Show 548, October 21, 2023: Anne Marie Panoringan, Food Columnist, Culture OC Part One

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is now Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist and a host of other well-respected publications.

Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her new outlet as Food Columnist for Culture OC and preview her next column. Anne Marie will also be discussing her “Let’s Brunch” piece from the 2023 issue of Taste, her visit to the acclaimed Truly Pizza in Dana Point, a tribute to the late OC restaurant publicist, Patty Mitchell, and her observations on a recent familiarity tour of West Hollywood (hosted by Visit West Hollywood) highlighted by a visit to the renown (and steeped in music lore) Sunset Marquis. with a VIP property tour conducted by their long-time General Manager and official resident historian.

Show 548, October 21, 2023: Anne Marie Panoringan, Food Columnist, Culture OC Part Two

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is now Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist and a host of other well-respected publications.

Anne Marie continues with us in-studio to discuss her new outlet as Food Columnist for Culture OC and preview her next column. Anne Marie will also be discussing her “Let’s Brunch” piece from the 2024 issue of Taste, her visit to the acclaimed Truly Pizza in Dana Point, a tribute to the late OC restaurant publicist, Patty Mitchell, and her observations on a recent familiarity tour of West Hollywood (hosted by Visit West Hollywood) highlighted by a visit to the renown (and steeped in music lore) Sunset Marquis. with a VIP property tour conducted by their long-time General Manager and resident historian.

Show 546, October 7, 2023: Travel Journalist Stacey Wittig, Board Member and Secretary, International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association. “UNSTOPPABLE Stacey” Travel Blog

Stacey Wittig of IFWTWA

Stacey Wittig, aka UNSTOPPABLE Stacey, is a seasoned travel journalist. She refers to herself as “UNSTOPPABLE Stacey” because Stacey don’t let age, gender or family stop her from traveling. Stacey observes, “My hubby prefers not to travel, so I typically go solo.” She resides in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Stacey was part of IFWTWA’s Conference at Sea aboard Discovery Princess for the Pacific Coast Wine and Food Experience. She shares her observations on Discovery Princess, visiting Victoria and going whale watching in a very tiny boat and also being a participant in 360: An Extraordinary Experience aboard ship.

Read her blog for highlights of Stacey’s post-cruise visit in West Hollywood, CA.

Stacey Wittig is our well-traveled guest

Show 525, May 13, 2023: Executive Chef and Pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi, Pizzana Part One

Daniele Uditi of Pizzana

Daniele Uditi is the master pizzaiolo and executive chef responsible for creating the network of Pizzana restaurants. Chef Uditi joins us with pizza peel in hand. “Since opening the Neo-Neapolitan pizzeria with Candace & Charles Nelson (Sprinkles Cupcakes) and partners in 2017 in Brentwood, Daniele has established himself as one of the country’s most revered pizzaiolos. LA Times’ restaurant critic Bill Addison recently noted that Pizzana “arguably ushered in L.A.’s current golden age of pizza.” Daniele has been praised for establishing new trends in the pizza landscape, including his signature cacio e pepe pie, and also lent his expertise as the head judge in Hulu‘s “Best in Dough” competition series.”

“An artisan who learned his craft growing up in Naples, Italy, Daniele incorporates his training from some of the best pizzerias in Campania with his Family Bakery’s traditional bread recipes. Since his arrival in Los Angeles in Los Angeles in 2010, his signature “slow dough” neo-neapolitan pizzas have garnered a passionate international following of pizza lovers and celebrities.”

Daniele gives credit to the late food journalist Jonathan Gold (Los Angeles Times) for establishing Pizzana on the local pizza landscape shortly after the opening in Brentwood in 2017. Gold glowingly compared Pizzana’s Margherita to the very best in the world.

The standout desserts including a memorable moist chocolate cake with rich dark chocolate frosting and vanilla bean ice cream are the creations of Co-Founder Candace Nelson.

Chef Daniele and team have expanded Pizzana from Brentwood with locations now in West Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Dallas and the most recent opening in Silver Lake. Marina del Rey is on the horizon.

