SoCal Restaurant Show

The 2023 Los Angeles County Fair concludes its season in Pomona on Monday, May 29th.

Outrageous Fair Food is always a mouthwatering highlight. What crazy edible will they next put on a stick? One of the all-star, Fair Food personalities is the well-traveled Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri of Biggy’s fame on the RCS Carnival Midway. We’ll find out what indulgent deliciousness Chef Dominic is cooking up now for the closing weekend of the Los Angeles County Fair and beyond. Then it’s on to the San Diego County Fair in Del Mar and the OC Fair launching on Friday, July 14th.

Chef Dominic’s Enzo Pizza is always a Fair standout. New on Enzo’s menu for the 2023 season is an outrageous Hot Cheeto Cheese Pickle Pizza. Chef Dominic assures that “this will change how anyone thinks about pizza.” Remember its his Italian heritage that’s on the line here…

Also generating praise is the new Hot Honey Pizza. It’s both hot and sweet on a pizza with premium Mike’s Hot Honey. A great variation on a traditional Pepperoni Pizza.

We’re taking Fair Food at its tastiest best with The Midway Gourmet. A giant Turkey Leg has appeared.

The post Show 527, May 27, 2023: The Midway Gourmet – Chef Dominic Palmieri, RCS Carnival Midway Foods Part One appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

The 2023 Los Angeles County Fair concludes its season in Pomona on Monday, May 29th.

Outrageous Fair Food is always a mouthwatering highlight. What crazy edible will they next put on a stick? One of the all-star, Fair Food personalities is the well-traveled Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri of Biggy’s fame on the RCS Carnival Midway. We’ll find out what indulgent deliciousness Chef Dominic is cooking up now for the closing weekend of the Los Angeles County Fair and beyond. Then it’s on to the San Diego County Fair in Del Mar and the OC Fair launching on Friday, July 14th.

Chef Dominic’s Enzo Pizza is always a Fair standout. New on Enzo’s menu for the 2023 season is an outrageous Hot Cheeto Cheese Pickle Pizza. Chef Dominic assures that “this will change how anyone thinks about pizza.” Remember its his Italian heritage that’s on the line here…

The conversation continues with Fair Food at its tastiest best with The Midway Gourmet, Chef Dominic Palmieri. A giant Turkey Leg has appeared.

The post Show 527, May 27, 2023: The Midway Gourmet – Chef Dominic Palmieri, RCS Carnival Midway Foods Part Two appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Zov’s Bistro and Bakery, the renowned restaurant (started in Tustin) that has been delighting diners for 35 years with its unique Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, is celebrating multiple milestones this year – its 35th anniversary and expansion into San Clemente. What began as a catering company in 1987 has become one of Orange County’s most iconic multi-unit mainstays, continuing to make waves as it expands throughout Southern California.”

“Founded in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, Zov’s has been a staple in Orange County’s dining scene, earning numerous awards and accolades for its flavorful dishes, warm hospitality, and elegant ambiance. The Armenian immigrant credits family support as the foundation and inspiration throughout her culinary career. Her son, Armen, now leads the brand’s expansion as Zov’s CEO, and her daughter, Taleene, envisions its creative direction.”

“As Zov’s marks its 35th anniversary, Karamardian and her family look back on the restaurant’s journey with pride and gratitude for the loyal guests and dedicated staff who have supported its growth.”

“It’s been an incredible journey. My dream was fueled by my passion for cooking and a desire to bring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine to Orange County,” reflects Zov Karamardian. “Our loyal customers have been the driving force behind our success, and we’re excited to continue to serve them and new diners in the years to come.”

“In celebration of their 35th anniversary, Zov’s restaurant is proud to partner with the UCI Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute. A collaboration between Chef Zov Karamardian and UCI Samueli Institute’s Executive Chef Jessica VanRoo, the menu is a celebration of a shared commitment to the transformative power of the culinary arts to our health. Started in early May, Zov’s now offers a special 3-course menu for $35 complete with Roasted Beet Dip with tahini swirl and toasted pita, Pan Roasted Sea Bass, with seared zucchini cake and toasted feta in a lemon caper sauce, and for dessert, Chia Seed Yogurt with turmeric and fresh mango.”

“As a family-owned business, we are thrilled to be celebrating our 35th anniversary in Orange County,” said Armen Karamardian, CEO of Zov’s. “As we expand into San Clemente, our team provides a memorable dining experience with fresh, healthy ingredients and exceptional service. We can’t wait to share our passion for food and hospitality with the South Orange County community.”

“Zov’s currently has three locations in Orange County, including Tustin, Irvine, and Newport Beach, and a sister concept, Roxy’z, in Anaheim.”

