Show 695, September 5, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“On July 26th, Team USA 2027 competed in the Bocuse d’Or Americas competition in New Orleans, Louisiana, alongside esteemed culinary teams representing eight countries from across North, Central, and South America. Following an intense five-and-a-half-hour competition, Team USA captured Gold, marking the fourth time that Team USA has taken first place at the Bocuse d’Or Americas. They are now preparing for the Bocuse d’Or Finals in January 2027 in Lyon, France. Led by Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto and Commis Tyler Higson, with Head Coach Chef Mathew Peters, and Jury Member Chef Robert Sulatycky, Team USA completed the competition’s two signature challenges, the platter theme and the theme on a plate.” Chef Vincenzo takes a break from training to join us.

“It’s about here…”Ready for LA Chef Con 2026? An eagerly-anticipated event for the chef and restaurant community with great networking opportunities. Come hungry for information, inspiration, delicious food & drinks. LA Chef Conference 2026 presented by OpenTable + Slang and produced by BMRS Hospitality Recruitment, is the well-established, top-shelf gathering for chefs and restaurant professionals in the heart of Los Angeles. This year’s event takes place Monday, October 5th at City Market Social House in Downtown LA. 15% of all ticket sales will benefit the Independent Hospitality Coalition.” The concluding event at LA Chef Con is the celebratory and festive Cocktail Party from 5 to 7:00 p.m. hosted by Wolfgang Puck Catering. Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President, Culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering joins us with the salivating preview. The key culinary dream team from WPC will be cooking for this.

“Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie, The Pastry World Cup, 
is recognized as the most prestigious Pastry Competition in the World.

Born from the vision of legendary chef Gabriel Paillasson in 1989, the Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie was created with the support of the French M.O.F. association and the French Pastry Chefs Federation, to elevate pastry to its highest artistic expression. 

Every two years in Lyon, France, the world’s finest pastry chefs gather to represent their nations in a celebration of craftsmanship without equal.

With 52 countries competing and more than 200,000 visitors attending the Finale, the Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie stands as the most prestigious event in international pastry.” Team USA 2027 will be competing in Lyon. All of the team members volunteer their time to represent the USA. Joining us with the overview of the Pastry World Cup is Chef Donald Wressell, The Training & Operations Director for Team USA 2027 and Chef En-Ming Hsu, a previous Gold Medalist at the World Pastry Cup where she served as the United States Pastry Team’s Captain in 2001.

“Every day at Bracken’s Kitchen based in Garden Grove, they see the difference a meal, an opportunity, and a little kindness can make. Hungry Games 9.0 is their biggest fundraiser of the year, with a goal of raising $600,000 to help fuel their community feeding, food rescue, and culinary training programs across Southern California. On Thursday, September 10, Bracken’s Kitchen is bringing their community together for a night of incredible food, live music from Super Deluxe, and a little friendly competition, all for a cause close to our hearts. Every ticket, sponsorship, and dollar raised brings Bracken’s Kitchen closer to their goal and helps them continue feeding the need.”

Founder and Chef Bill Bracken joins us with an 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) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Today Chef Andrew is sharing his very timely American Gravy Substack piece, “How to Eat Better for Less.”

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

Show 695, September 5, 2026: Culinary Team USA 2027 for the Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition with Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto

Vincenzo Loseto who is the Chef de Cuisine at Press Restaurant

“On July 26th, Team USA 2027 competed in the Bocuse d’Or Americas competition in New Orleans, Louisiana, alongside esteemed culinary teams representing eight countries from across North, Central, and South America. Following an intense five-and-a-half-hour competition, Team USA captured Gold, marking the fourth time that Team USA has taken first place at the Bocuse d’Or Americas. They are now actively preparing for the Bocuse d’Or Finals in January 2027 in Lyon, France.”

“Led by Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto and Commis Tyler Higson, with Head Coach Chef Mathew Peters, and Jury Member Chef Robert Sulatycky, Team USA completed the competition’s two signature challenges, the platter theme and the theme on a plate.”

“The platter theme highlighted ingredients and preparations inspired by a national tribute, requiring competitors to present a composition featuring halibut fillet with a tomato and shrimp garnish, a sweet corn garnish, and a sauce Choron. Team USA’s plate theme centered on a bone-in ribeye paired with brisket, sour cherries, sweet potato gnocchi and Royal Kona coffee beans into the dish.”

