Friday, November 30, 2012

11/30 LARRY VAN AALAST, CHEF MICHAEL SYMON, ROGER MOOKING, EDEN GRINSPHAN, STEVE EVANS

Chef Michael Symon’s Newest Cookbook - “CARNIVORE”

Celebrity chef, restaurateur, and meat lover Michael Symon—of Food Network’s Iron Chef America and The Chew—shares his wealth of knowledge and more than 100 killer recipes for steaks, chops, wings, and lesser-known cuts. Fans across the country adore Michael Symon for his big, charismatic personality and his seriously delicious food. But there's one thing Michael is known for above all else: his unabashed love of meat. A devoted carnivore, Michael calls the cuisine at his six Midwestern restaurants "meat-centric." Now, in Michael Symon's Carnivore, he combines his passion and expertise in one stellar cookbook. Michael gives home cooks just the right amount of key information on breeds, cuts, and techniques to help them at the meat counter and in the kitchen, and then lets loose with fantastic recipes for beef, pork, poultry, lamb, goat, and game. Favorites include Broiled Porterhouse with Garlic and Lemon, Ribs with Cleveland BBQ Sauce, Braised Chicken Thighs with Kale and Chiles, Lamb Moussaka, and Bacon-Wrapped Rabbit Legs. Recipes for sides that enhance the main event, like Apple and Celeriac Salad and Sicilian Cauliflower, round out the book. Michael's enthusiasm and warmth permeate the text, and with 75 beautiful color photographs, Michael Symon's Carnivore is a rich and informative cookbook for every meat lover.


ROGER MOOKING & EDEN GRINSHPAN - “COOKING CHANNEL”

Eden Grinshpan graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in London with the "Grande Diplome" in both Pastry and Cuisine. After graduating she went to India to volunteer with different organizations, one of them being an orphanage called Ramanas Garden. Here she came up with the idea of raising money for the orphanage by re-opening a café, which had not been in operation for some time, and teaching the children the basics of culinary cuisine. After returning to New York City, Eden enrolled in a management program at The Institute of Culinary Education before working at the bakery, Babycakes. Eden is the co-owner of EthNicitY Productions, and hosts Eden Eats, a traveling show to find global cuisine in cities across the US. Roger Mooking is a Canadian chef, musician and TV host. Born in Trinidad, Roger Mooking is currently the host and co-creator of the television series Everyday Exotic which airs on the Cooking Channel and Food Network Canada. He also appears on Heat Seekerswith Aaron Sanchez on Food Network. He has appeared as a guest chef on television shows including Today, Good Morning America, The Marilyn Dennis Show, and Iron Chef America.
 

STEVE EVANS - "THE MOVIE GUY"

GREAT MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND AND BOX OFFICE PREDICTIONS AND HOPES. FIND OUT WHAT MOVIES ARE WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY. GET SET FOR THE WEEKEND.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

11/29 JOEL FISHER, DOUG BRAUNER, SANDY LEVINE

JOEL FISHER - WINE GURU - “LA WINEFEST”


Joel is the wine columnist for the Culinary Connection of the Chefs de Cuisine Association of California. He was a Contributing Editor of Patterson's Beverage Journal. From 1999 to 2006 he was a wine instructor for the Culinary Arts Department of the Art Institute of California-Los Angeles and is a founding partner of the educational Wine Vine and Dine, which conducts programs throughout Southern California. Sommelier for the Escoffier Association of Southern California, Joel is also a member of Patterson Magazine's tasting panel. Dr. Fisher is a member of the Society of Wine Educators, The Circle of Wine Writers (UK) and was awarded a Wine Enthusiast Media Scholarship for 2005 at the Culinary Institute of America. He is the author of the Wine Work Book now in its 6th edition.


SANDY LEVINE - CARNEGIE DELI 

Founded in 1937, the world famous Carnegie Deli is a true New York City landmark situated in Midtown on 7th Avenue at 55th Street. We also have locations in the Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas, Foxwoods Casino in Connecticut, Six Flags in New Jersey and at The Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA.   We are known for our pastrami, corned beef, brisket and many other sandwiches, including our famous "Broadway Danny Rose."  All of our gargantuan sandwiches are overstuffed with at least one pound of meat. We also specialize in old world favorites such as: knishes, matzoh ball soup, stuffed cabbage, and of course our pickles.)


DOUG BRAUNER - “LA AUTO SHOW”

Get a sneak preview of the 2013 Auto Show Season as national auto expert Doug Brauner kicks it off LIVE from the L.A. Auto Show. Doug will give your listeners a behind the scenes look at never seen before brand new cars and trucks as auto makers hope to entice buyers with their latest offerings. Doug is a 16-year automotive broadcaster and a certified mechanic in California, who owns two auto repair shops and turns wrenches every day in addition to hosting a wild weekend LIVE automotive show every Sunday, in Sacramento, CA. THE CAR CZAR with Doug Brauner is the most watched show in its time period every weekend.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

11/28 STEPHEN CLOOBECK, UNDERCOVER BOSS, CARTER OOOSTERHOUSE, HGTV, GINGERBREAD HOUSE, KRISTEN OLSON, BETTY CROCKER KITCHENS, RED HOT HOLIDAY TREND

STEPHEN CLOOBECK - CEO OF UNDERCOVER BOSS

“Diamond Resorts: Take 2” – When Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and CEO of Diamond Resorts International (originally featured on the “Diamond Resorts” episode on Jan. 15, 2012), obtains a new chain of resort properties, he goes on an undercover mission for a second time to see how the acquisition is going for the team members and from the perspective of a hotel guest, on UNDERCOVER BOSS,Friday, Nov. 30 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Networks. This episode marks the first time a boss has gone undercover twice and features the largest rewards yet, when Cloobeck concludes his undercover mission with more than $1 million worth of awards to his team members. Diamond Resorts International®, with global headquarters in Las Vegas, Nevada, is one of the largest hospitality companies in the world with more than 220 branded and affiliated resorts and over 27,000 guest beds in 28 countries.


