SoCal Restaurant Show

“Ian McCall’s ISM Brewing & Kitchen in Downtown Long Beach marks its second anniversary with a three-day celebration (December 12th - 14th) highlighting fresh beer, community partnerships, culinary creativity, and local artistry. The anniversary weekend invites guests to celebrate alongside the ISM team with three days of fresh craft beer, friends, and family. ISM’s kitchen will offer a special “greatest hits” menu along with limited-time dishes created by the culinary team, led by Chef Bobby Gill.” Ian McCall joins us to tap the keg on all that is ISM Brewing.

Every Christmas Eve Baker Dean Kim of OC Baking...

“Coravin, Inc. is the leading global innovator of wine-by-the-glass systems, transforming how the world experiences wine. Since the company launched in the USA in 2013, Coravin’s pioneering technology has empowered trade professionals and wine lovers alike to explore, enjoy and serve wine without compromise. Trusted by leading sommeliers, retailers and wine lovers around the world, the Coravin portfolio includes Coravin Timeless, Coravin Pivot and Coravin Sparkling wine-by-the-glass systems. These systems allow wine to be poured in any amount, at any time, with the remaining wine completely unaffected — even years later.” Founder and Inventor Greg Lambrecht joins us to uncork all that...

“Ian McCall’s ISM Brewing & Kitchen in Downtown Long Beach marks its second anniversary with a three-day celebration (December 12th - 14th) highlighting fresh beer, community partnerships, culinary creativity, and local artistry.”

“In 2025, ISM earned significant recognition on the global and national stage, bringing home two silver medals at the World Beer Cup for Hamburghini, its Italian Pilsner, and Plough & Harrow, its Classic Saison. The brewery also secured a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival in the New Zealand-Style IPA category for Chepedelic. Throughout the year, ISM continued to build community through food and beer collabor...

We’re broadcasting from Rio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas on December 20th at High Steaks, located 50 floors above the fabled Las Vegas Strip! Please join us.

“Ian McCall’s ISM Brewing & Kitchen in Downtown Long Beach marks its second anniversary with a three-day celebration (December 12th - 14th) highlighting fresh beer, community partnerships, culinary creativity, and local artistry. The anniversary weekend invites guests to celebrate alongside the ISM team with three days of fresh craft beer, friends, and family. ISM’s kitchen will offer a special “greatest hits” menu along with limited-time dishes created by the culinary team, led by...

Every Christmas Eve Baker Dean Kim of OC Baking in Orange puts on a mouthwatering Holiday Marketplace Pop-Up featuring the very best in local food products from area small businesses. It’s everything from artisan pastries, holiday breads, pies, cakes, handmade treasures and even gourmet soup. The doors open at 8:00 a.m. and it runs until 1:00 p.m. For best selection plan to arrive early! Most participants operate on a cash basis.

Joining us is OC Baking’s Master Baker Dean Kim and Lisa Gilmore of Soup’d Up.

“Coravin, Inc. is the leading global innovator of wine-by-the-glass systems, transforming how the world experiences wine. Since the company launched in the USA in 2013, Coravin’s pioneering technology has empowered trade professionals and wine lovers alike to explore, enjoy and serve wine without compromise.”

“Trusted by leading sommeliers, retailers and wine lovers around the world, the Coravin portfolio includes Coravin Timeless, Coravin Pivot and Coravin Sparkling wine-by-the-glass systems. These systems allow wine (including sparkling wine) to be poured in any amount, at any time, with the remaining wine completely unaffected — even years later.”

Founder and Inventor Gre...

“Coravin, Inc. is the leading global innovator of wine-by-the-glass systems, transforming how the world experiences wine. Since the company launched in the USA in 2013, Coravin’s pioneering technology has empowered trade professionals and wine lovers alike to explore, enjoy and serve wine without compromise.”

“Trusted by leading sommeliers, retailers and wine lovers around the world, the Coravin portfolio includes Coravin Timeless, Coravin Pivot and Coravin Sparkling wine-by-the-glass systems. These systems allow wine (including sparkling wine) to be poured in any amount, at any time, with the remaining wine completely unaffected — even years later.”

“Coravin was born from my p...

Food walking tours led by knowledgeable locals are a great way to experience the local flavors of any destination. Oceanside’s Carla & Linda’s Local Tours “offers area specific beer, wine and food tours. As true insider’s guests experience an intriguing variety of the local flavors in Oceanside and nearby Vista.”

“Local Tours operates a tour company that shows guests the unique things Oceanside has to offer. The tours specialize in the community's food, beer and wine scenes while celebrating the independently owned businesses that make Oceanside so special. Tour guests meet innovative Chefs, world renowned brewers and...

“The Jewish Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, starts at sundown on Sunday, December 14th. A tradition at The Milky Way (a long-established Kosher-Dairy restaurant) in the Pico-Robertson area of Los Angeles is the availability of special Hanukkah Boxes available from December 14th through December 22nd.”

“The Latke Kits contain a dozen crispy Latkes with sour cream and Chef Phil Kastel’s house-made apple compote along with reheating instructions.”

“The salivating Sufganiyot Box features six decadent Jelly Doughnuts made by The Milky Way’s friends at Mensch Bakery.”

“Each order comes beautifully packaged in Milky Way’s blue tulip bo...

How important are Michelin Stars or any Michelin recognition to a thriving restaurant? What is the Bib Gourmet designation? How does Michelin (a for-profit enterprise) monetize their ratings? How are the annual Michelin judgements determined? Chef Andrew explains…

In today’s unsettled restaurant universe the guests’ experience with the valet parker at the entrance can set the scene for the entire evening’s dining experience. It can be positive or, unfortunately, decidedly negative. Brad Saltzman of Dragonfly Parking is a hospitality veteran who operates one of the premiere, hospitality-oriented valet parking services in greater Los Angeles. He has overseen the valet parking service, for example, at Nancy Silverton’s acclaimed Osteria Mozza in Hollywood at the busy corner of Melrose Ave. and Highland Ave.since the beginning. (What more of an endorsement could you possibly ask for?) Brad joi...

Our guest, Tony Dang, is the Corporate Executive Chef for the 27 Gelson’s stores in Southern California. Every location has a Gelson’s Kitchen where shoppers can get everything from fresh coleslaw to full meals mostly prepared in the onsite kitchen. On offer are full Hanukkah and Christmas meals or all the components available separately. There are also a variety of chef-created meals to-go. Most stores even have an onsite sushi chef. Chef Tony personally conducts interactive cooking classes and demonstrations as well as cooks for in-store wine-paired dinners.

“Carter Creek Winery, located in the heart of Texas...