2nd generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian is our guide to all things Zov’s.

The post Show 527, May 27, 2023: Zov’s Restaurants 35th Anniversary with Armen Karamardian Part One appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Zov’s Bistro and Bakery, the renowned restaurant (started in Tustin) that has been delighting diners for 35 years with its unique Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, is celebrating multiple milestones this year – its 35th anniversary and expansion into San Clemente. What began as a catering company in 1987 has become one of Orange County’s most iconic multi-unit mainstays, continuing to make waves as it expands throughout Southern California.”

“Founded in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, Zov’s has been a staple in Orange County’s dining scene, earning numerous awards and accolades for its flavorful dishes, warm hospitality, and elegant ambiance. The Armenian immigrant credits family support as the foundation and inspiration throughout her culinary career. Her son, Armen, now leads the brand’s expansion as Zov’s CEO, and her daughter, Taleene, envisions its creative direction.”

“In celebration of their 35th anniversary, Zov’s restaurant is proud to partner with the UCI Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute. A collaboration between Chef Zov Karamardian and UCI Samueli Institute’s Executive Chef Jessica VanRoo, the menu is a celebration of a shared commitment to the transformative power of the culinary arts to our health. Started in early May, Zov’s now offers a special 3-course menu for $35 complete with Roasted Beet Dip with tahini swirl and toasted pita, Pan Roasted Sea Bass, with seared zucchini cake and toasted feta in a lemon caper sauce, and for dessert, Chia Seed Yogurt with turmeric and fresh mango.”

“As a family-owned business, we are thrilled to be celebrating our 35th anniversary in Orange County,” said Armen Karamardian, CEO of Zov’s. “As we expand into San Clemente, our team provides a memorable dining experience with fresh, healthy ingredients and exceptional service. We can’t wait to share our passion for food and hospitality with the South Orange County community.”

“Zov’s currently has three locations in Orange County, including Tustin, Irvine, and Newport Beach, and a sister concept, Roxy’z, in Anaheim.”

2nd generation restaurateur Armen Karamardian continues as our guide to all things Zov’s.

The post Show 527, May 27, 2023: Zov’s Restaurants 35th Anniversary with Armen Karamardian Part Two appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

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

It’s Memorial Day Weekend. First Chef Andrew gently reminds us that there is more significance to this holiday besides the treat of Summer grilling. Sunday, May 28 is National Burger Day and as a burger aficionado Chef Andrew provides some inspiring thoughts. Since Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start of the Summer grilling season Chef Andrew shares a few genuinely useful tips. How do you test for doneness on that craveworthy steak?

The post Show 527, May 27, 2023: Co-Host and Chef Andrew Gruel with “Ask the Chef” appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Restaurant Week returns to Greater Palm Springs June 2-11, 2023. This annual gastronomic event, now in its 15th year, offers residents and visitors 10 days of dining experiences at local restaurants. Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week is the perfect time to take a culinary tour to sample the ever-increasing stature of food culture of the nine-city destination. Greater Palm Springs gained the attention of the Michelin guide in 2022 with their first-ever inclusion of area restaurants in the guide’s recommended places to eat. Visit Greater Palm Springs serves as the producing partner of Restaurant Week in collaboration with presenting sponsor Agua Caliente Casinos.” SO.PA at L’Horizon in Palm Springs under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Michael Hung is one of the new participating restaurants. We’ll meet him as well as Davis Meyer, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Visit Greater Palm Springs.

“From humble beginnings making frozen treats in the basement of their college dorm room, cofounders of JonnyPops, Erik Brust and Connor Wray perfected an amazing and wonderful formula. Real fruit. Heavy cream. Cane sugar. Purified water. And a pinch of salt. Just simple, wholesome ingredients with no fillers and absolutely nothing artificial. JonnyPops has worked hard over the last 12 years to achieve the right balance of real ingredients, flavor and creaminess. The simpler the ingredients, the more delicious the pop. It’s why they use a few wholesome ingredients – like fresh Midwest dairy – and blend small batches with care.” At the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, Jonny Pops was awarded the prestigious NEXTY for “Best New Sweet Snack” for their (dairy-free and water based) Organic Rainbow Fruit Stacksk bar. Co-Founder Connor Wray joins us from Elk River, Minnesota with an Organic Rainbow Fruit Stack bar in hand.