“This is an incredible honor, not just for Tyler and I, but for everyone who has believed in and supported this team,” said Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto. “Winning Gold at the Americas is an unforgettable moment and we are proud to represent the United States. Now we are focused on what it will take to compete at the Finals in Lyon”.

Chef Vincenzo takes a break from his intense Chef Vincenzo takes a break from his intense training regimen to join us. Commis Tyler Higson will join us at a future date. regimen to join us.

September 5: Team USA 2027 at the Bocuse d’or, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie, Bracken’s Kitchen Hungry Games 9.0

Podcasts

Hour One: Vincenso Loseto, Eric Klein and Wolfgang Puck Catering
Hour Two: Team USA 2026 / 2027 for The Pastry World Cup – Coupe de Monde de la Patisserie, Bill Bracken, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Culinary Team USA 2027 for the Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition with Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto
Segment Four: Chef Eric Klein, Wolfgang Puck Catering. Hosting closing Cocktail Party at LA Chef Con 2026
Segments Five and Six: Team USA 2026 / 2027 for The Pastry World Cup – Coupe de Monde de la Patisserie
Segment Seven: Bracken’s Kitchen’s Hungry Games 9.0 Benefit with Chef Bill Bracken
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House and Show Co-host

Happy Labor Day Weekend to all our Listeners. Where did the Summer go? Enjoy.

“On July 26th, Team USA 2027 competed in the Bocuse d’Or Americas competition in New Orleans, Louisiana, alongside esteemed culinary teams representing eight countries from across North, Central, and South America. Following an intense five-and-a-half-hour competition, Team USA captured Gold, marking the fourth time that Team USA has taken first place at the Bocuse d’Or Americas. They are now preparing for the Bocuse d’Or Finals in January 2027 in Lyon, France. Led b Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto and Commis Tyler Higson, with Head Coach Chef Mathew Peters, and Jury Member Chef Robert Sulatycky, Team USA completed the competition’s two signature challenges, the platter theme and the theme on a plate.” Chef Vincenzo takes a break from training to join us.

“It’s about here…”Ready for LA Chef Con 2026? An eagerly-anticipated event for the chef and restaurant community with great networking opportunities. Come hungry for information, inspiration, delicious food & drinks. LA Chef Conference 2026 presented by OpenTable + Slang and produced by BMRS Hospitality Recruitment, is the well-established, top-shelf gathering for chefs and restaurant professionals in the heart of Los Angeles. This year’s event takes place Monday, October 5th at City Market Social House in Downtown LA. 15% of all ticket sales will benefit the Independent Hospitality Coalition.” The concluding event at LA Chef Con is the celebratory and festive Cocktail Party from 5 to 7:00 p.m. hosted by Wolfgang Puck Catering. Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President, Culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering joins us with the preview.

“Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie, The Pastry World Cup, is recognized as the most prestigious Pastry Competition in the World.

Born from the vision of legendary chef Gabriel Paillasson in 1989, the Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie was created with the support of the French M.O.F association and the French Pastry Chefs Federation, to elevate pastry to its highest artistic expression.

Every two years in Lyon, France, the world’s finest pastry chefs gather to represent their nations in a celebration of craftsmanship without equal.

With 52 countries competing and more than 200,000 visitors attending the Finale, the Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie stands as the most prestigious event in international pastry.” Team USA 2027 will be competing in Lyon. Joining us with the overview of the Pastry World Cup is Chef Donald Wressell, The Training & Operations Director for Team USA 2027 and Chef En-Ming Hsu, a previous Gold Medalist at the World Pastry Cup where she served as the United States Pastry Team’s Captain in 2001.

“Every day at Bracken’s Kitchen based in Garden Grove, they see the difference a meal, an opportunity, and a little kindness can make. Hungry Games 9.0 is their biggest fundraiser of the year, with a goal of raising $600,000 to help fuel their community feeding, food rescue, and culinary training programs across Southern California. On Thursday, September 10, Bracken’s Kitchen is bringing their community together for a night of incredible food, live music from Super Deluxe, and a little friendly competition, all for a cause close to our hearts. Every ticket, sponsorship, and dollar raised brings Bracken’s Kitchen closer to their goal and helps them continue feeding the need.”

Founder and Chef Bill Bracken joins us with an 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) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Today Chef Andrew is sharing his very timely American Gravy Substack piece, “How to Eat Better for Less.”