In today’s unsettled restaurant universe the guests’ experience with the valet parker at the entrance can set the scene for the entire evening’s dining experience. It can be positive or, unfortunately, decidedly negative. Brad Saltzman of Dragonfly Parking is a hospitality veteran who operates one of the premiere, hospitality-oriented valet parking services in greater Los Angeles. He has overseen the valet parking service, for example, at Nancy Silverton’s acclaimed Osteria Mozza in Hollywood at the busy corner of Melrose Ave. and Highland Ave.since the beginning. (What more of an endorsement could you possibly ask for?) Brad joi...

In today’s hectic restaurant universe the guests’ experience with the valet parker at the entrance can set the scene for the entire evening’s dining experience. It can be positive or, unfortunately, decidedly negative. Brad Saltzman of Dragonfly Parking is a hospitality veteran who operates one of the premiere, hospitality- oriented valet parking services in greater Los Angeles. He has overseen the valet parking service, for example, at Nancy Silverton’s acclaimed Osteria Mozza in Hollywood at the busy corner of Melrose and Highland Avenues almost since the beginning. (What more of an endorsement could you possibly ask for?) Br...

“Our guest, Katie Chin, is a celebrity chef, award-winning cookbook author, spokesperson, food blogger and the Culinary Ambassador to the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.”

We’re talking about National Cookie Day and Katie shares a recipe (Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies) which is one of Challenge Butter’s Signature Holiday Cookies. It’s cookies for a cause benefiting National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. https://socalrestaurantshow.com/blog/cranberry-pistachio-shortbread-cookies/

Katie’s acclaimed one-woman show, “Holy Shiitake! A Wok Star is Born,” returns to the Whitefire Theater in Sherman Oaks on February 21st.

Our guest, Tony Dang, is the Corporate Executive Chef for the 27 Gelson’s stores in Southern California. Every location has a Gelson’s Kitchen where shoppers can get everything from fresh coleslaw to full meals mostly all prepared in the onsite kitchen. On offer are full Hanukkah and Christmas meals or all the components available separately. There are also a variety of enticing chef-created meals to-go. Most stores even have an onsite sushi chef.

Chef Tony also conducts interactive cooking classes and demonstrations as well as cooks for in-store, wine-paired dinners.

The newest Gelson’s will b...

Our continuing guest, Tony Dang, is the Corporate Executive Chef for the 27 Gelson’s stores in Southern California. Every location has a Gelson’s Kitchen where shoppers can get everything from fresh coleslaw to full meals typically prepared in the onsite kitchen. On offer are full Hanukkah and Christmas meals or all the components available separately. There are also a variety of chef-created meals to-go. Most stores even have an onsite sushi chef.

Chef Tony also conducts interactive cooking classes and demonstrations as well as cooks for in-store wine-paired dinners.

The newest Gelson’s will be ope...

“Carter Creek Winery, located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and owned by the Carter family, earned six prestigious awards at the 2025 Vine2Wine International Wine Competition sponsored by the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR), held October 18-20, 2025.”

Their founding winemaker, Jon McPherson, is a distinguished second -generation winemaker (the son of pioneering Texas winemaker Clinton “Doc” McPherson and the brother of McPherson Cellars’ Kim McPherson) and the McPherson Family still plays a leading role in contemporary Texas winemaking. “Doc McPherson” firmly established that Sangiovese and Tempranillo wine grapes could grow well in the Texas High Plains.<...

Carter Creek Winery, located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and owned by the Carter family, earned six prestigious awards at the 2025 Vine2Wine International Wine Competition sponsored by the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR), held October 18-20, 2025.

Their founding winemaker, Jon McPherson, is a distinguished second -generation winemaker (the son of pioneering Texas winemaker Clinton “Doc” McPherson and the brother of McPherson Cellars’ Kim McPherson) and the McPherson Family still plays a leading role in contemporary Texas winemaking. “Doc McPherson” firmly established that Sangiovese and Tempranillo wine grapes could grow well in the Texas High Plain...

“Spotlighting San Martin’s (Santa Clara County, CA) Terra Amico Farms, a thriving organic and regenerative heirloom tomato farm nestled in the countryside between Morgan Hill and Gilroy. The farm is dedicated to sustainable agricultural practices that not only produce the highest quality and best tasting tomatoes but also rejuvenate the land and support biodiversity.  At Terra Amico Farms, they believe in the power of community and the joy of connecting people with the source of their food. Terra Amico Farms’ commitment to organic farming ensures that their tomatoes are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, preserving the health of the...

“Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach has enthusiastically welcomed back the encore of Pete’s Christmas Vacation for its second year, returning by popular demand. Running currently through January 3, the festive pop-up transforms Pete’s Sunset Grille into a coastal winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, cozy outdoor igloos, and a cheerful seasonal menu.” Executive Chef Manfred Lassahn and General Manager Jon Benson join us to unwrap all that is the encore of Pete’s Christmas Vacation.

“The name Wolfgang Puck is synonymous with the best of restaurant hospitality and the ultimate in all aspects of the culinary arts.” Our guest, Byron Laz...

Welcome to our post-Thanksgiving, “No Leftovers,” broadcast.


“Spotlighting San Martin’s (Santa Clara County, CA) Terra Amico Farms, a thriving organic and regenerative heirloom tomato farm nestled in the countryside between Morgan Hill and Gilroy. The farm is dedicated to sustainable agricultural practices that not only produce the highest quality and best tasting tomatoes but also rejuvenate the land and support biodiversity.  At Terra Amico Farms, they believe in the power of community and the joy of connecting people with the source of their food. Terra Amico Farms’ commitment to organic farming ensures that their tomatoes are grown without...

“Welcome to San Martin’s (Santa Clara County, CA) Terra Amico Farms, a thriving organic and regenerative heirloom tomato farm nestled in the countryside between Morgan Hill and Gilroy. The farm is dedicated to sustainable agricultural practices that not only produce the highest quality and best tasting tomatoes but also rejuvenate the land and support biodiversity.  At Terra Amico Farms, they believe in the power of community and the joy of connecting people with the source of their food.”

“Terra Amico Farms commitment to organic farming ensures that their tomatoes are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, preservin...

“Michael Brughelli founded his eponymous wine brand in 2018. His wines represent the culmination of a full and purposeful career in the wine industry, and a meaningful life as a father, husband, brother and son. Precise and intentional, these wines pay tribute to Michael’s Swiss-Italian roots, while building upon an American family legacy.”

“The brand is represented by two animals found in the heraldry crest of the town Lavertezzo, in the Canton of Locarno; the Brughelli family homeland. The lion equates valor and courage. The pelican embodies charity. As a former first responder, these symbols have influenced Michael...

“Welcome to San Martin’s (Santa Clara County, CA) Terra Amico Farms, a thriving organic and regenerative heirloom tomato farm nestled in the countryside between Morgan Hill and Gilroy. The farm is dedicated to sustainable agricultural practices that not only produce the highest quality and best tasting tomatoes but also rejuvenate the land and support biodiversity.  At Terra Amico Farms, they believe in the power of community and the joy of connecting people with the source of their food.”

