian comfort food rooted in classic American regional cooking, guided by a seasonal, farm-to-table philosophy and a deep commitment to sourcing from the region’s best farmers, makers, and producers. Celebrated for their mastery of cheese, polished technique, and exceptional hospitality, Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb bring a level of culinary excellence and leadership that makes them a natural and exciting choice to host the eighth annual Masters of Taste.”

Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa join us unwrapping all that is the 8^th annual Masters of Taste.

April 11: Masters of Taste with Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, Pizza City Fest LA with Steve Dolinsky and Truly Pizza, Taste of Irvine, Vegas Unstripped

Posted on April 8, 2026 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery, Steve Dolinsky, Leslie Nguyen
Hour Two: Eric Gladstone, James Trees, Truly Pizza, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Masters of Taste Preview with Host Chefs Thomas & Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery
Segment Three: Pizza City Fest L.A. Preview with Founder Steve Dolinsky
Segment Four: Taste of Irvine Preview with Founder Leslie Nguyen
Segment Five: Vegas Unstripped Preview at Palms Casino Resort with Founder Eric Gladstone
Segment Six: Vegas Unstripped Preview at Palms Casino Resort with Celebrity Chef James Trees
Segment Seven: Pizza City Fest L.A. Preview with Pizzaiolos Chris Decker and Michael Vakneen of Truly Pizza, Dana Point
Segment Eight: Andrew Gruel, Chef, Restaurateur and Show Co-Host with “Ask the Chef”

“Masters of Taste, Los Angeles’ premier outdoor luxury food and beverage festival, returns for its eagerly anticipated eighth annual event, taking place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 3 to 7:00 p.m. once again on the field of the iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl Stadium. 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization providing over 50 years of homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.” Masters of Taste’s 2026 Host Chefs are the acclaimed husband-and-wife team of Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa Tilaka Kalb of Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, widely recognized for their refined, ingredient-driven approach and their impact on Pasadena’s modern dining scene. Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa join us unwrapping all that is the 8^th Annual Masters of Taste.

“The success of Pizza City Fest proves that Los Angeles is in fact a Pizza City. For its fourth consecutive year, the two-day pizza-focused celebration will be held atop the Event Deck at L.A. LIVE on April 25^th to 26^th and spotlight the best pizzerias in Los Angeles and beyond. Pizza City Fest highlights the area’s vast pizza landscape and the diverse talents of the region’s top pizza makers. Aficionados and casual pizza fans alike will have the exclusive opportunity to taste unlimited offerings from 20 premier artisans, plus a pair of dessert options, each day. The pizzerias will be serving up a variety of toppings, sauces and pizza styles including: Neapolitan, Chicago Tavern-style, New York-style, Artisan, Grandma Pie, Detroit-style, New Haven Apizza, L.A.-style and more. Founded in 2022 by three-time Emmy and 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter, Steve Dolinsky, Pizza City Fest continues to delight and unite pizza lovers with events in three major U.S. cities including Dolinsky’s native Chicago, Nashville, and Los Angeles.” Mr. Pizza City Fest himself, Steve Dolinsky, joins us with a Detroit-style slice in hand.

“The eagerly anticipated Taste of Irvine returns on Thursday, April 16, 2026, bringing together the city’s vibrant culinary scene for a night of food, drinks, music, and community. The event will take place from 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm at The Park at LAKESHORE, offering guests an immersive evening of unlimited tastings from some of Irvine’s most beloved restaurants and beverage brands. Presented by Daily Dose Hospitality, the restaurant group behind Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, and Baba G Mediterranean, Taste of Irvine continues its mission of celebrating the diverse culinary talent that defines the city. This open-air event will feature unlimited food tastings, curated cocktail samples, craft beer, wine, live music, giveaways, cash bar and more.” Organizer Leslie Nguyen joins us with all the salivating details.

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m. Produced by The Feast of Friends, the annual event brings together many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and inventive chefs and bartenders for a one-night-only culinary showcase. Each participant debuts an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culinary talent in a single, immersive setting.” Co-creator and organizer, Eric Gladstone, joins us to unwrap all the specifics.

Thereafter we chat with Chef and Restaurateur (and Vegas native) James Trees of the Timeless Hospitality Portfolio, the Co-founder of Vegas Unstripped and a past James Beard Award nominee. His newest properties include High Steaks atop The Rio Hotel and Bar Boheme in the Downtown Arts District.