Carter Oosterhouse - HGTV  "GINGERBREAD HOUSE" 

Carter Oosterhouse is one of America’s most recognized lifestyle experts. As host of HGTV’s Carter Can, Red, Hot & Green, Million Dollar Rooms, Celebrity Motor Homes and a regular contributor to the Emmy® Award--Winning Rachael Ray Show, Carter’s unique combination of skill, passion and charm have given him widespread appeal for families and individuals alike seeking to improve the quality of their lives by enhancing their surroundings. While visiting family in his hometown of Traverse City, Mich., Carter stopped by the Great Wolf Lodge to put his design expertise to work for the sweetest renovation project of them all - a LIFE-SIZE GINGERBREAD HOUSE. With similar houses on display at all 11 Great Wolf Lodge resorts, guests can dine inside and admire Carter’s work while sharing the holiday spirit. Proceeds from this special dining experience benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters.


KRISTEN OLSON, Betty Crocker Food Editor

Betty Crocker officially kicks off the holiday season with the release of the 3rd annual Betty 10: Red Hot Holiday Trends – a look at the top 10 hottest food trends for the season, and a collection of new recipes inspired by these trends. After months of research, the Betty Crocker Kitchens food experts have selected the trends that will be red hot this holiday season. See the exciting, fresh food ideas that are making the mark from coast to coast and get inspired for your next holiday party.  The hot food trends include: Tradition, Twisted – Traditional sweets with a modern twist include amped up flavors and cookies with a surprise baked inside.  Kids in the Kitchen – Baking with kids continues to be popular, especially during the Holidays, as it’s both fun and educational. Betty draws inspiration from popular children’s characters for the recipe ideas for this trend.  Beer Here – Craft Beers continue to be popular and not just for drinking. Using craft beer as a flavoring ingredient in cooking and baking is all the rage. This year, Betty’s take uses beer to create Craft Beer Caramel Corn. A trio of three flavors – Salty brown ale, Stout and India pale ale - is sure to be a hit with the hard-to-buy-for guy on your gift list.


LARRY LIPSON - DIRECT FROM COSTA RICA

LARRY WAS THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE CRITIC AT THE LOS  ANGELES DAILY NEWS FOR MORE THAN FIFTY YEARS AND EACH WEEK REPORTS LIVE FROM HIS RETIREMENT HOME IN COSTA RICA. HE SUGGESTS THOUGHTS ON FAVORITE WINES AND FOOD EXPERIENCES.


Tuesday, November 27, 2012

11/27 RICK DUNGEY, NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE ASSOCIATION, DANNA KORN, GLUTEN FREE COOKING FOR DUMMIES, VICTORIA JUSTICE, CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER

RICK DUNGEY - DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS - NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE ASSOC.

WHITE PINE: The largest pine in the U.S., the white pine has soft, flexible needles and is bluish-green in color. Needles are 2½ - 5 inches long. White pines have good needle retention, but have little aroma. They aren't recommended for heavy ornaments.

WHITE SPRUCE: The white spruce is excellent for ornaments; its short, stiff needles are ½ to ¾ in. Long and have a blunt tip. They are bluish-green - green in color, but have a bad aroma when needles are crushed. They have excellent foliage color and have a good, natural shape. The needle retention is better in a white spruce than it is among other spruces.

FRASER FIR: The Fraser fir branches turn slightly upward. They have good form and needle-retention. They are dark blue-green in color. They have a pleasant scent, and excellent shipping characteristics as well.

COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE: Often used for stuffing pine-pillows, these sharp needles are 1 to 1 ½ in. In length. This species is bluish-gray in color. Needles have an unpleasant odor when crushed. This Christmas Tree has good symmetrical form and an attractive blue foliage. It also has good needle retention.

CONCOLOR FIR: These small, narrow needles are around 1 to 1½ in. In length and occur in rows. They have good foliage color, good needle retention, and a pleasing shape and aroma.

DOUGLAS-FIR: These soft needles are dark green to blue green in color and are approximately 1 to 1 ½ in. In length.  Douglas-fir needles radiate in all directions from the branch. When crushed, these needles have a sweet fragrance. They are one of the top major Christmas tree species in the U.S.

BALSAM FIR: These needles are ¾ to 1½ in. In length and last a very long time. This tree has a dark-green appearance and retains its pleasing fragrance throughout the Christmas season.

SCOTCH PINE: Approximately 1 in. In length, these needles don't even fall when they're dry, providing excellent needle retention. The color is a bright green. The most common Christmas tree in the U.S., the scotch pine has an excellent survival rate, is easy to replant, has great keepability and will remain fresh throughout the holiday season.

NOBLE FIR: These needles turn upward, exposing the lower branches. Known for its beauty, the noble fir has a long keepability, and its stiff branches make it a good tree for heavy ornaments, as well as providing excellent greenery for wreaths and garland.

LEYLAND CYPRESS: The most popular Christmas tree in the southeast, the Leyland cypress is dark green-gray in color and has very little aroma. Because it is not in the pine or fir family, it does not produce sap, so those with an allergy to sap can still enjoy a Leyland as their Christmas Tree.

VIRGINIA PINE: These branches are stout and woody and respond very well to trimming. The tree is small to medium in size and its foliage becomes extremely dense. Aside from being a good nesting site for woodpeckers, the Virginia pine continues to be the most popular Christmas tree in the south.


DANNA KORN - GLUTEN FREE COOKING FOR DUMMIES


If you have a wheat allergy, gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or you just want to enjoy the benefits of a diet free of wheat, barley, and rye, then this guide is for you. Trusted author Danna Korn explains the medical problems associated with gluten and shows you step by step how to make the transition to a gluten-free lifestyle - and love it!

With 25% new and revised content, this easy-to-understand reference includes coverage of the most recent testing methods, an updated section on the link between a gluten-free diet and improving behaviors in the autistic, new information about the genetics of celiac disease, expanded coverage on the gluten-free certification process, increased nutritional information, and updated recipes and resources.

