“Studio UNLTD, the designer of the reimagined Helms Bakery in Culver City, is an award-winning hospitality design firm offering comprehensive services in architecture, interior design, lighting, and furniture design. They believe in a collaborative approach that puts the client’s vision at the forefront. Their legacy of community-altering projects showcases their ability to design spaces that make a lasting impression.”

“Founded in 2009, Studio UNLTD made its mark designing iconic adaptive reuse projects that helped put the Arts District in downtown Los Angeles on the map.  The firm, helmed by principals Greg Bleier and Terri Robison, established itself as the go-to interior design company for chefs and restaurateurs in Los Angeles and beyond looking for trusted creative partners to bring their vision to life.” 

“While the studio’s work is still firmly rooted in hospitality design, its expertise and perspective continue to evolve through its experience crafting a diverse range of projects.”

Standout designs from Studio UNLTD include Bestia, Bavel, Otium and Lustig (also located in the Helms Bakery District.)

Founder Greg Bleier is our guest unraveling the mystery of successful restaurant design.

“Studio UNLTD, the designer of the reimagined Helms Bakery in Culver City, is an award-winning hospitality design firm offering comprehensive services in architecture, interior design, lighting, and furniture design. They believe in a collaborative approach that puts the client’s vision at the forefront. Their legacy of community-altering projects showcases their ability to design spaces that make a lasting impression.”

“Founded in 2009, Studio UNLTD made its mark designing iconic adaptive reuse projects that helped put the Arts District in downtown Los Angeles on the map.  The firm, helmed by principals Greg Bleier and Terri Robison, established itself as the go-to interior design company for chefs and restaurateurs in Los Angeles and beyond looking for trusted creative partners to bring their vision to life.” 

“While the studio’s work is still firmly rooted in hospitality design, its expertise and perspective continue to evolve through its experience crafting a diverse range of projects.”

Standout designs from Studio UNLTD include Bestia, Bavel, Otium and Lustig (also in the Helms Bakery District.)

Founder Greg Bleier continues as our guest unraveling the mystery of successful restaurant design.

“Canopy Wine Lounge located in Downtown Palm Springs is the first upscale wine lounge in the Coachella Valley, catering to locals, domestic, and international tourists. With nearly 150 wines from around the world, amongst greats Lithology (St. Helena, CA), Waypoint (Napa, CA), Otronia (Patagonia, Argentina), and Alkina (Barossa Valley, South Australia), it promises an unforgettable experience where the world's finest wines meet Executive Chef Kristin Puttkamer’s gourmet culinary delights showcasing elevated seasonal California cuisine.”

“Born and raised in the vibrant city of Boston, Kristin Puttkamer's journey to becoming the Executive Chef at Canopy Wine Lounge in Palm Springs is marked by an exciting array of experiences and a passion for culinary excellence. Puttkamer’s early exposure to different cultures ignited her love for food and hospitality. Puttkamer later honed her skills through formal education at The Culinary Institute of America in Saint Helena, California. During her studies, she embarked on an externship at the Michelin Star restaurant, State Bird, where her culinary prowess caught the attention of Darioush Winery. At Darioush, she worked under Michelin Star Chef Chris Lemerand and Chef Sean Massey, embracing the challenge of crafting innovative menus inspired by California's seasonal bounty and Persian influences, enhancing the winery's culinary experience for guests. In 2024, Kristin's culinary journey reached new heights as she accepted the role of Executive Chef at Canopy Wine Lounge in Palm Springs.”

“Canopy Wine Lounge seamlessly blends the art of winemaking with a vibrant social hub and an elegant event space. Last year they proudly produced a signature wine, Desert Wren, crafted with care by Winemaker and Sommelier Josh Kelly.” It’s unusually aged in a striking, custom clay amphora on display at Canopy. In addition to the Desert Wren Pinot Noir, 2023 Sonoma Coast there will be other future Desert Wren releases including a Chardonay.

“Canopy Wine Lounge invites guests to unwind in style and enjoy their diverse selection of wines five days a week. (Closed on Tuesday & Wednesday.) As a wine lounge, Canopy offers a diverse selection of wines in a brilliantly curated atmosphere with the relaxed appeal of your neighborhood wine bar.”

