SoCal Restaurant Show

“608 Dahlia, the renowned garden-to-table dining destination nestled within the picturesque Sherman Library and Gardens in Corona del Mar, has launched their seasonal fall menu. Crafted by Executive Chef and Owner Jessica Roy, the new menu showcases the peak-of-season ingredients, celebrating the vibrant flavors and colors of Southern California. Chef Roy, a culinary visionary and winner of multiple national TV cooking competitions, continues to elevate the dining experience at 608 Dahlia with her commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients.” Chef Jessica takes another break from her bustling kitchen to stay with us.

“The Fall menu opens with refreshing starters such as their signature Buttermilk Chive & Gruyere Biscuits, served with orange blossom honey and whipped butter. Roy’s Heirloom Garden Beets are served with whipped herbed goat cheese, seasonal orange, local avocado, picked garden leaves, and farmers market radish.”

 “608 Dahlia also presents appealing garden-inspired dishes like the Harvest Salad of baby kale, shaved Brussels sprouts, arugula, local apple, feta cheese, toasted pepitas, crispy quinoa, and jewel-toned pomegranate seeds; the Wild Mushroom Orecchiette with truffle cashew cream, roasted herbed Japanese mushrooms, petite fall squash, and crispy Sherman Garden herbs; and the Seasonal Vegetable Quiche, a house-rolled crust filled with organic leeks, wild mushrooms, Swiss and Gruyère blend, Lilly's Farms cage-free heritage eggs, and sweet yellow bell pepper emulsion. Main courses like the Pan Seared Salmon are complemented by whipped basil potato, petite vegetables, and a citrus carrot emulsion. The guest-favorite Braised Short Rib makes a return, served with brown butter sweet potato, petite vegetables, and a red wine reduction.”

 “For dessert, guests can enjoy elevated fall classics like a caramelized Apple Tart and a Spiced Pumpkin Pie with a cinnamon almond crust, organic spiced pumpkin custard, and whipped coconut cream. The house-made Lavender Crème Brûlée, enhanced with fresh marinated berries and whipped berry cream, offers a delicate and aromatic finish.”

The name refers to the actual address of the kitchen at 608 Dahlia and it also happens to be Chef Jessica’s favorite flower. Now you know…

608 Dahlia is an ideal location for memorable Holiday Parties and Year-End Celebrations. You’re also supporting the non-profit Sherman Library & Gardens. Think ahead and book early…

“Experience mouthwatering Southern baking! From humble home kitchens to innovative new Southern chefs. One of the world's richest culinary traditions comes to life through this essential cookbook, Baking in the American South – 200 Recipes and Their Untold Stories, from bestselling author, journalist, food historian, and native Southerner, Anne Byrn. With 200 recipes from 14 states and more than 150 photos, Baking in the American South has the biscuits, cornbread, cakes, and rolls that will help you bake like a Southerner, even if you aren't.” Anne takes a break from her busy book tour to join us with pound cake in hand.

“Recipes can tell you volumes if you pay attention—the crops raised, languages spoken, family customs, old world flavors, and, often, religion. Did you know that where a mill was located affected the recipes handed down from that area? Or that baking and selling pound cakes directly impacted the Civil Rights Movement? These stories and recipes, developed from good times and bad, have been collected and perfected over the years and are now accessible to us all. Anne's expertise in assessing, modernizing, and developing well-written recipes makes this the definitive guide for bakers of all levels.”

“This fascinating dive into the history of 14 Southern states—Texas, Florida, Kentucky, and more—features stories and beautifully photographed recipes by Rinne Allen from pre-Civil War times to today's Southern kitchens. It's about the places, the people, the products and the culture of the moment that influenced what people baked. It's about African-American women and the monumental contributions they have made to the art of Southern baking, about home cooks and how they've kept traditions alive wherever they settle by baking family recipes each year for holidays and celebrations, and about the pastry chefs who have thoughtfully reimagined how the South bakes.”

“Experience the recipes and the stories behind them that showcase the substantial contributions Southern baking has made to American baking at large. Food historians, bakers, foodies, and cookbook collectors from every corner of the country will want this cookbook in their collections.”

