Food Farms & Chefs Radio Show

Sydney Grims' family has been involved in the hospitality industry for several generations, a family that strongly believes in supporting the organizations and communities surrounding them.  So when the original owner of White Dog Cafe was looking to sell her restaurant, one that Judy Wicks founded through her passion for preservation, the Grims' and their equal passion were the perfect fit.  Years later, Sydney Grims and her father, Marty Grims have continued to grow the White Dog Cafe brand by acquiring, renovating, and offering a delicious variety of experiences through their company FearlessRestaurantsGroup (FRG). Having recently opened White Dog Cafe in Chester Springs, Grims is preparing to open three new concepts under Fearless Restaurants; if you want to hear more about them, then be sure to listen to the show and hear all about it from Sydney!
(https://www.fearlessrestaurants.com)

I next spoke with Koren Draper, who has worked within the catering industry for years. As a result of the pandemic she shifted to preparing meals on a smaller scale as a private chef and caterer.  And as one door closes, another one opens and soon Draper found herself building a foundation for her own business: Koren's Kitchen. Through her business, Draper offers healthy, delicious meals for individuals, families, and private parties.  In addition to that, she also offers cooking classes so you can prepare and cook meals at home using the same techniques!  If you want to learn more about Koren Draper and Koren's Kitchen, tune in so you can take a class, order meals for your home, or find out how she can cater your next event!
(https://korenskitchen.com)

Joshua Hertzberg is deeply involved in the community he grew up in, including working within the political field of his hometown of Sparta, NJ. where every detail counts.  Of course, this is also something that extends to his personal life too. So, when Joshua began focusing on what he and his family were eating, it started him down a path to only having the highest quality of meats and produce in his home.  This eventually led him to wanting the same quality for his family when they were dining out, and he found was missing from his town.  I will let Joshua tell you the rest in his own words when you listen to his interview. However, I will say that you should check out Burger & Butcher if you want to taste for yourselves the level of effort Joshua puts in to ensure that every detail behind his new restaurant matters-including what you eat.
(https://www.burgerandbutcher.com)

The world is a busy place, and we all know a good thing when we taste (and smell) it...and my next guest, Jonathan Pastore and his company Bean2Bean Coffee, is here to help you keep up with life's demanding pace. Jonathan is no stranger to the allure of a rich, dark brew--he started out working in the culinary industry since he was a youth. His passion for the industry grew stronger as he moved onto college, learning the business behind marketing food and beverage companies. Today, his passion for an eye-opening cup-o-joe filtered into providing locals a comforting cup through both the Bean2Bean Cafe, located inside of Billy Penn Studios and to anyone interested in buying their products wholesale. But our focus wasn't limited to that--tune in to hear from Jonathan what else is brewing for this coming September--you'll be barking up the right tree if you do!

My next guest who is the Owner of Lost Worlds Brewing Company, David Hamme, joined Food Farms and Chefs to talk about how he transitioned from his career as a successful business consultant to also owning his own brewing company. His forward-thinking brand has earned him recognition from his surrounding community. Not only for what he has on-tap, but also for all he did to establish Lost Worlds Brewing as the go-to location for night's out, markets, community involvement, and a fun way to learn a bit of history when you visit. With three locations in North Carolina, there's every reason to check out David's entertaining and engaging brewery...and let's not forget to taste whatever strikes your fancy on his beer list!

Lastly, I spoke with someone whose upbeat personality only adds to the sweetness you'll experience when visiting CJ's Sweet Palace in Glenside, PA. Co-owner Janelle White joined me on the show, discussing all things Philly but with a twist: Think water ice, ice cream, Philly Pretzels, and an interesting take on a City Wide Special. If that doesn't entice your sweet tooth, then perhaps one of their fresh-baked cookies can! But I don't want to spoil all the fun. Stay tuned while Janelle describes what CJ's offers and enjoy a sweet ending to this week's episode of Food Farms and Chefs!

Whatever you're looking for, whether to eat, drink, or wear an item...it boils down to the farmers that grow and tend to the land and animals. More importantly we need farmers like Matthew Braud who co-owns Hollow House Farms in Furlong, PA to help bring the farming community new ways to maintain regenerative and sustainable practices, so that local produce, livestock, and products will be available for generations to come. Matthew joined me to discuss the importance of his farming practices, what he and his wife offer, and a deeper understanding of what sustainable aquaponic farming is.