•65 delicious recipes plus tips on eating out
•Guidance on how to shop and decipher food labels Advice on how to raise happy gluten-free kids
Covering the practical, medical, and emotional aspects of the lifestyle, Living Gluten-Free For Dummies, 2nd Edition offers hope and inspiration as you make the switch to a life free of gluten.


VICTORIA JUSTICE - CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER

LIGHTING UP THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS CHRISTMAS TREE -- NBC heralds the arrival of the holidays with a dazzling display of musical talent and the lighting of the world's most famous Christmas tree during the 15th annual "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" telecast on November 28th from 8-9pm ET. Co-hosted by Al Roker and Savannah Guthrie, both of NBC’s “TODAY,” the star-studded 80th annual tree lighting extravaganza will feature an array of musical guests performing current hits and holiday classics from Rockefeller Center in New York City. Prior to the network special, WNBC, NBC's New York flagship station, and other NBC stations will broadcast an additional live hour of the special (7-8 PM ET). "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" is produced by Brad Lachman Productions with Lachman serving as executive producer. Bill Bracken produces. Victoria Justice – Victoria Justice stars in the hit Nickelodeon series "Victorious" as the talented "Tori Vega," a student learning to navigate life at an elite performing arts high school. Her vocal talents are showcased on “Victorious: Music From the Hit TV Show” the first official soundtrack from the series which debuted at #5 on the Top 200 charts. To date, sales of singles from "Victorious" total 2.8 million combined digital downloads worldwide. "Victorious 3.0:Even More Music From The Hit TV Show" was released November 6. Justice has been nominated for Kids' Choice Awards, an NAACP Image Award, an ALMA award, as well as an Imagen Foundation Award. She can currently be seen in the feature film "Fun Size," alongside Chelsea Handler and Johnny Knoxville and is in the studio recording solo materials.

Monday, November 26, 2012

11/26 JANNA ROBINSON, THE CHIC GEEK, JEAN ANDERSON, FROM A SOUTHERN OVEN, DON WHITTEMORE, DANDY DON'S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM


JANNA ROBINSON - CHIC GEEK  

Cyber Monday sets a NEW record each year for online sales after Thanksgiving, and this year will be no different.   This year we have the fabulous CHIC GEEK, Janna Robinson, who has a new show on the DIY Network called Hollywood Tech. She will have some tips for getting the best online deals, how to shop safe and smart.     Janna will also discuss how she turns the home of the Hollywood stars like Oliver Stone into amazing "techorating" homes that we would all LOVE to have.





JEAN ANDERSON - FROM A SOUTHERN OVEN


A collection of oven dishes both sweet and savory from a Southerner whose passion for them shows no sign of cooling.  No one knows Southern cooking quite like Jean Anderson. A long-time food editor and the author of such books as A Love Affair with Southern Cooking and Falling Off the Bone, her encyclopedic knowledge of Southern food makes her the perfect author for this delicious down-home collection. If it's baked and it's from the South, you'll find it here.From a Southern Oven includes more than 150 recipes, both savory and sweet, classic and contemporary. You'll find appetizers and snacks, main dishes, sides, breads, and desserts that showcase such beloved Southern staples as pork and rice, sweet potatoes and Vidalia onions, butter beans, and blackberries and peaches. From Oven-Barbecued Chicken to Shrimp and Artichoke Hearts au Gratin to Blueberry Pecan Crisp, this book has it all. Throughout, Anderson dishes up juicy bits of history and lore about the recipes, while luscious full-color photographs offer mouthwatering inspiration.


DON WHITTEMORE - DANDY DON'S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

FORMER RECORD PROMO GURU IS FOUNDER OF HOMEMADE ICE CREAM  COMPANY FEATURING GREAT FLAVORS, QUALITY PRODUCTS AND MORE.  FEATURING "PARTY IN A BOX" WHICH  ALLOWS THE FUN TO BE SHARED BY MANY. HIS TRADEMARK "ICE CREAM" SUIT AND ON LOCATION PRESENCE AT MANY AREA EVENTS HAS BECOME PART OF THE SCENE IN SOUTHERN CA.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

11/22 Butterball, Sandy Pollock, Casserole Queens, Chef Amanda Zimich, Cambell Soup

The Turkey Experts from Butterball

Our experts have provided tried and true Turkey 101 advice to callers preparing for the most important meal of the year for more than 30 years. They would be happy to create a favorite Thanksgiving dish, demo a turkey, or could talk to:

Tried & True Turkey 101: For 30+ years, Butterball Turkey Line experts have been America’s go to for everything turkey. More than 50 experts help 100,000 clueless cooks each holiday season.

You Want to Use a Chainsaw for What?: Butterball Turkey Talk Line experts have provided advice for almost everything - from proper carving techniques to thawing birds in the tub, our experts can weigh in on their most memorable calls.

•   There’s an App for That: Get turkey advice on the go this year - the Butterball Cookbook Plus™ App includes voice command, 250+ original recipes, shopping lists and more. The Turkey Talk Line has also gone digital with a new social media space, equipped with flat screens that feature live scrolling updates from Facebook and Twitter pages.


SANDY POLLOCK - CASSEROLE QUEENS

Part kitsch, part dish, all apron. Meet the Casserole Queens, Sandy Pollock and Crystal Cook. New York Times Best Selling authors, Sandy and Crystal have taken their fresh-from-scratch meals from their home in Austin, Texas to the stages of Throwdown! with Bobby Flay, The Today Show, QVC and more. Featured on Epicurious, Oprah.com and CNN.com, they’ve also been guests on Bobby Flay Radio on Sirius XM and Martha Stewart Living Radio on SiriusXM 110. In between speaking engagements, book signings and cooking demonstrations, they’re also earning a whole new legion of fans as stars of their own web series on the new YouTube food channel, HUNGRY. But who are the Casserole Queens?

Sandy, a graduate of the prestigious French Culinary Institute in New York City, derived the idea for the Casserole Queens during a holiday visit with her family. After making the Pollocks' signature dishes with her mom and siblings, she realized that everyone in the family (all the way down to the tiniest Pollock) was indubitably satisfied. Sandy has happy memories of her family gathering at the dinner table to eat a casserole, and she hopes that Casserole Queens will help build memories for other families, too. Drawing from a diverse culinary background, including stints at Austin restaurants Jeffrey's and Cipollina, Sandy has a knack for enhancing the taste of an old favorite—as well as serving up some uniquely different dishes of her own.