Show 525, May 13, 2023: Executive Chef and Pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi, Pizzana Part Two

Daniele Uditi of Pizzana

Daniele Uditi is the master pizzaiolo and executive chef responsible for creating the network of Pizzana restaurants. Chef Uditi continues with us with a pizza peel in hand and a Cacio e Pepe pizza at the ready. “Since opening the Neo-Neapolitan pizzeria with Candace & Charles Nelson (Sprinkles Cupcakes) and partners in 2017 in Brentwood, Daniele has established himself as one of the country’s most revered pizzaiolos. LA Times’ restaurant critic Bill Addison recently noted that Pizzana “arguably ushered in L.A.’s current golden age of pizza.” Daniele has been praised for establishing new trends in the pizza landscape, including his signature cacio e pepe pie, and also lent his expertise as the head judge in Hulu‘s “Best in Dough” competition series.”

“An artisan who learned his craft growing up in Naples, Italy, Daniele incorporates his training from some of the best pizzerias in Campania with his Family Bakery’s traditional bread recipes. Since his arrival in Los Angeles in Los Angeles in 2010, his signature “slow dough” neo-neapolitan pizzas have garnered a passionate international following of pizza lovers and celebrities.”

The standout desserts including a memorable moist chocolate cake with rich dark chocolate frosting and vanilla bean ice cream are the creations of Co-Founder Candace Nelson.

Chef Daniele and team have expanded Pizzana from Brentwood with locations now in West Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Dallas and the most recent opening in Silver Lake. Marina del Rey is on the horizon.

Show 516, March 11, 2023: Formosa Café in West Hollywood with Bobby Green of the 1933 Group Part One

Bobby Green of the 1933 Group

The Formosa Café in West Hollywood first opened its doors in 1939 making its new, revitalized debut in its 80th year in 2019 under the stewardship of the 1933 Group known for impressive and thoughtful historic renovations of iconic restaurants including, most recently, Tail o’the Pup.

“Located in 1939 across from the then-Samuel Goldwyn studio (now known as The Lot,) stars like Frank Sinatra, Humphrey Bogart, James Dean, and Elvis Presley would pop into the legendary Formosa Cafe regularly for dining and drinks. On any given day, patrons might have seen Ava Gardner dancing past the old, red leather booths, or John Wayne nursing a late-night scotch (he was caught making scrambled eggs in their kitchen one morning, after reportedly passing out in a booth the night before).”

“Among the artful interior design restorations by the 1933 Group is the full reveal of the iconic and original red trolley car, dating back to 1904 and is confirmed to be the oldest surviving red train car remaining in existence. Boxes of autographed celebrity photos and storage units of original memorabilia have thoughtfully made their way back into the Cafe.”

“1933 Group partner, Bobby Green, worked with local Los Angeles archivists and hospitality notables who helped to develop the new food and cocktail menu: a retrospective of Formosa’s culinary evolution since the 1920’s. The new Formosa not only transports guests back in time to the glory days of Hollywood, but with its new, refreshed menu guests are given another way to connect to a special part of Los Angeles gastronomic history, too.”

The heart and soul of the revitalization of Formosa Café, Bobby Green of 1933 Group, joins us with chopsticks in hand.

Show 516, March 11, 2023: Formosa Café in West Hollywood with Bobby Green of the 1933 Group Part Two

Bobby Green of the 1933 Group

The Formosa Café in West Hollywood first opened its doors in 1939 making its new, revitalized debut in its 80th year in 2019 under the stewardship of the 1933 Group known for impressive and thoughtful historic renovations of iconic restaurants including, most recently, Tail o’the Pup.

“Located in 1939 across from the then-Samuel Goldwyn studio (now known as The Lot,) stars like Frank Sinatra, Humphrey Bogart, James Dean, and Elvis Presley would pop into the legendary Formosa Cafe regularly for dining and drinks. On any given day, patrons might have seen Ava Gardner dancing past the old, red leather booths, or John Wayne nursing a late-night scotch (he was caught making scrambled eggs in their kitchen one morning, after reportedly passing out in a booth the night before).”

