SoCal Restaurant Show

“Delacroix restaurant is the only standalone restaurant on the banks of the Mississippi River in New Orleans where guests can see and hear the river as they dine. The establishment is inspired by the food, culture and people of coastal Louisiana who shaped the historic fishing and hunting village of the same name in St. Bernard Parish, Delacroix. It’s a space where Louisiana’s coastal heritage lives on and is shared with each guest.”

“At Delacroix, guests experience soulful, coastal dishes with depth, made using homegrown techniques and seasonal ingredients. A centerpiece is the showcased raw oyster bar where there are always at least a couple of Gulf Oysters available.”

“Under Chef Wiley Lewis’ leadership, Delacroix’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that food is storytelling. It connects us, grounds us and brings us home.” Chef Wiley takes another break from her busy kitchen to join us.

“Chef Wiley Wilkinson Lewis is a Louisiana native whose culinary roots run deep through both North Louisiana and the bayous of the south. Raised in Shreveport, her passion for food began at an early age, inspired by her grandfather, Chef Carl Wiley Jones, whose family gatherings, homemade desserts and love of hospitality left a lasting impression. Surrounded by Louisiana’s rich outdoor traditions, Chef Wiley developed a lifelong connection to the ingredients, stories and culture that continue to shape her cooking today.”

“Following time spent working as a fishmonger, sales representative and social media manager with Inland Foods, Chef Wiley returned to the kitchen with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for Louisiana’s culinary traditions. Now the Chef de Cuisine at Delacroix, she brings her heart, heritage and soulful approach to cooking, celebrating the flavors and stories of South Louisiana through every dish she creates.”

“New to the Walt Disney Concert Hall in DTLA is La Nena Cantina, created by restaurateur Vicente Del Rio, which brings coastal-inspired cuisine and handcrafted cocktails all made from scratch to guests dining before shows and to the broader community. Diners will find many of the beloved dishes from the restaurant's Malibu and Hollywood locations, including Mole Negro, Tiradito de Hamachi, La Nena Molcajete and Tacos Malibu, as well as signature elements such as the tableside guacamole and handmade tortillas.”

“The restaurant showcases exclusive offerings created just for The Music Center, from specialty premium seasonal cocktails to specially curated pre-show menu options. La Nena Cantina is open for both lunch and dinner.”

Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 11:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.; Friday and Saturday, 11:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.; and Sunday, 11:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M. La Nena Cantina adjusts hours of operation to accommodate any pre-show or special event service windows.

“We are incredibly excited to bring La Nena Cantina to The Music Center and be part of such an iconic cultural destination in Los Angeles,” said Vicente Del Rio of La Nena Cantina. “This expansion allows us to share the vibrant flavors and coastal spirit that define our food with a new audience, while also creating something unique for the community.”

Restaurateur Vicente Del Rio joins us.

“New to the Walt Disney Concert Hall in DTLA is La Nena Cantina, created by restaurateur Vicente Del Rio, which brings coastal-inspired cuisine and handcrafted cocktails all made from scratch to guests dining before shows and to the broader community. Diners will find many of the beloved dishes from the restaurant's Malibu and Hollywood locations, including Mole Negro, Tiradito de Hamachi, La Nena Molcajete and Tacos Malibu, as well as signature elements such as the tableside guacamole and handmade tortillas.”

“The restaurant showcases exclusive offerings created just for The Music Center, from specialty premium seasonal cocktails to specially curated pre-show menu options. La Nena Cantina is open for both lunch and dinner.”

Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 11:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.; Friday and Saturday, 11:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.; and Sunday, 11:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M. La Nena Cantina adjusts hours of operation to accommodate any pre-show or special event service windows.

“La Nena Cantina (Hospitality 70 Group), is a contemporary Mexican restaurant concept inspired by the vibrant coastal flavors of Mexico and the relaxed sophistication of California living. Founded in 2025 by Vicente Del Rio and wife Andrea Nales—the team behind the acclaimed Frida Mexican Cuisine (Frimex Hospitality Group)—La Nena represents the evolution of more than 25 years of Los Angeles hospitality experience, offering a fresh interpretation of Mexican cuisine that honors tradition while embracing creativity and modern dining culture.”

Restaurateur Vicente Del Rio continues with us.

It’s the Summer travel season. Have you passed through the airport recently and bought food or beverages? Did you notice the sky-high prices for what is typically pretty average, uninspired fare ? Chef Andrew has, and shares his well-informed thoughts.

“Pasta Sisters, the popular Italian restaurant celebrated for its scratch-made pasta and generational family recipes, is teaming up with Helms Design District to bring the Italian summer tradition of Ferragosto to Southern California. The free, street fair-style event is open to all ages and takes place Saturday, Aug. 15, from 1 to 6:00 p.m. For one day only, the historic Helms campus will transform into an Italian-inspired piazza filled with a vibrant array of local food and beverage vendors, entertainment, and family activities.” Pasta Sisters’ Giorgia Sinatra joins us with the preview.