CHEF AMANDA ZIMICH - CORPORATE CHEF  CAMBELL SOUP

Zimich, Corporate Executive Chef, Campbell's Culinary & Baking Institute (CCBI) can discuss hot trends this soup season and share her perspective on global influences, culinary flavor trends, and how bold flavors are shaping the evolution of soup. Chef Amanda Zimlich focuses on product innovation and development of fresh refrigerated soups and sauces for the Premium Retail and StockPot brands at the StockPot Culinary Campus in Everett, WA. After graduating at the top of her class from the Culinary Institute of America, Amanda funneled her passion for food into teaching and helped institutionalize a Culinary Arts program and facility for Missouri Public High Schools. Since then, Amanda has honed her culinary skills in several of Seattle’s top restaurants including most recently as Executive Chef at the Madison Park CafĂ©, where she was recognized by the James Beard Foundation for her innovative French Northwest Cuisine in 2007. Amanda’s philosophy on food is simple: she is obsessed with fresh ingredients, and she isn’t afraid to use them.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

11/21 DAVID BULL, CHARLIE ROSE, CHRISTIAN KEESEE

DAVID BULL - FOOD NETWORK - SUGAR DOME

David Bull is the host of Food Network's Sugar Dome.  David is an award-winning TV host and over the last 15 years has hosted over thirty five shows on British and US network television, for major TV channels including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Five, Living, Sky and Food Network. David has had a unique career path, beginning his career as a medical doctor, working in London in the fields of General Medicine and Emergency Medicine. He started his broadcasting career as an on-screen doctor for Sky TV giving advice to those travelling abroad.  Later, he joined Newsround on BBC1, the longest running children's news show in the world, where he became the first person to broadcast exclusively to kids about health issues. Since then his shows have encompassed all genres including talk, entertainment, consumer, health and wellness, science and technology and teenage and young people's issues. David crossed the Atlantic in 2009 starting his US career on The Rachael Ray Show and Web MD. Sugar Dome is his first US show as host.


CHARLIE ROSE - PERSON TO PERSON

CBS News made television history with the groundbreaking series "Person to Person," hosted by legendary newsman Edward R. Murrow. Each week Murrow, seated in his armchair in New York, took viewers by remote into the private homes of the most famous people on the planet. Although it was produced more than 50 years ago, Murrow's guests were of such iconic status their names still resonate today: John and Jacqueline Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Marlon Brando, Elizabeth Taylor, Eleanor Roosevelt, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall to name a few. On CBS News' "Person to Person," airing Friday, Nov. 23, at 10/9c, Penn tells co-host Charlie Rose how he was moved to help Haiti after seeing a January 2010 news report on the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that devastated the country.



CHRISTIAN KEESEE OWNER - THE LODGE

The inn, in the main house and the adjoining carriage house, has six rooms, including a large suite on the upper level. A getaway for a family, the suite features a private sitting room with bay windows, the ideal spot for meditation reading. Guests are invited to use the common area in the main house as well as the full kitchen, library, living, dining and laundry rooms. The renovation is just one of many initiated by Christian Keesee, the inn's owner, president of the Kirkpatrick Family Fund, and founder of the Green Box Arts Festival.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

11/20 SPONGEBOB SQUARE PANTS, TOM KENNY, JILL CATALDO, MARC SUMMERS, GARY CANTER, CANTER'S DELI

TOM KENNY - "SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS" 

CBS will present a new stop-motion animated special, IT’S A SPONGEBOB CHRISTMAS!, based on the hit Nickelodeon animated series “SpongeBob SquarePants,” on Friday, Nov. 23 (9:30 – 10:00 PM, ET/PT). John Goodman lends his voice to Santa Claus in this special.

As the first stop-animation feature for “SpongeBob SquarePants,” IT’S A SPONGEBOB CHRISTMAS! is inspired by the popular song, “Don’t be a Jerk, It’s Christmas,” by Tom Kenny (voice of SpongeBob SquarePants) and Andy Paley. In this new special, Mr. Krabs’ nemesis, Plankton, vows to get his Christmas wish – obtaining the Krusty Krab’s secret Krabby Patty formula – by turning everyone bad in Bikini Bottom with the help of his special jerktonium-laced fruitcake.

 “SpongeBob SquarePants” chronicles the nautical and sometimes non-sensical adventures of SpongeBob, an incurably optimistic and earnest sea sponge who lives in a two-story pineapple in the sub-surface city of Bikini Bottom. Since its launch in July 1999, “SpongeBob SquarePants” has emerged as a pop culture phenomenon.  The series has been the number-one animated program with kids 2-11 for more than 12 consecutive years on Nickelodeon.  Over the past several years, it has averaged more than 100 million total viewers across all Nickelodeon networks.


JILL CATALDO - THE SUPER COUPON QUEEN

Jill became a serious coupon user in September 2006 when she and her husband found out they were going to have another baby. Jill started using the internet to track store sales and learned the best time to use coupons from the newspaper and internet in conjunction with those sales.

This system completely changed the way she shopped. Jill had been a "typical" coupon user whowould look at coupons each week, cut out the ones she thought she'd use, and throw the rest away. It quickly became clear why that was a bad idea. Jill learned that grocery stores have a 12-week cycle in which everything in the store is at its lowest price point. When that happens, it’s the best time to swoop in and buy that item for an even bigger discount using the coupons and store discounts that are available. She also learned that most stores will let you combine a store coupon with a manufacturer's coupon. This is called "stacking," and it's a big component in bringing your total grocery bill down. Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Black Midnight! We’re just a few days away from the busiest shopping time of the year.


