Show 543, September 16, 2023: Vegas Unstripped Chef Festival with Producer Eric Gladstone

Eric Gladstone of Feast of Friends

The Feast of Friends (Las Vegas) has announced the return of Vegas Unstripped, a unique food festival celebrating local Las Vegas chefs. This year, the event is planned to take place from 7-10 p.m. on Saturday October 14 at a location to be announced in the 18b Arts District. Thirty of the city’s most acclaimed and creative chefs will be brought together to present one-night-only original dishes, accompanied by cocktails from many of the city’s best bars, live local entertainers, art activations and more. Tickets for the event are now available via Vegas’ Unstripped’s website for $150 plus fees.” Attendees must be 21 and over.

“Each year, the message of Vegas Unstripped evolves a little bit, but really remains the same,” says Event Producer Eric Gladstone of The Feast of Friends: “To show Las Vegas locals the strength of our city-wide culinary scene, and to show visitors and the world that Vegas food means more than an outpost for celebrity chefs. We can’t say that Las Vegas is a great culinary city if we don’t build up our own heroes.”

“Created in 2018 as a reaction to the Strip-focused Vegas Uncork’d event (now defunct), Vegas Unstripped initially only invited chefs working off-Strip. This year, Unstripped is welcoming chefs regardless of where they cook, and offering open submissions. In past years (2018, 2019, 2021), the line up was curated by Gladstone and an informal panel of consulting chefs.”

Participating chefs represent the cutting edge of independent talent in Las Vegas, and are challenged to create unique dishes for the night reflecting their culinary passions. 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, Vegas Unstripped has donated nearly $20,000.

Founder and Producer Eric Gladstone of The Feast of Friends joins us with all the tantalizing details.

Show 323, May 11, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

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

Vegas Uncork'dWe’re live from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo Resort for this special show. It’s Vegas Uncork’d Weekend here and the mega-star celebrity chefs with high-profile restaurants in Sin City are in town for the four days of extensive festivities.

One of our most reliable sources of primo restaurant news in Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is a staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. Al has been working the Vegas food scene since 2003. He was one of the original creators of the popular, and widely referenced, Eating Las Vegas restaurant guide series. Al joins us for his observations on Vegas Uncork’d, Vegas Unstripped and worthy dining happenings about the town.

The CraftHaus Brewery team is not only passionate about craft beer, but also sharing it with their Las Vegas community. They were established in Henderson is 2014. “Co-owners and married couple, Wyndee and Dave Forrest, conjured up the big idea for CraftHaus Brewery while traveling through Europe. They noticed that they were immersed in a craft beer culture where people take their time to enjoy quality beer just as much as they enjoy talking to the people around them.” Wyndee taps the keg for us.

Chica Las Vegas at The Venetian, now celebrating its 2nd Anniversary, delivers the robust and vibrant flavors of Latin cuisine combined with a dynamic wine and mixology program. Crafted by celebrity Latina chef (and Chica Partner) Lorena Garcia, the diverse menu draws inspiration from classic renditions and provides guests the opportunity to explore the flavors of Latin American cuisine as one culture, with influences from Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, among many more. Chef Lorena pops out of the busy Chica kitchen to chat.

The Factory Kitchen, recently launched at The Venetian Resort on Restaurant Row, is the outcome of a long-standing friendship between Restaurateur Matteo Ferdinandi and Chef Angelo Auriana. Ferdinandi and Auriana share the vision of imparting their Italian roots and memories through food and hospitality. The original trattoria, serving traditional Italian recipes, opened its doors on Oct. 24, 2013, in The Arts District, Downtown Los Angeles. The Factory Kitchen takes its name from the street it’s located on and the former factory building complex that hosts it, but the restaurant’s soul is purely Italian. Matteo, Chef Angelo, and Las Vegas Chef de Cuisine Eduardo Perez are our guests.

“Our mission at LIPSMACKING foodie tours is to introduce visitors and locals alike to the best signature dishes, unique preparations and exciting tastes in Las Vegas.  The mouths behind Lip Smacking Foodie Tours love food, eating, dining and experiencing. This quartet of passions originally inspired us to pursue careers in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. And ultimately, after years in the game, we created Las Vegas’ premier walking tour company exclusively geared toward those craving the ultimate taste of Las Vegas.” President & Founder Donald Contursi is our enthusiastic guide.

For the 4rd time in the show’s history we’re happily broadcasting from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo. It’s a sport’s fan’s and foodies’ paradise. Lagasse’s Stadium is the ultimate sports bar: a restaurant with stadium-seating featuring elevated game-time classics and gourmet options from Emeril Lagasse. Brian Kurata, the able General Manager since 2013, is our winning Coach.