For our concluding segment at 11:45 a.m. 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. There is a new Food Pyramid out from the US Department of Agriculture & The Department of Health and Human Services. Chef Andrew unwraps the complexity for us (with what we really need to know) and also provides the historical perspective. What does it all mean for how we should be eating? (Rescheduled from last week.)

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

Chef Thomas and Chef Vanessa join us unwrapping all that is the 8^th annual Masters of Taste.

“Pizza City Fest highlights the area’s vast pizza landscape and the diverse talents of the region’s top pizza makers. Aficionados and casual pizza fans alike will have the exclusive opportunity to taste unlimited offerings from 20 premier artisans, plus a pair of dessert options, each day. The pizzerias will be serving up a variety of toppings, sauces and pizza styles including: Neapolitan, Chicago Tavern-style, New York-style, Artisan, Grandma Pie, Detroit-style, New Haven Apizza, L.A.-style and more.”

“Founded in 2022 by three-time Emmy and 13-time James Beard Award-winning food reporter, Steve Dolinsky, Pizza City Fest continues to delight and unite pizza lovers with events in three major U.S. cities including Dolinsky’s native Chicago, Nashville, and Los Angeles.”

“We’re so excited to be returning to L.A. for our fourth annual event. The pizza scene in SoCal is as robust as ever,” said Dolinsky. “We’ve added nearly a dozen new options this year covering multiple styles. From Santa Barbara to the Inland Empire and down to San Diego, we’re saving pizza fans from spending hours in their cars to try the best pizzas. Since everything is baked fresh on-site, the taste and experience is just like eating in the pizzeria.”

Mr. Pizza himself, Steve Dolinsky, joins us with a Detroit-style slice in hand.

“Presented by Daily Dose Hospitality, the restaurant group behind Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, and Baba G Mediterranean, Taste of Irvine continues its mission of celebrating the diverse culinary talent that defines the city. This open-air event will feature unlimited food tastings, curated cocktail samples, craft beer, wine, live music, giveaways, cash bar and more.”

“This year’s confirmed beverage partners include industry leaders such as Patrón Tequila, Grey Goose, Ilegal Mezcal, Jack Daniel’s, Ford’s Gin, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Lalo Tequila.”

“This year’s Taste of Irvine will welcome a standout lineup of restaurants including: Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar, Puesto, Fogo De Chao, Il Fornaio, Warehouse 72, The Goldfinch, Lazy Dog, Postino and many more — creating an unforgettable evening that showcased the culinary creativity of Irvine’s thriving dining scene.”

“Taste of Irvine truly is a community celebration. This event will bring together restaurants, beverage brands, and foodies from across Orange County, San Diego and Los Angeles for an evening that will highlight the city’s culinary diversity and hospitality spirit. Attendees can expect unlimited bites and sips, engaging brand activations, live music, and exciting giveaways throughout the night.”

Organizer Leslie Nguyen joins us with all the mouthwatering details.

“Las Vegas’ celebrated chef-driven food festival, “Vegas Unstripped” will return to the Palms Casino Resort pool deck on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 6 to 9:00 p.m.”

“Produced by The Feast of Friends, the annual event brings together many of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed and inventive chefs and bartenders for a one-night-only culinary showcase. Each participant debuts an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culinary talent in a single, immersive setting.”

Co-creator and Producer Eric Gladstone joins us to unwrap all the specifics.

“This is the most exciting line up of chefs and bar stars yet,” says Gladstone. “We are truly excited to show Las Vegas the cutting edge of our culinary scene all in one place!”

“Created by Eric Gladstone and Chef James Trees in 2018 as a reaction to the Strip-focused Vegas Uncork’d event (now defunct), Vegas Unstripped initially only invited chefs working off-Strip but now welcomes Vegas chefs regardless of where they cook, offering open submissions. All necessary expenses of the independent chef / restaurateur are covered by event revenue to the extent possible, with net proceeds going to underserved local charities. To date, VU has donated nearly $70,000.”

James Trees of Ada's and Esthers Kitchen in Las Vegas

We then chat with Chef and Restaurateur James Trees of the Timeless Hospitality Portfolio, the Co-founder of Vegas Unstripped and a past James Beard Award nominee. His newest properties include High Steaks atop The Rio Hotel and Bar Boheme in the Downtown Arts District.