“For the past decade, Chef Rich Mead’s Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens has become one of Southern California's defining farm-to-table dining destinations by honoring the people behind every plate. This month, Farmhouse will commemorate its 10th anniversary with an extraordinary one-night-only culinary experience, followed by additional events and special programming throughout September. On Thursday, August 20, Farmhouse Owner and Executive Chef Rich Mead will host the Friends of Farmhouse 10th Anniversary Dinner, an elevated, intimate dining experience celebrating the farmers, artisans, ingredients and community that have shaped the restaurant since opening in 2016.” Chef Rich Mead takes a break from shopping at the ever- popular Santa Monica Farmers Market to join us. He’s joined by Farmhouse’s lead bartender, Alan Gutierrez.

“For the past decade, Chef Rich Mead’s Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens has become one of Southern California's defining farm-to-table dining destinations by honoring the people behind every plate. This month, Farmhouse will commemorate its 10th anniversary with an extraordinary one-night-only culinary experience, followed by additional events and special programming throughout September. On Thursday, August 20, Farmhouse Owner and Executive Chef Rich Mead will host the Friends of Farmhouse 10th Anniversary Dinner, an elevated, intimate dining experience celebrating the farmers, artisans, ingredients and community that have shaped the restaurant since opening in 2016.” Chef Rich Mead takes a break from shopping at the ever- popular Santa Monica Farmers Market to join us. He’s joined by Farmhouse’s lead bartender, Alan Gutierrez.

“Tony Abou-Ganim, The Modern Mixologist, is a world-renowned bar professional and beverage consultant, known for his pioneering contributions to mixology. He has appeared on national TV shows like TODAY and Iron Chef America, where he is a three-time champion. Tony is the author of The Modern Mixologist and Vodka Distilled and has hosted both virtual and in-person cocktail-making demonstrations, as well as the Fine Living series Raising the Bar.” His latest venture (a true labor of love) is the restoration of The Brass Rail, a classic neighborhood bar, in Port Huron, Michigan established in 1937.” Tony moves from behind the bar to join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew (as a Father of four) is a long-time proponent of cooking healthy (and delicious,) keeping it simple while cooking and stretching the food shopping dollars. He was the first chef contributing to a new online cooking series from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., “The Real Food Show,” available on You Tube. He prepares crispy wild Alaskan salmon cakes with an apple, white bean and greens salad. The budget is a respectable $5 per serving. Chef Andrew provides us with the overview.

“Pasta Sisters, the popular Italian restaurant celebrated for its scratch-made pasta and generational family recipes, is teaming up with Helms Design District to bring the Italian summer tradition of Ferragosto to Southern California. The free, street fair-style event is open to all ages and takes place Saturday, Aug. 15, from 1 to 6:00 p.m. For one day only, the historic Helms campus will transform into an Italian-inspired piazza filled with a vibrant array of local food and beverage vendors, entertainment, and family activities.” Pasta Sisters’ Giorgia Sinatra joins us with the preview.

“For the past decade, Chef Rich Mead’s Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens has become one of Southern California's defining farm-to-table dining destinations by honoring the people behind every plate. This month, Farmhouse will commemorate its 10th anniversary with an extraordinary one-night-only culinary experience, followed by additional events and special programming throughout September. On Thursday, August 20, Farmhouse Owner and Executive Chef Rich Mead will host the Friends of Farmhouse 10th Anniversary Dinner, an elevated, intimate dining experience celebrating the farmers, artisans, ingredients and community that have shaped the restaurant since opening in 2016.” Chef Rich Mead takes a break from shopping at the ever- popular Santa Monica Farmers Market to join us. He’s joined by Farmhouse’s lead bartender, Alan Gutierrez.

“Tony Abou-Ganim, The Modern Mixologist, is a world-renowned bar professional and beverage consultant, known for his pioneering contributions to mixology. He has appeared on national TV shows like TODAY and Iron Chef America, where he is a three-time champion. Tony is the author of The Modern Mixologist and Vodka Distilled and has hosted both virtual and in-person cocktail-making demonstrations, as well as the Fine Living series Raising the Bar.” His latest venture (a true labor of love) is the restoration of The Brass Rail, a classic neighborhood bar, in Port Huron, Michigan established in 1937.” Tony moves from behind the bar to join us.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (located in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) now joins us with his timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew (as a Father of four) is a long-time proponent of cooking healthy (and delicious,) keeping it simple while cooking and stretching the food shopping dollars. He was the first chef contributing to a new online cooking series from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., “The Real Food Show,” available on You Tube. He prepares crispy wild Alaskan salmon cakes with an apple, white bean and greens salad. The budget is a respectable $5 per serving. Chef Andrew provides us with the overview.

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

“Pasta Sisters, the popular Italian restaurant celebrated for its scratch-made pasta and generational family recipes, is teaming up with Helms Design District to bring the Italian summer tradition of Ferragosto to Southern California. The free, street fair-style event is open to all ages and takes place Saturday, August 15th, from 1 to 6:00 p.m. For one day only, the historic Helms campus will transform into an Italian-inspired piazza filled with a vibrant array of local food and beverage vendors, entertainment, and family activities.” Pasta Sisters’ Giorgia Sinatra joins us with the enticing preview.