“Terra Amico Farms commitment to organic farming ensures that their tomatoes are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, preservin...

“Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach has enthusiastically welcomed back the encore of Pete’s Christmas Vacation for its second year, returning by popular demand. Running  currently through January 3, the festive pop-up transforms Pete’s Sunset Grille into a coastal winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, cozy outdoor igloos, a festive holiday libation program and a cheerful seasonal menu.”

“The menu features holiday favorites with a festive twist, from Bah Humbug Fries with smoked paprika aioli and Sleigh Bell Wings glazed in honey sriracha or spicy cranberry, to the Charcutewreath, a playful take on the classic board with Bavarian pretzel, artisan chee...

“The name Wolfgang Puck is synonymous with the best of restaurant hospitality and the ultimate in all aspects of the culinary arts. Our guest, Byron Lazaroff- Puck, is the President of Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining. The award-winning restaurants in the Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group include Chinois (Santa Monica); Carama by Wolfgang Puck (Las Vegas); CUT (Bahrain Bay, Beverly Hills, DC, Las Vegas, London, and Singapore); Spago (Beverly Hills, Istanbul, Las Vegas, Maui, Bodrum and Singapore); re Asian Cuisine (Bahrain Bay); Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill (Las Vegas and Orlando); and Merois (Los Angeles).

“Wolfgang Puck has built a br...

“The name Wolfgang Puck is synonymous with the best of restaurant hospitality and the ultimate in all aspects of the culinary arts. Our continuing guest, Byron Lazaroff- Puck, is the President of Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining. The award-winning restaurants in the Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group include Chinois (Santa Monica); Carama by Wolfgang Puck (Las Vegas); CUT (Bahrain Bay, Beverly Hills, DC, Las Vegas, London, and Singapore); Spago (Beverly Hills, Istanbul, Las Vegas, Maui, Bodrum and Singapore); re Asian Cuisine (Bahrain Bay); Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill (Las Vegas and Orlando); and Merois (Los Angeles).

“Born and raised in L...

We return to the irritating subject of the ever-increasing swipe fees that restaurateurs are charged on credit card sales. As menu prices necessarily need to increase the mammoth credit card processing entities automatically gain more income without any extra expense. A Catch-22 for the already squeezed hospitality industry. A new settlement agreement with Visa and MasterCard has perhaps marginally reduced these fees somewhat. Chef Andrew questions if this is a really meaningful development.

“From the BBQ Hall of Famer and New York Times bestselling author of Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling comes The Meathead Method, a masterclass in the science and art of outdoor cooking. Meathead offers readers an informative, comprehensive, and fun guide to BBQ and grilling all backed by the latest culinary science. From mastering fire, smoke, and heat to discovering the intricacies of flavors, this book is more than just a cookbook—it’s a reference manual which guides us on a journey into the heart of what makes great food.” Meathead is our encore guest with insigh...

“Farmhouse Vineyards is a family-owned Texas vineyard rooted in tradition, hard work, and a passion for exceptional wine. Owned and operated by two pairs of brothers and sisters-in-law, each member bringing a different personality to the company. The Seaton’s & Furgeson’s are comprised of 8 generations currently farming 7,000 acres of Cotton, Peanuts, Black Eyed Peas, Melons, Pumpkins, Various Grains, Dorper Sheep & Premium Texas Wine Grapes. Generations of dedication have led to the creation of wines that truly embody the Texas terroir. Farmhouse Vineyards is incredibly proud to boast #TheBestDamnClientList in Texas. Farmhouse Vineyards grows fruit for some of the larges...

“From the BBQ Hall of Famer and New York Times bestselling author of Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling comes The Meathead Method, a masterclass in the science and art of outdoor cooking. Meathead offers readers an informative, comprehensive, and fun guide to BBQ, grilling, and griddling, all backed by the latest culinary science. With more than 110 creative and non-traditional recipes, The Meathead Method provides both indoor and outdoor cooks with tools to elevate their skills. From mastering fire, smoke, and heat to discovering the intricacies of flavors, this book is more than just a cookbook—it’s a refere...

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the “SoCal Restaurant Show.”

“From the BBQ Hall of Famer and New York Times bestselling author of Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling comes The Meathead Method, a masterclass in the science and art of outdoor cooking. Meathead offers readers an informative, comprehensive, and fun guide to BBQ and grilling all backed by the latest culinary science. From mastering fire, smoke, and heat to discovering the intricacies of flavors, this book is more than just a cookbook—it’s a reference manual which guides us on a journey into the hear...

“From the BBQ Hall of Famer and New York Times bestselling author of Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling comes The Meathead Method, a masterclass in the science and art of outdoor cooking. Meathead offers readers an informative, comprehensive, and fun guide to BBQ, grilling, and griddling, all backed by the latest culinary science. With more than 110 creative and non-traditional recipes, The Meathead Method provides both indoor and outdoor cooks with tools to elevate their skills. From mastering fire, smoke, and heat to discovering the intricacies of flavors, this book is more than just a cookbook—it’s a refere...

“Farmhouse Vineyards is a family-owned Texas vineyard rooted in tradition, hard work, and a passion for exceptional wine. Owned and operated by two pairs of brothers and sisters-in-law, each member bringing a different personality to the company. The Seaton’s & Furgeson’s are comprised of 8 generations currently farming 7,000 acres of Cotton, Peanuts, Black Eyed Peas, Melons, Pumpkins, Various Grains, Dorper Sheep & Premium Texas Wine Grapes.”

“Generations of dedication have led to the creation of wines that truly embody the Texas terroir. Farmhouse Vineyards is incredibly proud to boast #TheBestDamnClientList in Texas. Farmhouse Vineyards grows fruit for some of the lar...

“Farmhouse Vineyards is a family-owned Texas vineyard rooted in tradition, hard work, and a passion for exceptional wine. Owned and operated by two pairs of brothers and sisters-in-law, each member bringing a different personality to the company. The Seaton’s & Furgeson’s are comprised of 8 generations currently farming 7,000 acres of Cotton, Peanuts, Black Eyed Peas, Melons, Pumpkins, Various Grains, Dorper Sheep & Premium Texas Wine Grapes.”

“Generations of dedication have led to the creation of wines that truly embody the Texas terroir. Farmhouse Vineyards is incredibly proud to boast #TheBestDamnClientList in Texas. Farmhouse Vineyards grows fruit for some of the lar...

“Hospitality veteran Drew Nieporent has been a staple of the New York dining scene for decades, establishing a host of iconic restaurants like Nobu, Tribeca Grill, and Montrachet. But his career started from much more humble beginnings—the grill at the local McDonald’s.”



