Food Farms & Chefs Radio Show

"Dry January" and healthier lifestyle choices are two of the top resolutions we hear you're making, so we asked Chris Carney, the owner of NoProof Seltzer to join us on the show. NoProof is a non-alcoholic energy drink with an orange-citrus flavor, infused with beneficial vitamins, no sugar added, and a light caffeine kick. Chris started his company when he was looking for something that was alcohol free, healthier for you to consume, and offered a caffeine boost - without the unnecessary added sugars and artificial flavors. When he couldn't find anything on the market, he found a way to create his own, and now you can enjoy the benefits and refreshing taste of NoProof Seltzer!

Now, we're aware that not everyone participates in "Dry January," so we spoke with one of the co-founders of Bitchin' Kitten Brewery, Michael Crosson. Michael and his wife, Bridgette, started the brewery inspired by her Bridgette-smitten kitten (Shadow) and Michael's enthusiasm of home-brewing. After years of successfully being a home-brewer, Michael landed an apprenticeship at Tindall Road Brewery to gain more experience and knowledge of brewing on a larger scale, and in October of 2021 they opened the doors to their brewpub in Morrisville, PA!

Some people like beverages, others have a hankering for something sweet which is why we spoke with Jenny Gardner who owns Philly Waffle Cabin! What is Philly Waffle Cabin? Well, it's one of those delightful joys where you'll smell the tantalizing scent of freshly-made Belgian waffles in the air before you find where the fully mobile version of the Waffle House Cabin franchise is located at. Born from the slopes, this skier-friendly treat can now be wherever you would like! So, if you're familiar with the tasty treats then you already know why you'd want to seek some out--but if you're not, then let us introduce you to Philly Waffle Cabin and why they're so sought-after on (and now off) the slopes!

With 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, co-owner Kerri Marin joined us to discuss what Philly Yard Bar is, how they began their rentable bar-venue on wheels, and how both of their careers blended together to create the perfect option for a traveling celebration! Their elegant trailers can be rented for any kind of focus: Whether you're creating an experience to shop, celebrate a special occasion in your backyard, or companies renting the trailers to elevate their next appearance at an event--Philly Yard Bar is available to help make a statement while having fun!

Friend of the show, Tamas Szene joined us on the show for several exciting announcements from Fearless Restaurants, including their long-running morning-after event that happens every year: The White Dog Cafe PJ Brunch that occurs on New Years Day. Other announcements covered holiday celebrations at Rosalie, Moshulu, Louie Louie, and their HUGE announcement, the opening of a brand-new restaurant and concept! Are you curious as to what they are? Then stay tuned to Food Farms and Chefs Radio Show to find out!

Lastly, we spoke with Joseph Berendsohn, who is the Sales Manager for Mermaid Spirits. The company was founded by Dr. David Johnson in 2018, and he has over 45 years of experience working as a research scientist in biochemistry of food, and holds several patents in the industry. So, it makes sense that you will find every sip of their spirits an enjoyable experience! With Bourbons, Rums, Vodka, and more available to satiate whatever you desire--Mermaid Spirits has something for everyone. If you're tempted to try them out, or are curious to learn more--tune in to the show and hear more about Mermaid Spirits and what they have to offer!

Chef & Owner Mohammed Aqlan shares his grandmother's recipes with anyone who visits his Malooga Restaurant and Catering business. Every time you sit down to eat, you'll enjoy a taste of his grandmother's lovingly-created meals. Born and raised in Yemen, Mohammed came to the USA in 2014 to pursue an Aviation Engineering degree. However. as fate would have it, he was introduced to the culinary world while working inside his cousin's New York-based restaurant. He was hooked, and decided to switch passions to become a restaurateur. Now, he offers a delicious taste of his beloved Yemeni cuisine.

We then looked back from last year to enjoy another trip around the globe, celebrating the holiday season with both co-hosts Gene Blum and Amaris Pollock as they took turns describing some interesting and fun traditions across the globe! We're talking about food traditions, fun places that you can visit for amazing holiday experiences, and events and locations that you might not know about!

