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SoCal Restaurant Show

Andrew Harris and Andrew Gruel

Featuring some of Southern California's finest chefs, restaurateurs, mixologists and wine aficionados, the SoCal Restaurant Show provides a wealth of information, news and interviews with the top people in the food world. Hosted by Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group, we provide 2 hours of great entertainment each week.

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40 episodes
Avg 19 min
English

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S14 · E701
October 19 · 12 min
Joshua Albrecht, Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Milwaukee Part 1
Joshua Albrecht is the Chief Marketing Officer for Visit Milwaukee. He continues with us. Josh previews the new Milwaukee Brew City Trail where “Good Times Are on Tap.” “Follow the Brew City Trail through the breweries, beer gardens, and neighborhoods that keep Milwaukee’s brewing story flowing. Every stop pours a little more flavor into the experience.” Milwaukee is affectionately known as “Brew City” after all. What makes working at VISIT Milwaukee special? “Getting to tell the great stories of our community to the world through fun and engaging media. I love to amplify the good news that so many of our community partners have to share.” Joshua Albrecht What do you consider a "can't miss" Milwaukee experience? “Everything about Milwaukee is "can't miss" but a perfect day might be grabbing a coffee from a local roaster like Anodyne Coffee, before heading over to the Milwaukee Public Museum. Once you work up an appetite, walk over to 3rd Street Market Hall and take your pick of some amazing food vendors. Then, zip over to the lakefront for beaches, boats and beer gardens. Happy hour at Central Standard Distillery, dinner at the Calderone Club and catch a show in the Theater District in the heart of downtown Milwaukee.” Joshua Albrecht
S14 · E701
October 19 · 5 min
Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host, Andy Harris
We’re celebrating the 14th Anniversary of the launch of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA Radio. Thanks to our large and loyal audience of enthusiastic foodies over the years for tuning-in consistently every Saturday morning. We truly couldn’t do it without you. Incredible thanks to Melissa’s World Variety Produce for being the show’s loyal “Presenting Sponsor” since the debut show 14 years ago! Their continuing support has kept us on the air and allowed us to support the hard-working hospitality industry (and California wineries) during very challenging times! We’re live from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Producer Andy is here as the Co-Chair and Culinary Advisor of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association’s (IFWTWA) 2026 Milwaukee Member Conference. There is a lot to love in Milwaukee including craft beer, brats, cheese curds and frozen custard. We’re highlighting the Milwaukee food scene along with some of their proprietary gourmet specialty food products. Next year Milwaukee will be included in the prestigious, inaugural Michelin Guide to the Great Lakes. Thanks to Good Karma Sports Milwaukee for the use of their facilities and accommodating support staff at the 3rd Street Market Hall. All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
S14 · E701
October 19 · 52 min
SoCal Restaurant Show October 17, 2026 Hour 2
Joshua Albrecht is the Chief Marketing Officer for Visit Milwaukee. We’ll meet him. “Sprecher Brewery is an independent craft brewing company founded in 1985 by Randal Sprecher as Milwaukee's first post-Prohibition brewery and a pioneer in modern craft brewing. Originally focused on European-style beers, Sprecher Brewery has grown into a nationally recognized producer of craft soda and premium beverages, all made using its signature fire brewing process for richer, more developed flavor.” Our guest is Victor Petrone, Chief Growth Officer for Sprecher Brewing Co.
S14 · E701
October 19 · 53 min
SoCal Restaurant Show October 17, 2026 Hour 1
“The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum in Milwaukee is the world’s only museum dedicated entirely to bobbleheads, offering a fun and unique experience for visitors of all ages. With an impressive collection of over 10,000 bobbleheads, the museum showcases a wide range of figures, from sports stars to iconic characters from movies, TV shows, pop culture, politics, and beyond. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or a pop-culture aficionado, there’s something to delight everyone.” Co-Founder and CEO Phil Sklar is our knowledgeable guide to the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame. “Freese's Candy Shoppe is a nearly century-old Wisconsin business that brings their candy-making tradition to the Milwaukee Public Market!” We’ll meet chocolatier Wendy Matel. “Usinger's Famous Sausage, a cherished culinary landmark in Milwaukee, stands as a testament to the art of traditional sausage making, offering an unparalleled selection of over 75 varieties that have earned them the esteemed recognition of producing America's finest sausages. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every product, crafted using time-honored recipes and premium ingredients.” Representing the 4th generation of proud Usinger family ownership is our guest, Fritz Usinger.
