SoCal Restaurant Show

The B8kery by Selanne, Laguna Beach’s newest bakery is located just steps from sister restaurant Selanne Steak Tavern.

“The bakery beckons both locals and newcomers with its array of offerings that include decadent sweet treats and house-made breads created by Rebekah Eastman, who previously worked as pastry chef at Bourbon Steak, Chef Michael Mina’s restaurant at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point.” Rebekah also is the newly appointed Executive Pastry Chef for Selanne Steak Tavern. Rebekah Eastman is our guest with rolling pin at the ready and joined by Selanne Steak Tavern’s Executive Chef, Vincent Terusa. (Selanne Steak Tavern is celebrating 10 years of welcoming discriminating guests this year and Chef Vince has been there since the beginning.)

“This airy, inviting neighborhood shop with its cheerful white and pink interior, floor to ceiling windows, Sips & Sweets neon wall sign and charming decorative touches features a scrumptious array of pastries and breads. The B8kery by Selanne has a large glass case tempting visitors with Glazed Strawberry Bang Pies; Blueberry Streusel Muffins; Gluten Free Donut Muffins; Banana Nut Muffins; Berries and Cream and Almond Croissants; Chocolate and Peanut Butter Brownies; cookies, cupcakes and more delectable confections. In addition, The B8kery features hot and cold coffees made with artisanal Caffe Luxxe of Southern California-famed coffee beans.”

“Selanne Steak Tavern, located at 1464 South Coast Highway in Laguna Beach, opened in November 2013 (celebrating its 10th Anniversary) and is owned by Hockey Hall of Famer Teemu Selanne and local Orange County businessman Kevin Pratt. Housed in a reimagined 1934 historic home along the Pacific Coast, it is an upscale contemporary steak house with an upstairs dining room, downstairs tavern and bar area, a wine room for more intimate dining and two patios for alfresco dining.”

“The restaurant supports local farms and fisheries that practice sustainability and humane practices. Menus feature the finest of steaks and seafood served with a variety of accompaniments enhanced by herbs from the restaurant’s herb garden. Along with its carefully selected California-focused wine list, craft signature cocktails are created from quality farmers’ market produce, homemade mixers and top-notch shelf spirits.”

The post Show 553, November 25, 2023: The B8kery by Selanne and 10th Anniversary of Selanne Steak Tavern, Laguna Beach Part One appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

The B8kery by Selanne, Laguna Beach’s newest bakery is located just steps from sister restaurant Selanne Steak Tavern.

“The bakery beckons both locals and newcomers with its array of offerings that include decadent sweet treats and house-made breads created by Rebekah Eastman, who previously worked as pastry chef at Bourbon Steak, Chef Michael Mina’s restaurant at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point.” Rebekah also is the newly appointed Executive Pastry Chef for Selanne Steak Tavern. Rebekah Eastman continues as our guest with whisk at the ready and is again joined by Selanne Steak Tavern’s Executive Chef, Vincent Terusa. (who has been there since the opening 10 years ago.)

“This airy, inviting neighborhood shop with its cheerful white and pink interior, floor to ceiling windows, Sips & Sweets neon wall sign and charming decorative touches features a scrumptious array of pastries and breads. The B8kery by Selanne has a large glass case tempting visitors with Glazed Strawberry Bang Pies; Blueberry Streusel Muffins; Gluten Free Donut Muffins; Banana Nut Muffins; Berries and Cream and Almond Croissants; Chocolate and Peanut Butter Brownies; cookies, cupcakes and more delectable confections. In addition, The B8kery features hot and cold coffees made with artisanal Caffe Luxxe of Southern California-famed coffee beans.”

“Selanne Steak Tavern, located at 1464 South Coast Highway in Laguna Beach, opened in November 2013 (celebrating its 10th Anniversary) and is owned by Hockey Hall of Famer Teemu Selanne and local Orange County businessman Kevin Pratt. Housed in a reimagined 1934 historic home along the Pacific Coast, it is an upscale contemporary steak house with an upstairs dining room, downstairs tavern and bar area, a wine room for more intimate dining and two patios for alfresco dining.”

“The restaurant supports local farms and fisheries that practice sustainability and humane practices. Menus feature the finest of steaks and seafood served with a variety of accompaniments enhanced by herbs from the restaurant’s herb garden. Along with its carefully selected California-focused wine list, craft signature cocktails are created from quality farmers’ market produce, homemade mixers and top-notch shelf spirits.”

The post Show 553, November 25, 2023: The B8kery by Selanne and 10th Anniversary of Selanne Steak Tavern, Laguna Beach Part Two appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Switchback Ridge winery produces handcrafted estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah sourced exclusively from the Peterson Family Vineyard in Calistoga, Napa Valley.” In recent years they have added a non-estate Sauvignon Blanc (with meticulously sourced premium fruit) to broaden the line.