“Experience mouthwatering Southern baking! From humble home kitchens to innovative new Southern chefs. One of the world's richest culinary traditions comes to life through this essential cookbook, Baking in the American South – 200 Recipes and Their Untold Stories, from bestselling author, journalist, food historian, and native Southerner, Anne Byrn. With 200 recipes from 14 states and more than 150 photos, Baking in the American South has the biscuits, cornbread, cakes, and rolls that will help you bake like a Southerner, even if you aren't.” Anne takes a 2nd break from her busy book tour to continue with us.

“Recipes can tell you volumes if you pay attention—the crops raised, languages spoken, family customs, old world flavors, and, often, religion. Did you know that where a mill was located affected the recipes handed down from that area? Or that baking and selling pound cakes directly impacted the Civil Rights Movement? These stories and recipes, developed from good times and bad, have been collected and perfected over the years and are now accessible to us all. Anne's expertise in assessing, modernizing, and developing well-written recipes makes this the definitive guide for bakers of all levels.”

“This fascinating dive into the history of 14 Southern states—Texas, Florida, Kentucky, and more—features stories and beautifully photographed recipes by Rinne Allen from pre-Civil War times to today's Southern kitchens. It's about the places, the people, the products and the culture of the moment that influenced what people baked. It's about African-American women and the monumental contributions they have made to the art of Southern baking, about home cooks and how they've kept traditions alive wherever they settle by baking family recipes each year for holidays and celebrations, and about the pastry chefs who have thoughtfully reimagined how the South bakes.”

“Experience the recipes and the stories behind them that showcase the substantial contributions Southern baking has made to American baking at large. Food historians, bakers, foodies, and cookbook collectors from every corner of the country will want this cookbook in their collections”

“Keller Estate is a Mexican-American, family-owned winery nestled in the Petaluma Gap AVA of California, a unique stretch of windswept landmarked by the wind and fog that is funneled from the cold northern Pacific coast between mountains and the bay to the warm inland valley. The Keller family brings a rich, multicultural heritage to the estate winery, and since its founding in 1983, they have remained committed to organic farming and regenerative growing practices to produce estate bottlings of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah that reflect their distinct terroir. The winery is led by Ana Keller, daughter of founders Arturo and Deborah Keller, who oversees a minimal intervention approach resulting in elegant, age-worthy, and food-friendly wines.”

“Since assuming leadership in 1998, Ana has passionately crafted wines that embody the terroir while remaining committed to the family's dedication to producing elegant, age-worthy, and food-friendly wines. Armed with a background in biochemistry and honed management and marketing expertise, Ana has evolved alongside Keller Estate, championing organic farming practices and refining blends with collaborative finesse. Her influence is palpable throughout the Estate, from personally engaging with club members to shaping its overarching vision.”

“In 2013, Ana joined the board of the Petaluma Gap Winegrowers Alliance, and was instrumental in establishing the Petaluma Gap American Viticultural Area (AVA). Reflecting the Keller family ethos of community stewardship, Ana also devotes her time to the Glancy Wine Education Foundation. Through this involvement, she helps advance wine education scholarships, fostering inclusivity and equality within the hospitality industry.”

The Peninsula Hotels around the globe are known for outstanding hospitality and global-class food and beverage. Since 2006 Keller Estate wines has bottled an exclusive yearly release of estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for The Peninsula Hotels that is co-labeled with Keller Estates.

Ana Keller joins us pulling the cork on all that is Keller Estate winery.

“Pink’s Hot Dogs, the iconic Hollywood hot dog stand, is currently celebrating its 85th-anniversary festivities, marking over eight decades of serving mouthwatering hot dogs to Angelenos, celebrities, and visitors alike from around the world.”

“Located on the corner of La Brea and Melrose, designated as "Pink’s Square," they are celebrating their 85th anniversary from November 8 to 12, 2024. The five- night celebration features appearances by celebrities and notable figures (including the Mayor of Los Angeles and Henry Winkler,) as well as Pink’s signature "Chili Dogs for Charity" program, benefiting local Los Angeles charities.”