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

Vincenzo Loseto who is the Chef de Cuisine at Press Restaurant

“On July 26th, Team USA 2027 competed in the Bocuse d’Or Americas competition in New Orleans, Louisiana, alongside esteemed culinary teams representing eight countries from across North, Central, and South America. Following an intense five-and-a-half-hour competition, Team USA captured Gold, marking the fourth time that Team USA has taken first place at the Bocuse d’Or Americas. They are now actively preparing for the Bocuse d’Or Finals in January 2027 in Lyon, France.”

“Led by Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto and Commis Tyler Higson, with Head Coach Chef Mathew Peters, and Jury Member Chef Robert Sulatycky, Team USA completed the competition’s two signature challenges, the platter theme and the theme on a plate.”

“The platter theme highlighted ingredients and preparations inspired by a national tribute, requiring competitors to present a composition featuring halibut fillet with a tomato and shrimp garnish, a sweet corn garnish, and a sauce Choron. Team USA’s plate theme centered on a bone-in ribeye paired with brisket, sour cherries, sweet potato gnocchi and Royal Kona coffee beans into the dish.”

“This is an incredible honor, not just for Tyler and I, but for everyone who has believed in and supported this team,” said Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto. “Winning Gold at the Americas is an unforgettable moment and we are proud to represent the United States. Now we are focused on what it will take to compete at the Finals in Lyon”.

Chef Vincenzo takes a break from his intense training regimen to join us.

Eric Klein of Wolfgang Puck Catering

“It’s about here…”Ready for LA Chef Con 2026? An eagerly-anticipated event for the chef and restaurant community with great networking opportunities. Come hungry for information, inspiration, delicious food & drinks. LA Chef Conference 2026 presented by OpenTable + Slang and produced by BMRS Hospitality Recruitment, is the well-established, top-shelf gathering for chefs and restaurant professionals in the heart of Los Angeles. This year’s event takes place Monday, October 5th at City Market Social House in Downtown LA. 15% of all ticket sales will benefit the Independent Hospitality Coalition.”

The concluding event at LA Chef Con is the celebratory Cocktail Party from 5 to 7:00 p.m. hosted by Wolfgang Puck Catering. Chef Eric Klein, Senior Vice President, Culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering joins us with the salivating preview.

Donald Wressell of Guittard Chocolate Company

Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie, The Pastry World Cup, is recognized as the most prestigious Pastry Competition in the World.

“Born from the vision of legendary chef Gabriel Paillasson in 1989, the Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie was created with the support of the French M.O.F. association and the French Pastry Chefs Federation, to elevate pastry to its highest artistic expression.”

“Every two years in Lyon, France, the world’s finest pastry chefs gather to represent their nations in a celebration of craftsmanship without equal.

With 52 countries competing and more than 200,000 visitors attending the Finale, the Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie stands as the most prestigious event in international pastry.”

Pastry Chef En-Ming Hsu

“Through spectacular challenges — from intricate chocolate and sugar sculptures to ice carving and refined plated desserts — teams are invited to push the boundaries of innovation under a unifying theme. Each creation tells a story, blending artistry, precision, and flavor while reflecting a growing commitment to sustainability and responsibility toward the future.”

“Judged over hours of intense competition, chefs are evaluated not only on technique and taste, but on their ability to work as a team and to express a powerful artistic and cultural narrative.”

Team USA 2027 will be competing in Lyon. Joining us with the overview of the Pastry World Cup is Chef Donald Wressell, The Training & Ops Director for Team USA 2027 and Chef En-Ming Hsu, a previous Gold Medalist at the World Pastry Cup where she served as the United States Pastry Team’s Captain in 2001.

Bill Bracken of Brackens Kitchen

“Every day at Bracken’s Kitchen, they see the difference a meal, an opportunity, and a little kindness can make. Hungry Games 9.0 is their biggest fundraiser of the year, with a goal of raising $600,000 to help fuel their community feeding, food rescue, and culinary training programs across Southern California.”

“On Thursday, September 10, Bracken’s Kitchen is bringing their community together for a night of incredible food, live music from Super Deluxe, and a little friendly competition, all for a cause close to our hearts. Every ticket, sponsorship, and dollar raised brings Bracken’s Kitchen closer to their ambitious goal and helps them continue feeding the need. The objective is to make a BIG impact and have a whole lot of fun doing good!”