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

Show 323, May 11, 2019: Al Mancini, Staff Writer, Las Vegas Review-Journal

Al Mancini of the Las Vegas Review JournalOne of our most reliable sources of primo restaurant news in Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is a staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. Al has been working the Vegas food scene since 2003. He was one of the creators of the popular, and widely referenced, Eating Las Vegas restaurant guide series. Al joins us for his observations on Vegas Uncork’d, Vegas Unstripped and worthy dining happenings about the town.

“Al Mancini is a graduate of Seton Hall University and Brooklyn Law School, who began his career in journalism as a music reporter for ABC News Radio in 1996. He moved to Las Vegas to cover Southern Nevada for the network in 2001, and has covered the local dining scene for numerous publications since 2003. Al joined the Review-Journal in 2016.”

Show 323, May 11, 2019: Wyndee Forrest, Co-Founder, CraftHaus Brewery, Henderson

Wyndee Forrest of CraftHaus BreweryThe CraftHaus Brewery team is not only passionate about craft beer, but also sharing it with their Las Vegas community. They were established in Henderson is 2014.

“Co-owners and married couple, Wyndee and Dave Forrest, conjured up the big idea for CraftHaus Brewery while traveling through Europe. They noticed that they were immersed in a craft beer culture where people take their time to enjoy quality beer just as much as they enjoy talking to the people around them.” Now, they have brought that effervescent culture back home and continue to build their Las Vegas community one refreshing pint at a time.

Along the way Wyndee and Dave were successful in changing city licensing to a more modern, craft friendly license. Dave’s craft beer roots started with a passion for homebrewing and bringing people together around a beer or two. Wyndee’s background is in working as a publicist on the famed Las Vegas Strip. They are both University of Nevada, Las Vegas graduates.

CraftHaus Brewery is part of Saturday night’s “A Smokin’ Good Time with Susan Feniger” at Border Grill Mandalay Bay as an event for Vegas Uncork’d. Among the thirst-quenching styles served will be one created just for the festivities, Blood Orange Pale Ale.

In other CraftHaus Brewery news they will soon be opening a 2nd tasting roomlocated right across the street from Chef James Trees’ Esther’s Kitchen in the Arts District of Downtown Las Vegas.

Wyndee taps the keg for us.

May 11: Live from Vegas Uncork’d at Lagasse’s Stadium

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Al Mancini, Staff Writer, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Segment Three: Wyndee Forrest, Co-Founder, CraftHaus Brewery, Henderson
Segment Four: Chef Lorena Garcia, Chica at The Venetian Resort, Las Vegas
Segment Five: Executive Chef / Proprietor Angelo Auriana and Proprietor Matteo Ferdinandi, The Factory Kitchen, Las Vegas Part One
Segment Six: Executive Chef / Proprietor Angelo Auriana and Proprietor Matteo Ferdinandi, The Factory Kitchen, Las Vegas Part Two
Segment Seven: Donald Contursi, Founder & President, Lip Smacking Foodie Tours, Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Brian Kurata, General Manager, Lagasse’s Stadium, Las Vegas

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

Vegas Uncork'dWe’re live from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo Resort for today’s special show. It’s Vegas Uncork’d Weekend here and the mega-star celebrity chefs with high-profile restaurants in Sin City are in town for the four days of extensive festivities.

One of our most reliable sources of primo restaurant news in Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is a staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. Al has been working the Vegas food scene since 2003. He was one of the original creators of the popular, and widely referenced, Eating Las Vegas restaurant guide series. Al joins us for his observations on Vegas Uncork’d, Vegas Unstripped and worthy dining happenings about the town.

The CraftHaus Brewery team is not only passionate about craft beer, but also sharing it with their Las Vegas community. They were established in Henderson is 2014. “Co-owners and married couple, Wyndee and Dave Forrest, conjured up the big idea for CraftHaus Brewery while traveling through Europe. They noticed that they were immersed in a craft beer culture where people take their time to enjoy quality beer just as much as they enjoy talking to the people around them.” Wyndee taps the keg for us.

Chica Las Vegas at The Venetian, now celebrating its 2nd Anniversary, delivers the robust and vibrant flavors of Latin cuisine combined with a dynamic wine and mixology program. Crafted by celebrity Latina chef (and Chica Partner) Lorena Garcia, the diverse menu draws inspiration from classic renditions and provides guests the opportunity to explore the flavors of Latin American cuisine as one culture, with influences from Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, among many more. Chef Lorena pops out of the busy Chica kitchen to chat.