Rounding out this week's show, we're bringing you the newest food truck that is hot-diggity-dog delicious! Co-Owners Eric Mayhew and Chef Brian Smith joined us to discuss their new venture, Dawg House Grille. The artisanal hotdog, smashburger, and breakfast truck is run by the father-son duo's all of whom have a specific role to play for the venture. Johnson & Wales graduate, Brian Smith, comes up with the creative menu items, his father/partner is their pitmaster, Eric Mayhew not only helps cook, he literally helps to keep the truck (and kitchen) running, and Dennis Mayhew is their CFO with years of entrepreneurial experience. You can find them parked outside the future home of Sirius Brewing Company, or contact them for any event or catering needs!

Looking for a new take on two of your favorite things to eat? Then we highly recommend trying out Deke's Bar-B-Que, which has several locations including their new Cloud Kitchen that opened about one month ago. Derek "Deke" Denmead joined us on the show for a deep dive into how he and his wife met, and eventually established Deke's BBQ. I know that it was wonderful hearing how they began, but even better is the mouth-watering menu options that they offer, including their Brisket Cheesesteak, mac and cheese, cornbread, and so much more!

From an established business to new ones--we cover it all, which is why we spoke with Mardel West, the Owner of the brand-new Bangin Grub located inside Liberty One in Center City Philadelphia! Mardel and our hosts pulled back the veil on what it takes to start a business, including advice on how to prepare for financial, technical, and culinary upheavals. Afterwards, we bit into some of Bangin Grub's new menu options, scratch-made sauces, and unique desserts!

Lastly, we spoke with Samuel Kennedy, Co-Founder of Culinary Harvest and Berwyn Farmers Market off of the Main LIne. Not only does Samuel share the amazing locally-sourced products, gifts, foods, and more from area small businesses, he works at Birchrun Hills Farm as an expert cheesemaker. The Berwyn Farmers Market offers so much to taste and enjoy, and per Samuel, you can shop for your weekly grocery list and fill your fridge with farm-fresh products weekly. What is even more important, you can build relationships with the farmers and vendors who live, grow, and produce in your community-creating the opportunity to know exactly what goes into what you eat and knowing you're supporting the community!

Partners Chris Macguire and Steve Wright Jr. have been friends since they were six years old, and both have a deep love of two things: Gaming and ice cream. In fact, Chris' love of ice cream was so well-known that he received two ice cream makers as a wedding gift. A gift that he and his wife began experimenting in ice cream-making at home. Some time later, Chris' trials and errors yielded braggable versions that others could enjoy too. So when he wanted to change careers and had accrued a good amount of savings, it made sense to combine the two passions. So now, we can enjoy playing classic video games while enjoying every last spoonful of the frozen treats at Tubby Robot in Manayunk.

The well-known, iconic, Old-City Philadelphia-based Panorama Wine Bar has been delighting visitors for years. Since their opening in 1990, the focus on Italian cuisine and wine has won them awards, and even a place in the Guiness Book of World Records. So, we are more than happy to speak with Panorama's Executive Chef, Anthony DiSabato. Anthony, who grew up and began working inside the kitchens of South Philadelphia joined us to talk with co-host Gene Blum about the love of Italian culture, wine, and what Chef DiSabato's personal touches to the menu options at Panorama Wine Bar!

Chef Joseph Burton and his wife, Amanda Ngangana, both worked in the hospitality industry, with Chef Burton formerly working at Foreman Wolfe's Johnny's Downstairs, and Giada De Laurentiis' GDL Italian. And after traveling to Bastille, France, they wanted to bring French cuisine to their hometown. So, when the couple decided to open their restaurant, they both had a clear idea as to what the focus would be: Rustic French cuisine. However, the pandemic delayed their ability to open and they considered opening a food truck; fortunately they found a spot that they loved and persistence and perseverance prevailed and the couple opened Rooted Rotisserie in Baltimore, MD.

Sisters and business partners, Marti Lieberman and Pamela Lorden, own and operate The Mac Mart in Philadelphia. Although the venture began without any former training or background in the business, Marti started The Mac Mart to create a job for herself after graduating college, and was soon joined by her sister. The inspiration? A decadent mac-n-cheese that she made for her own graduation party was a huge hit, and food trucks were an up-and-coming trend at the time. Years later, the business has grown into multiple cart locations and a brick and mortar spot in center city...with a lot of happy mac and cheese lovers enjoying every cheesy bite!