I next spoke with a long-time friend of the show, Megan Hilbert who is the CEO and Owner of Reds Rolling Restaurant I, II, and III. Megan originally joined the show in 2020, and has since grown her business from owning one truck to now having a fleet. There's a reason for that, as her entrepreneurial spirit was backed with a PR & Marketing education, along with a history within the food-truck and restaurant industry. So, it's no surprise that her menu is not only extensive, it's delicious and very filling! Today Megan is looking to expand her brand further - exciting news to be announced in the near future - but for now you can find her vending at local farmers markets, events, or reach out to her to have your next event catered by one of her trucks.

Lastly, I sat down with the co-owners of The Brass Tap in Manayunk, Izak and Danielle Du Plooy. The Brass Tap, which is a Florida-based company, allows owners to customize their menu and beverage program to reflect the surrounding community. As both Izak and Danielle have fondness of Philadelphia, they've since put down roots. The couple, who had originally purchased the building and rented the location out to another business, seized their opportunity to own a restaurant when the former tenant had to close. Today, the Du Plooys offer an elevated menu as well as 30 local beers-on-tap along with Happy Hour specials, Brunch, and special events like trivia nights, live music, and bingo!

Our friend, Niki Toscani, joined us on the show and we did a deep dive, discussing the many collaborations that both she and her co-founder (and husband) have participated in, including their about-to-launch collaboration and turning lemonade into a refreshing and unique mix! I know I was excited to hear about it, and even more excited to taste it once it launches!!! But you don't have to wait to bite into some of their delicious and crisp pickles--you can either pick up a batch at your local store, or have them shipped to your door (nationwide!)!!! If you want to hear more about it, and what Niki and Mike are doing in the very near future (including a sneak teaser for Philly Magazine's Best Of Event)...tune in till the end and find out!

Speaking of collaborating for the benefit of everyone...my next guest is the Market Manager for Rancocas Woods Farmers Market (RWFM) which happens every Sunday running until Oct 13th. Allison Coulter, who goes by Allie, is well versed in farming and the farmers market culture and was happy when she saw her childhood stomping grounds begin a revitalization process. So it made perfect sense for Allie to take on the Management role for the Rancocas Woods Farmers Market. Today, Allie selects farmers and vendors to cultivate a market that offers a one-stop shopping trip for your weekly needs. If you'd like to hear more about the RWFM, events they hold, and what you'll find when you visit--keep listening to find out, and feel free to share with your friends so they can join in on the fun too!

Lastly, I chimed in to boast about some of the places I've dined out at--all of which I recommend for you to visit (and enjoy) and try for yourselves! So if you're interested in some of my recommendations, then be sure to stay to the very end of the episode and hear from your favorite Food Farms and Chefs host's traveling foodie adventures!!!

We began with Jess Remshard and Liz Denon, two cousins who just happened to bartend in order to make a little extra money.  That side-hustle eventually blossomed into a business idea now known as Spartacus Events.  Their mobile bar can accommodate whatever your party-planning needs are including options for a full bar, a smaller pop-up bar, and more!  So reach out to Jess and Liz  to add that extra wow-factor for your next party, celebration, or event!

Family means everything to our next guest, which includes making you feel like part of the family when you visit his restaurants in Hatboro, PA.  Bob Ross and his wife both worked in the culinary industry, and according to Bob, he always wanted to start a restaurant of his own.  Years later that dream came to fruition as he and his wife opened Gypsy Blu.   Their new venture was a huge success, so the Ross' decided to expand on their dream and have since opened a second restaurant, Ross & Co.  And stay tuned to find out the exciting new events and offerings at Ross & Co. in the coming months!

Our last guest began his culinary journey at an early age, even attending the Culinary Institute of America at only 17 years old. After graduating from the CIA, Chef Matthew Collins eventually landed a position in NYC, working inside some of the more prestigious kitchens. Today, Matthew owns and operates a self-named business: Chef Collins Events.  Chef Collins Events is a private chef company where Matthew works with you to meet the needs of your next party, gathering, or intimate dinner, creating unique dining experiences for you and your guests.  

My first guest offers a wealth of insight and availability for enjoying healthy, energizing, and chef-driven meals for at home or on-the-go. Anjali Gupta began her career in the corporate world, but found herself drawn into the culinary industry. She was drawn there as a result of leading a too-busy life and wanting delicious and healthy meals that were easy to prepare for her family. This eventually led to her creating Pinwheel Provisions. Now, listeners like yourself (and everyone you know) can eat hearty and nutritious meals while traversing your busy lives. Pinwheel Provisions offers flavor-packed ready to heat and eat, and build-your-own meals inside her BrynMawr-based business. And if you're not looking to cook at home, there's something for everyone--as Pinwheel Provisions also offers a select menu that you can grab-n-go at anytime!