Chef Kristin Puttkamer and Sommelier Josh Kelly are our guests to uncork all that is Canopy Wine Lounge.

“Canopy Wine Lounge located in Downtown Palm Springs is the first upscale wine lounge in the Coachella Valley, catering to locals, domestic, and international tourists. With nearly 150 wines from around the world, amongst greats Lithology (St. Helena, CA), Waypoint (Napa, CA), Otronia (Patagonia, Argentina), and Alkina (Barossa Valley, South Australia), it promises an unforgettable experience where the world's finest wines meet Executive Chef Kristin Puttkamer’s gourmet culinary delights showcasing elevated seasonal California cuisine.”

“Canopy Wine Lounge seamlessly blends the art of winemaking with a vibrant social hub and an elegant event space. Last year they proudly produced a signature wine, Desert Wren, crafted with care by Winemaker and Sommelier Josh Kelly.” It’s unusually aged in a striking, custom clay amphora on display at Canopy. In addition to the Desert Wren Pinot Noir, 2023 Sonoma Coast there will be other future Desert Wren releases including a Chardonnay.

“Canopy Wine Lounge invites guests to unwind in style and enjoy their diverse selection of wines five days a week. (Closed on Tuesday & Wednesday.) As a wine lounge, Canopy offers a diverse selection of wines in a brilliantly curated atmosphere with the relaxed appeal of your neighborhood wine bar.”

Chef Kristin Puttkamer and Sommelier Josh Kelly continue as our guests uncorking all that is Canopy Wine Lounge.

When it comes to offering vitally needed assistance when a disaster strikes chefs and restaurateurs are aways in the forefront of providing meaningful assistance. The devastating fires this week in Pacific Palisades and Pasadena / Altadena are the most recent examples. Chef Andrew explains what’s being done. Personally he’s functioning as an OC hub for product donations going up to L.A. and preparing meals for the L.A. Dream Center Foundation and, initially, Jose Andres’ World Central Kitchen.

Andrew Gruel’s Family Cookbook (newly published) is also available with signed copies at his Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.

“The Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG) in Corning, NY was established in 1951 by Corning Glass Works (now Corning Incorporated) as a gift to the nation for the company’s 100th anniversary. The Corning Museum of Glass is a not-for-profit museum dedicated to exploring a single material: glass. Annually welcoming over 300,000 visitors from around the world, the Museum's campus is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass, the world’s foremost library on glass, and one of the top glassworking schools in the world. Glass is a versatile, ancient material that is still being explored and understood by artists, scientists and historians today. The story of glass is a story about art, history, culture, technology, science, craft and design.” CMoG’s Eric Meek (Senior Manager – Hot Glass Programs) joins us to explore all that is Corning Museum of Glass.

December 2024 marked the 20th Anniversary of Baby Blues BBQ in Venice. They recently reopened (with a complete renovation) after a devastating fire. “Meat up at this LA take on a down-south smokehouse—Baby Blues fires up savory by the pound, serving quality ‘que to LA’s throngs of Dixie transplants. From the peppery punch of the Sliced Brisket Platter, to some good ol’ fashioned fried green tomatoes, the comfort-fueled menu presents enough smoke and soul to satiate even the most homesick southerner. Each table is equipped with an assortment of house-made regional-style sauces, including a molasses-based sweet BBQ sauce and the legendary “XXX” sauce, a one-two-three punch of habanero, poblano, and serrano, for those looking to eat the heat.” Founder & Proprietor Rick McCarthy describes their BBQ style as “hybrid,” with notes pulled from North Carolina, Texas, and Memphis. Rick is our guide to all things Baby Blues BBQ.