We then climbed aboard the Moshulu off of Delaware Avenue in Philadelphia, speaking with the General Manager, Michelle Delp. Michelle knows all the in's and out's of the Moshulu, having worked there for 16 years, so when it comes to knowing the history and stories behind the Old cargo vessel she's certainly the perfect guide! After taking an optional champagne-toasted tour, you can enjoy some of the menu options like a raw bar, plentiful seafood options, along with steak, chicken, and more! And if you're looking to celebrate an event or holiday gathering--the Moshulu is the place to be! With sweeping back-drops of the Delaware River and Ben Franklin Bridge, you can taste your way through the night. And be sure to check out at least one of the five bars for you favorite cocktail or mocktail. Whether you're there to celebrate an event, enjoy a lovely dinner out, or grabbing brunch with friends, the Moshulu is a great place to experience in Philadelphia!

And we'll leave you with an indulgent treat, as we speak with co-owners Timothy Roquemore and Andre March of Afrika Bar. Creating something nice while doing good certainly hits the sweet-spot for anyone, and Timothy and Andre are doing just that. Both owners have worked within the fashion industry, so they're connoisseurs of what looks and tastes high-end. So the pair ventured to create an indulgent chocolate that will play off your palate with a variety of tasting notes, all sourced from small farms in Africa. Through their company's sales of both chocolate and branded fashion, they are able to give back to those farms to help support fair wages and sustainability practices. So if you are searching for a chocolate to enlighten your senses while doing good, try some of the chocolate from AfrikaBar.com!

We began our show with the CEO of Parliament Real Estate Partners; President of Parliament Consulting LLC; Co-Founder of Broad Street Brewing Company; and Co-Owner of Jericho Mountain Beef Company, Edward Webber. Webber and his partners have a strong focus on sustainability and leveled-up by using the brewer's used ingredients to feed the cattle on their ranch. It's a rather ingenious move, and a new way that beef and beer can go together so well. There's so much more to upack in Webber's interview, so we recommend you stick around to find out!

Next, we sat down with Kindness Kookies Owner and Baker, Ashley Naftaly. Ashley began her cookie venture during the pandemic, making and offering her tasty treats to fellow gym enthusiasts. She is not shy when it comes to admitting the irony of it all, but that little gesture turned into a much larger one--as she now bakes cookies with a cause. Her sweet baked goods do good deeds, as you can designate an organization to help out. There are also special recipe creations to look forward to, so spread a smile on your face by tuning in and finding out more about Ashley and her Kindness Kookies!

Speaking of spreading joy, our final guest joined us from Santa Fe, New Mexico! Ahmed Obo, who is the Chef and Owner of Jambo Cafe and Jambo Bobcat Bite, was born and raised in Lamu, Kenya. And in 1995 he immigrated to the USA via New York, finally landing in New Mexico to work and help support his family members living in Kenya. Little did Santa Fe know that in gaining a new resident, their palates would be opened up to a whole new world of tasting sensations. Ahmed's business' began as a suggestion for a special dinner night at a local Zia Diner, and very soon after it was a huge hit. Now, Ahmed's Jambo Cafe has gained him attention from numerous media outlets, earned him a James Beard Foundation Nomination, and caused many celebrities to be enamored with his cuisine. Curious to find out more? Then stay tuned till the end, and hear from Ahmed why you need to visit Jambo Cafe and Jambo Bobcat Bite in New Mexico!

Co-owners and ChefsTara Buzan-Hardy and Alex Hardy joined forces to open At The Table BYOB, beginning in a cozy venue. Since opening they've created a balance between savory comfort foods and gastronomic artistry for all discerning palates. The results speak for themselves, as their restaurant's popularity grew. Now, they've expanded into a larger venue and added cocktail offerings; happy hour specials; raw bar; and more. The couple, whose respective backgrounds also reflect their duality for their guests' dining experiences, are constantly developing new dishes to entice their guests and their own culinary imaginations.

Our next guest, Kenneth Bush, is both Executive Chef & Owner of FringeBar in Philadelphia. Chef Kenneth joined us to further discuss the artistry behind cultivating a menu reflective of the venue space and his expertise. FringeBar, which is located within the contemporary FringeArts performance theatre, offers multiple cuisines: One which is focused on a more innovative menu, and the second via a stationary food truck named Pumphouse Pizza. Chef/Owner Kenneth has a long history within the culinary community, working within the kitchens of Peter Woosley. Now, Chef Kenneth not only owns and runs FringeBar, he also co-owns the newly opened restaurant, The Morris.