“Notre Vue Estate Winery & Vineyards is a breathtaking property spanning 710 acres located just minutes south of Healdsburg, and directly in the town of Windsor’s backyard. The vast views from the summit are a patchwork of vineyards and open space seamlessly woven together, hence the French name “Notre Vue” which means Our View. The property features 350 acres of “Forever Wild” protected open space and 250 acres of beautiful rolling vineyards. Their wines are made in the European style, focusing on finesse and purity, and made with low intervention, clean winemaking styles. Notre Vue Estate takes pride as a certified Sustainable Vineyard and Winery producing ultra-premium wines from their estate vineyards that straddle two of California’s most famous viticultural appellations: Russian River Valley and Chalk Hill, located in Sonoma County. What makes them special is the diversity of terroir that sweeps across the rich tapestry of their land, allowing Notre Vue to grow a selection of 16 grape varieties, including some European varieties rarely found in Sonoma County. The wines produced at their estate vineyards are recognized for their uniqueness and richness.” The Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson, joins us to uncork all that is Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards.

“Now into the eighth year with award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne, Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine promises exceptional dining for visitors to the iconic venue during the 2023 season for the LA Phil. Goin and Styne’s culinary history has defined Los Angeles tastes since 1998 when they opened Lucques, their legendary first restaurant. At the Hollywood Bowl, their California-inspired offerings include three restaurants and three marketplaces. Additionally, menus for the Terrace and Garden Boxes, which can be ordered a day in advance, are created by four-time James Beard Foundation award-winner Suzanne Goin. Goin’s vibrant new summer dishes pair beautifully with the exceptional wine and beer programs curated by Caroline Styne, the James Beard Foundation’s 2018 Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year award recipient. Overseeing the broad range of dining options serving Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine’s thousands of nightly guests is Executive Chef Jeff Rogers.” Restaurateur Caroline Style and Chef Suzanne Goin join us with what’s on the tantalizing menu for the LA Phil’s Summer Season at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) and also the founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Inspired by a recent column by Steve Lopez in the Sunday Los Angeles Times (May 6th.) we’ll take a look at “Early Bird Dining” where meals are priced at a discount. Once very popular it now seems on the verge of disappearing.

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

The post Show 526, May 20, 2023: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Restaurant Week returns to Greater Palm Springs June 2-11, 2023. This annual gastronomic event, now in its 15th year, offers residents and visitors 10 days of dining experiences at local restaurants. Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week is the perfect time to take a culinary tour to sample the ever-increasing stature of food culture of the nine-city destination. Greater Palm Springs gained the attention of the Michelin guide in 2022 with their first-ever inclusion of area restaurants in the guide’s recommended places to eat. Visit Greater Palm Springs serves as the producing partner of Restaurant Week in collaboration with presenting sponsor Agua Caliente Casinos.”

“More than 80 restaurants will offer custom menus for lunch, dinner or both. Lunch offers will include 2 or more courses/items priced at $15, $25 or $35. Dinner menus include 3 or more courses/items or small plates and cost $39, $49, $59 or $99. New for 2023 is a category for breakfast and brunch as well as a category for special offers. The flexible “special offers” allow restaurants to present specialties, wine pairings and/or supplemental dishes for an additional charge.”

SO.PA at L’Horizon in Palm Springs under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Michael Hung is one of the new participating restaurants. We’ll meet him as well as Davis Meyer, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Visit Greater Palm Springs providing all the salivating details.

“Decadent, refined, and intimate, SO•PA offers a unique alfresco dining experience. Visit the restaurant for dinner in an intimate outdoor setting under the stars as Michelin Star awarded Chef Michael Hung presents the seasonally enticing menu. The elegant, yet relaxed evening includes world class cocktails and a sophisticated yet approachable wine cellar curated by their in-house Wine Spectator awarded Sommelier.” Their Restaurant Week prix-fixe menu is three courses (with two Main Couse options) priced at $59 per guest, plus tax and gratuity.

The post Show 526, May 20, 2023: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week Preview, June 2 to 11 appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“From humble beginnings making frozen treats in the basement of their college dorm room at St. Olaf College, cofounders of JonnyPops, Erik Brust and Connor Wray perfected an amazing and wonderful formula.”

“Real fruit. Heavy cream. Cane sugar. Purified water. And a pinch of salt. Just simple, wholesome ingredients with no fillers and absolutely nothing artificial.”

“JonnyPops has worked hard to achieve the right balance of real ingredients, flavor and creaminess. The simpler the ingredients, the more delicious the pop. It’s why they use a few wholesome ingredients – like fresh Midwest dairy – and blend small batches with care.”

“JonnyPops are also completely peanut-, tree nut-, and gluten-free, as well as kosher-certified.” At the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, Jonny Pops was awarded the prestigious NEXTY for “Best New Sweet Snack” for their (dairy-free and water based) Organic Rainbow Fruit Stacks bar.

“Their frozen treats are called “JonnyPops” after Erik’s cousin and original co-conspirator, Jonathan. His passing, the result of a tragic drug overdose, filled the family with grief – but also fueled a desire to spark change.”