S14 · E701
October 19 · 13 min
Usinger’s Famous Sausage, Milwaukee, with Fritz Usinger Part 1
“Usinger's Famous Sausage, a cherished culinary landmark in Milwaukee, stands as a testament to the art of traditional sausage making, offering an unparalleled selection of over 75 varieties that have earned them the esteemed recognition of producing America's finest sausages. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every product, crafted using time-honored recipes and premium ingredients.” “Customers can effortlessly access this exceptional range of sausages through their user-friendly online platform or by placing orders via phone, ensuring that their culinary delights are readily available to a broad audience. The company's charming, turn-of-the-century store, a local treasure, provides a unique and immersive shopping experience, transporting visitors to a bygone era while they explore the rich aromas and textures of their extensive offerings. Usinger's is particularly renowned for its delectable brats, a local favorite, crafted with a perfect balance of spices and textures, and its old-world ham, meticulously cured and smoked to achieve a depth of flavor that reflects generations of expertise.” “Moreover, their thoughtfully curated gift boxes offer a delightful way to share the authentic flavors of Usinger's with friends, family, and colleagues, making them ideal for any celebration or occasion. Usinger's unwavering dedication to quality, tradition, and exceptional customer service has cemented their status as a beloved destination for sausage connoisseurs, both within Milwaukee and across the nation, representing a true taste of culinary heritage.” Representing the 4th generation of proud Usinger family ownership is our guest, Fritz Usinger.
S14 · E701
October 19 · 11 min
Freese’s Candy Shoppe at Milwaukee Public Market with Proprietress Wendy Matel
“Freese's Candy Shoppe is a nearly century-old Wisconsin business that brings their candy-making tradition to the Milwaukee Public Market!” “Freese's Candy Shoppe, owned and operated by Wendy and Mike Matel along with their three children, continues the family candy-making tradition started by Otto Freese in 1928. Known for their signature treats like Chocolate Covered Strawberries, Fairy Food, and Heavenly Roasted Nuts, Freese’s has become a beloved local favorite.” “In addition to their delightful selection of handmade chocolates, candy, and roasted nuts, Freese's also offers Wisconsin-made Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream by the scoop and Milwaukee Sprecher root beer on tap.” ‍Freese's Candy Shoppe is located across from C. Adam's Bakery and next to Thief Wine inside the Milwaukee Public Market. We’ll meet chocolatier Wendy Matel.
S14 · E701
October 19 · 11 min
The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum, Milwaukee, with Co-founder & CEO Phil Sklar
“The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum in Milwaukee is the world’s only museum dedicated entirely to bobbleheads, offering a fun and unique experience for visitors of all ages. With an impressive collection of over 10,000 bobbleheads, the museum showcases a wide range of figures, from sports stars to iconic characters from movies, TV shows, pop culture, politics, and beyond. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or a pop-culture aficionado, there’s something to delight everyone.” “The museum not only celebrates the playful and quirky nature of bobbleheads but also highlights their role in American history and culture. A must-visit for families, collectors, and anyone looking for a fun and lighthearted experience, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the world of these beloved figurines. It’s a place where nostalgia, entertainment, and culture collide, making it a perfect destination for a memorable outing.” Co-Founder and CEO Phil Sklar is our knowledgeable guide to the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame.
S14 · E701
October 19 · 13 min
Sprecher Brewing Co., Milwaukee, with Victor Petrone, Chief Growth Officer
“Sprecher Brewery is an independent craft brewing company founded in 1985 by Randal Sprecher as Milwaukee's first post-Prohibition brewery and a pioneer in modern craft brewing. Originally focused on European-style beers, Sprecher Brewery has grown into a nationally recognized producer of craft soda and premium beverages, all made using its signature fire brewing process for richer, more developed flavor.” “Made with Sprecher’s signature fire-brewing method, each small batch is slowly crafted over an open flame to develop deeper caramelization and bold, distinctive flavor. Rooted in Old World brewing tradition, decades of expertise, refined processes, and rigorous quality control ensure consistency and exceptional flavor in every batch.” “Available nationwide, Sprecher products are stocked in a growing network of retailers across all 50 states, making it easier than ever to find your favorite flavors.” “Sprecher beers and signature craft sodas are brewed, bottled, and prepared for nationwide distribution at their facility in Glendale, Wisconsin. Since moving to this location in 1994, the brewery has served as the central hub for production, bringing together the brewhouse, fermentation, bottling, and warehouse operations under one roof.” Our guest is Victor Petrone, Chief Growth Officer for Sprecher Brewing Co.