Chef James takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Calico Fish House

There is a new Food Pyramid out from the US Department of Agriculture & the Department of Health and Human Services. Chef Andrew continues unwrapping the complexity for us (with what we really need to know) and also provides the historical perspective. What does it all mean for how we should be eating?

Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook is available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.

Podcasts

Hour One: Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery, Steve Dolinsky, Leslie Nguyen
Hour Two: Eric Gladstone, James Trees, Truly Pizza, Andrew Gruel

Show 617, February 22, 2025: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Posted on February 24, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery in Pasadena is a lively neighborhood oasis that showcases live-fire cooking with seasonal ingredients behind a well-stocked cheese shop that offers unique and thoughtfully curated artisan cheeses and renowned provisions. With ample spaces for large parties, an open kitchen, inviting outdoor patio, and an eye-catching marketplace, Agnes offers many opportunities for celebrating a wide variety of occasions. Year-round is a wonderful time to discover Agnes with the Cheesery offering several stunning products worth sharing with all of your friends and family. From large format cheese, meat and crudité platters, tinned fish, delicious gifts, freshly baked treats, to their decadent Sides & Pies offerings. Agnes offers stress-free catering for your parties and family get-togethers.” Owner / Chefs Thomas Kalb and Vanessa Tilaka Kalb take a break from their busy kitchens to join us.

“Azure Sky, celebrating it’s 3rd Anniversary this year, is a luxury boutique hotel in Palm Springs. This 21 and over, 14-room hotel is located at 1661 South Calle Palo Fierro, in Palm Springs, California. The vibe transforms a well-maintained mid-century gem into a contemporary, tranquil desert escape with personal service as a hallmark. Managing Operator Acme Hospitality, which has boutique food, beverage and hotel concepts in Santa Barbara and Nevada Counties has partnered with Real Estate Developer, Henry Courtemanche to bring this project to life. Azure Sky, originally built in 1959, evokes a simple and understated style with unmistakable MCM (Mid-century Modern) elements, offers unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains, an oversized lounge pool with two shallow ends that are perfect for relaxing and imbibing. The property is enveloped by desert landscaping—it is a sanctuary with a peaceful residential feel. Guests are within walking distance of Villa Royale, Ace Hotel, Bar Cecil, and other neighboring boutique hotels and restaurants.” Azure Sky’s very hands-on General Manager, Angie Bettinelli, is our guide.

“Join Chef Glenda Galvan-Garcia with The Whole Enchilada – Mexican Recipes Full of History and Fun as she shares the tasty wonders of Mexican cuisine! Covering everything from snacks to main dishes, desserts and drinks, this bilingual book is the perfect way for young chefs to connect with their roots. Have you ever wondered how to make buñuelos? Have you missed abuelita’s arroz con leche? Or craved watermelon on a hot summer day? Learn how to make these and many more delicious dishes with Chef Glenda Galván-García, who will take you through the staples of Mexican cooking as she shares tidbits of Mexican history and introduces you to the Mexican and Chicano characters that have changed the world, making this a fun-filled book that the whole family will enjoy!” Chef Glenda takes a break from her busy kitchens to join us.

We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high-profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later Chef Eric transitioned (with a major promotion) to Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering based at The Dolby Theater in Hollywood. Every year for over three-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2025 is the 31st year of Wolfgang Puck Catering creating the incredible menu for the Governors Ball. Chef Wolfgang and his team crafted 70 new dishes to add to the eye-popping menu. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 2nd. Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. It’s time to revisit 3rd party food delivery. Does it really make sense for a restaurant when the costs are so high? Is it even a sustainable business model for the delivery services? Chef Andrew explains.

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

Show 617, February 22, 2025: Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, Pasadena, with Proprietors & Chefs Thomas Kalb & Vanessa Tilaka Kalb

Posted on February 24, 2025 by Adam Bell

“Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery in Pasadena is a lively neighborhood oasis that showcases live-fire cooking with seasonal ingredients behind an well-stocked cheese shop that offers unique and thoughtfully curated artisan cheeses and renowned provisions.”

“With ample spaces for large parties, an open kitchen, inviting outdoor patio, and a beautiful marketplace, Agnes offers many opportunities for celebrating a wide variety of occasions.”