Friends are like family and so are our pets, so I was excited to have my friend, Jaimi Blackburn who is the Director of Public Relations for Fearless Restaurant Group on to announce White Dog Cafe's "Dining Out for the Dogs" event, happening next Tuesday July 16th at all White Dog Cafe locations! The event is BYOD (Bring Your Own Dog) but you'll need to make a Very Important Puppy reservation for your precious furry family member. There's a whole lot more to bark about--with puppy kissing booths, raffle prizes, specialty cocktails by Tito's, and more!!! The pooch-friendly fundraising event will benefit Alpha Bravo Canine, just be sure to listen closely for all the fun details to look forward to!

One of your favorite guests is back, and with so much to share about! Founder, Author, Psychologist, and Organizer behind The Trauma Survivors Foundation, Hospital Heroes Food Drive, The Delaware Beer Festival, and more--Dennis Carradin joined me to talk about his latest book, his new beer collaboration-a Pilsner, and some of his upcoming events, including The Delaware Beer Festival (DBF). What's even better? When you stay tuned, you'll hear an exclusive discount code to attend one of the DBF's sessions--with on-air radio show hosts, live music from Country Music Stars, food, and over 200 beers to sample inside the Wilmington Blue Rocks Stadium!

Related Links:
https://www.pinwheelprovisions.com
https://www.fearlessrestaurants.com
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/7th-annual-dining-out-for-the-dogs-to-benefit-alpha-bravo-canine-tickets-914352321407?aff=oddtdtcreator
https://www.thetraumasurvivorsfoundation.com
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/delaware-beer-fest-tickets-885950942117?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Will Porras, who is the Executive Chef at Vault Brewing Company in Yardley, PA learned and honed his knowledge as a chef while working inside various kitchens while growing up, and further refined his craft under some very esteemed chefs. I spoke with Will, learning about his history within the culinary industry and what led him to become Vault Brewing Company's Executive Chef. Taking on the role of an Executive Chef is not for the faint of heart-something that Will has excelled at. Speaking of excelling at things, Vault Brewing Company has created a delicious combination of beers and elevated dining menus that they're now looking to expand (spoil alert--and you heard it first on Food Farms and Chefs Radio Show!). So be sure to keep an eye out for their official announcement by following them on their social media pages, as well as when you visit them in person!
https://vaultbrewing.com

My next guest, Joseph Staffieri, is the owner behind Fusco’s Water ice with two locations in Delaware. Joseph is a chip off the ol' block--quite literally, in fact. His family has owned and operated the water ice business for years, turning peoples muggy and frustratingly-hot summer days into joyful ones with their scratch-made water ice and soft-serve ice creams. However much his father had stuck to their traditional flavor, Joe has been thinking outside of the box and coming up with creative new flavors for the communities and visitors to enjoy. But with all good things, comes the tireless efforts to create it: So every day Joe and his team squeeze out every last flavorful drop of ingredients to create the best tasting water ice around!
https://www.fuscoswaterice.com

Solidified in the Hudson Valley as part of everyone's family, third-generation owner Peter Deising found even more attention for his family's business, Deisings Bakery & Restaurant, after the HBO-based Host of Last Week Tonight's John Oliver purchased equipment that Deising wanted for his bakery & restaurant. Peter had left an inquiry note on the door of the recently-closed chain restaurant, Red Lobster. What happened next was even more note-worthy: John Oliver noticed and issued a challenge to Demising, and in exchange for meeting the challenge the Deising Bakery and Restaurant would receive the equipment he inquired about. I'm a HUGE John Oliver fan, so this is how the Hudson Valley-based business came to my attention, and I was BEARY enticed to have them join me on my show to talk about the JO moment, and moreover to shed more light on the history of Deising Bakery & Restaurant, and what keeps their community coming back after so many years in business.
https://www.deisings.com

When it comes down to it, the time, energy, and effort that goes into plating up that perfect dish is at the heart of every Chef--something that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who visits them. I am grateful every day for what the businesses I eat and drink at offers me. I'm also grateful to all of you who tune in to the show to listen every week, so if there is anything (or anywhere) that you would like to hear from--feel free to send a recommendation for the show by emailing me at [email protected].