S14 · E701
October 19 · 11 min
Joshua Albrecht, Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Milwaukee Part 2
Joshua Albrecht is the Chief Marketing Officer for Visit Milwaukee. He continues with us. Josh previews the new Milwaukee Brew City Trail where “Good Times Are on Tap.” “Follow the Brew City Trail through the breweries, beer gardens, and neighborhoods that keep Milwaukee’s brewing story flowing. Every stop pours a little more flavor into the experience.” Milwaukee is affectionately known as “Brew City” after all. What makes working at VISIT Milwaukee special? “Getting to tell the great stories of our community to the world through fun and engaging media. I love to amplify the good news that so many of our community partners have to share.” Joshua Albrecht What do you consider a "can't miss" Milwaukee experience? “Everything about Milwaukee is "can't miss" but a perfect day might be grabbing a coffee from a local roaster like Anodyne Coffee, before heading over to the Milwaukee Public Museum. Once you work up an appetite, walk over to 3rd Street Market Hall and take your pick of some amazing food vendors. Then, zip over to the lakefront for beaches, boats and beer gardens. Happy hour at Central Standard Distillery, dinner at the Calderone Club and catch a show in the Theater District in the heart of downtown Milwaukee.” Joshua Albrecht.
S14 · E701
October 19 · 8 min
Usinger’s Famous Sausage, Milwaukee, with Fritz Usinger Part 2
“Usinger's Famous Sausage, a cherished culinary landmark in Milwaukee, stands as a testament to the art of traditional sausage making, offering an unparalleled selection of over 75 varieties that have earned them the esteemed recognition of producing America's finest sausages. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every product, crafted using time-honored recipes and premium ingredients.” “Customers can effortlessly access this exceptional range of sausages through their user-friendly online platform or by placing orders via phone, ensuring that their culinary delights are readily available to a broad audience. The company's charming, turn-of-the-century store, a local treasure, provides a unique and immersive shopping experience, transporting visitors to a bygone era while they explore the rich aromas and textures of their extensive offerings. Usinger's is particularly renowned for its delectable brats, a local favorite, crafted with a perfect balance of spices and textures, and its old-world ham, meticulously cured and smoked to achieve a depth of flavor that reflects generations of expertise.” “Moreover, their thoughtfully curated gift boxes offer a delightful way to share the authentic flavors of Usinger's with friends, family, and colleagues, making them ideal for any celebration or occasion. Usinger's unwavering dedication to quality, tradition, and exceptional customer service has cemented their status as a beloved destination for sausage connoisseurs, both within Milwaukee and across the nation, representing a true taste of culinary heritage.” With the Olympics returning to Los Angeles in 2028 an intriguing culinary footnote is that as a result of a wide-reaching taste test, Usinger’s Beef Hot Dogs (Certified Angus Beef) become the official frank served at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. The initial order was gobbled up in the 1st couple of days! Staying with us representing the 4th generation of proud Usinger family ownership is our guest, Fritz Usinger.
S14 · E700
October 12 · 54 min
SoCal Restaurant Show October 10, 2026 Hour 1
Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC, her recent overseas travels to Hong Kong, and some tasty Orange County dining tidbits. “Better Than Grandma’s – Comfort Desserts We Grew Up Loving, is the delightful debut cookbook from baker extraordinaire (He’s 23) and social media sensation Justin Ellen (who has over 4 million followers across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube). Justin grew up with his nana teaching him that from-scratch is always better. Inspired by everything she taught him, he challenged himself to take the classic comfort desserts we all grew up loving and make them more flavorful, more reliable, and completely foolproof—with simple techniques and game-changing tips that actually make a difference. Because Justin believes that once you see how easy it is to make something from scratch, you might just be ready to drop the box mix for good.” Justin puts down his whisk and joins us.