December 2024 marked the 20th Anniversary of Baby Blues BBQ in Venice. They recently reopened (with a complete renovation) after a devastating fire. “Meat up at this LA take on a down-south smokehouse—Baby Blues fires up savory by the pound, serving quality ‘que to LA’s throngs of Dixie transplants. From the peppery punch of the Sliced Brisket Platter, to some good ol’ fashioned fried green tomatoes, the comfort-fueled menu presents enough smoke and soul to satiate even the most homesick southerner. Each table is equipped with an assortment of house-made regional-style sauces, including a molasses-based sweet BBQ sauce and the legendary “XXX” sauce, a one-two-three punch of habanero, poblano, and serrano, for those looking to eat the heat.” Founder & Proprietor Rick McCarthy describes their BBQ style as “hybrid,” with notes pulled from North Carolina, Texas, and Memphis. Rick is our guide to all things Baby Blues BBQ.

“Perry's, the multi-award-winning wine & liquor store, based in Provincetown, Cape Cod, MA, opened the new Perry’s Fine Wines & Liquors Palm Springs late last year. This exciting expansion marks a significant milestone in the history of Perry’s, as they bring their unique combination of service, selection and community commitment, that has made Perry’s a beloved institution in Provincetown, to the vibrant community of Palm Springs! The year 2024 was not just another year for the Perry’s business; it marks 90 years since Bert Perry first opened the doors of his eponymous store in Provincetown, Cape Cod, MA. A pillar of the Provincetown community, Bert was known for his warmth, character and integrity, and ran his store for over 50 years. Over the years since, successive owners have built on his legacy to create the much loved, award-winning business it is today.”

Charlie Greener and Billy Marshall, the current owners of Perry’s, bring their own unique story to the business’ legacy and are our guests.

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. Looking ahead in 2025 are Smashburgers still a trend? How about more pickling of vegetables? Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.

Happy New Year!

“The Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG) in Corning, NY was established in 1951 by Corning Glass Works (now Corning Incorporated) as a gift to the nation for the company’s 100th anniversary. The Corning Museum of Glass is a not-for-profit museum dedicated to exploring a single material: glass. Annually welcoming over 300,000 visitors from around the world, the Museum's campus is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass, the world’s foremost library on glass, and one of the top glassworking schools in the world. Glass is a versatile, ancient material that is still being explored and understood by artists, scientists and historians today. The story of glass is a story about art, history, culture, technology, science, craft and design.” CMoG’s Eric Meek (Senior Manager – Hot Glass Programs) joins us to explore all that is Corning Museum of Glass.

December 2024 marked the 20th Anniversary of Baby Blues BBQ in Venice. They recently reopened (with a complete renovation) after a devastating fire. “Meat up at this LA take on a down-south smokehouse—Baby Blues fires up savory by the pound, serving quality ‘que to LA’s throngs of Dixie transplants. From the peppery punch of the Sliced Brisket Platter, to some good ol’ fashioned fried green tomatoes, the comfort-fueled menu presents enough smoke and soul to satiate even the most homesick southerner. Each table is equipped with an assortment of house-made regional-style sauces, including a molasses-based sweet BBQ sauce and the legendary “XXX” sauce, a one-two-three punch of habanero, poblano, and serrano, for those looking to eat the heat.” Founder & Proprietor Rick McCarthy describes their BBQ style as “hybrid,” with notes pulled from North Carolina, Texas, and Memphis. Rick is our guide to all things Baby Blues BBQ.

“Perry's, the multi-award-winning wine & liquor store, based in Provincetown, Cape Cod, MA, opened the new Perry’s Fine Wines & Liquors Palm Springs late last year. This exciting expansion marks a significant milestone in the history of Perry’s, as they bring their unique combination of service, selection and community commitment, that has made Perry’s a beloved institution in Provincetown, to the vibrant community of Palm Springs! The year 2024 was not just another year for the Perry’s business; it marks 90 years since Bert Perry first opened the doors of his eponymous store in Provincetown, Cape Cod, MA. A pillar of the Provincetown community, Bert was known for his warmth, character and integrity, and ran his store for over 50 years. Over the years since, successive owners have built on his legacy to create the much loved, award-winning business it is today.”

Charlie Greener and Billy Marshall, the current owners of Perry’s, bring their own unique story to the business’ legacy and are our guests.