“Among the artful interior design restorations by the 1933 Group is the full reveal of the iconic and original red trolley car, dating back to 1904 and is confirmed to be the oldest surviving red train car remaining in existence. Boxes of autographed celebrity photos and storage units of original memorabilia have thoughtfully made their way back into the Cafe.”

“1933 Group partner, Bobby Green, worked with local Los Angeles archivists and hospitality notables who helped to develop the new food and cocktail menu: a retrospective of Formosa’s culinary evolution since the 1920’s. The new Formosa not only transports guests back in time to the glory days of Hollywood, but with its new, refreshed menu guests are given another way to connect to a special part of Los Angeles gastronomic history, too.”

The heart and soul of the revitalization of Formosa Café, Bobby Green of 1933 Group, continues with us with a Mai Tai (decorated with a little red umbrella) in hand.

Show 509, January 28, 2023: Kathy Sidell, Founder, Saltie Girl Seafood Bar, West Hollywood Part One

Kathy Sidell of Saltie Girl

“Late last December Saltie Girl, the beloved Boston destination for pristine and sustainable seafood, opened a Los Angeles location on Sunset Boulevard in the heart of West Hollywood. Inspired by founder Kathy Sidell’s East Coast upbringing and a serendipitous meal at a wine bar in Barcelona, Saltie Girl reimagines the experience of classic seafood restaurants with a modern approach that reveals influences and ingredients from revered coastal regions around the world. Saltie Girl represents an intersection of those inspirations while showcasing the team’s meticulous sourcing and long-cultivated relationships with fishmongers and purveyors. An expansive raw bar selection and one of the country’s largest collections of tinned fish further emphasizes Saltie Girl’s celebration of every iteration of seafood.”

“With the opening, culinary director Kyle McClelland’s menu showcases Saltie Girl favorites alongside new dishes that reveal California influences and highlight local fishers and purveyors. McClelland’s broad menu features seafood towers, daily oyster and raw bar selections, farmer’s market salads and bright, seasonal crudos. Signature offerings include Fried Lobster & Waffles with sweet corn butter and spicy maple syrup; Clam Chowder; and Lump Crab Toast with pistachios, avocado and stracciatella. Contemporary preparations of seafood classics will also be available such as Moules Frites, French Dover Sole and Saltie Girl Lobster Roll. Saltie Girl also boasts a separate caviar menu and a collection of over 130 varieties of tinned fish which can be ordered alongside fresh bread and accoutrements.”

“A full bar program complements the culinary experience with a well-balanced wine list showcasing international and biodynamic producers, Saltie Girl’s proprietary Rosé, and a champagne by-the-glass program. Cocktails showcasing seasonal ingredients and classic preparations include the Saltie Martini with vodka or gin, castelvetrano olive, pickled onion and caviar.”

Ben Sidell, founder of SweetBoy bakery and Kathy’s son, helms the pastry program, bringing his popular pop-up to life within Saltie Girl. His menu showcasing playful twists on classic desserts expands in the restaurant setting with plated desserts such as a Yuzu Persimmon Tart and Apple Tarte Tatin, with Ben lending his talents to savory pastries, as well, including buns to accompany the caviar service.

The “Saltie Girl” herself, Kathy Sidell, is our guest with lobster cracker in hand.

Show 509, January 28, 2023: Kathy Sidell, Founder, Saltie Girl Seafood Bar, West Hollywood Part Two

Kathy Sidell of Saltie Girl

“Late last December Saltie Girl, the beloved Boston destination for pristine and sustainable seafood, opened a Los Angeles location on Sunset Boulevard in the heart of West Hollywood. Inspired by founder Kathy Sidell’s East Coast upbringing and a serendipitous meal at a wine bar in Barcelona, Saltie Girl reimagines the experience of classic seafood restaurants with a modern approach that reveals influences and ingredients from revered coastal regions around the world. Saltie Girl represents an intersection of those inspirations while showcasing the team’s meticulous sourcing and long-cultivated relationships with fishmongers and purveyors. An expansive raw bar selection and one of the country’s largest collections of tinned fish further emphasizes Saltie Girl’s celebration of every iteration of seafood.”