S14 · E700
October 12 · 12 min
Better Than Grandma’s – Comfort Desserts We Grew Up Loving with Author Justin Ellen Part 2
“Better Than Grandma’s – Comfort Desserts We Grew Up Loving, is the delightful debut cookbook from baker extraordinaire and social media sensation Justin Ellen (who has over 4 million followers across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube).” “Justin grew up with his nana teaching him that from-scratch is always better. Inspired by everything she taught him, he challenged himself to take the classic comfort desserts we all grew up loving and make them more flavorful, more reliable, and completely foolproof—with simple techniques and game-changing tips that actually make a difference. Because Justin believes that once you see how easy it is to make something from scratch, you might just be ready to drop the box mix for good.” Justin is graciously sharing his recipe for his properly decadent Chocolate Cobbler. It’s available under the “Recipes” tab on the SoCal Restaurant Show’s Website. Justin puts down his oven mitts and stays with us to continue the conversation.
S14 · E700
October 12 · 11 min
Better Than Grandma’s – Comfort Desserts We Grew Up Loving with Author Justin Ellen Part 1
“Better Than Grandma’s – Comfort Desserts We Grew Up Loving, is the delightful debut cookbook from baker extraordinaire and social media sensation Justin Ellen (who has over 4 million followers across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube).” “Justin's early success - he's only 23! - stems from being a tremendously hard worker (and his enthusiasm is infectious!). Justin speaks about his decision to self-publish and build his cookbook team from scratch, how his grandmothers have influenced him, and how he engages with his followers and crafts original content. Justin launched his business at 16 with no seed money, no prior work experience, and no connections. He has been constantly researching, learning, and figuring things out as he went along, to great success.” “Justin grew up with his nana teaching him that from-scratch is always better. Inspired by everything she taught him, he challenged himself to take the classic comfort desserts we all grew up loving and make them more flavorful, more reliable, and completely foolproof—with simple techniques and game-changing tips that actually make a difference. Because Justin believes that once you see how easy it is to make something from scratch, you might just be ready to drop the box mix for good.” “With clear instructions, simple tips throughout (oil = moisture, butter = flavor), and links to step-by-step video tutorials for every single recipe, Better than Grandma’s shows you what actually makes a difference in baking. Whether you’ve never baked from scratch or have been baking for years, Justin’s better-than-Grandma’s recipes are designed to work every time. And while the title may be Better than Grandma’s, the book is actually a love letter to the grandmothers who taught Justin to find joy in every moment, to fill every room with confidence and laughter, and to bake in the first place. It’s about honoring the women along with the recipes—then building on them to make them even better.” Justin puts down his whisk to join us.
S14 · E700
October 12 · 13 min
Anne Marie Panoringan, Food Writer, Voice of OC Part 2
Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her current culinary journeys. Anne Marie continues with us in-studio. Anne Marie now takes us to Long Beach and a new iteration of Bungalow Kitchen at 2nd and PCH with Executive Chef Eric Samaniego (Michael’s on Naples) in the kitchen. Then a preview of Restaurateur Russ Bendel’s upcoming Creekside in Rancho Mission Viejo. It’s his 7th property.
S14 · E700
October 12 · 11 min
Anne Marie Panoringan, Food Writer, Voice of OC Part 1
Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC and highlight her culinary adventures. Anne Marie joins us in-studio. First some impressions of dining in Hong Kong. It’s not all 3-Star Michelin restaurants. Anne Marie also previews the new Friday through Sunday Afternoon Tea at Qua in Fountain Valley.