The Factory Kitchen, recently launched at The Venetian Resort, is the outcome of a long-standing friendship between Restaurateur Matteo Ferdinandi and Chef Angelo Auriana. Ferdinandi and Auriana share the vision of imparting their Italian roots and memories through food and hospitality. The original trattoria, serving traditional Italian recipes, opened its doors on Oct. 24, 2013, in The Arts District, Downtown Los Angeles. The Factory Kitchen takes its name from the street it’s located on and the former factory building complex that hosts it, but the restaurant’s soul is purely Italian. Matteo, Chef Angelo, and Las Vegas Chef de Cuisine Eduardo Perez are our guests.

“Our mission at LIPSMACKING foodie tours is to introduce visitors and locals alike to the best signature dishes, unique preparations and exciting tastes in Las Vegas.  The mouths behind Lip Smacking Foodie Tours love food, eating, dining and experiencing. This quartet of passions originally inspired us to pursue careers in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. And ultimately, after years in the game, we created Las Vegas’ premier walking tour company exclusively geared toward those craving the ultimate taste of Las Vegas.” President Donald Contursi is our enthusiastic guide.

For the 4rd time in the show’s history we’re happily broadcasting from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo. It’s a sport’s fan’s and foodies’ paradise. Lagasse’s Stadium is the ultimate sports bar: a restaurant with stadium-seating featuring elevated game-time classics and gourmet options from Emeril Lagasse. Brian Kurata, the able General Manager since 2013, is our winning Coach.

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

Al ManciniOne of our most reliable sources of primo restaurant news in Las Vegas is Al Mancini, who is a staff writer for The Las Vegas Review-Journal covering food, restaurants and other aspects of entertainment. Al has been working the Vegas food scene since 2003. He was one of the creators of the popular, and widely referenced, Eating Las Vegas restaurant guide series. Al joins us for his observations on Vegas Uncork’d, Vegas Unstripped and worthy dining happenings about the town.

“Al Mancini is a graduate of Seton Hall University and Brooklyn Law School, who began his career in journalism as a music reporter for ABC News Radio in 1996. He moved to Las Vegas to cover Southern Nevada for the network in 2001, and has covered the local dining scene for numerous publications since 2003. Al joined the Review-Journal in 2016.”

Wyndee Forrest of CraftHaus BreweryThe CraftHaus Brewery team is not only passionate about craft beer, but also sharing it with their Las Vegas community. They were established in Henderson is 2014.

“Co-owners and married couple, Wyndee and Dave Forrest, conjured up the big idea for CraftHaus Brewery while traveling through Europe. They noticed that they were immersed in a craft beer culture where people take their time to enjoy quality beer just as much as they enjoy talking to the people around them.” Now, they have brought that effervescent culture back home and continue to build their Las Vegas community one refreshing pint at a time.

Along the way Wyndee and Dave were successful in changing city licensing to a more modern, craft friendly license. Dave’s craft beer roots started with a passion for homebrewing and bringing people together around a beer or two. Wyndee’s background is in working as a publicist on the famed Las Vegas Strip. They are both University of Nevada, Las Vegas graduates.

CraftHaus Brewery is part of Saturday night’s “A Smokin’ Good Time with Susan Feniger” at Border Grill Mandalay Bay as an event for Vegas Uncork’d. Among the thirst-quenching styles served will be one created just for the festivities, Blood Orange Pale Ale.

In other CraftHaus Brewery news they will soon be opening a 2nd tasting room near Esther’s Kitchen in the Arts District of Downtown Las Vegas.

Wyndee taps the keg for us.

Lorena GarciaChica Las Vegas at The Venetian, now celebrating its 2nd Anniversary, delivers the robust and vibrant flavors of Latin cuisine combined with a dynamic wine and mixology program. Crafted by celebrity Latina chef (and Chica Partner) Lorena Garcia, the diverse menu draws inspiration from classic renditions and provides guests the opportunity to explore the flavors of Latin American cuisine as one culture, with influences from Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, among many more.

Latin-inspired cocktails are a must at Chica to complement the vibrant cuisine, highlights include handcrafted margaritas, sangrias and Spanish-style gin & tonics, as well as brunch favorites like spicy, savory Bloody Marys or Marias, sweet Mimosas infused with fresh fruit purees and an array of options from the Juice Bar for those looking for a healthful kick.

Chica is open daily for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Weekend Brunch.

Chef Lorena pops out of the busy Chica kitchen to chat.