MARC SUMMERS - FOOD NETWORK - Holiday Survival

As winter quickly approaches, it will bring with it crisp temperatures and the most joyous time of the year, the holiday season. After the hustle and bustle of shopping, everyone will join family and friends for some holiday cheer! Food Network personality, Marc Summers values quality time with loved ones during the holiday season. He believes the best way to make this time memorable is by celebrating with his favorite indulgent foods.  When it comes to entertaining, Marc loves to serve his favorite classic foods - with a modern twist. From delectable chocolate covered strawberries to tasty traditional gingerbread cookies, Marc has a holiday survival kit filled with these favorites that will warm the hearts of family and friends this season. And, for those looking for that special treat to bring to the holiday party, Marc’s seasonal favorites will leave your guests satisfied and wondering how they can get their hands on those memorable treats.


GARY CANTER - CANTER'S DELI    

Canter's Deli is one of California's oldest delis. Located in Los Angeles' Miracle Mile District - the heart and soul of the entertainment  industry - Canter's Delicatessen is a third- generation family-run business whose owners have an intense pride in their deli and a  hands-on work ethic.

It all began in Jersey City, New Jersey in 1924. After losing a deli in the 1929 stock market crash, Ben Canter and his two brothers moved to California with just $500 in their pockets. Eager to succeed, they opened up a Canter Brother's Delicatessen in 1931 in Boyle  Heights, the Jewish center of Los Angeles.

When the character of the neighborhood changed, Ben Canter's daughter, Selmo Udko, and her then husband, Harold Price, partnered with Ben Canter and his wife, Jennie, to purchase a prime location at 439 North Fairfax Avenue. And instead of calling it Canter's Brothers they called it Canter's Fairfax.

In 1953 this new team purchased the old  Esquire Theatre at 419 North Fairfax and  moved Canter's Deli just up the street to the  larger location.

For over seventy-five years now this third- generation family-owned business has served  food to locals, tourist, and celebrities alike.  With its Art Deco dĂ©cor and its trademark autumn leaves ceiling, this hangout has hardly changed in its over half century at its current location

Monday, November 19, 2012

11/19 BUTTERBALL TURKEY HOTLINE, SANDY POLLOCK, CASSEROLE QUEENS, CHEF AMANDA ZIMICH, CAMBELL SOUP

The Turkey Experts from Butterball

Our experts have provided tried and true Turkey 101 advice to callers preparing for the most important meal of the year for more than 30 years. They would be happy to create a favorite Thanksgiving dish, demo a turkey, or could talk to:

Tried & True Turkey 101: For 30+ years, Butterball Turkey Line experts have been America’s go to for everything turkey. More than 50 experts help 100,000 clueless cooks each holiday season.

You Want to Use a Chainsaw for What?: Butterball Turkey Talk Line experts have provided advice for almost everything - from proper carving techniques to thawing birds in the tub, our experts can weigh in on their most memorable calls.

•   There’s an App for That: Get turkey advice on the go this year - the Butterball Cookbook Plus™ App includes voice command, 250+ original recipes, shopping lists and more. The Turkey Talk Line has also gone digital with a new social media space, equipped with flat screens that feature live scrolling updates from Facebook and Twitter pages.


SANDY POLLOCK - CASSEROLE QUEENS

Part kitsch, part dish, all apron. Meet the Casserole Queens, Sandy Pollock and Crystal Cook. New York Times Best Selling authors, Sandy and Crystal have taken their fresh-from-scratch meals from their home in Austin, Texas to the stages of Throwdown! with Bobby Flay, The Today Show, QVC and more. Featured on Epicurious, Oprah.com and CNN.com, they’ve also been guests on Bobby Flay Radio on Sirius XM and Martha Stewart Living Radio on SiriusXM 110. In between speaking engagements, book signings and cooking demonstrations, they’re also earning a whole new legion of fans as stars of their own web series on the new YouTube food channel, HUNGRY. But who are the Casserole Queens?

Sandy, a graduate of the prestigious French Culinary Institute in New York City, derived the idea for the Casserole Queens during a holiday visit with her family. After making the Pollocks' signature dishes with her mom and siblings, she realized that everyone in the family (all the way down to the tiniest Pollock) was indubitably satisfied. Sandy has happy memories of her family gathering at the dinner table to eat a casserole, and she hopes that Casserole Queens will help build memories for other families, too. Drawing from a diverse culinary background, including stints at Austin restaurants Jeffrey's and Cipollina, Sandy has a knack for enhancing the taste of an old favorite—as well as serving up some uniquely different dishes of her own.


CHEF AMANDA ZIMICH - CORPORATE CHEF  CAMBELL SOUP

Zimich, Corporate Executive Chef, Campbell's Culinary & Baking Institute (CCBI) can discuss hot trends this soup season and share her perspective on global influences, culinary flavor trends, and how bold flavors are shaping the evolution of soup. Chef Amanda Zimlich focuses on product innovation and development of fresh refrigerated soups and sauces for the Premium Retail and StockPot brands at the StockPot Culinary Campus in Everett, WA. After graduating at the top of her class from the Culinary Institute of America, Amanda funneled her passion for food into teaching and helped institutionalize a Culinary Arts program and facility for Missouri Public High Schools. Since then, Amanda has honed her culinary skills in several of Seattle’s top restaurants including most recently as Executive Chef at the Madison Park CafĂ©, where she was recognized by the James Beard Foundation for her innovative French Northwest Cuisine in 2007. Amanda’s philosophy on food is simple: she is obsessed with fresh ingredients, and she isn’t afraid to use them.

Friday, November 16, 2012

11/16 JASON DODGE, BEAGLE BRODSKY, STEVE EVANS



JASON DODGE - WINEMAKER - BUTTERFLY KISS

Jason will be in LA, and he'd love to stop by your studio. Jason is the winemaker who created the new Butterfly Kiss wines. He'd be happy to come on the radio show and discuss Thanksgiving pairings, fall wines or any other wine topic you may be interested in.  Secondarily, to celebrate the launch of these light and floral wines, Butterfly Kiss is holding a launch event next Thursday in LA, and we'd love for you or your female friends/family members to come if you can. We'd be happy to arrange for spa services for those in attendance.