“A middle class kid from New York’s East Side, Drew spends his childhood tagging along with his father to help restaurants get their liquor license, igniting a lifelong obsession with food. His passion takes him on a winding, continent-spanning journey, crossing paths with legendary chefs, iconic athletes, and movie stars as he grows into one o...

“Hospitality veteran Drew Nieporent has been a staple of the New York dining scene for decades, establishing a host of iconic restaurants like Nobu, Tribeca Grill, and Montrachet. But his career started from much more humble beginnings—the grill at the local McDonald’s.”



“A middle class kid from New York’s East Side, Drew spends his childhood tagging along with his father to help restaurants get their liquor license, igniting a lifelong obsession with food. His passion takes him on a winding, continent-spanning journey, crossing paths with legendary chefs, iconic athletes, and movie stars as he grows into one o...

Chef Andrew has some tips to make the Thanksgiving meal prep a little less stressful. Is a fresh turkey really superior to a flash frozen bird in terms of price and value? How about a recipe for an easy to make cranberry sauce that bests the familiar can variety any day of the week and tasty house-made stuffing that’s almost free?

“Right in the heart of Downtown Lafayette, LA you'll find Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant—where fresh 
flavors meet laid-back vibes, and your taste buds come to party. Housed in a retrofitted circa 1939 service station with restored neon signs, Spoonbill serves up the Gulf's finest with locally sourced ingredients that turn every bite into a Louisiana love letter. In 2020 they were a nominee for the James Beard Foundation’s Award for “Best New Restaurant Design.” Whether you're sipping a creative cocktail, enjoying a craft beer, or diving into top-tier seafood, it's the perfect spot to swap stories and toast to the good tim...

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the dynamic Las Vegas dining scene. Al joins us sharing some dining tidbits including the opening of the relocated Bazaar Meats by Jose Andres at The Venetian/Palazzo and the newly debuted High Steaks at the apex of the revitalized Rio helmed by local Las Vegas Celebrity Chef & Restaurateur James Trees. Al also is the creator of the “Food & Loathing” weekly podcast highlighting the Las Vegas dining scene. A new assignment for Al is as a contributor to Las Vegas Insider. The 4th year anniversary of not...

“Right in the heart of Downtown Lafayette, LA you'll find Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant—where fresh 
flavors meet laid-back vibes, and your taste buds come to party. Housed in a retrofitted circa 1939 service station with restored neon signs, Spoonbill serves up the Gulf's finest with locally sourced ingredients that turn every bite into a Louisiana love letter. In 2020 they were a nominee for the James Beard Foundation’s Award for “Best New Restaurant Design.” Whether you're sipping a creative cocktail, enjoying a craft beer, or diving into top-tier seafood, it's the perfect spot to swap stories and toast to the good tim...

“Right in the heart of Downtown Lafayette, LA you'll find Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant—where fresh 
flavors meet laid-back vibes, and your taste buds come to party. Housed in a cleverly retrofitted service station with restored neon signs, Spoonbill serves up the Gulf's finest with locally sourced ingredients that turn every bite into a Louisiana love letter.\”

“Whether you're sipping a creative cocktail, enjoying a craft beer, or diving into top-tier seafood, it's the perfect spot to swap stories and toast to the good times. Spoonbill isn't just a restaurant-it's where locals go to feel like they're on vacatio...

“Right in the heart of Downtown Lafayette, LA you'll find Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant—where fresh
flavors meet laid-back vibes, and your taste buds come to party. Housed in a retrofitted (circa 1939) service station with restored neon signs, Spoonbill serves up the Gulf's finest with locally sourced ingredients that turn every bite into a Louisiana love letter.”

“Whether you're sipping a creative cocktail, enjoying a craft beer, or diving into top-tier seafood, it's the perfect spot to swap stories and toast to the good times. Spoonbill isn't just a restaurant-it's where locals go to feel like they're on vacatio...

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the dynamic Las Vegas dining scene. Al joins us sharing some dining tidbits including the opening of the relocated Bazaar Meats by Jose Andres at The Venetian and the newly debuted High Steaks at the apex of the revitalized Rio helmed by local Las Vegas Celebrity Chef & Restaurateur James Trees.

Al also is the creator of the “Food & Loathing” weekly podcast highlighting the Las Vegas dining scene. A new assignment for Al is as a contributor to Las Vegas Insider

The 4th yea...

Al Mancini is our always in-the-know guest with highlights of what’s new on the dynamic Las Vegas dining scene. Al joins us sharing some dining tidbits including the opening of the relocated Bazaar Meats by Jose Andres at The Venetian and the newly debuted High Steaks at the apex of the revitalized Rio helmed by local Las Vegas Celebrity Chef & Restaurateur James Trees. Also a quick mention of the Bellagio’s ultra VIP Celebrity Chef lounge for the upcoming Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Al is the creator of the “Food & Loathing” weekly podcast highlighting the Las Vega...

“Ini Ristorante’s (Fountain Valley) culinary concept draws inspiration from the seasonality and simplicity of Japanese and Italian flavors and seeks to find the perfect harmony between the two. Chef-driven and culturally inspired, Ini Ristorante’s menu combines Japanese and Italian cuisine’s ingredients, tastes, and techniques to bring you an unmatched dining experience.” 

“Ini Ristorante features Japanese-inspired Italian cuisine produced by Kei Concepts’ Founder and Chef Viet Nguyen and his diversely talented culinary team.” Chef Viet and his team traveled to Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan to research the menu.

​“Ini Ristorante's interior design invokes a sense of comfort an...

“Ini Ristorante’s (Fountain Valley) culinary concept draws inspiration from the seasonality and simplicity of Japanese and Italian flavors and seeks to find the perfect harmony between the two. Chef-driven and culturally inspired, Ini Ristorante’s menu combines Japanese and Italian cuisine’s ingredients, tastes, and techniques to bring you an unmatched dining experience.” 

“Ini Ristorante features Japanese-inspired Italian cuisine produced by Kei Concepts’ Chef Viet Nguyen and his diversely talented culinary team.” Chef Viet and his team traveled to Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan to research the menu.

“Ini Ristorante's interior design invokes a sense of comfort and fami...

Buying eggs is a bit of a challenge (cost aside.) What do all the labels actually mean? Is a brown egg actually better (perhaps more nutritious) than a white shell variety? Chef Andrew decodes the mysteries.

“Known for shaping L.A.’s Italian dining scene through Alimento and Cosa Buona, acclaimed chef and restaurateur Zachary Pollack’s Cosetta in Santa Monica is spacious, airy and welcoming, reflecting the evolution of Pollack’s cooking. Subtle, evocative, and layered with dimension while celebrating vibrant Southern California seasonality within the restaurant’s versatile food and beverage menus, Cosetta is an Italian restaurant that is as thoughtful as it is approachable, wholly Californian and shining with Pollack’s culinary vision.” Restaurateur and Chef Zach Pollack takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

“There’s just something abo...