“Year-round is a wonderful time to discover Agnes with the Cheesery offering several stunning products worth sharing with all of your friends and family. From large format cheese, meat and crudité platters, tinned fish, delicious gifts, freshly baked treats, to their decadent Sides & Pies offerings. Agnes offers stress-free catering for your parties and family get-togethers.”

An ample Cheese Board from Chef Vanessa featuring three artisan cheeses makes for a great start. A show-stopping dessert is the Thai Fried Banana Split with Thai Tea and Pandan Ice Creams.

“Founded by Chefs Thomas and Vanessa Tilaka Kalb, stop by while exploring the famous Gamble House, Rose Bowl, Castle Green, Huntington Library or strolling through Old Town Pasadena.”

Chefs Thomas and Vanessa take a break from their busy kitchens to join us.

February 22: Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery, Asure Sky, Glenda Galvan-Garcia, Wolfgang Puck Catering at the Academy Awards

Posted on February 20, 2025 by Adam Bell

Podcasts

Hour One: Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, Azure Sky Hotel
Hour Two: Azure Sky Hotel, Glenda Galvan-Garcia, Eric Klein, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction and Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, Pasadena, with Proprietors & Chefs Thomas Kalb & Vanessa Tilaka Kalb
Segments Four and Five: Azure Sky Hotel, Palm Springs, with General Manager Angie Bettinelli
Segment Six: The Whole Enchilada Cookbook with Chef Glenda Galvan-Garcia
Segment Seven: The Governors Ball (Post Oscars) Menu with Chef Eric Klein, Wolfgang Puck Catering
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel

Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.

“Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery in Pasadena is a lively neighborhood oasis that showcases live-fire cooking with seasonal ingredients behind a well-stocked cheese shop that offers unique and thoughtfully curated artisan cheeses and renowned provisions. With ample spaces for large parties, an open kitchen, inviting outdoor patio, and a beautiful marketplace, Agnes offers many opportunities for celebrating a wide variety of occasions. Year-round is a wonderful time to discover Agnes with the Cheesery offering several stunning products worth sharing with all of your friends and family. From large format cheese, meat and crudité platters, tinned fish, delicious gifts, freshly baked treats, to their decadent Sides & Pies offerings. Agnes offers stress-free catering for your parties and family get-togethers.” Owner / Chefs Thomas Kalb and Vanessa Tilaka Kalb take a break from their busy kitchens to join us.

“Azure Sky, celebrating it’s 3^rd Anniversary this year, is a luxury boutique hotel in Palm Springs. This 21 and over, 14-room hotel is located at 1661 South Calle Palo Fierro, in Palm Springs, California. The vibe transforms a well-maintained mid-century gem into a contemporary, tranquil desert escape with personal service as a hallmark. Managing Operator Acme Hospitality, which has boutique food, beverage and hotel concepts in Santa Barbara and Nevada Counties has partnered with Real Estate Developer, Henry Courtemanche to bring this project to life. Azure Sky, originally built in 1959, evokes a simple and understated style with unmistakable MCM (Mid-century Modern) elements, offers unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains, an oversized lounge pool with two shallow ends that are perfect for relaxing and imbibing. The property is enveloped by desert landscaping—it is a sanctuary with a peaceful residential feel. Guests are within walking distance of Villa Royale, Ace Hotel, Bar Cecil, and other neighboring boutique hotels and restaurants.” Azure Sky’s very hands-on General Manager, Angie Bettinelli, is our guide.

We first introduced Chef Eric Klein to the listeners of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” when he was the high-profile Executive Chef and Partner of Spago Las Vegas in the Forum Shops. Later Chef Eric transitioned (with a major promotion) to Senior Vice President Culinary – Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering based at The Dolby Theater in Hollywood. Every year for over three-decades Wolfgang Puck Catering has had the honor and great responsibility of providing all celebratory food and beverage for the prestigious Governors Ball following the Academy Awards ceremony. 2025 is the 31^st year of Wolfgang Puck Catering creating the incredible menu for the Governors Ball. Chef Wolfgang and his team crafted 70 new dishes to add to the eye-popping menu. As for the past several years this luxe menu was created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 2^nd. Chef Eric Kleintakes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. It’s time to revisit 3^rd party food delivery. Does it really make sense for a restaurant when the costs are so high ? Is it even a sustainable business model for the delivery services? Chef Andrew explains.