BEAGLE BRODSKY - GM OF WILLIE BIRD TURKEYS

Home to the finest fresh and smoked poultry products in the world.  All Willie Bird smoked products are prepared at our family processing plant in Sonoma County, California.  Our family has been raising poultry in Sonoma County for over 75 years starting with Grandpa in 1924.  Willie began raising Free Range turkeys over 40 years ago.  They've become famous in our bountiful region for their superior quality and taste. Add class to your poultry selections.  Ask for Willie Birds - the smoked poultry and game birds of choice, fresh from the Wine Country.



STEVE EVANS - THE MOVIE GUY

THERE ARE SOME GREAT MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND. STEVE GIVES SOME BOX OFFICE PREDICTIONS AND HOPES. FIND OUT WHAT MOVIES ARE WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

11/15 KAT COLE, UNDERCOVER BOSS, JOANNE WEIR, YANN BOURIGAULT

KAT COLE - Undercover Boss

From Hooters girl to President of Cinnabon Inc at just 34-years-old, Kat Cole took on the challenge of going Undercover Boss after checking in with her former boss at Hooters, Coby Brooks, one of the first CEOs to be featured on Undercover Boss in 2010.  Watch this clip for a preview of Kat’s meeting with Coby.  "Cinnabon, Inc." – Former Hooter employee, Kat Cole, President of Cinnabon, Inc., visits her former boss, Coby Brooks (featured on the “Hooters” episode of UNDERCOVER BOSS, Feb., 2010), to ask advice before beginning her undercover mission. While undercover in a Cinnabon micro-bakery, one customer nearly blows her cover by asking questions about the cameras. Meanwhile, as our youngest boss featured in the series at age 34, Cole discovers a couple of employees who share her zealous work ethic, on UNDERCOVER BOSS, Friday, Nov. 16 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network  She's the youngest boss to go undercover -- she's 34.  She poses as Alexa, an aspiring baker who is competing for seed money to start her own bake shop.  Her employees will think they're on a hosted reality show that helps decide if she deserves the money.


JOANNE WEIR - JOANNE WEIR'S COOKING CONFIDENCE

Joanne Weir is a James Beard Award-winning cookbook author, chef, cooking teacher and television personality.  As the host of her newest TV series, "Joanne Weir's Cooking Confidence", Joanne's love of teaching takes center stage.  This 26-part cooking class is now airing nationally on Public Television. Join Joanne for one of her culinary journeys around the world!  From Tuscany to Provence and La Rioja to Piedmont, you'll learn from her vast knowledge of food and wine and experience luxurious accommodations!  Each trip is filled with cooking classes using amazing local ingredients and visits to Joanne's favorite markets, artisans and vineyards...all designed for an unforgettable experience!  Joanne also teaches hands-on cooking courses in her kitchen studio in San Francisco, California. Joanne Weir is many things…a world traveler… a James Beard Award-winning cookbook author… a cooking teacher…television personality....and most recently, restaurateur and Executive Chef of Copita Tequileria y Comida in Sausalito, California.


YANN BOURIGAULT - "2012 BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU"

Yann Bourigault, the Export Director and Brand Ambassador for Georges Duboeuf shares the exciting things they have planned this year for the brand, including the augmented reality label, ant the 30th anniversary of the brand in the U.S. and much more. Beaujolais nouveau is a red wine made from Gamay grapes produced in the Beaujolais region of France. It is the most popular vin de primeur, fermented for just a few weeks then officially released for sale on the third Thursday of November. This "Beaujolais Day", or "Beaujolais Nouveau Day" sees heavy marketing from the producers, with races to get the first bottles of the vintage to different markets. What is Beaujolais Nouveau? Beaujolais Nouveau has  a very short fermentation process using carbonic maceration, so it is released in the November after harvest (just a few months after the grapes are picked). It is light, fresh, fruity and fun. Perfect for Thanksgiving and meant to be consumed immediately!
 

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

11/14 MARIE GEWIRTZ, SANDRA LEE, ALEX GUARNASCHELLI, CHRIS HANMER

MARIE GEWIRTZ - Marie Gewirtz Marketing & Public Relations

Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards is thrilled to be throwing its inaugural Be Bubbly Bash in LA and we will be pleased for you to join us for a night of delicious food &  sparkling wine pairings, as well as a bit of pampering. Eva Bertran will be  there and greatly  looks forward to seeing you both. We are taking over the restaurant for the evening, so  please bring your favorite friends to join in the festivities


 
SANDRA LEE - "THE COMPLETE COOKBOOK"

Sandra Lee has a passion for simple solutions that create dramatic results in all areas of home life.  She is an internationally acclaimed home and food expert. With 20 books to her credit Sandra Lee is a New York Times best-selling author with her new "The Complete Cookbook" released in October 2010; host of the top-rated, Emmy-nominated TV show Sandra Lee's Semi-Homemade Cooking on Food
Network and Sandra's Money Saving Meals; and editor-in-chief of the national magazine Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade. 




 
ALEX GUARNASCHELLI  - FOOD NETWORK  (NUTS)

In this interview, Alex will encourage listeners to incorporate one of her favorite, versatile ingredients into their holiday recipes – nuts!  She will discuss how this ingredient can be used to create chef-caliber dishes with an extra boost of rich flavor, texture and nutrition.  Alex will also tell listeners how nuts can be used to put a fresh spin on some traditional holiday recipes, including Stuffed White Mushrooms with Pecans and Pear Crisp with Almonds.





 
Top Chef Just Desserts Winner Chris Hanmer

Chris Hanmer is a world champion pastry chef and winner of Bravo’s Top Chef: Just Desserts Season 2. Chris owns The School of Pastry Design in  Vegas, has worked for some of the best pastry chefs in the world. Over the course of his career, he has worked at the  prestigious Bellagio Hotel and multiple Ritz-Carlton hotels. In 2004, Chris became the  youngest  American to World Pastry Champion. Chris joined the  Sam’s Club Simply Delicious Chef Brigade, a team of  renowned chefs who create  simple, flavorful meal ideas and show families that cooking at  home can be just as delicious as dining out.