“Athens – Food Stories, Love: A Cookbook is New York Times bestselling author Diane Kochilas’s latest cookbook. It features 150 recipes and explores all of the greatest dishes from Greece’s most-visited city. Everyone’s favorite Greek chef, Diane Kochilas, is back with a cookbook dedicated to exploring the food of Athens. Diane has lived in Athens for thirty years and has been witness to the enormous social and culinary changes all around her. To navigate the city’s gastronomic scene today is to discover a city overflowing with new creative energy in its kitchens and myriad of international ingredients in its marke...

“Athens – Food Stories, Love: A Cookbook is New York Times bestselling author Diane Kochilas’s latest cookbook. It features 150 recipes and explores all of the greatest dishes from Greece’s most-visited city. Everyone’s favorite Greek chef, Diane Kochilas, is back with a cookbook dedicated to exploring the food of Athens. Diane has lived in Athens for thirty years and has been witness to the enormous social and culinary changes all around her. To navigate the city’s gastronomic scene today is to discover a city overflowing with new creative energy in its kitchens and myriad of international ingredients in its marke...

“Athens – Food Stories, Love: A Cookbook is New York Times bestselling author Diane Kochilas’s latest cookbook. It features 150 recipes and explores all of the greatest dishes from Greece’s most-visited city.”

“Everyone’s favorite Greek chef, Diane Kochilas, is back with a cookbook dedicated to exploring the food of Athens. Diane has lived in Athens for thirty years and has been witness to the enormous social and culinary changes all around her. To navigate the city’s gastronomic scene today is to discover a city overflowing with new creative energy in its kitchens and myriad of international ingredients in its markets.”

“Athens – Food Stories, Love : A Cookbook is New York Times bestselling author Diane Kochilas’s latest cookbook. It features 150 recipes and explores all of the greatest dishes from Greece’s most-visited city.”

“Everyone’s favorite Greek chef, Diane Kochilas, is back with a cookbook dedicated to exploring the food of Athens. Diane has lived in Athens for thirty years and has been witness to the enormous social and culinary changes all around her. To navigate the city’s gastronomic scene today is to discover a city overflowing with new creative energy in its kitchens and myriad of international ingredients in its markets.”

“Known for shaping L.A.’s Italian dining scene through Alimento and Cosa Buona, acclaimed chef and restaurateur Zachary Pollack’s Cosetta in Santa Monica is spacious, airy and welcoming, reflecting the evolution of Pollack’s cooking. Subtle, evocative, and layered with dimension while celebrating vibrant Southern California seasonality within the restaurant’s versatile food and beverage menus, Cosetta is an Italian restaurant that is as thoughtful as it is approachable, wholly Californian and shining with Pollack’s culinary vision.”

“For dinner, Cosetta’s menu evolves with the market while remaining familiar enough to feel like home for regulars. Pizz...

“Known for shaping L.A.’s Italian dining scene through Alimento and Cosa Buona, acclaimed chef and restaurateur Zachary Pollack’s Cosetta in Santa Monica is spacious, airy and welcoming, reflecting the evolution of Pollack’s cooking. Subtle, evocative, and layered with dimension while celebrating vibrant Southern California seasonality within the restaurant’s versatile food and beverage menus, Cosetta is an Italian restaurant that is as thoughtful as it is approachable, wholly Californian and shining with Pollack’s culinary vision.”

“For dinner, Cosetta’s menu evolves with the market while remaining familiar enough to feel like home for regulars. Pizz...

“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats is, once again, doing their part to make sure nightly bedtime rituals like fresh pajamas will provide a reassuring and peaceful good night to in-need children this holiday season. Huntington Meats sister shop Farmers Market Poultry will also be participating in the drive.”

“The two shops offering quality premium products are coming together to participate in the 5th annual Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November organized by proprietor/organizer Jim Cascone. The goal is t...

“This year marks a decade of delicious Thanksgiving celebrations at Maple Block Meat Co., and the beloved Culver City smokehouse is once again serving up its signature 100% peach wood–smoked turkeys and all the classic sides that Angelenos have come to crave.

For 10 years, Maple Block has been at the heart of Los Angeles’ Thanksgiving tables—providing quality, wood-smoked holiday meals that bring friends and families together. From its signature whole turkeys to new Friendsgiving options for groups and offices, Maple Block continues to make Thanksgiving easy, authentic, and irresistibly good.”

“These all-natural, free-range, antibiotic-free turkeys are raise...

As a paying guest you’re dining at a restaurant and something goes wrong. Oops. As a savvy diner what are the best ways to try and expeditiously resolve the issue with a minimum of hassle? Hint…It’s definitely not waiting until you get home and then initially loudly complaining on Yelp! As an experienced restaurateur known for satisfying his guests Chef Andrew has some time-tested advice…

“Anaheim’s Top of the V, the rooftop restaurant at The Viv Hotel under the direction of Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, invites guests to celebrate Día De Los Muertos with a special brunch on Sunday, November 2nd from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Perched high above Anaheim with panoramic city views, the restaurant will present a lavish buffet inspired by the flavors and traditions of the holiday – complete with live mariachi and festive sips. A dessert bar rounds out the feast with Flan, Conchas, Pan de Muerto, Tres Leches Cake, Buñuelos, Horchata, and fresh seasonal fruit. To toast the occasio...

“Broken Spanish Comedor is a new concept from acclaimed Chef Ray Garcia (Esquire's Chef of the Year 2015), serving as the neighborhood friendly offshoot of his award-winning DTLA restaurant Broken Spanish. Rooted in bold Mexican flavors and Chef Garcia’s signature creativity, Broken Spanish Comedor offers a relaxed, community-centric dining experience while maintaining the same commitment to quality and innovation.”

Chef Ray Garcia (ex-FIG Restaurant at the Fairmont Santa Monica), a trailblazing Los Angeles native, is redefining modern Mexican cuisine with inspired creativity. Known as a pioneer of Alta California cuisine, Garcia blends Mexican roots with the spirit of Los...

“Anaheim’s Top of the V, the rooftop restaurant at The Viv Hotel under the direction of Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, invites guests to celebrate Día De Los Muertos with a special brunch on Sunday, November 2nd from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Perched high above Anaheim with panoramic city views, the restaurant will present a lavish buffet inspired by the flavors and traditions of the holiday – complete with live mariachi and festive sips. A dessert bar rounds out the feast with Flan, Conchas, Pan de Muerto, Tres Leches Cake, Buñuelos, Horchata, and fresh seasonal fruit. To toast the occasio...