“In 1914, Eliza and Mads Peterson purchased a 100-acre property located on the floor of the Napa Valley at the mouth of Dutch Henry Canyon. Both Eliza and Mads had immigrated to the United States in the late 1800s–Eliza from Ireland and Mads from Denmark–and headed westward as so many did at that time, seeking a place to call home.”

“The property, located just off the Silverado Trail between St. Helena and Calistoga, hosted a small Zinfandel vineyard. With the onset of Prohibition in 1920, prunes quickly became the cash crop in Napa Valley, and the Petersons planted a plum orchard to help provide for their large family. Caring for the orchard, as well as a large vegetable garden and numerous farm animals, was a full-time job for the whole family, including the six boys and three girls.”

“When the time came to pass the property on, the daughters, and not the sons, took the responsibility. Vera, Carrie, and Mae worked to preserve the family legacy, maintaining the buildings, plum orchard, vegetable garden and livestock. Vera worked the land, Carrie managed the books and Mae returned each summer to help the harvest. Vera’s son, John Peterson, grew up working the farm and, in turn, taught his children, Trish, Kelly and Johnny, the reward of hard work. The inspiration sparked by Mads’s dream, set a true legacy in motion.”

“Slowly the plum orchards transitioned to vineyards, and by the 1990s grape vines were thriving on the property that once hosted plums. The soils with plenty of drainage and a warm, sunny climate made the area perfect for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah. There are currently 21 acres under vine, which includes a sixty-plus year-old block of dry farmed Petite Sirah that John Peterson helped plant as a young child.”

“The inspiration to embark upon a family wine project first came to Kelly (representing the 4th generation of Peterson Family ownership) in 1995 with the death of her great aunt, Carrie. Auntie, as she was affectionately called, emphatically insisted that her old vine block of Petite Sirah, or “Pets” as she called them, “not be touched” when the property was replanted in 1990. At the time there was little respect or interest in Petite Sirah and total acreage in California was down to an all-time low of only 1,700 acres. After her death, there was a renewed interest in the variety and Kelly vowed to make a Petite Sirah varietal wine in her honor. That dream became a reality in 1999, with the help of family friend and winemaker Bob Foley, when Switchback Ridge produced its first vintage.”

“Switchback Ridge is named for the winding trails in the hills above the vineyard that John explored as a child. Today Kelly Peterson continues the legacy that began with her great-grandfather, Mads, over a hundred years ago.”

Certified Sommelier Pierson Ryan who is the National Sales Director for Switchback Ridge joins us to pull the cork on all that is Switchback Ridge.

The post Show 553, November 25, 2023: Switchback Ridge Winery, Calistoga, with Sommelier Pierson Ryan Part One appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Switchback Ridge winery produces handcrafted estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah sourced exclusively from the Peterson Family Vineyard in Calistoga, Napa Valley.” In recent years they have added a non-estate Sauvignon Blanc (with meticulously sourced fruit) to broaden the line.

“In 1914, Eliza and Mads Peterson purchased a 100-acre property located on the floor of the Napa Valley at the mouth of Dutch Henry Canyon. Both Eliza and Mads had immigrated to the United States in the late 1800s–Eliza from Ireland and Mads from Denmark–and headed westward as so many did at that time, seeking a place to call home.”

“When the time came to pass the property on, the daughters, and not the sons, took the responsibility. Vera, Carrie, and Mae worked to preserve the family legacy, maintaining the buildings, plum orchard, vegetable garden and livestock. Vera worked the land, Carrie managed the books and Mae returned each summer to help the harvest. Vera’s son, John Peterson, grew up working the farm and, in turn, taught his children, Trish, Kelly and Johnny, the reward of hard work. The inspiration sparked by Mads’s dream, set a true legacy in motion.”

“Slowly the plum orchards transitioned to vineyards, and by the 1990s grape vines were thriving on the property that once hosted plums. The soils with plenty of drainage and a warm, sunny climate made the area perfect for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah. There are currently 21 acres under vine, which includes a sixty-plus year-old block of dry farmed Petite Sirah that John Peterson helped plant as a young child.”

“The inspiration to embark upon a family wine project first came to Kelly (representing the 4th generation of Peterson Family ownership) in 1995 with the death of her great aunt, Carrie. Auntie, as she was affectionately called, emphatically insisted that her old vine block of Petite Sirah, or “Pets” as she called them, “not be touched” when the property was replanted in 1990. At the time there was little respect or interest in Petite Sirah and total acreage in California was down to an all-time low of only 1,700 acres. After her death, there was a renewed interest in the variety and Kelly vowed to make a Petite Sirah varietal wine in her honor. That dream became a reality in 1999, with the help of family friend and winemaker Bob Foley, when Switchback Ridge produced its first vintage.”