Tuesday, November 13, 2012

11/13 Chef Michael Christiensen, KARMA TEQUILA, Mary Rogers

Chef Michael Christiensen - Culinary instructor and Executive Chef at Birds Eye


In the Birds Eye Test Kitchen, Executive Chef Michael Christiansen took cues from the recipe concepts to create a special collection of kid-friendly recipes. From martians to cupcakes, vegetables are the star of these recipes inspired by Birds Eye's virtual kitchen:
•    Yakimaniac Veggie Martians - Martian-ize dinnertime by letting kids add personality to these   delights with edible glitter, pretzel antennas, and veggie faces.
•    Veggie Cupcakes - Let them eat cake (as long as it's loaded with veggies). Parents can feel great about this savory, veggie-licious spin on a classic, favorite treat: the cupcake.
•    iTasty Corn Pizza with Pumpkin - Not your standard slice of pie, this pizza packs a punch of pumpkin and veggie-rich layers in every bite.
•    Taste Tester Corn Jalapeno Dip - This zesty dip deserves a fiesta. With individual tortilla bowls, kids will love this vibrant blend of colorful vegetables.
•    Veggie Smoothie - Scrumptious. Sippable. Simple. This brilliant orange smoothie will leave the kids begging for more veggies... to sip.
All of these recipes feature Birds Eye Steamfresh® products, which are perfect for kids because no knives or hot stoves are required. Kids can help their mom simply by pressing the buttons on the microwave.




GARY & DEVIN - KARMA TEQUILA  



Karma Tequila is produced from 100% blue agave grown in the highlands of Jalisco, a region referred to as the Napa Valley of Mexico and recognized for having the richest volcanic soil and ideal climate. Each agave is hand picked and tested ensuring that only the ripest agave is used. Authentic brick ovens slowly cook the agave allowing all the flavors to be captured in every sip. Karma’s distillery is family owned and operated utilizing traditional distilling methods that have been passed down from generation to generation for over 70 years. Karma100% agave tequila is handmade in small batches through a multiple distillation process ensuring a complete balance in taste and smoothness.


Mary Rogers - Director of Communications Cuisinart & Waring



Julia Child let people in on the Cuisinart secret and so did James Beard. They were among the first culinary experts to hail the food processor as a revolutionary kitchen appliance when it was introduced to America in 1973 by the late Cuisinart founder, Carl Sontheimer. They saw the food processor as a quick and easy way to make fine food and healthy dishes. The prestigious Cuisinart® brand is not limited to food processors. Plugged or unplugged, nobody covers the kitchen like Cuisinart. The company is a full-service culinary resource with a wide array of products, preferred by chefs and favored by consumers.

Monday, November 12, 2012

11/12 Candice Kumai, ROWAN GORMLEY

Candice Kumai - Iron Chef America    


As a celebrity chef and judge on Iron Chef America, Candice Kumai is one of the most respected chefs in the nation.   That why the author of "Cook Yourself Sexy" is excited to judge the Eggland's Best "Your Best Recipe" contest, and share the finalist recipes with your viewers and listeners just in time for the holidays. The dishes will inspire your viewers as they prepare their own holiday feasts. In fact, you viewers and listeners can vote on the best recipes  at the Eggland's Best www.egglandsbest.com/yourbestrecipe or the "Your Best Recipe" Contest Facebook tab.  Candice is currently a judge on Iron Chef America, cookbook author, food writer for Men's & Women's Health. Former model-turned-chef, Candice Kumai's recipes are loaded with "Foods with Benefits"-like protein, fiber, and omegas-and are free of the processed junk. Candice is a Top Chef alumnus, author of Pretty Delicious, contributor to the New York Times #1 bestseller "Cook Yourself Thin" and author of her new cookbook, "Cook Yourself Sexy."   Candice has been featured as a regular guest on shows like "Dr. Oz, Today, Access Hollywood and the Nate Berkus Show.

 
ROWAN GORMLEY  -  NAKED WINES



Naked Wines is an online wine retailer founded by Rowan Gormley which launched in the UK on the 1st December 2008. The company was founded by Richard Branson's former right-hand-man and serial-entrepreneur Rowan Gormley . Rowan's previous ventures include setting-up and running Virgin Direct (now Virgin Money), the Virgin One Account, and Virgin Wines. When leaving Virgin Wines in the summer of 2008, his 15-strong management team followed suit to become Founding Partners at Naked.  Naked Wines is an online market for wine  which supports independent winemakers from around the world. It invests in the winemakers in return for preferential prices, which it passes on to its customers. Its website allows customers to talk directly to the winemakers and other customers via a social networking platform. Customers can become 'Angels' for winemakers, which means paying a monthly subscription fee towards their next order. Angels get between 25% and 50% off every time they buy in return for their support.  In July 2009 Naked Wines was announced as Jamie Oliver's wine partner  . A dedicated wine section was added to the Jamie Oliver website with wine recommendations from Jamie Oliver . Recipes on Jamie Oliver's website are also paired to wine matches available from the Naked Wines website.

Friday, November 9, 2012

11/9 JOE MANTEGNA , Master Chef Ken Arnone, Master of Wine Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan, TONY ORLANDO, Steve Evans

JOE MANTEGNA - "CBS CRIMINAL MINDS" 

PBS and Capital Concerts recently announced the broadcast of the NATIONAL SALUTE TO VETERANS, airing on PBS Sunday, November 11, 2012, at 8:00 p.m. ET, in honor of the service and sacrifice of our 22 million American veterans. Hosted by acclaimed actors Joe Mantegna (“Criminal Minds”) and Gary Sinise (“CSI: New York”), the national television event celebrates the American heroes who have served throughout our country’s history. The program will also be broadcast to our troops serving around the world on the American Forces Network. The NATIONAL SALUTE TO VETERANS will feature new footage shot with co-hosts Mantegna and Sinise, as well as a selection of “best of the best” moments from past NATIONAL MEMORIAL DAY CONCERTS. The all-star line-up includes distinguished American leader General Colin L. Powell USA (Ret.); Academy Award, Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actor Forest Whitaker; “American Idol” finalist Pia Toscano; singer-songwriter Javier Colon (winner of “The Voice”); “American Idol” winner Kris Allen; acclaimed actors A.J. Cook and Jason Ritter; and gospel legend Yolanda Adams, accompanied by the National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by maestro Jack Everly.   “PBS is honored to have the opportunity to salute America’s 22 million veterans,” said PBS senior vice president & chief TV programming executive John F. Wilson. “This program will bring together distinguished American leaders, artists and performers in celebration of those who have served and sacrificed so much for their country.”  “Our military members have a long and proud tradition of service and sacrifice,” said Capital Concerts executive producer Jerry Colbert. “We are honored to present this new broadcast in profound gratitude to our veterans and their families, and in promise to them that their dedication to our country will never be forgotten.”