“Discover the Art of Self-Reliance with Mary Bryant Shrader's Modern Pioneer Pantry: A Complete Guide to Preserving Food. Food preservation expert and beloved YouTube creator, Mary Shrader, creator of the popular Mary’s Nest YouTube channel, has become a trusted voice for over one million subscribers, offering 600+ videos on traditional cooking skills like bone broth, sourdough, and fermented foods. Her first book helped thousands embrace wholesome, homemade cooking, and her next book, The Modern Pioneer Pantry, expands that legacy.  She brings the wisdom of traditional cooking into modern kitchens, empowering readers to build a “Four Corners Pantry” and rediscover the time-tes...

“Discover the Art of Self-Reliance with Mary Bryant Shrader's Modern Pioneer Pantry: A Complete Guide to Preserving Food. Food preservation expert and beloved YouTube creator, Mary Shrader, creator of the popular Mary’s Nest YouTube channel, has become a trusted voice for over one million subscribers, offering 600+ videos on traditional cooking skills like bone broth, sourdough, and fermented foods. Her first book helped thousands embrace wholesome, homemade cooking, and her next book, The Modern Pioneer Pantry, expands that legacy.  She brings the wisdom of traditional cooking into modern kitchens, empowering readers to build a “Four Corners Pantry” and rediscover the time-tes...

“Broken Spanish Comedor is a new concept from acclaimed Chef Ray Garcia (Esquire's Chef of the Year 2015), serving as the neighborhood friendly offshoot of his award-winning DTLA restaurant Broken Spanish. Rooted in bold Mexican flavors and Chef Garcia’s signature creativity, Broken Spanish Comedor offers a relaxed, community-centric dining experience while maintaining the same commitment to quality and innovation.”

“The menu delights long-time followers with approachable modern Mexican American fare. It is a neighborhood offshoot of Broken Spanish with the same quality, same passion, but with a community-centric approach in terms of food and drinks.”

Look for h...

“Broken Spanish Comedor is a new concept from acclaimed Chef Ray Garcia (Esquire's Chef of the Year 2015), serving as the neighborhood friendly offshoot of his award-winning DTLA restaurant Broken Spanish. Rooted in bold Mexican flavors and Chef Garcia’s signature creativity, Broken Spanish Comedor offers a relaxed, community-centric dining experience while maintaining the same commitment to quality and innovation.”

“The menu delights long-time followers with approachable modern Mexican American fare. It is a neighborhood offshoot of Broken Spanish with the same quality, same passion, but with a community-centric approach in terms of food and drinks".

Look for...

“Our guest, Mike Fruge, and his brother Mark continue a proud Louisiana farming legacy that spans more than a century. The brothers were featured on the national television show Farms of America, which highlighted their innovative approach to rice and crawfish farming in South Louisiana.”

“Born and raised in Branch, Louisiana, Mike is a fourth-generation rice and crawfish farmer who has dedicated his career to preserving and modernizing his family’s agricultural heritage. Mike and Mark work together operating Frugé Farms, a 4,000-acre rice and crawfish operation that continues their great-great-uncle John “JT” Meleck’s legacy of innovation. Mike al...

“Our continuing guest, Mike Fruge, and his brother Mark continue a proud Louisiana farming legacy that spans more than a century. The brothers were recently featured on the national television show Farms of America, which highlighted their innovative approach to rice and crawfish farming in South Louisiana.”

“Born and raised in Branch, Louisiana, Mike is a fourth-generation rice and crawfish farmer who has dedicated his career to preserving and modernizing his family’s agricultural heritage. He and Mark work together operating Frugé Farms, a 4,000-acre rice and crawfish operation that continues their great-great-uncle John “JT” Meleck’s legacy of innovatio...

Last week we discussed that Social Media can have an enormous impact on restaurants both on the upside as well as the unfortunate negative. We first focused on the upside. Chef Andrew is skilled at managing and utilizing Social Media (for the good) to build his brand. We’ll continue that spirited conversation with a Social Media horror story involving a popular restaurant as the object of ire.

“Budonoki, located on the corner of Virgil and Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles is a friendly neighborhood izakaya offering drinking snacks and sushi alongside ice-cold beer, sake and serious cocktails.” “The creative pan-Asian izakaya comes from college friends and hospitality veterans Eric Bedroussian and Josh Hartley. It started out as a roving pop-up in 2021 after the duo met chef Dan Rabilwongse (an alum of Tsubaki and Hayato) via a mutual friend. Rabilwongse, who grew up in nearby Historic Filipinotown, put together the cuisine-melding menu, filled with signature dishes like pressed sushi, naem (a funky Thai fermented pork sausage), “budo-gnocchi” (Korean rice...

Landry Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery located in the rolling hills of West Monroe, Louisiana. Landry Vineyards produces 20 different wines including cultural fruit forward semi-sweet wines, clean crisp dry white wines, dry barrel aged wines and port style wines. Visitors can sample these wines, while enjoying the picturesque views from the beautiful tasting room. Founder and Winemaker Jeff Landry is our guest to uncork all that is Louisiana’s Landry Vineyards.

The 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine festival in Manhattan Village took place on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Both nights we...

“Budonoki, located on the corner of Virgil and Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles is a friendly neighborhood izakaya offering drinking snacks and sushi alongside ice-cold beer, sake and serious cocktails.” “The creative pan-Asian izakaya comes from college friends and hospitality veterans Eric Bedroussian and Josh Hartley. It started out as a roving pop-up in 2021 after the duo met chef Dan Rabilwongse (an alum of Tsubaki and Hayato) via a mutual friend. Rabilwongse, who grew up in nearby Historic Filipinotown, put together the cuisine-melding menu, filled with signature dishes like pressed sushi, naem (a funky Thai fermented pork sausage), “budo-gnocchi” (Korean rice...

“Budonoki, located on the corner of Virgil and Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles is a friendly neighborhood izakaya offering drinking snacks and sushi alongside ice-cold beer, sake and serious cocktails.”

“The creative pan-Asian izakaya comes from college friends and hospitality veterans Eric Bedroussian and Josh Hartley. It started out as a roving pop-up in 2021 after the duo met chef Dan Rabilwongse (an alum of Tsubaki and Hayato) via a mutual friend. Rabilwongse, who grew up in nearby Historic Filipinotown, put together the cuisine-melding menu, filled with signature dishes like pressed sushi, naem (a funky Thai fermented pork sausage...

“Budonoki, located on the corner of Virgil and Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles is a friendly neighborhood izakaya offering drinking snacks and sushi alongside ice-cold beer, sake and serious cocktails.”

“The creative pan-Asian izakaya comes from college friends and hospitality veterans Eric Bedroussian and Josh Hartley. It started out as a roving pop-up in 2021 after the duo met chef Dan Rabilwongse (an alum of Tsubaki and Hayato) via a mutual friend. Rabilwongse, who grew up in nearby Historic Filipinotown, put together the cuisine-melding menu, filled with signature dishes like pressed sushi, naem (a funky Thai fermented pork sausage...