Matteo Ferdinandi and Angelo Auriana of the Factory KitchenThe Factory Kitchen, recently launched at The Venetian Resort, is the outcome of a long-standing friendship between Restaurateur Matteo Ferdinandi and Chef Angelo Auriana. Ferdinandi and Auriana share the vision of imparting their Italian roots and memories through food and hospitality. The original trattoria, serving traditional Italian recipes, opened its doors on Oct. 24, 2013, in The Arts District, Downtown Los Angeles.

The Factory Kitchen takes its name from the street it’s located on and the former factory building complex that hosts it, but the restaurant’s soul is purely Italian.

The approachable menu at The Factory Kitchen highlights the simplicity of traditional local recipes. These recipes have been passed down from generation to generation within Italian families.

“It’s Italian cuisine at its finest run by Italians.”

Angelo Auriana and Eduardo Perez of the Factory KitchenMatteo, Chef Angelo, and Las Vegas Chef de Cuisine Eduardo Perez are our guests.

Later this year, sister restaurant sixth+mill pizzeria and bar will open in St. Mark’s Square inside Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort. The casual dining destination will celebrate the regions of Southern Italy and offer hand-crafted pizzas, pastas and a selection of shared plates inspired by Chef Angelo Auriana’s childhood memories.

Donald Contursi of Lipsmacking Foodie Tours“In Vegas, you may need Lady Luck at the gambling tables, but not at the dining ones.  Not when you rely on Lip Smacking Foodie Tours’ award-winning culinary walking tours that ensure a delicious payoff in the best bites this exciting city offers.”

“Our mission at LIPSMACKING foodie tours is to introduce visitors and locals alike to the best signature dishes, unique preparations and exciting tastes in Las Vegas.  The mouths behind Lip Smacking Foodie Tours love food, eating, dining and experiencing. This quartet of passions originally inspired us to pursue careers in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. And ultimately, after years in the game, we created Las Vegas’ premier walking tour company exclusively geared toward those craving the ultimate taste of Las Vegas.”

“Book a tour today and you will be privy to a day or night adventure at up to four top restaurants, on the Strip or downtown, hosted by the citys culinary insiders who will entertain you with fascinating stories about Vegas. At each restaurant, you’re a VIP, whisked to the best table to enjoy 3 to 4 signature dishes at each stop. We take the gamble out of finding the most Lip Smacking tastes among the more than 330 restaurants on the Strip.”

President & Founder Donald Contursi is our guide.

Brian Kurata at Lagasse's StadiumFor the 4rd time in the show’s history we’re happily broadcasting from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo. It’s a sport’s fan’s and foodies’ paradise. Lagasse’s Stadium is the ultimate sports bar: a restaurant with stadium-seating featuring elevated game-time classics and gourmet options from Emeril Lagasse.

Watch the most exciting games and biggest sporting events at Lagasse’s Stadium, the ultimate ages 21 and over sports bar and sports book in Las Vegas.

“Named “Best Sports Bar in Las Vegas” by Las Vegas Golf & Leisure, Lagasse’s Stadium combines Emeril Lagasse’s signature cuisine and kicked-up game day eats with more than 100 HD TVs including a 9 foot x 16 foot main TV, luxury boxes, plush stadium-style seating, billiard tables, and an outdoor patio just steps from the Strip.”

“Guests can listen to any game showing via the free hearTV app on their smartphone. Now, you’ll never have to choose between great food and the big game.”

Named “Best Sports Lounge” by Vegas Seven, “Best Sports Bar” by Las Vegas Review-Journal and one of the “Top Sports Bars in Las Vegas” by Yahoo! Sports and one of the “10 Best Sports Bars Across the USA” by USA Today.

Brian Kurata, the able General Manager since 2013, is our insightful Coach.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Al Mancini, Staff Writer, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Segment Three: Wyndee Forrest, Co-Founder, CraftHaus Brewery, Henderson
Segment Four: Chef Lorena Garcia, Chica at The Venetian Resort, Las Vegas
Segment Five: Executive Chef / Proprietor Angelo Auriana and Proprietor Matteo Ferdinandi, The Factory Kitchen, Las Vegas Part One
Segment Six: Executive Chef / Proprietor Angelo Auriana and Proprietor Matteo Ferdinandi, The Factory Kitchen, Las Vegas Part Two
Segment Seven: Donald Contursi, Founder & President, Lip Smacking Foodie Tours, Las Vegas
Segment Eight: Brian Kurata, General Manager, Lagasse’s Stadium, Las Vegas

Show 322, May 4, 2019: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

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

The 13th Annual Vegas Uncork’d is back on The Strip in Vegas on May 10th, 11th & 12th. A standout event for Uncork’d the night of May 11th is “A Smokin’ Good Time with Susan Feniger” at Border Grill at Mandalay Bay. Chef Susan joins us with a tempting preview.