At Hungry Games 9.0 taste great food, support the community, and help Bracken’s Kitchen reach their $600,000 Goal!

Founder and Chef Bill Bracken joins us with an exclusive preview.

Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

Today Chef Andrew is sharing his very timely American Gravy Substack piece, “How to Eat Better for Less.” Good advice…

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: Vincenso Loseto, Eric Klein and Wolfgang Puck Catering
Hour Two: Team USA 2026 / 2027 for The Pastry World Cup – Coupe de Monde de la Patisserie, Bill Bracken, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Culinary Team USA 2027 for the Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition with Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto
Segment Four: Chef Eric Klein, Wolfgang Puck Catering. Hosting closing Cocktail Party at LA Chef Con 2026
Segments Five and Six: Team USA 2026 / 2027 for The Pastry World Cup – Coupe de Monde de la Patisserie
Segment Seven: Bracken’s Kitchen’s Hungry Games 9.0 Benefit with Chef Bill Bracken
Segment Eight: “Ask the Chef” with Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House and Show Co-host

Show 667, February 21, 2026: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto (Press Restaurant, Napa Valley) alongside Commis Tyler Higson, have been selected to represent the United States as the official Team USA candidate for the 2027 Bocuse d’Or. The unveiling of Team USA 2027 took place at a commemorative ceremony on January 25th at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia. Reflecting on the impact these previous Team USA chefs have made, Ment’or President Chef Thomas Keller shared “Ment’or was built on a promise to honor Chef Paul Bocuse’s vision and to develop a way for American chefs to succeed at the highest level. With each new team, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before, and we look forward to continuing this work together.” Chef Loseto and Commis Higson will begin an intensive period of preparation this Spring for the 2026 Bocuse d’Or Americas Selection in New Orleans, the qualifying round that determines the finalists for the 2027 Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, France.” Chef Vincenzo Loseto is our guest.

“Intentionally located along the Slauson Corridor in Historic View Park-Windsor Hills, Somerville (a contemporary restaurant and supper club) is an ode to the past, a toast to the present, and celebration of the progress in between. Somerville is progressive American dining experience that highlights contemporary cuisine while honoring the rich roots of South Central Los Angeles. Each dish captures the bold and savory essence of California, blending traditional influences with modern techniques to elevate every bite. Designed as an inviting space for locals, travelers, and culinary enthusiasts alike, Somerville cultivates community in a timeless setting, featuring a thoughtfully curated wine selection, skillfully crafted cocktails, and live entertainment — creating the perfect backdrop for conversation and connection.” Chef Geter Atienza, the menu-maker, takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

“With sunny Skies, fresh ocean breezes, and a vibrant local scene, Oceanside, CA is a true, year-round destination. No matter the season, there’s always something special to experience. Winter is the perfect opportunity for a Oceanside getaway. The Swell Plates Series showcasing Oceanside’s culinary bounty just concluded. Winter swells attract surfers. Gray whales make their annual migration along the coastline, offering a spectacular sight. Travel Oceanside’s Shae Geary joins us to talk about the range of distinctive accommodations, the just-concluded Swell Plates series, the historic Oceanside Pier, Thursday Market Day and the California Surf Museum.

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. This week Chef revisits handling the stress of Valentine’s Day Saturday at Calico Fish House. He’ll dutifully explain the origin story of the hilarious “Procrastination Table.”

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

February 21, Vincenzo Loseto, Somerville, Visit Oceanside

Podcasts

Hour One: Vincenzo Loseto, Somerville
Hour Two: Somerville, Visit Oceanside, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto, Team USA 2027 for Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition
Segments Four and Five: Chef Geter Atienza, Somerville, View Park, Los Angeles
Segments Six and Seven: Visit Oceanside with Shae Geary
Segment Eight: Chef, Restaurateur and Show Co-host, Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House, Huntington Beach

“Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto (Press Restaurant, Napa Valley) alongside Commis Tyler Higson, have been selected to represent the United States as the official Team USA candidate for the 2027 Bocuse d’Or. The unveiling of Team USA 2027 took place at a commemorative ceremony on January 25th at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia. Reflecting on the impact these previous Team USA chefs have made, Ment’or President Chef Thomas Keller shared “Ment’or was built on a promise to honor Chef PaulBocuse’s vision and to develop a way for American chefs to succeed at the highest level. With each new team, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before, and we look forward to continuing this work together.” Chef Loseto and Commis Higson will begin an intensive period of preparation this Spring for the 2026 Bocuse d’Or Americas Selection, the qualifying round that determines the finalists for the 2027 Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, France.” Chef Vincenzo Loseto is our guest.