“As part of the celebration, Pink’s is offering chili dogs for 85 cents for 85 minutes each night at 8:05 p.m. starting on November 8th for 5 nights as part of the "Chili Dogs for Charity" program (with a limit of 5 hot dogs per customer). This initiative, close to the hearts of the Pink family, is their way of giving back to the community that has supported them through the decades. Proceeds will benefit local Los Angeles charities. The Pink family —Richard Pink, his wife Gloria, and his sister Beverly (2nd generation owners) — are donating 100% of the gross proceeds from these sales to a different charity each night, with a minimum donation of $5,000 per night”

The festivities launched last night with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass as the guest celebrity. The celebration concludes on November 12th with noted actor Henry Winkler.


Thanksgiving is fast approaching. Chef Andrew is a fountain of genuinely useful, stress-free Thanksgiving cooking tips for the home kitchen which he generously shares. This week’s tip is everything you want to know about selecting that Thanksgiving bird. Fresh or frozen? Is a heritage or heirloom bird actually worth the extra cost? Hints for a safe defrosting of a frozen bird with less mess. Are two smaller turkeys better than oven roasting one large one?

The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester New York is truly a world of Imagination. “It’s the ultimate play destination for all ages! Guests explore New York’s largest year-round cultural attraction and experience two floors – more than a city block long – of hands-on, dynamic, interactive exhibit spaces. Discover the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games. The Strong is home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame. The latest attraction is the recently opened 90,000 sq. ft. expansion.” Our playful guide is Shane Rhinewald, Senior Director of Public Relations for The Strong Museum.

“Fatty Mart is Chef David Kuo’s (Little Fatty) answer to the need for an eco-conscious, fully stocked convenience store offering multicultural specialties in the heart of Mar Vista. Little Fatty offers dine-in, grab + go, and eventually will offer delivery, too. The offerings (including salivating fresh prepared ethnic foods) are inspired by the diverse food cultures of Los Angeles. Chef David has partnered with local growers to provide quality ingredients, with sustainability at the core of his mission. Chef Kuo is a first-generation Angeleno and finds inspiration from the food he grew up eating at home.  The name “little fatty” is the translation of Kuo’s childhood nickname, “xiao pang” given to him by his family.” The Head Fatty himself, Chef David Kuo, takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

“Fatty Mart is Chef David Kuo’s (Little Fatty) answer to the need for an eco-conscious, fully stocked convenience store offering multicultural specialties in the heart of Mar Vista. Little Fatty offers dine-in, grab + go, and eventually will offer delivery, too. The offerings (including salivating fresh prepared ethnic foods) are inspired by the diverse food cultures of Los Angeles. Chef David has partnered with local growers to provide quality ingredients, with sustainability at the core of his mission. Chef Kuo is a first-generation Angeleno and finds inspiration from the food he grew up eating at home.  The name “little fatty” is the translation of Kuo’s childhood nickname, “xiao pang” given to him by his family.” The Head Fatty himself, Chef David Kuo, takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Considering stress-free restaurant options for that Thanksgiving feast? The bay view Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar in Newport Beach known for impeccable service and warm hospitality is a worthy option. For Thanksgiving it’s a three-course prix fixe-menu from Executive Chef & Partner Yvon Goetz with choices within each course for a reasonable $95 per guest plus tax and gratuity. Main Course options are a choice of Traditional Maple Glazed Free Range Turkey, Zinfandel Braised Short Rib, Jumbo Wild White Shrimp and Orange-Honey Glazed Pork Chop. Thanksgiving meal service on Thursday, November 28, is from Noon to 7:30 p.m. Reservations are essential. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar in Tustin (the original) is also hosting a Thanksgiving prix-fixe menu. “Focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a leading-edge dining experience.” Chef Yvon joins us to preview his Thanksgiving Menu at The Winery Restaurant Newport Beach and The Winery Restaurant Tustin.