Food journalist Steve Dolinsky, ABC 7 TV’s “Hungry Hound” in Chicago, is the recipient of an impressive 13 James Beard Foundation Awards for journalistic excellence. The James Beard Foundation Awards Gala is in Chicago at the Lyric Opera on Monday evening, May 6th. Steve will preview the 2019 James Beard Foundation Awards Gala and what it means to Chicago to again host such a prestigious event.

The award-winning creators of the travel inspired cooking blog, Husbands That Cook, Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin, have written their first cookbook: Husbands That Cook: More Than 120 Irresistible Vegetarian Recipes And Tales From Our Tiny Kitchen. We’ll meet the unusual duo with a healthy sense of humor.

Vegas Unstripped, By Locals 2019 – 2nd Helping is an evening celebration of local independent Las Vegas culinary talent presenting unique tastes of their personal expressions. The location in The Las Vegas Arts District adjacent to Downtown. Participant Chef Marc Marrone (Graffiti Italian & Graffiti Bao) is our guide.

The 2nd Annual LA Chef Conference on May 20th in Santa Monica at ArcLight Cinemas and the Gourmandise School is part of the month-long Los Angeles Times Food Bowl. It features a veritable “who’s who” of notable culinary talent. The Conference is the main hospitality industry event of The Food Bowl featuring expert panels, restaurant business workshops and cooking demos. Representing the LA Chef Conference is Chef Josiah Citrin (Openaire at The Line Hotel & Charcoal Venice) who is performing a cooking demonstration there in support of his just released cookbook, CHARCOAL: New Ways to Cook with Fire.

The Flavor of LA food and beverage festival returns for a third “Sunday Fun Day” on May 19th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic CBS Studio Center lot in Studio City. The Festival benefits the North Hollywood High School Music Department. Original participating Chef Ted Hopson of The Bellwether joins us to dish up the scrumptious details. Tickets are available here. Use discount code: socal19 for $25-off the cost of one all-inclusive $75 ticket.

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

Show 322, May 4, 2019: Socalo’s & Border Grill’s Chef / Partner Susan Feniger

The 13th Annual Vegas Uncork’d is back on The Strip in Vegas on May 10th, 11th & 12th. A standout event for Uncork’d the night of May 11th is A Smokin’ Good Time with Susan Feniger” at Border Grill at Mandalay Bay.

“Border Grill’s Co-Founder Susan Feniger and Executive Chef Mike Minor are bringing the heat at an epic BBQ party with a Mexican twist. Join the Border Grill chefs, Andy Baraghani of Bon Appetit, and host Whembley Sewell, Executive Editor of them, for a smokin’ good time on the outdoor patio of Border Grill at Mandalay Bay as variety of meats, plant-based proteins, and veggies get smoked, grilled, and slow-cooked to perfection at interactive stations.”

“Guests will experience a mouthwatering feast of mesquite pulled pork tortas, fried chicken tacos, slow-smoked Texas-style brisket, spare ribs, house-smoked tofu with habanero BBQ sauce, Impossible sliders, all the fixins’ and much more. Also, the famous burnt ends burrito from BBQ Mexicana, a new quick service eatery from Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger at Mandalay Bay Resort.”

“Top it all off with local craft beer pairings from CraftHaus brewery, barrel-aged cocktails, smoked spirits, fire pits, and live music by The All-Togethers.”

Chef Susan and Border Grill are also part of Friday evening’s Grand Tasting at the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesars Palace and Saturday afternoon’s Picnic at the Park at Park MGM.

Chef Susan joins us with a tempting preview.

May 4: Vegas Uncork’d, Vegas Unstripped, James Beard Awards Preview, Husbands That Cook, LA Chef Conference, Flavor of LA

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Socalo’s & Border Grill’s Chef / Partner Susan Feniger
Segment Three: Chicago Food Journalist Steve Dolinsky (ABC 7’s “Hungry Hound”)
Segment Four: Authors Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin – Husbands That Cook Part One
Segment Five: Authors Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin – Husbands That Cook Part Two
Segment Six: Las Vegas’ Chef Marc Marrone – Vegas Unstripped, By Locals 2019
Segment Seven: Chef Josiah Citrin – Openaire at The Line Hotel, Charcoal Venice and Dear John’s
Segment Eight: The Bellwether’s Chef / Proprietor Ted Hopson – Flavor of LA

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

The 13th Annual Vegas Uncork’d is back on The Strip in Vegas on May 10th, 11th & 12th. A standout event for Uncork’d the night of May 11th is “A Smokin’ Good Time with Susan Feniger” at Border Grill at Mandalay Bay. Chef Susan joins us with a tempting preview.