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. Looking ahead in 2025 are Smashburgers still a trend? How about more pickling of vegetables? Chef Andrew shares his informed thoughts.

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

“The Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG) in Corning, NY was established in 1951 by Corning Glass Works (now Corning Incorporated) as a gift to the nation for the company’s 100th anniversary. The Corning Museum of Glass is a not-for-profit museum dedicated to exploring a single material: glass. Annually welcoming over 300,000 visitors from around the world, the Museum's campus is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass, the world’s foremost library on glass, and one of the top glassworking schools in the world.”

“Glass is a versatile, ancient material that is still being explored and understood by artists, scientists and historians today. The story of glass is a story about art, history, culture, technology, science, craft and design.”

“Over 50,000 objects representing more than 3,500 years of history are included in the Museum’s collection; items range from the portrait of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh to contemporary sculpture. The Museum’s highly regarded curators and librarians actively acquire materials; and curators, librarians, educators and artists organize special on-campus and traveling exhibitions; teach; conduct and publish extensive research; host numerous artist residencies and public presentations; and showcase daily demonstrations of contemporary glassworking. The Corning Museum of Glass’ authority on glass art is felt around the world.”

“Guests can learn about the science and technology behind innovations in glass through hands-on exhibits in the science and technology gallery, called the Innovation Center. They can explore the concepts behind optics, vessels and windows and meet the innovators who have changed our world using glass.”

“The Museum brings glass to life through live, narrated glassworking demonstrations. Some of these daily demonstrations take place in a renovated historic glass factory building that contains one of the world’s largest facilities of its kind, with auditorium-style seating for 500.”

“The most recent addition to the Museum, opened in March 2015, is a 100,000-square-foot Contemporary Art + Design Wing which includes a 26,000-square-foot gallery. It is the largest space anywhere dedicated to the presentation of contemporary art in glass.”

“CMoG provides the rare opportunity to experience the medium’s complete and complex history, appreciate its application as an artistic medium, and witness and participate in its creation all in one place. Contemporary artists are taking glass to a new scale, the new wing allows CMoG to showcase these monumental works in an ideal viewing atmosphere.”

“In all of its facets, the Museum is a dynamic institution that continues to actively collect, educate, preserve and share the experience of the art, history, and science of glass.”

CMoG’s Eric Meek (Senior Manager – Hot Glass Programs) joins us to explore all that is Corning Museum of Glass.

“The Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG) in Corning, NY was established in 1951 by Corning Glass Works (now Corning Incorporated) as a gift to the nation for the company’s 100th anniversary. The Corning Museum of Glass is a not-for-profit museum dedicated to exploring a single material: glass. Annually welcoming over 300,000 visitors from around the world, the Museum's campus is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass, the world’s foremost library on glass, and one of the top glassworking schools in the world.”

“Glass is a versatile, ancient material that is still being explored and understood by artists, scientists and historians today. The story of glass is a story about art, history, culture, technology, science, craft and design.”

“Over 50,000 objects representing more than 3,500 years of history are included in the Museum’s collection; items range from the portrait of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh to contemporary sculpture. The Museum’s highly regarded curators and librarians actively acquire materials; and curators, librarians, educators and artists organize special on-campus and traveling exhibitions; teach; conduct and publish extensive research; host numerous artist residencies and public presentations; and showcase daily demonstrations of contemporary glassworking. The Corning Museum of Glass’ authority on glass art is felt around the world.”

“The Museum brings glass to life through live, narrated glassworking demonstrations. Some of these daily demonstrations take place in a renovated historic glass factory building that contains one of the world’s largest facilities of its kind, with auditorium-style seating for 500.”

“The most recent addition to the Museum, opened in March 2015, is a 100,000-square-foot Contemporary Art + Design Wing which includes a 26,000-square-foot gallery. It is the largest space anywhere dedicated to the presentation of contemporary art in glass.”

“In all of its facets, the Museum is a dynamic institution that continues to actively collect, educate, preserve and share the experience of the art, history, and science of glass.”

CMoG’s Eric Meek (Senior Manager – Hot Glass Programs) continues with us exploring all that is Corning Museum of Glass.