“With the opening, culinary director Kyle McClelland’s menu showcases Saltie Girl favorites alongside new dishes that reveal California influences and highlight local fishers and purveyors. McClelland’s broad menu features seafood towers, daily oyster and raw bar selections, farmer’s market salads and bright, seasonal crudos. Signature offerings include Fried Lobster & Waffles with sweet corn butter and spicy maple syrup; Clam Chowder; and Lump Crab Toast with pistachios, avocado and stracciatella. Contemporary preparations of seafood classics will also be available such as Moules Frites, French Dover Sole and Saltie Girl Lobster Roll. Saltie Girl also boasts a separate caviar menu and a collection of over 130 varieties of tinned fish which can be ordered alongside fresh bread and accoutrements.”

“A full bar program complements the culinary experience with a well-balanced wine list showcasing international and biodynamic producers, Saltie Girl’s proprietary Rosé, and a champagne by-the-glass program. Cocktails showcasing seasonal ingredients and classic preparations include the Saltie Martini with vodka or gin, castelvetrano olive, pickled onion and caviar.”

Ben Sidell, founder of SweetBoy bakery and Kathy’s son, helms the pastry program, bringing his popular pop-up to life within Saltie Girl. His menu showcasing playful twists on classic desserts expands in the restaurant setting with plated desserts such as a Yuzu Persimmon Tart and Apple Tarte Tatin, with Ben lending his talents to savory pastries, as well, including buns to accompany the caviar service.

The “Saltie Girl” herself, Kathy Sidell, is our guest with lobster cracker in hand.

Show 504, December 17, 2022: Tail o’ the Pup, West Hollywood, with Proprietor Dimitri Komarov, 1933 Group Part One

Dimitri Komarov of the 1933 Group

“The return of the iconic Tail o’ the Pup (originally located on S. La Cienega Blvd. across from the SLS Hotel) is a direct reflection of proprietor 1933 Group’s (Highland Park Bowl, The Formosa Café) dedication to preserving, protecting, and reviving Los Angeles History. Tail o’ the Pup’s giant hotdog shaped building has been attracting visitors to Hollywood since 1946. This ambitious revival isn’t just about nostalgia. The 1933 Group aims to not only celebrate Tail o’ the Pup’s past, but also pave the way for new endeavors and memories which can be celebrated for years to come.”

“The 1933 Group’s team is dedicated to creating tasty dogs, snacks, shakes, and more that satisfy modern tastes while honoring Tail o’ the Pup’s rich history. The 1933 Group works tirelessly to source high quality ingredients and develop house-made recipes with their guests in mind. They are proud to feature a surprisingly diverse menu featuring vegetarian and gluten-free options.” In the proud tradition of Tail o’ The Pup there is even a Doggy Menu where you can “Pamper Your Pup.”

Also a full liquor license with a nightly Happy Hour ($5 lagers) from 6 to 9:00 p.m.

“Formed nearly two decades ago, the 1933 Group helms a lauded portfolio of bars and restaurants in Los Angeles, including the historical restorations of Highland Park Bowl and the barrel-shaped bar Idle Hour in North Hollywood, Harlowe in West Hollywood, Sassafras in Hollywood, La Cuevita in Highland Park, Bigfoot Lodge in Los Feliz, Thirsty Crow in Silver Lake, Culver City’s Bigfoot West and Oldfield’s Liquor Room. The latest additions are the iconic Formosa Café and the restored and expanded Tail o’ the Pup. Combining design aesthetics that embrace various time periods in early America with a passion for cocktails and the revival of the art of bartending, owners Bobby Green, Dimitri Komarov, and Dmitry Liberman create imaginative libations and scenes throughout LA’s drinking landscape. Each concept reflects bold, modern interpretations, reflective of the company’s dynamic partners and memorable eras.”

1933 Group’s Co-Founder, Dimitri Komarov, is our guest with a Chicago Pup in hand.