Fresh is best, something that Ben Beaver, who works as the Executive Chef at Ever Grain Brewing Company, Ever Grain Farms, and their recently opened Wild Rabbit Pies and Pints stands by. Ever Grain's owners have a strong focus on offering creative and innovative beers using farm-fresh produce--in fact, they've sourced their ingredients from the plants that Chef Beaver and their support staff have grown at Ever Grain Farms. In addition to the craft brews, Chef Beaver incorporates the beers, produce, and proteins from the farm to create the menus for both the brewery as well as at Wild Rabbit Pies and Pints!

So, if you want to learn more about the delightfully creative restaurants that joined us this week--be sure to tune in to Food Farms and Chefs Radio Show at 6PM on WWDB and WPEN today if you live in the Philadelphia listening area, or Friday at 1pm on WMLD 103.7 FM if you live in the New York, Connecticut, and Northern New Jersey regions, or you can stream us at any time by searching for us on your preferred streaming platform!

Patti Fitzpatrick loves taking time to relax, especially when it comes time to spend with friends, which is exactly how she came to own The Talking Teacup in Chalfont, PA. Her love of tea and friendship built over time, with former owner Kathy Heck. Kathy and Patti's friendship grew, and soon Patti was doing what she loved alongside her friend. Unfortunately, Kathy was diagnosed with a form of cancer and passed away--however her husband maintained the property of The Talking Teacup, so in 2021 Patti was inspired to re-open her beloved place to sit, relax, and build strong connections with friends. Now, Patti owns and operates The Talking Teacup, offering seasonal menus, high tea experiences, and a place to enjoy a nice pot of tea.

The Rallo family has been in the culinary industry for multiple generations, and we sat down with Jake Rallo, who is the Manager of the Pasta Program at Birravino, located in Red Bank, NJ. Since he was a child, Jake has had the desire to work in the culinary industry--taking on a different role as he grew up. As time went on, Jake's love for Italian cuisine and culture was ignited, and he ended up graduating from Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration where he studied business, food, and wine. Now, Jake joined us on Food Farms and Chefs to discuss his family's restaurants and also to announce their newest addition to their family of restaurants--but you'll have to stay tuned to find out what that is!

Lastly, we discussed one of our favorite things to happen in the food-loving community: Restaurant Week! Main Line Today's Fall season of Restaurant Week is happening right now--and we are so excited to help spread the word! Not only can you dine out for a set-price for lunch or dinner (with a pre-fixe menu from participating restaurants), you have the opportunity to explore the Main Line when you go! We love helping to support the culinary industry--and this is a perfect way to do so too while igniting your taste buds! So stay tuned for our recommendations, and be sure to check out the 40+ restaurants that are participating in this amazing time of year!

We began our episode with Executive Chef Michael Selser from White Dog Cafe in Glen Mills. The Glen Mills location, as well as all other White Dog Cafe locations, offer seasonally-based menus that incorporates locally-sourced produce and proteins to create their food and beverage offerings. On top of helping to support local farmers and producers, they are also very supportive of their community; every location offers numerous fundraising and awareness-raising opportunities throughout the year. And keeping up with large events, WDC offers private event spaces as well as catering. So if you are looking for an inviting venue with a guarantee of having an indulgent, delicious meal--tune in to Food Farms and Chefs to find out what WDC has to offer!

We next sat down with the current Co-Owners Lara Mohr and Sam Talmadge of Pretty Tasty Cupcakes--a completely nut-free cupcake bakery. The brand originated in Cape May, NJ, and expanded into Pennsylvania because one of the original owners lived within the Conshohocken area. However, the location and consistency of menu offerings differed and the Conshohocken location was taken over by Mohr, who recently brought Talmadge on as a partner and Pastry Chef. Now, the pair operates and offers a wide selection of sweet treats, all of which are made in a peanut, tree nut, and seed-free environment. So if you are looking for a rich, decadent dessert--look no further than Pretty Tasty Cupcakes!