“Intentionally located along the Slauson Corridor in Historic View Park-Windsor Hills, Somerville (a contemporary restaurant and supper club) is an ode to the past, a toast to the present, and celebration of the progress in between.  Sommerville is progressive American dining experience that highlights contemporary cuisine while honoring the rich roots of South Central Los Angeles. Each dish captures the bold and savory essence of California, blending traditional influences with modern techniques to elevate every bite. Designed as an inviting space for locals, travelers, and culinary enthusiasts alike, Somerville cultivates community in a timeless setting, featuring a thoughtfully curated wine selection, skillfully crafted cocktails, and live entertainment — creating the perfect backdrop for conversation and connection.” Chef Geter Atienza takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

“With sunny Skies, fresh ocean breezes, and a vibrant local scene, Oceanside, CA is a true, year-round destination. No matter the season, there’s always something special to experience. Winter is the perfect opportunity for a Oceanside getaway. The Swell Plates Series showcasing Oceanside’s culinary bounty just concluded. Winter swells attract surfers. Gray whales make their annual migration along the coastline, offering a spectacular sight. Travel Oceanside’s Shae Geary joins us to talk about the range of distinctive accommodations, the just-concluded Swell Plates series, the historic Oceanside Pier, Thursday Market Day and the California Surf Museum.

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. This week Chef revisits handling the stress of Valentine’s Day Saturday at Calico Fish House. He’ll dutifully explain the origin story of the hilarious “Procrastination Table.”

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

Vincenzo Loseto who is the Chef de Cuisine at Press Restaurant

“Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto (Press Restaurant, Napa Valley) alongside Commis Tyler Higson, have been selected to represent the United States as the official Team USA candidate for the 2027 Bocuse d’Or. The unveiling of Team USA 2027 took place at a commemorative ceremony on January 25th at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia.”

“This special event highlighted two decades of Team USA Head Chefs from 2007 to 2025 to showcase the mark they have each made in America’s culinary history. Reflecting on the impact these chefs have made, Ment’or President Chef Thomas Keller shared “Ment’or was built on a promise to honor Chef Paul Bocuse’s vision and to develop a way for American chefs to succeed at the highest level. With each new team, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before, and we look forward to continuing this work together.””

“Chef Loseto and Commis Higson will begin an intensive period of preparation this Spring for the 2026 Bocuse d’Or Americas Selection, the qualifying round that determines the finalists for the 2027 Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, France.”

“This opportunity represents both an honor and a responsibility,” said Chef Loseto. “To be entrusted with representing the United States and carrying forward the legacy of Team USA is deeply meaningful. I am grateful to Ment’or for their belief and support, and I look forward to the work ahead.

“Vincenzo grew up in Massapequa, New York, spending much of his time on the water and in the kitchen, inspired by his Italian family and his nonna’s cooking. When his older brother began working at a local butcher shop, Vincenzo followed, sparking an early passion for butchery and cooking.”

“Upon graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, Vincenzo joined The NoMad in New York City as a sous chef, where he spent almost four years and helped open the restaurant’s first European outpost in London. During this time, he became involved with Ment’or and went on to win the 2016 Ment’or Young Chef Competition. He later served as an assistant for Team USA at the 2017 Bocuse d’Or under Chef Mathew Peters, contributing to the country’s first-ever gold medal victory.“

“Vincenzo continued his career at Three-Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park under Chef Daniel Humm, where he was part of the restaurant’s transition to a fully plant-based menu. Drawn to Napa Valley’s seasons, produce, and the opportunity to work alongside Chef Philip Tessier, he stepped into the Chef de Cuisine role at Press Restaurant. Now as the Head Chef for Team USA, Vincenzo is looking forward to and focused on training as he progresses on the Road to Lyon for the Bocuse d’Or in January 2027.”

Chef Vincenzo Loseto is our guest.