Food journalist Steve Dolinsky, ABC 7 TV’s “Hungry Hound” in Chicago, is the recipient of an impressive 13 James Beard Foundation Awards for journalistic excellence. The James Beard Foundation Awards Gala is in Chicago at the Lyric Opera on Monday evening, May 6th. Steve will preview the 2019 James Beard Foundation Awards Gala and what it means to Chicago to again host such a prestigious event.

The award-winning creators of the travel inspired cooking blog, Husbands That Cook, Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin, have written their first cookbook : Husbands That Cook : More Than 120 Irresistible Vegetarian Recipes And Tales From Our Tiny Kitchen. We’ll meet the unusual duo.

Vegas Unstripped, By Locals 2019 – 2nd Helping is an evening celebration of local independent Las Vegas culinary talent presenting unique tastes of their personal expressions. The location in The Las Vegas Arts District adjacent to Downtown. Chef Marc Marrone (Graffiti Italian & Graffiti Bao) is our guide.

The 2nd Annual LA Chef Conference on May 20th in Santa Monica at ArcLight Cinemas and the Gourmandise School is part of the month-long Los Angeles Times Food Bowl. It features a veritable “who’s who” of notable culinary talent. The Conference is the main hospitality industry event of The Food Bowl featuring expert panels, restaurant business workshops and cooking demos. Our guests are Sherry Yard (iPic Entertainment’s Chief Operating Office) who is moderating an industry Panel and Chef Josiah Citrin (Openaire at The Line Hotel & Charcoal Venice) who is performing a cooking demonstration.

The Flavor of LA food and beverage festival returns for a third “Sunday Fun Day” on May 19th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic CBS Studio Center lot in Studio City. The Festival benefits the North Hollywood High School Music Department. Original participating Chef Ted Hopson of The Bellwether joins us to dish up the scrumptious details.

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

The 13th Annual Vegas Uncork’d is back on The Strip in Vegas on May 10th, 11th & 12th. A standout event for Uncork’d the night of May 11th is A Smokin’ Good Time with Susan Feniger” at Border Grill at Mandalay Bay.

“Border Grill’s Co-Founder Susan Feniger and Executive Chef Mike Minor are bringing the heat at an epic BBQ party with a Mexican twist. Join the Border Grill chefs, Andy Baraghani of Bon Appetit, and host Whembley Sewell, Executive Editor of them, for a smokin’ good time on the outdoor patio of Border Grill at Mandalay Bay as variety of meats, plant-based proteins, and veggies get smoked, grilled, and slow-cooked to perfection at interactive stations.”

“Guests will experience a mouthwatering feast of mesquite pulled pork tortas, fried chicken tacos, slow-smoked Texas-style brisket, spare ribs, house-smoked tofu with habanero BBQ sauce, Impossible sliders, all the fixins’ and much more. Also, the famous burnt ends burrito from BBQ Mexicana, a new quick service eatery from Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger at Mandalay Bay Resort.”

“Top it all off with local craft beer pairings from CraftHaus brewery, barrel-aged cocktails, smoked spirits, fire pits, and live music by The All-Togethers.”

Chef Susan joins us with a tempting preview.

Steve Dolinsky and Andreew GruelFood journalist Steve Dolinsky, ABC 7 TV’s “Hungry Hound” in Chicago, is the recipient of an impressive 13 James Beard Foundation Awards for journalistic excellence. The James Beard Foundation Awards Gala is in Chicago at the Lyric Opera on Monday evening, May 6th.

Steve will preview the 2019 James Beard Foundation Awards Gala and what it means to Chicago to again host such a prestigious event.

“In 2014, Chicago chef/restaurateur Rick Bayless and I launched The Feed Podcast, covering the world of food from our professional perspectives. Every show is full of different segments, some from Chicago and others from far-flung places around the world we both travel to. In its first year, the show won a Beard Award for Best Podcast. More recently, I’ve begun curating and leading highly specialized culinary experiences, including international tours. In 2018, I wrote my first book, “Pizza City USA: 101 Reasons Why Chicago is America’s Greatest Pizza Town,” which led to the launch of Pizza City USA Tours and a companion podcast, “Pizza City,” where I talk to some of the greatest pizza makers in the world.”

Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin are the Husbands That CookThe award-winning creators of the travel inspired cooking blog, Husbands That Cook, Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin, have written their first cookbook: Husbands That Cook: More Than 120 Irresistible Vegetarian Recipes And Tales From Our Tiny Kitchen.