“In honor of their namesake, each JonnyPops stick is printed with a good deed because they believe sharing kindness, through actions big and small, helps them achieve their sincere mission of making the world a better place, one pop at a time” An example of a stick deed message that was perfect for Mother’s Day: “Remind someone you love them!”

Co-Founder Connor Wray joins us from Elk River, Minnesota with an Organic Rainbow Fruit Stack bar in hand.

The post Show 526, May 20, 2023: Jonny Pops Frozen Treats with Co-Founder Connor Wray appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Notre Vue Estate Winery & Vineyards is a breathtaking property spanning 710 acres located just minutes south of Healdsburg, and directly in the town of Windsor’s backyard. The vast views from the summit are a patchwork of vineyards and open space seamlessly woven together, hence the French name “Notre Vue” which means Our View. The property features 350 acres of “Forever Wild” protected open space and 250 acres of beautiful rolling vineyards. Their wines are made in the European style, focusing on finesse and purity, and made with low intervention, clean winemaking styles.”

“Notre Vue Estate takes pride as a certified Sustainable Vineyard and Winery producing ultra-premium wines from their estate vineyards that straddle two of California’s most famous viticultural appellations: Russian River Valley and Chalk Hill, located in Sonoma County. What makes them special is the diversity of terroir that sweeps across the rich tapestry of their land, allowing Notre Vue to grow a selection of 16 grape varieties, including some European varieties rarely found in Sonoma County. The 710-acre estate boasts many diverse microclimates, including rare soil and slope combinations. The wines  produced at their estate vineyards are recognized for their uniqueness and richness.”

“Grapes have been grown on the property since 1869 and commercially for wines since 1907. Notre Vue Estate & Winery produces wines under the Notre Vue label which are sold primarily at their tasting salons and in select restaurants. Notre Vue also produces wines under the Balverne label which is a brand that was historically famous in the 1980’s being poured at the White House multiple times as well as the famous Hollywood Brown Derby, the original Spago in West Hollywood and Sparks Steakhouse in New York.”

“Balverne wines were produced on the estate in the 1980’s and the brand was carefully resurrected by the Notre Vue Estate owners in 2012 to honor Balverne’s history. In 2022, Notre Vue Estate celebrated its 30 year anniversary under the current ownership. Notre Vue Estate is now helmed by co-founder Renée Brown-Stein. In addition to producing multiple wines under our two labels they also sell their grapes to many premium wineries in Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Notre Vue grapes are found in some of the most well-known wines from Sonoma and Napa.”

“Notre Vue Estate is committed to the highest level of service in providing more than just wine tastings. They provide crafted experiences of wine, food and nature that create lifetime memories for the Estate’s guests. With breathtaking views at the Block 23 Terrace and Lakeside Pavilion, the estate is a place where you can enjoy the natural environment, beautiful vistas, and appreciate the overall rustic elegance along with the welcoming charm that are all a part of the essence that is Notre Vue Estate.” By advance appointment only.

The Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson, joins us to uncork all that is Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards.

The post Show 526, May 20, 2023: Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards with Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson Part One appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.

“Notre Vue Estate Winery & Vineyards is a breathtaking property spanning 710 acres located just minutes south of Healdsburg, and directly in the town of Windsor’s backyard. The vast views from the summit are a patchwork of vineyards and open space seamlessly woven together, hence the French name “Notre Vue” which means Our View. The property features 350 acres of “Forever Wild” protected open space and 250 acres of beautiful rolling vineyards. Their wines are made in the European style, focusing on finesse and purity, and made with low intervention, clean winemaking styles.”

“Notre Vue Estate takes pride as a certified Sustainable Vineyard and Winery producing ultra-premium wines from their estate vineyards that straddle two of California’s most famous viticultural appellations: Russian River Valley and Chalk Hill, located in Sonoma County. What makes them special is the diversity of terroir that sweeps across the rich tapestry of their land, allowing Notre Vue to grow a selection of 16 grape varieties, including some European varieties rarely found in Sonoma County. The 710-acre estate boasts many diverse microclimates, including rare soil and slope combinations. The wines  produced at their estate vineyards are recognized for their uniqueness and richness.”

“In 2022, Notre Vue Estate celebrated its 30 year anniversary under the current ownership. Notre Vue Estate is now helmed by co-founder Renée Brown-Stein. In addition to producing multiple wines under their two labels (Notre Vue Estate and Balverne) they also sell their grapes to many premium wineries in Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Notre Vue grapes are found in some of the most well-known wines from Sonoma and Napa.”

The Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson, continues with us to uncork all that is Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards.

The post Show 526, May 20, 2023: Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards with Estate General Manager, Geoffrey Thompson Part Two appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.