“The Lido Theater, Newport Beach’s iconic and recently restored movie landmark, has launched its Café Pop-Up Experience, open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. This exciting new offering, curated by Chef Shelly Register under the direction Hollywood Director and Newport Beach native Joseph ‘McG’ Nichol of River Jetty Restaurant Group, features a variety of freshly prepared menu items alongside an assortment of fresh-baked goods daily.” “Because of the history of the theater, it was really important that we create something that is lasting, that builds community, and says ‘We’re here for you, and we’re here to stay’—and let’s have fun with it!” commented Shelly Register, Culinary Director of River Jetty Restaurant Group’s A Market.” Chef Shelly is our guest ushering us through the special Café Pop-Up Experience at The Lido.

“Restaurants Care at the California Restaurant Foundation has opened a $200,000 disaster fund to kick-start direct assistance to food and beverage workers who have lost their homes, jobs, and stability in the L.A. Fires. Grants of up to $1,500 are available to help with critical needs like housing, food, and clothing as workers begin to recover from this crisis. Grants are awarded based on need and available funds.” Alycia Harshfield, President, California Restaurant Foundation | Restaurants Care, joins us with all the specifics.

It’s the new year and we’re always trying to creatively add more appealing fruits and vegetables to our daily meals. What are some great specialty produce items to consider for 2025 ? We’re joined by our resident produce authority, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s (also known as the “Prince of Produce”,) for a “fresh of the season” overview.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew remains tirelessly on the front line of providing disaster relief in his own small way for all the unfortunate victims of the Pacific Palisades and Pasadena / Altadena fires as part of a larger effort by restaurant & hospitality folks. He updates us on what is being done and what listeners can do to help. It’s an ongoing effort for the very long term. Andrew has also teamed up with Brave Books, his publisher for Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook. Through February 1st (at the minimum) they will donate a meal to a wildfire victim for each book sold.