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

“With ample spaces for large parties, an open kitchen, inviting outdoor patio, and a beautiful marketplace, Agnes offers many opportunities for celebrating a wide variety of occasions.”

Chefs Thomas and Vanessa take a break from their busy kitchens to join us.

“Azure Sky, celebrating its 3^rd Anniversary this year, is a luxury boutique hotel in Palm Springs. This 21 and over, 14-room hotel is located at 1661 South Calle Palo Fierro, in Palm Springs, California. The vibe transforms a well-maintained mid-century gem into a contemporary, tranquil desert escape with personal service as a hallmark. Managing Operator Acme Hospitality, which has boutique food, beverage and hotel concepts in Santa Barbara and Nevada Counties has partnered with Real Estate Developer, Henry Courtemanche to bring this project to life.”

“Azure Sky, originally built in 1959, evokes a simple and understated style with unmistakable MCM (Mid-century Modern) elements, offers unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains, an oversized lounge pool with two shallow ends that are perfect for relaxing and imbibing. The property is enveloped by desert landscaping—it is a sanctuary with a peaceful residential feel. Guests are within walking distance of Villa Royale, Ace Hotel, Bar Cecil, and other neighboring boutique hotels and restaurants.”

Upon check-in guests are offered a prepared to order, refreshing Slushy made with natural flavors and ingredients. It’s your choice of Spiked or No Buzz. A light Continental Breakfast (with potential add-ons) is delivered to your door in the Morning in a basket. The guests pre-order the night before and there are options to customize the menu.

“From the lobby, guests step out to take in “the meadow,” a 1,500 square foot courtyard lawn area with a long fire pit at the far end; a perfect place to gather to watch the light change on the palm trees and mountain views beyond. Leaving this first courtyard of rooms, guests wind their way through the grounds to the brand-new pool area, the second focal point of the property. The pool area spans 4,500 square feet with surrounding decking, ample seating areas, a bar, firepit and Jacuzzi.”

“The hotel’s fourteen rooms range from 225 – 620 square feet and include five spacious one-bedroom suites. Eleven rooms are equipped with private patios with hammocks and hangout spaces. The color of the suite doors was inspired by the color of the mountains when the sun first hits them at dawn. Upgrades also include walk-in showers with white, green, and dark mosaic tile; stone countertops; custom millwork; built-in beds; and stone tile flooring.”

Azure Sky’s very hands-on General Manager, Angie Bettinelli, is our guide.

“Have you ever wondered how to make buñuelos? Have you missed abuelita’s arroz con leche? Or craved watermelon on a hot summer day? Learn how to make these and many more delicious dishes with Chef Glenda Galván-García, who will take you through the staples of Mexican cooking as she shares tidbits of Mexican history and introduces you to the Mexican and Chicano characters that have changed the world, making this a fun-filled book that the whole family will enjoy!”

“Once cooks have mastered some of the recipes, the book allows for enticing table talk: The Whole Enchilada tells you all about amazing Mexican and Latinx athletes, musicians, scientists, historical figures, and cultural shakers.”

Chef Glenda takes a break from her busy kitchens to join us

2025 is the 31^st year of Wolfgang Puck Catering designing the menu for the Governors Ball. Chef Wolfgang and his team created 70 new dishes to add to the eye-popping menu. As for the past several years this luxe menu was crafted by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein. The exquisite pastry design is by Kamel Guechida and Garry Larduinat. This year the Oscars return to the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Sunday, March 2^nd

Wolfgang Puck is even flying in from London Executive Chef Elliott Grover, the Culinary Director of 45 Park Lane, to oversee the Taste of London Station with Traditional Fish & Chips, Classic Toad in the Hole, and Classic Beef Wellington. Think tray-passed Smoked Salmon Oscars on Matzah for starters. A new creation for this year is (tray-passed) Bougie Tots with Crème Fraiche and Caviar.

Chef Eric Klein takes a break from his active kitchens to join us for this exclusive preview.

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.

It’s time to revisit the controversial subject of 3^rd party food delivery. Does it even make sense for a restaurant when the costs are so high? Is it even a sustainable business model for the delivery services? Chef Andrew explains.

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.

Podcasts

Hour One: Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, Azure Sky Hotel
Hour Two: Azure Sky Hotel, Glenda Galvan-Garcia, Eric Klein, Andrew Gruel