“Cooking has always been a central part of Adam and Ryan’s relationship. From their tiny kitchen in Eagle Rock, CA, these inventive husbands are whipping up dishes inspired by their world travels and that represent significant moments in their love story.”

“With Husbands That Cook, home cooks can create fresh and savory dishes that Ryan and Adam have long been perfecting. Featuring brand new unreleased recipes, and a few of the most beloved favorites from the blog, the book is complete with stunning photos of each dish, travels around the world, and vignettes from their lives written with their trademark spunk and enthusiasm for life.”

We’ll meet the unusual duo.

“Food has always been a key ingredient in Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin’s relationship—and this cookbook offers a unique glimpse into their lives beyond their California kitchen. From their signature Coconut Curry with Chickpeas and Cauliflower, which was inspired by their first date at a shopping mall food court, to the Communication Breakdown Carrot Cake (which speaks for itself), these and other recipes reflect the husbands’ marriage in all its flavor and variety.”

“Written with the same endearing, can-do spirit of their blog, the husbands present more than 120 brand-new recipes—plus some greatest hits from the site—that yield delicious results every time. Each entry in Husbands That Cook is a reminder of how simple and satisfying vegetarian meal-making can be, from hearty main dishes and sides to healthy snacks and decadent desserts and drinks. Ryan and Adam also outline common pantry items and everyday tools you’ll need to fully stock your kitchen.”

“Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this book is chock-full of great creative recipes for every day of the week, all year long.”

Marc MarroneVegas Unstripped, By Locals 2019 – 2nd Helping is an evening celebration of local, independent Las Vegas culinary talent presenting unique tastes of their personal expressions. The location in The Las Vegas Arts District adjacent to Downtown.

Each Chef is challenged to create and serve two distinctive dishes. One from their restaurant’s regular menu and a second that is an exclusive creation for Vegas Unstripped.

Beverages provided by Velveteen Rabbit, Jammyland, The Golden Tiki, Herbs & Rye, Sand Dollar Lounge, Starboard Tack, Vesta Coffee Roasters and Harney & Sons Tea.

Chef Marc Marrone (Graffiti Italian & Graffiti Bao) is our guide.

Josiah CitrinThe 2nd Annual LA Chef Conference on May 20th in Santa Monica at ArcLight Cinemas and the Gourmandise School is part of the month-long Los Angeles Times Food Bowl. It features a veritable “who’s who” of notable culinary talent. The Conference is the main hospitality industry event of The Food Bowl featuring expert panels, restaurant business workshops and celebrity chef cooking demos.

Our guests are Sherry Yard (iPic Entertainment’s Chief Operating Officer) who is moderating an industry Panel (Serving Up Change: Making next level impact in our Community and beyond) and Chef Josiah Citrin (Openaire at The Line Hotel & Charcoal Venice) who is performing a cooking demonstration in support of his new cookbook, CHARCOAL: New Ways to Cook with Fire.

Ann Marie Verdi and Ted Hopson of the BellwetherThe Flavor of LA food and beverage festival returns for a third “Sunday Fun Day” on May 19th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic CBS Studio Center lot in Studio City. The Festival benefits the North Hollywood High School Music Department.

“Enjoy gourmet eats and drinks from over 70 notable restaurants, bakeries, and ice cream shops, along with craft brews, wine, shochu, sake, and cocktails. Booths will be lined up at the cross streets of My Three Sons and Gunsmoke. CBS Studio Center has been home to 100’s of iconic TV shows, including SeinfeldWill & Grace, That 70s Show, and Gilligan’s Island. This food and drink festival is the ultimate block party!”

“Along with past participants such as Boneyard Bistro, The Bellwether, Firefly, Barrel & Ashes, Uncle Paulie’s Deli, MacLeod Ale, The Local Peasant, and The Front Yardexciting newcomers include: Petit Trois, Los Balcones Studio City, Mister O’s, Bluebird Brasserie, Mendocino Farms, The Crack Shack, Kreation Organics, The Pie Hole, Fatamorgana Gelato, Tao VineyardsHorchateria Rio Luna, and The Glen Centre’s Bistro Jolie and Jayde’s Market.”

The $75 all-inclusive ticket price includes an all-you-can-eat extravaganza of food, drink, and free parking!

