What happens when a couple transforms their love for food, travel and community into a thriving bistro? Jennifer Davis and Miguel Pujol not only embraced their culinary passions, but also infused them with their artistic vision, creating a unique dining experience at Monet's Bistro, a beautiful restaurant that celebrates local ingredients, artists, and wines with fantastic mountain views. 

Jennifer and Miguel's story is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the magic that happens when two people share their dreams.

 With a menu that reflects the vibrant spirit of Tulare County, they remind us that food is more than sustenance. It's a way to connect, share, and create lasting memories. 

Welcome to Plated, a podcast that explores how food gets on your plate. I'm your host, Sonia Mehrmand, and together we'll learn more about the agricultural landscape, food producers, restaurants, and eaters that make up Tulare County.

We'll delve into the inspiring story of Jennifer and Miguel as they navigate the culinary landscape of our region and share their vision for bringing art and flavor to the table

Think about the last time you peeled an orange or a mandarin... or any citrus for the matter. Have you ever considered the journey that takes fresh fruit from the grove to your kitchen table?  In a world where convenience often overshadows tradition, it's remarkable to think about the care and craftsmanship behind every bite.

Just think about it. Those luscious oranges and grapefruits don't just appear,   They start as tiny buds nurtured by farmers and researchers who pour their hearts into the land.

Welcome to Plated, a podcast that explores how food gets on your plate.  I'm your host, Sonia Mehrmand, and together we'll learn more about the agricultural landscape, food producers, restaurants, and eaters that make up Tulare County.

These conversations will highlight the intricate connection between food, culture, land, and community in our region.   As the temperatures begin to drop, I can't help but start dreaming about the citrus season ahead. I've been reflecting on my visit last year to the Lindcove Research Center, which is part of the University of California's Agricultural Research Network.

Lindcove focuses on enhancing citrus cultivation through scientific research and sustainable practices.  Every December, they hold an annual citrus tasting display, where over 200 of the latest varieties are showcased for the community to sample. This event isn't just about tasting. It's a celebration of innovation and research aimed at improving the quality and sustainability of citrus farming.

As we taste our way through unique flavors and discover new varieties, we'll hear from attendees, researchers, and growers about their passion for citrus and the future of this beloved fruit.

You can learn more about Lindcove Research and Extension Center here: https://lrec.ucanr.edu/ 

Have you ever wondered about the first people who encountered olives? Not only were they not deterred by the bitterness of the fruit off the tree, but they soaked them in salt until the bitterness was leached out, and better yet, they squeezed them until oil was extracted. Talk about ingenuity and persistence!

Join host Sonia Mehmand as she explores the  journey from olive tree to olive oil in the heart of Tulare County. In this episode of Plated, Sonia visits Olivaia Ranch, a Lindsay-based olive grove, to unravel the tales of its century-old trees and the innovative couple, Giulio Zavolta and Dr. Rachelle Bross, who are revitalizing the region's olive oil industry.

Learn about the challenges and triumphs faced by Olivaia, as Giulio and Rachelle share their unique approach to olive farming, blending, and creating exquisite oils. Together, we'll discover the rich history of Tulare County's agricultural roots and the potential for olives to shape a sustainable future in the face of water scarcity.

You can learn more about where to purchase Olivaia products at https://www.olivaiaolive.com