Geter Atienza of Somerville Supper Club

“Intentionally located along the Slauson Corridor in Historic View Park-Windsor Hills, Somerville (an upscale contemporary restaurant and supper club) is an ode to the past, a toast to the present, and celebration of the progress in between. Sommerville is progressive American dining experience that highlights contemporary cuisine while honoring the rich roots of South Central Los Angeles. Each dish captures the bold and savory essence of California, blending traditional influences with modern techniques to elevate every bite.”
 
“Designed as an inviting space for locals, travelers, and culinary enthusiasts alike, Somerville cultivates community in a timeless setting, featuring a thoughtfully curated wine selection, skillfully crafted cocktails, and live entertainment — creating the perfect backdrop for conversation and connection.”

Think piping-hot house-baked Parker House Rolls with truffle butter and Collard Green Lasagna with braised collard greens, bechamel, ricotta, sun dried tomatoes, parmesan and Gruyere.

“Chef Geter Atienza at Somerville is known for his bold flavors, charismatic energy and deep knowledge of international epicurean cuisine. He fell in love with cooking at a very young age. His mother and grandmother have always been his source of inspiration. Chef Atienza was born in Pasay, Philippines and moved with his family to the United States in 1992 at the age of seven. Growing up in Northern California, he was exposed to many different cultures by going to school in Napa Valley, taking trips to San Francisco with his mother, and eating his grandmother’s cooking at home. His love of food, spices, and California produce set up his culinary foundation.”

Geter Atienza takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Shea Geary of Visit Oceanside

“With sunny skies, fresh ocean breezes, and a vibrant local scene, Oceanside, CA is a year-round destination. No matter the season, there’s always something special to experience.”

“Winter is the perfect opportunity for an Oceanside getaway. The Swell Plates Series showcasing Oceanside’s culinary bounty just concluded. Winter swells attract surfers. Gray whales make their annual migration along the coastline, offering a spectacular sight.”

“Oceanside has been keeping it real since 1888, and that genuine, always original spirit has long made it a haven for artists, makers, and performers. Through its vibrant murals, world-class museums, street markets, historic landmarks, and eclectic live events, Oceanside weaves together stories of our past, present, and future. Art for everybody, that’s Oceanside.”

Travel Oceanside’s Shae Geary joins us to talk about the range of distinctive accommodations, the just-concluded Swell Plates series, the historic Oceanside Pier, Thursday Market Day and the California Surf Museum.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Calico Fish House

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.

This week Chef Andrew revisits handling the rigors of Valentine’s Day Saturday at Calico Fish House. He’ll dutifully explain the origin story of the hilarious “Procrastination Table.” It thoughtfully handles a need without too much embarrassment.

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: Vincenzo Loseto, Somerville
Hour Two: Somerville, Visit Oceanside, Andrew Gruel

Segment One: Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segments Two and Three: Head Chef Vincenzo Loseto, Team USA 2027 for Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition
Segments Four and Five: Chef Geter Atienza, Somerville, View Park, Los Angeles
Segments Six and Seven: Visit Oceanside with Shae Geary
Segment Eight: Chef, Restaurateur and Show Co-host, Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House, Huntington Beach

Show 197, November 12, 2016: Chef Vincenzo Loseto, The Nomad, Ment’or BKB Foundation’s 2016 Young Chef Competition Winner

Vincenso Loseto of Team USA at the BOcuse D'orThe Ment’or BKB Foundation (founded by Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller and Jerome Bocuse) supports Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition and mentors up-and-coming culinary talent in the USA. Earlier this year Chef Vincenzo Loseto of The Nomad in New York won the prestigious honors as the 2016 Young Chef. He’s been on quite a ride since then. We’ll meet him.

Vincenzo’s winning presentation was Veal Tenderloin with Oyster Mushroom and Herb Mousseline. The judges included Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller, Jerome Bocuse and Team USA 2015 alum, Chef Philip Tessier.

Since then Chef Vincenzo has staged at Noma in Copenhagen, one of the World’s most acclaimed restaurants. He was also just with Team USA in Lyon in advance of the 2017 Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition. Currently he’s assisting Team USA 2017 (Chef Mathew Peters and Commis Harrison Turone) in the intense training for the upcoming competition in the USA replica kitchen suite of the Bocuse d’Or in Yountville.

Chef Vincenzo will also preview the Bocuse d’Or 2017 Team USA VIP Experience. There is the extraordinary opportunity for discriminating food tourists to accompany Team USA to the Bocuse d’Or in Lyon with VIP status at every stop. Talk about the ultimate gift for a very special foodie…