S14 · E700
October 12 · 9 min
Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Please join us on October 17th as we celebrate the 14th Anniversary of the launch of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA Radio. We’re live from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Anne Marie Panoringan is Culture OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. Anne Marie also contributes regularly to Eater Los Angeles, LAist, TASTE and a host of other well-respected and noteworthy publications. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to discuss her work as Food Columnist for Culture OC, her recent overseas travels to Hong Kong, and some tasty Orange County dining tidbits. “Better Than Grandma’s – Comfort Desserts We Grew Up Loving, is the delightful debut cookbook from baker extraordinaire (He’s 23) and social media sensation Justin Ellen (who has over 4 million followers across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube). Justin grew up with his nana teaching him that from-scratch is always better. Inspired by everything she taught him, he challenged himself to take the classic comfort desserts we all grew up loving and make them more flavorful, more reliable, and completely foolproof—with simple techniques and game-changing tips that actually make a difference. Because Justin believes that once you see how easy it is to make something from scratch, you might just be ready to drop the box mix for good.” Justin puts down his whisk and joins us. “Sip! Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate is a rich, creamy chocolate experience like no other. One Sip! Is all it takes to discover this delightfully Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate created by world-renowned pastry Chef En-Ming Hsu, a previous Gold Medalist for the prestigious World Pastry Cup competition (Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie.) The enterprise is a minority woman-owned small business based in Henderson, Nevada.” We’ll meet Chef En-Ming Hsu. 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. Today Chef Andrew revisits what “ultraprocessed” foods are and new incoming labeling requirements in California. Don’t we need a coordinated, uniform national framework for this? All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!
S14 · E700
October 12 · 54 min
SoCal Restaurant Show October 10, 2026 Hour 2
“Better Than Grandma’s – Comfort Desserts We Grew Up Loving, is the delightful debut cookbook from baker extraordinaire (He’s 23) and social media sensation Justin Ellen (who has over 4 million followers across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube). Justin grew up with his nana teaching him that from-scratch is always better. Inspired by everything she taught him, he challenged himself to take the classic comfort desserts we all grew up loving and make them more flavorful, more reliable, and completely foolproof—with simple techniques and game-changing tips that actually make a difference. Because Justin believes that once you see how easy it is to make something from scratch, you might just be ready to drop the box mix for good.” Justin puts down his whisk and joins us. “Sip! Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate is a rich, creamy chocolate experience like no other. One Sip! Is all it takes to discover this delightfully Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate created by world-renowned pastry Chef En-Ming Hsu, a previous Gold Medalist for the prestigious World Pastry Cup competition (Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie.) The enterprise is a minority woman-owned small business based in Henderson, Nevada.” We’ll meet Chef En-Ming Hsu. 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. Today Chef Andrew revisits what “ultraprocessed” foods are and new incoming labeling requirements in California. Don’t we need a coordinated, uniform national framework for this?
S14 · E700
October 12 · 8 min
Chef Andrew Gruel, Calico Fish House, Sunset Beach, and Show Co-host
Today Chef Andrew revisits what “ultraprocessed” foods are and somewhat vague new, volunteer labeling requirements coming soon in California. (This is AB 2244 signed by Governor Newsom.) Don’t we really need a coordinated, uniform national framework for this?
S14 · E700
October 12 · 12 min
World Pastry Cup Gold Medalist Chef En-Ming Hsu, Sip! Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate Part 2
“Sip! Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate is a rich, creamy chocolate experience like no other. One Sip! Is all it takes to discover this delightfully Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate created by world-renowned pastry Chef En-Ming Hsu, a previous Gold Medalist for the prestigious World Pastry Cup competition (Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie.) The enterprise is a minority, woman-owned small business based in Henderson, Nevada.” “Chef En-Ming recommends preparing Sip! Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate with whole milk, but it’s also delicious with lowfat milk, skim milk, and non-dairy milk substitutes. To prepare at home, take your time and prepare this delicious drink by whisking it on the stovetop to simmer. In a hurry ? You can also use a microwave.” “Summertime heat getting you down? Mix with cold milk and keep a pitcher-full in the refrigerator to enjoy iced. Don’t forget the whipped cream.” Sip! Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate is the exclusive hot chocolate served at Porto’s Bakery. We’re continuing our conversation with Pastry Chef extraordinary, Chef En-Ming.
S14 · E700
October 12 · 14 min
World Pastry Cup Gold Medalist Chef En-Ming Hsu, Sip! Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate Part 1
“Sip! Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate is a rich, creamy chocolate experience like no other. One Sip! Is all it takes to discover this delightfully Extraordinary Drinking Chocolate created by world-renowned pastry Chef En-Ming Hsu, a previous Gold Medalist for the prestigious World Pastry Cup competition (Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie.) The enterprise is a minority, woman-owned small business based in Henderson, Nevada.” First we speak with Chef En-Ming about the World Pastry Cup competition and find out how the USA team is faring on the long road to Lyon in January of 2027. We’ll meet Chef En-Ming Hsu.

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