“Highlights include a beer garden from Father’s Office; live music; baby dance-alongs (in Italian) led by nonprofit language school Fondazione Italia; an Orto Farms produce stand featuring heirloom Italian and DOP-certified varietals; complimentary Caffe Luxxe espresso; gelato from award-winning Dolcenero; cheese, salumi, and olive oil tastings from Sogno Toscano; Pasta Sisters pasta-making demonstrations; an IKEA family fun lawn; and more.” 

“Ferragosto is a widely celebrated summer holiday in Italy. Rooted in centuries-old tradition and originating as a day of rest following an intense harvest season, today it’s marked by family gatherings, outdoor celebrations, abundant food and drink, and often seaside visits. Ferragosto at Helms embraces the spirit of this Italian celebration, while adding a local twist by bringing together community businesses from Culver City and beyond.”

“Ferragosto is one of our favorite days of the year back home. It's about slowing down, being together, and enjoying summer,” said Giorgia Sinatra, Creative Director and one of the “sisters” behind Pasta Sisters. “We wanted to bring that same spirit to our Helms community: good food, good music, and a whole neighborhood out celebrating summer together.” Participants include Helms Design District shops and restaurants offering Ferragosto-inspired activations for the day and community partners popping up to offer samples, sell goods, educate, or create a unique experience for the occasion.”

“Pasta Sisters, the popular Italian restaurant celebrated for its scratch-made pasta and generational family recipes, is teaming up with Helms Design District to bring the Italian summer tradition of Ferragosto to Southern California. The free, street fair-style event is open to all ages and takes place Saturday, August 15th, from 1 to 6:00 p.m. For one day only, the historic Helms campus will transform into an Italian-inspired piazza filled with a vibrant array of local food and beverage vendors, entertainment, and family activities.” Pasta Sisters’ Giorgia Sinatra stays with us further previewing Ferragosto at Helms Design District.

“Highlights include a beer garden from Father’s Office; live music; baby dance-alongs (in Italian) led by nonprofit language school Fondazione Italia; an Orto Farms produce stand featuring heirloom Italian and DOP-certified varietals; complimentary Caffe Luxxe espresso; gelato from award-winning Dolcenero; cheese, salumi, and olive oil tastings from Sogno Toscano; Pasta Sisters pasta-making demonstrations; an IKEA family fun lawn; and more.”

“Ferragosto is a widely celebrated summer holiday in Italy. Rooted in centuries-old tradition and originating as a day of rest following an intense harvest season, today it’s marked by family gatherings, outdoor celebrations, abundant food and drink, and often seaside visits. Ferragosto at Helms embraces the spirit of this Italian celebration, while adding a local twist by bringing together community businesses from Culver City and beyond.”

“The celebration will also give back: Ferragosto at Helms is collecting school supplies for A Child’s Dream, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing essential items and resources to children in underserved local communities. Attendees are encouraged to bring new backpacks and unused school supplies to the event, where they will be collected throughout the day.”

“For the past decade, Chef Rich Mead’s Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens has become one of Southern California's defining farm-to-table dining destinations by honoring the people behind every plate. This month, Farmhouse will commemorate its 10th anniversary with an extraordinary one-night-only culinary experience, followed by additional events and special programming throughout September.”

On Thursday, August 20th, Farmhouse Owner and Executive Chef Rich Mead will host the (already sold out) Friends of Farmhouse 10th Anniversary Dinner, an elevated, intimate dining experience celebrating the farmers, artisans, ingredients and community that have shaped the restaurant since opening in 2016.” Chef Rich Mead takes a break from shopping at the ever- popular Santa Monica Farmers Market to join us. He’s joined by Farmhouse’s lead bartender, Alan Gutierrez.

“Designed for just 100 guests, the community table-style dinner will feature a five-course menu with thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail pairings, showcasing the seasonal ingredients and local partnerships that have become synonymous with the Farmhouse experience.”

“On Thursday, September 24 from 6–8:30 p.m., Chef Rich Mead will host the Farmhouse Community Celebration, where guests can meet the farmers, purveyors, vintners and culinary partners behind the restaurant’s celebrated field-to-fork menu while enjoying seasonal tastings throughout the gardens. Proceeds from the evening will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County supporting the organization's mission to provide nutritious food and hope to children, families and seniors throughout Orange County.

“While Farmhouse celebrates ten years this year, the philosophy behind the restaurant began long before its doors opened. Since 1994, Chef Rich Mead has made weekly early-morning trips to the Santa Monica Farmers Market, personally selecting the freshest seasonal ingredients while building enduring relationships with California's most respected farmers, ranchers and purveyors. Those friendships became the heart of Farmhouse's ever-changing menus, inspiring guests to discover the best of each season with every visit.”

“Proceeds from the both evenings (August 20th and September 24th ) will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, supporting the organization's mission to provide nutritious food and hope to children, families and seniors throughout Orange County.”