Landry Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery located in the rolling hills of West Monroe. Landry Vineyards produces 20 different wines including cultural fruit forward semi-sweet wines, clean crisp dry white wines, dry barrel aged wines and port style wines. Visitors can sample these wines, while enjoying the picturesque views from the beautiful tasting room.

“Their Outdoor Concert Series is not to be missed, with music ranging from country to jazz. Patrons bring picnic blankets and chairs and enjoy live music from the hillside along with food and dancing. Two harvest festivals are hosted each summer th...

“Landry Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery located in the rolling hills of West Monroe. Landry Vineyards produces 20 different wines including cultural fruit forward semi-sweet wines, clean crisp dry white wines, dry barrel aged wines and port style wines. Visitors can sample these wines, while enjoying the picturesque views from the beautiful tasting room.”

“Their Outdoor Concert Series is not to be missed, with music ranging from country to jazz. Patrons bring picnic blankets and chairs and enjoy live music from the hillside along with food and dancing. Two harvest festivals are hosted each summer that o...

The 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine in Manhattan Village took place on Friday, September 12th, 2025, and Saturday, September 13th, 2025. Based on the success of last year both nights were sold out.

“Over the two-nights 46 All-Star Chefs prepared world-class cuisine along with premier wines, top spirits, handcrafted cocktails, and craft beer pairing seamlessly with pulse-raising beats. Guests discovered a dynamic flow of music and flavor, spotlighting the unmistakable spirit of the South Bay.”

Lawrence Moore of Lawrence Moore and Associates joins us to provide a postscript on Manhattan Beach Food & Wine 2025 with a look into the...

Sommelier Kelsey Kramer, the Director of Education for the Hill Country Wine Academy near Fredericksburg, Texas, is a theater major turned wine professional and educator, currently navigating the WSET Diploma program with 13+ years of hospitality, restaurant, and wine experience under her belt. After earning a B.F.A. in Acting at Ball State University, she started studying wine full-time with Takashi's Japanese-Fusion restaurant in Chicago. Kelsey earned her CMS Sommelier certification in 2017, and at the same time began teaching about wine at High Street Wine Co. in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas. She began class programming and beverage...

Social Media can have an enormous impact on restaurants both on the upside as well as the unfortunate negative. Chef Andrew is skilled at managing and utilizing Social Media (for the good) to build his brand. He shares his well-informed insights.

“Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa  has recently debuted its first-ever Halloween pop-up bar. Step inside Pete’s Spookeasy if you dare, where Pete’s Sunset Grille, the resort’s coastal restaurant, has been transformed into a spooky, over-the-top Halloween playground, featuring immersive décor, themed lounges, playful surprises at every turn, and touches from Tipsy Elves, the pop-up’s seasonal partner.” Joining us to provide all the hauntingly exciting specifics is longtime Executive Chef Manfred Lassahn.

“Since the birth of Laderach Swiss (fresh Swiss gourmet chocolates) in 1962, they have been refining fresh chocolate into extraordinary creations – and taking great plea...

“Since the birth of Laderach Swiss (fresh Swiss gourmet chocolates) in 1962, they have been refining fresh chocolate into extraordinary creations – and taking great pleasure in sharing them. While Laderach initially did so as a supplier to selected Swiss chocolate shops, today they share their delights globally. Three generations, one World Chocolate Master and countless innovations. Once a small chocolate factory in Glarus, today Laderach is represented in more than 25 countries around the world – and they are still thoughtfully expanding.” Laderach’s Scott Perry, West Coast Regional Manager, is our guest to unwrap all the decadent deliciousness that is Laderach Swiss.

“Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa  has recently debuted its first-ever Halloween pop-up bar. Step inside Pete’s Spookeasy if you dare, where Pete’s Sunset Grille, the resort’s coastal restaurant, has been transformed into a spooky, over-the-top Halloween playground, featuring immersive décor, themed lounges, playful surprises at every turn, and touches from Tipsy Elves, the pop-up’s seasonal partner.” Joining us to provide all the hauntingly exciting specifics is longtime Executive Chef Manfred Lassahn.

“Since the birth of Laderach Swiss (fresh Swiss gourmet chocolates) in 1962, they have been refining fresh chocolate into extraordinary creations – and taking great plea...

“Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa  has recently debuted its first-ever Halloween pop-up bar. Step inside Pete’s Spookeasy if you dare, where Pete’s Sunset Grille, the resort’s coastal restaurant, has been transformed into a spooky, over-the-top Halloween playground, featuring immersive décor, themed lounges, playful surprises at every turn, and touches from Tipsy Elves, the pop-up’s seasonal partner.”

“The pop-up features a curated Halloween menu, with inventive bites such as “BUGS” in Stinky Cheese, with whipped goat cheese, dates, marzipan “grubs,” figs, hot honey, micro thyme and Raincoast crackers; Cauldron Queso, with pepper jack queso dip, ground beef...

“Since the birth of Laderach Swiss (fresh Swiss gourmet chocolates) in 1962, they have been refining fresh chocolate into extraordinary creations – and taking great pleasure in sharing them. While Laderach initially did so as a supplier to selected Swiss chocolate shops, today they share their delights globally.”

“Three generations, one World Chocolate Master and countless innovations. Once a small chocolate factory in Glarus, today Laderach is represented in more than 25 countries around the world – and they are still thoughtfully expanding.”

“Laderach is currently attracting a lot of deserved attention for their limited-edition Dubai Collection. It started off as just a...

“Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa  has recently debuted its first-ever Halloween pop-up bar. Step inside Pete’s Spookeasy if you dare, where Pete’s Sunset Grille, the resort’s coastal restaurant, has been transformed into a spooky, over-the-top Halloween playground, featuring immersive décor, themed lounges, playful surprises at every turn, and touches from Tipsy Elves, the pop-up’s seasonal partner.”

“The pop-up features a curated Halloween menu, with inventive bites such as “BUGS” in Stinky Cheese, with whipped goat cheese, dates, marzipan “grubs,” figs, hot honey, micro thyme and Raincoast crackers; Cauldron Queso, with pepper jack queso dip, ground beef...

Since the birth of Laderach Swiss (fresh Swiss gourmet chocolates) in 1962, they have been refining fresh chocolate into extraordinary creations – and taking great pleasure in sharing them. While Laderach initially did so as a supplier to selected Swiss chocolate shops, today they share their delights globally.”

“Three generations, one World Chocolate Master and countless innovations. Once a small chocolate factory in Glarus, today Laderach is represented in more than 25 countries around the world – and they are still thoughtfully expanding.”

“Laderach is currently attracting a lot of deserved attention for their limited- edition Dubai Collection. It started off...