“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats at The Original Farmers Market at Third & Fairfax is 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 product are coming together to participate in the 4th Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to the Union Rescue Mission in downtown Los Angeles.” Proprietor Jim Cascone joins us providing an overview of the Holiday effort.

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. Thanksgiving is fast approaching. Chef Andrew is a fountain of genuinely useful, stress-free Thanksgiving cooking tips which he generously shares. This week’s tip is everything you want to know about the cranberry sauce. Is it best to go with the convenient Ocean Spray in the can or is there perhaps an easy and quick recipe to create a worthy Cranberry sauce on your own?

The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester New York is truly a world of Imagination. “It’s the ultimate play destination for all ages! Guests explore New York’s largest year-round cultural attraction and experience two floors – more than a city block long – of hands-on, dynamic, interactive exhibit spaces. Discover the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games. The Strong is home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame. The latest attraction is the recently opened 90,000 sq. ft. expansion.” Our playful guide is Shane Rhinewald, Senior Director of Public Relations for The Strong Museum.

“Fatty Mart is Chef David Kuo’s (Little Fatty) answer to the need for an eco-conscious, fully stocked convenience store offering multicultural specialties in the heart of Mar Vista. Little Fatty offers dine-in, grab + go, and eventually will offer delivery, too. The offerings (including salivating fresh prepared ethnic foods) are inspired by the diverse food cultures of Los Angeles. Chef David has partnered with local growers to provide quality ingredients, with sustainability at the core of his mission. Chef Kuo is a first-generation Angeleno and finds inspiration from the food he grew up eating at home.  The name “little fatty” is the translation of Kuo’s childhood nickname, “xiao pang” given to him by his family.” The Head Fatty himself, Chef David Kuo, takes a brief break from his busy kitchens to join us.

Considering stress-free restaurant options for that Thanksgiving feast? The bay view Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar in Newport Beach known for impeccable service and warm hospitality is a worthy option. For Thanksgiving it’s a three-course prix fixe-menu from Executive Chef & Partner Yvon Goetz with choices within each course for a reasonable $95 per guest plus tax and gratuity. Main Course options are a choice of Traditional Maple Glazed Free Range Turkey, Zinfandel Braised Short Rib, Jumbo Wild White Shrimp and Orange-Honey Glazed Pork Chop. Thanksgiving meal service on Thursday, November 28, is from Noon to 7:30 p.m. Reservations are essential. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar in Tustin (the original) is also hosting a Thanksgiving prix-fixe menu. “Focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a leading-edge dining experience.” Chef Yvon joins us to preview his Thanksgiving Menu at The Winery Restaurant Newport Beach and The Winery Restaurant Tustin.

“There’s just something about a new pair of jammies that says ‘cozy and safe’ to kids, and Huntington Meats at The Original Farmers Market at Third & Fairfax is 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 product are coming together to participate in the 4th Holiday Kids Pajama Drive to take place the entire month of November. The goal is to collect 300 pairs of pajamas for distribution to the Union Rescue Mission in downtown Los Angeles.” Proprietor Jim Cascone joins us providing an overview of the Holiday effort.

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. Thanksgiving is fast approaching. Chef Andrew is a fountain of genuinely useful, stress-free Thanksgiving cooking tips which he generously shares. This week’s tip is everything you want to know about the cranberry sauce. Is it best to go with the convenient Ocean Spray in the can or is there perhaps an easy and quick recipe to create a worthy Cranberry sauce on your own?

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York is truly a world of Imagination. “It’s the ultimate play destination for all ages! Guests explore New York’s largest year-round cultural attraction and experience two floors – more than a city block long – of hands-on, dynamic, interactive exhibit spaces. Discover the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games.”

The Museum is an eclectic tribute to the legacy of their founding benefactor, Margaret Woodbury Strong, who was a serious collector with a sharp eye for the rare and unusual. Part of her family’s vast fortune was realized as early investors in Eastman Kodak, another Rochester institution.

“The Strong is home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame. The latest attraction is the recently opened 90,000 sq. ft. expansion.”

Our playful guide is Shane Rhinewald, Senior Director of Public Relations for The Strong Museum.