Original participating Chef Ted Hopson of The Bellwether joins us to dish up the scrumptious details.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Socalo’s & Border Grill’s Chef / Partner Susan Feniger
Segment Three: Chicago Food Journalist Steve Dolinsky (ABC 7’s “Hungry Hound”)
Segment Four: Authors Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin – Husbands That Cook Part One
Segment Five: Authors Ryan Alvarez and Adam Merrin – Husbands That Cook Part Two
Segment Six: Las Vegas’ Chef Marc Marrone – Vegas Unstripped, By Locals 2019
Segment Seven: Chef Josiah Citrin – Openaire at The Line Hotel, Charcoal Venice and Dear John’s
Segment Eight: The Bellwether’s Chef / Proprietor Ted Hopson – Flavor of LA

Show 273, May 12, 2018: Show Preview with Co-Host Andy Harris

Now a sinful preview of this Saturday’s appropriately decadent show. We’re in fabulous Las Vegas…It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s probably a pretty good thing…

Vegas Uncork'dWe’re live from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo Resort for today’s special show. It’s Vegas Uncork’d Weekend here and the mega-star celebrity chefs with high-profile restaurants in Sin City are in town for the four days of extensive festivities.

As part of the first evening of Vegas Uncorked The Chefs of Thomas Keller Present a French Soiree”. It sold out right away. The two lead chefs are Chef de Cuisine Josh Crain of Bouchon Las Vegas and Chef de Cuisine Matt Alba of Ad Hoc and Addendum in Yountville, CA. Chef Josh joins us.

Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro at The Palazzo skillfully merges classic steakhouse with innovative and unique culinary techniques. It’s all enhanced by more than 60 wines-by-the-glass and more than 400 varieties of French and California wine-by-the-bottle. Our guest is Lou Hirsch, the General Manager, known in Vegas for his gracious hospitality.

John Kunkel, owner and founder of 50 Eggs Inc.’s newest concept Chica Las Vegas at The Venetian delivers the robust and vibrant flavors of Latin cuisine combined with a dynamic wine and mixology program. Crafted by celebrity Latina chef Lorena Garcia, the diverse menu draws inspiration from classic renditions and provides guests the opportunity to explore the flavors of Latin American cuisine as one culture, with influences from Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, among many more. Chef Lorena pops out of the busy Chica kitchen to chat.

Veteran Las Vegas insider and widely-followed food journalist Al Mancini works alongside The Las Vegas Review-Journal’s long-time restaurant critic Heidi Knapp Rinella. As a Staff Writer he covers the burgeoning food scene in Las Vegas both in the print and online versions of the daily newspaper. Al also posts food & libation related videos. We pull him away from the Vegas Uncork’d festivities for an update.

Juyoung Kang is the lead bartender at The Dorsey at The Venetian. She was the Nevada Restaurant Association’s Bartender of the Year in 2015. For Vegas Uncork’d she stars in Saturday afternoon’s “Behind the Bar: Learn the Craft of Cocktailing with Masters of the Bar at The Venetian & The Palazzo.” We’re shaking craft cocktails with Juyoung.

For the 3rd time in the show’s history we’re happily broadcasting from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo. It’s a sport’s fan’s and foodies’ paradise. Lagasse’s Stadium is the ultimate sports bar: a restaurant with stadium-seating featuring elevated game-time classics and gourmet options from Emeril Lagasse. Robert DeLillo, the Executive Sous Chef for Exec Scott Pajak is our guest.

Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Las Vegas is a truly special dining experience. General Manager Aaron Pannell who is responsible for managing all aspects of the restaurant and related Bouchon Bakery joins us.

All of this and much more deliciousness on today’s overflowing show!

Show 273, May 12, 2018: Josh Crain, Chef de Cuisine, Bouchon Las Vegas

Josh CrainAs part of the first evening of Vegas Uncork’d The Chefs of Thomas Keller Present a French Soiree”. It sold out right away. The two lead chefs are Chef de Cuisine Josh Crain of Bouchon Las Vegas and Chef de Cuisine Matt Alba of Ad Hoc and Addendum in Yountville, CA. Dessert was a K+M “Almond Joy” with a K+M Nicaragua dark chocolate mousse from Bouchon’s Pastry Chef Scott Wheatfill. Chef Josh joins us.

“Tucked away in the Venezia Tower sits Bouchon by Thomas Keller, a chef whose French cuisine has won almost every award possible: Michelin Stars, James Beard Foundation, and what Anthony Bourdain called “the best restaurant, ever.” Now you don’t have to go to French Laundry in Yountville to taste his genius — a modern take on French cuisine. Sunday brunch is the standout here, set in the sunlit bustling bistro or al fresco on the patio. An oyster bar that begins at 3 p.m. is the perfect setting for an afternoon with a bottle of rosé poolside. Of all the French restaurants Las Vegas offers, Bouchon is at the top of the must-visit list.”

Having worked so long at the original Bouchon in Yountville, Chef Josh brings to Bouchon Las Vegas an understanding of the restaurant’s sensibility and the importance of making time for meals to be a special occasion.