There was a lot of energy and positive vibes as Co-Chairs of the Leverage Event, Howard Lebold and Haley Schmidt, along with CDC's 2024 Linchpin recipients Victoria Williams and Co-Founder of Tiny WPA Alex Gilliam, Esteemed 2024 Leverage Awardee Prema Katari Gupta who is the President and CEO of the Center City District (CCD), Co-Owners Mallory Stetter and Justin Scott of Logo Cookies Direct who donated 200 cookies for the event, Head Distiller of KLYR Rum, Rebecca Foxman, Owner and Chef of Fox & Son, Diana Widjojo of Rice & Sambal, and Kyle Cuffie-Scott of Darnell's Cake.

The Leverage Event represented each borough of Philadelphia with amazing Chefs and Restaurateurs, and everyone in attendance were able to sample the decadent small bites and beverages available throughout Philadelphia's Center for Design building--where the event was being held. And all eyes were on center stage as awardees were announced during the evening before CCD's President & CEO Prema Katari Gupta took the stage to remark on being this year's Esteemed Honoree of the 2024 Leverage Awards.

If you would like to hear more about the event, be sure to listen to the full episode and check out cdesignc.org to learn more about what they do, how to help, and what projects the organization have and will be involved in!

I'm certain that all of you LOVE a cup of tea or coffee in the morning, and our first guest is brewing up a great start to your day with her business, The Rose Room Cafe. The coffee and baked goods come with a lot of love, as Jess Sabine and her staff make freshly-baked pastries and other foods from scratch to accompany your cup-o-joe (or tea). The love doesn't end there--The Rose Room Cafe has created a space for the community to get together, hosting events which include first Fridays, private parties, and so much more! So, if this sounds like your cup of tea ;) then make The Rose Room Cafe part of your next destination! (https://www.theroseroomcafe.com)

From Coffee to Bagels...I chat with Managing Partner of Bagels & Co., Mike Marsh. Mike is very invested in what Bagels & Co. has to offer, including the lengthy list of cream cheeses crafted to compliment their abundantly large bagels of your dreams. New York arguably has the best bagels this side of the world, but theirs can give New Yorkers a run for their money, since they modeled their bagels to be just like that. Now, add the fact that every bagel is lovingly seasoned -- on all sides of them -- theirs rises above the rest. Now, that fact is something I can attest to! (https://www.thebagelsandco.com)

Speaking of taking a bite out of something...Shelby Fahrni, who owns The Cooking Studio located in Telford, PA, began her culinary journey at the ripe old age of 4. Yes, you read that correctly. At 4 years old the culinary bug bit her and she's been cooking ever since. And something she's resumed since then is to teach others how to create delicious meals at home from scratch. Of course you'll need to take one of her classes first, and come hungry because after all that learning you and your classmates can sit down to enjoy your creations family-style! So if you're looking for something fun to do as a family, with friends, or even go solo--check out The Cooking Studio! (https://lecookingstudio.com)

I began with Executive Chef Kyle Timpson, who started out with aspirations to be a pastry chef. Sometime after graduating Atlantic Cape Community College, he found that challenging himself within a larger spectrum was appealing, and cultivated a space where he could continue to grow in the industry. Today, Executive Chef Timpson joined us to talk about the delicious steakhouse and beverage menus at SIN in Philadelphia, and what to look forward to in the coming weeks. (https://www.sinphiladelphia.com)

I next spoke with Army Veteran, Cookbook Author, three-time Food Network winner and Executive Chef Kevin Cooper aka "Chef Steek." Chef Steek sat down with me to discuss how he began in the culinary world, what influenced his progression within the industry, and what it was like to not only appear on the Food Network, but also win and be able to open the Chicken Guy in King of Prussia. Chef Steek and I also dug into the menu items available at the Chicken Guy, along with some of the milkshakes too--have I mentioned how much of a sweet tooth I have? Well, you'll hear from both of us on what to bite (and sip) at his spot in the KOP Mall. (https://chickenguy.com)

My final guest, Executive Chef Alex Tellez, joined Food Farms and Chefs to discuss Sor Ynes and all the delicious offerings on their menu; from scratch made tortillas to mezcal flights--Sor Ynes focuses on traditional Mexican ingredients and techniques to prepare their fresh and piquant menu. I know that I have my eye out on their "Shrimp Al Ajillo" with a mezcal tasting flight, and I'll save some room for dessert! Just keep your eyes peeled on their socials, as they're getting ready to change up the menu soon! Now that's a tasty treat to look forward to! (https://sorynez.com)