“Switchback Ridge is named for the winding trails in the hills above the vineyard that John explored as a child. Today Kelly Peterson continues the legacy that began with her great-grandfather, Mads, over a hundred years ago.”

Certified Sommelier Pierson Ryan who is the National Sales Director for Switchback Ridge stays with us pulling the cork on all that is Switchback Ridge.

The post Show 553, November 25, 2023: Switchback Ridge Winery, Calistoga, with Sommelier Pierson Ryan Part Two appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Italy Cocktails: An Elegant Collection of Over 100 Recipes Inspired By Italia by food and travel Journalist Paul Feinstein is a treasure trove of drink recipes, vivid photography, and cocktail histories from Italian hotspots and around the world.” Paul Feinstein is our guest to share his deep love and knowledge of Italian culture and the cocktails born and inspired from its rich history assembled for this book.

“These signature drink recipes from Italy hotspots pay homage to this vibrant country. With over 100 recipes and dozens of bartender profiles, you can drink like a local whether you’re just visiting or entertaining at home. From ritzy rooftop bars with views of the Colosseum to stylish Japanese-inspired haunts, locals and tourists alike will discover new watering holes that are sure to satisfy all tastes. With signature creations by prominent mixologists in the region, this book offers a detailed rundown of the best locations Italy has to offer.”

Within the gorgeous, die-cut covers, you’ll find:

“Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Naples, Bologna, Verona, Siena, Sicily—explore these beautiful cities and their craft cocktail scenes without ever leaving your zip code with Italy Cocktails.”

Paul cites Dante NYC as the outstanding outpost of Italian Cocktails in America. He shares that Dante Beverly Hills located on the rooftop of The Maybourne Beverly Hills recently debuted.

Locally the revitalized Capri Club in Eagle Rock is a favorite of Paul’s with cocktail recipes (including the Coppola) featured in the book. Paul is doing a book-signing there on Thursday, December 7th.

The post Show 553, November 25, 2023: Italy Cocktails with Food & Travel Journalist Paul Feinstein Part One appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Italy Cocktails: An Elegant Collection of Over 100 Recipes Inspired By Italia by food and travel Journalist Paul Feinstein is a treasure trove of drink recipes, vivid photography, and cocktail histories from Italian hotspots and around the world.” Paul Feinstein continues as our guest to share his deep love and knowledge of Italian culture and the cocktails born and inspired from its rich history assembled for this book.”

“These signature drink recipes from Italy hotspots pay homage to this vibrant country. With over 100 recipes and dozens of bartender profiles, you can drink like a local whether you’re just visiting or entertaining at home. From ritzy rooftop bars with views of the Colosseum to stylish Japanese-inspired haunts, locals and tourists alike will discover new watering holes that are sure to satisfy all tastes. With signature creations by prominent mixologists in the region, this book offers a detailed rundown of the best locations Italy has to offer.”

Within the gorgeous, die-cut covers, you’ll find:

“Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Naples, Bologna, Verona, Siena, Sicily—explore these beautiful cities and their craft cocktail scenes without ever leaving your zip code with Italy Cocktails.”

The post Show 553, November 25, 2023: Italy Cocktails with Food & Travel Journalist Paul Feinstein Part Two appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the ultimate objective. As a working chef Andrew has plenty of experience with cooking wisely for the Holidays for both demanding guests and Family. Chef Andrew joins us with his continuing series of genuinely useful, stress-free holiday cooking tips. The Thanksgiving Turkey has been carved and the remaining turkey and the bountiful side dishes are tucked in the refrigerator. Chef Andrew provides some tasty thoughts for creativity with leftovers.

The post Show 553, November 25, 2023: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef” appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Solvang, California has added new features for this year’s Solvang Julefest (pronounced ‘Yule-Fest’), the Santa Ynez Valley wine country town’s annual celebration of all things “holidays.” The season’s event stretch will begin Friday, November 24, 2023, and run through Saturday, January 6, 2024. Solvang Julefest 2023 will include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the walkable California Central Coast travel destination, frequently described as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns.”” Susan Lee (a native) of the Solvang Visitor Center joins us to provide the festive Holiday Cheer.

The partners in the popular Luchador Brewing Company are hosting the family-friendly Desert Brewfest: The First Coachella Valley Beer Festival on Sunday December 10th at the Cathedral City Amphitheater in Cathedral City. It’s a festive holiday-themed outdoor craft beer festival with music, Lucha Libre wrestling, local food vendors, pictures with Santa, and beer sampling from distinctive craft breweries near and far. In the spirit of the season the Luchador Brewing Company is also raising funds for charities along with a Holiday Toy Drive. It’s truly a beer lovers paradise. The partners in Luchador Brewing Company, Jaime Benson and Brent Miller join us to tap the keg on Desert Brewfest.