“Rationale Brewing’s founder, Jamie Fay and his sons were sitting around the campfire having a few beers and talking about beer, naturally. His oldest was about to leave for college, so Jamie encouraged him to think for himself when it came to drinking alcohol, regardless of the peanut gallery's opinions. Making a rational choice feels pretty damn radical...so why not screw the rules, make that radical choice and own the moment? They got pretty fired up about the idea of crafting a flavorful non-alcoholic beer that doesn't play by the rules. They started brewing RationAle and haven’t look...

“Rationale Brewing’s founder, Jamie Fay and his sons were sitting around the campfire having a few beers and talking about beer, naturally. His oldest was about to leave for college, so Jamie encouraged him to think for himself when it came to drinking alcohol, regardless of the peanut gallery's opinions. Making a rational choice feels pretty damn radical...so why not screw the rules, make that radical choice and own the moment? They got pretty fired up about the idea of crafting a flavorful non-alcoholic beer that doesn't play by the rules. They started brewing RationAle and haven’t look...

For a fast casual establishment, or any successful restaurant, what’s the ideal pathway to branching? Should it be a franchise network like McDonalds or company owned stores in the In-N-Out model? Chef Andrew has been there and will provide his informed insight.

Sullivan Zant is the Executive Chef and one of the Founders of the fine-dining, Vestal in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana, where he was born and raised. Sullivan’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Lafayette, Louisiana, where he was immersed in the rich culture of Southern hospitality from an early age. Growing up in a household where cooking was a cherished tradition, Sullivan learned the art of crafting homemade meals from his father and grandmother, instilling in him a profound appreciation for the power of food to unite and nourish. Chef Sully takes a break from the on...

Albert "Buzzy" Besson owns and operates Barataria Beauties Oyster Farm in Grand Isle, Louisiana. His farm produces prized Gulf oysters sold at Spoonbill, Vestal, and Wild Child Wines in Lafayette, LA. He produces a smaller farm-raised boutique oyster that restaurants serve raw. Buzzy has about 400 square float cages on the farm, all individually labeled for each restaurant he delivers to, including Vestal. 

"You want a taste that will stay with you, not like drinking a martini where you just get a salty sip. You want that creamy, earthy flavor to return to your palate a minute or t...

Sullivan Zant is the Executive Chef and one of the Founders of the fine-dining, Vestal in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana, where he was born and raised. Sullivan’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Lafayette, Louisiana, where he was immersed in the rich culture of Southern hospitality from an early age. Growing up in a household where cooking was a cherished tradition, Sullivan learned the art of crafting homemade meals from his father and grandmother, instilling in him a profound appreciation for the power of food to unite and nourish.

With over a decade of pr...

Join us as we celebrate the 13th Anniversary of the launch of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA radio. We’re in Lafayette, LA, the heart of Cajun County, participating in the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association’s (IFWTWA) Annual Member Conference.

Sullivan Zant is the Executive Chef and one of the Founders of the fine-dining, Vestal in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana, where he was born and raised. Sullivan’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Lafayette, Louisiana, where he was immersed in the rich culture of Southern hospitality from an early age. Growi...

Kelsey Leger, the Executive Chef and Co-founder of Lafayette’s Five Mile Eatery, is a Louisiana-born chef with a passion for local sourcing and sustainability. Her culinary career began in New York City at One Lucky Duck/Pure Food & Wine, and she later returned to Acadiana to train a bit in permaculture at Gotreaux Family Farm. Over the years, she honed her skills in respected kitchens such as Boucherie (New Orleans), French Press, and Saint Street Inn, where she rose from dishwasher to head chef. In 2015, she co-founded Scratch Farm Kitchen, helping establish it as a beloved part of La...

Albert "Buzzy" Besson owns and operates Barataria Beauties Oyster Farm in Grand Isle, Louisiana. His farm produces prized Gulf oysters sold at Spoonbill, Vestal, and Wild Child Wines in Lafayette, LA.

"I have so much respect for the original oystermen like my grandfather back in the day," says Albert "Buzzy" Besson. "My grandfather would go out in his boats and dredge for oysters. It was a very labor-intensive process. We still produce a wonderful product, but now we farm oysters."

Buzzy says he took up oyster farming as a hobby, but it's in his genes...

Marie Ducote’s Cajun! Food Tours brings the guest history tours and immersive Cajun food tours rolled into one adventure. Experience the Acadiana region of South Louisiana (2 hours west of New Orleans) in a whole new way. Considered one of the best things to do in Lafayette, LA, their tours take you into the heart of Cajun Country, off the eaten path, so you can peel back the layers and discover the cuisine and culture of Lafayette yourself. Stroll along on a walking tour or hop on their cozy custom ride for the only bus tour in Lafayette.

...

Madonna Broussard, also known as “The Plate Lunch Lady,” is a third-generation restaurateur and the owner of Laura's II Café in Lafayette, Louisiana. The restaurant, known for its Creole soul food, was started by her grandmother, Laura Williams Broussard, and carries on the family's legacy of cooking with "love, time, and consistency".

Madonna's mother, Dorothy Mae Broussard, also played a significant role in the restaurant's history. Madonna’s daughter, Lacey, represents the 4th generation of Broussard Family stewardship. Madonna was named a semifinalist for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Award for “Best Chef : South”.

Madonna Broussard takes a bre...

Albert "Buzzy" Besson owns and operates Barataria Beauties Oyster Farm in Grand Isle, Louisiana. His farm produces prized Gulf oysters sold at Spoonbill, Vestal, and Wild Child Wines in Lafayette, LA.

"I have so much respect for the original oystermen like my grandfather back in the day," says Albert "Buzzy" Besson. "My grandfather would go out in his boats and dredge for oysters. It was a very labor-intensive process. We still produce a wonderful product, but now we farm oysters."

Buzzy says he took up oyster farming as a hobby, but it's in his genes...

Jesse Guidry is Vice President of Communications for Lafayette Travel / Lafayette Louisiana Convention and Visitors Commission. He joins us to conclude our virtual visit to Lafayette.

“Lafayette is at the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun & Creole Country, an area known as the Happiest City in America where people visit for a genuine Cajun & Creole experience.”

“Lafayette has a distinct culinary identity as the epicenter of Cajun & Creole cuisine that’s earned them the title Best Food City in the USA. Lafayette’s culinary scene is steeped in tradition and continues to evolve with a new generation o...

“Five Point Five Brewing Co is an El Segundo-based family business known for its handcrafted beer, hard seltzers and small neighborhood vibe. Siblings Michelle Bella Legaspi, Melissa Bella Montemagni, Joe Bella and Mark Bella run the brewery along with Melissa’s husband, Brewer Jeremy Montemagni—who has been brewing since the 1990s—and his sister and brother-in-law, Angela Chagnon and Ted Chagnon. The team opened the doors of Five Point Five Brewing Co two years ago. Their goal is to bring the community together to catch up and enjoy great beer in a relaxed environment.” Founders Michelle Legaspi and Brewer Jer...