What is sourdough and why is San Francisco Sourdough held in such high esteem? A few weeks ago we introduced you to Baker Matt Kosoy of Rosalind Bakery in Pacifica with a newly launched retail bakery store in Downtown San Francisco near the Ferry Building. Matt is a recognized sourdough specialist and is with us providing the 411 on this popular bread variety. “Pacifica’s Rosalind Bakery’s delectable sourdough bread, pizzas, and pastries are made with a dash of love, a sprinkle of nostalgia, and a lot of dedication by proprietor and baker Matt Kosoy. They do more than just bake bread; they bring people together, creating moments of joy and connection. Named after the Matt’s maternal grandmother, Rosalind Bakery began in 2017 by building a community around food.”

Discover and Learn at Discovery Center at Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation in Carlsbad. “An extraordinaire collection of hands-on nature activities that allow visitors to taste nature experiencing both the lagoon and the ecological reserve that resides in Carlsbad.
The mission of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is to energize people through education and outreach to preserve Agua Hedionda Lagoon as an accessible and healthy watershed. Their vision is to be Stewards of the Watershed as they inspire future generations so all of us have access to a healthy lagoon. A safe place in nature…for all.”

Erin Hardin, Director of Community Relations for Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is our well-informed guide.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. The Holidays are arriving soon and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. The Holidays are here and stress-free Holiday cooking is always the objective. As a working chef Andrew has plenty of experience with cooking wisely for the Holidays for both demanding guests and Family. Chef Andrew joins us with his continuing series of genuinely useful “Turkey Talk” cooking tips. Chef Andrew shares a simple recipe for cranberry sauce that easily outshines the version in the can. Also hints on crave-worthy gravy that adds excitement to the Holiday Table.

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

The post Show 552, November 18, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

Solvang, California has added new features for this year’s Solvang Julefest (pronounced ‘Yule-Fest’), the Santa Ynez Valley wine country town’s annual celebration of all things “holidays.” The season’s event stretch will begin Friday, November 24, 2023, and run through Saturday, January 6, 2024. Solvang Julefest 2023 will include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the walkable California Central Coast travel destination, frequently described as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns.”

“The Month-Long Holiday Event includes Daily Light & Music Shows, Ongoing “Nisser Adventure” Scavenger Hunt, Nighttime Makers Market, and Newly-Added Candlelight Tours. Solvang, also known as “The Danish Capital of America,” presents an ideal getaway opportunity for travelers looking for a European-style holiday atmosphere without the transatlantic travel, whether a midweek or weekend escape.” Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitor Center joins us to provide the Holiday Cheer.

“The popular Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will be offered December 8, 9, 15, and 16, and as schools traditionally pause for the holiday season, the Candlelight Tours will run weeklong, Monday, December 18, through Saturday, December 23. Starting at 5:00 PM, the Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will provide special holiday experiences for locals and visitors as they traverse the streets of Solvang, accompanied by Christmas carols and an entertaining education about some Danish traditions and Solvang history. Guided by a costumed host, all tour participants will receive an LED candle to hold during the tour. Advance purchase is required.”

The post Show 552, November 18, 2023: “Solvang Julefest” with Susan Lee, Solvang Visitor Center Part One appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

Solvang, California has added new features for this year’s Solvang Julefest (pronounced ‘Yule-Fest’), the Santa Ynez Valley wine country town’s annual celebration of all things “holidays.” The season’s event stretch will begin Friday, November 24, 2023, and run through Saturday, January 6, 2024. Solvang Julefest 2023 will include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within the walkable California Central Coast travel destination, frequently described as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns.”

“The Month-Long Holiday Event includes Daily Light & Music Shows, Ongoing “Nisser Adventure” Scavenger Hunt, Nighttime Makers Market, and Newly-Added Candlelight Tours. Solvang, also known as “The Danish Capital of America,” presents an ideal getaway opportunity for travelers looking for a European-style holiday atmosphere without the transatlantic travel, whether a midweek or weekend escape.” Susan Lee of the Solvang Visitor Center joins us to provide the Holiday Cheer.

“Solvang, known for its Danish-American vibe, architecture and design details, pastries and bakeries, and array of wine tasting options, also boasts dozens of unique boutiques, restaurants and gourmet food purveyors. Carefully-curated indie booksellers and high-end home goods suppliers mingle with fairy tale-like children’s stores and museum gift shops. Solvang’s foodie destinations offer everything from elevated street cuisine – like locally-sourced fish tacos on hand-made tortillas, and comforting ramen noodles – to European-style pretzels and sausages, to Italian standbys or iconic Danish dishes, to elevated new-Californian fare in the form of Michelin-honored menus.”

Keep in mind you’ll never find a parking meter or pay parking lot in Solvang. Parking is always free.

The post Show 552, November 18, 2023: “Solvang Julefest” with Susan Lee, Solvang Visitor Center Part Two appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.