Certified Master Chef Ken Arnone & Master of Wine Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan

Chef Ken Arnone has achieved the highest level of culinary certification in the world, Certified Master Chef (67 in the US) and Global Master Chef (300 worldwide).  He started his professional career at The Culinary Institute of America, where he graduated with honors and returned in 1999 as a professor. He travels around the world exploring the cuisine of many regions and consults for many prominent restaurant groups and international hospitality organizations, including Colavita, Darden Restaurant Group and Marriott International. He also recently launched Pesto Diavolo, a fiery spread and dip that is available retail as well as on the web.  Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan is the fourth woman among 31 people in the US (and 300 worldwide) to achieve the highest wine title in the world, Master of Wine. She has trained thousands in the industry, judges in international wine and spirits competitions and is a frequent guest on national television including The Today Show, Anderson Cooper and Real Housewives as well as featured in world-class publications including Fortune, Businessweek, and Wine Enthusiast. She is also the host of five DVD series with The Great Courses and is the author of The One Minute Wine Master. You may know which wines you enjoy drinking, but did you know that the perfect food pairing could make your favorite wine taste even better? Did you know the right wine could take your favorite dish to new levels of deliciousness? Great food and wine pairings have the power to turn any dining experience from good to spectacular.  Perfect pairings impress for all occasions (holiday dinners, client entertaining and special dinner dates). The biggest problem is that with seemingly endless wine offerings and even more meal options, it can be confusing where to begin.  And how do we make it affordable and applicable to everyday life? For the first time two literal masters of food and wine joined forces to help us all and end this confusion.  Certified Master Chef Ken Arnone and Master of Wine Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan show us tips and strategies with over 100 recipes and about 300 food and wine combinations in their new book Pairing with the Masters: A Definitive Guide to Food & Wine.  These two have tricks up their sleeves that will make every meal top notch, and do so in a budget-friendly fashion regardless of your cooking expertise level.


TONY ORLANDO - BRANSON FOR VETERANS DAY

PROLIFIC PERFORMER NOW APPEARING IN BRANSON AND TALKING ABOUT WHAT VETERANS DAY MEANS TO HIM.  HE RECENTLY WENT TO AFGHANISTAN WITH GARY SINISE FOR MILITARY MORAL SUPPORT





STEVE EVANS - "THE MOVIE GUY"

GREAT MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND AND BOX OFFICE PREDICTIONS AND HOPES. FIND OUT WHAT MOVIES ARE WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY. GET SET FOR THE WEEKEND.

Thursday, November 8, 2012

11/8 Ron Lynch, Stanley Licairac

Ron Lynch – President of The Tilted Kilt

The Tilted Kilt is a Celtic-themed sports pub featuring waitresses wearing sexy tartan outfits, known as Kilt Girls. Ron Lynch has been in the food business for many years. He heard of The Tilted Kilt, which started in the Rio Casino in Las Vegas. He bought the name “The Tilted Kilt” and started his first pub. Now it is one of the fastest growing sports bars in the United States with over 4,000 employees and 70 pubs.  Ron’s daughter is the Director of Social Media and his wife is the Director of Corporate Relations.  Ron’s father was his inspiration and his cheerleader. The year Ron started the business, his father passed away unexpectedly.  For his undercover mission, Lynch posed as Ryan Good, a failed sporting goods store owner from San Diego.




Stanley Licairac - Corporate Chef - "Havana Central"

There is no place Stanley Licairac would rather be than in the kitchen at Havana Central cooking home-style Cuban cuisine. “I have literally been doing this my entire life—I have no idea how to do anything else. The food at Havana Central is about the love that I actually put into making each and every dish.”

As Havana Central’s first employee dating back to April 2002, there’s nothing more heart-warming for Licairac than pleasing his customers. “The majority of people who come to our restaurant will look at the food descriptions on the menu and say, ‘Wow, this is really like my mother’s cooking. I’ll definitely come back here with my family!’ Or they’ll say, ‘This Arroz con Pollo is different, but the taste and the flavor is definitely something I’m familiar with and it brings me back to ... When I was a kid.’ And when they say things like this—which happens every week—that’s it for me!”

With three locations, each with its own unique personality and distinct clientele, Havana Central has been bringing real-Cuban cooking to New York since 2002. (The Union Square location will be celebrating its seventh anniversary this June 2009). The restaurants evoke Cuba’s golden era, when its namesake city was one of the world’s most tantalizing playgrounds. Walking into the swanky circa 1950’s Havana nightspot setting is to be transported to another place and time.

Brooklyn born and raised, the 38-year-old Licairac could barely see over the counter when he started learning the food ways of a Latin kitchen in his father’s deli. By the time he was 11, Licairac’s Dominican Republic-born father and Puerto Rican mother were living out the American Dream, having purchased the Midtown Manhattan deli in which the senior Licairac had once worked. “It was the first deli in Manhattan to offer such now familiar staples as picadillo and oxtail stew,” says Licairac.

By the time he was 19-years-old, Licairac began his own culinary career as silent partner, cook and waiter of Burritos Tin Tan on the Upper West Side. At Licairac’s insistence, the restaurant was distinguished from the profusion of Tex Mex operations by its dedication to authentic Mexican fare.

A few years later, Licairac persuaded his parents to come out of retirement to open a Mexican restaurant with him in Forrest Hills, Queens. At the very successful Burrito Heaven, Licairac continued his journeyman chef education, mastering a Caribbean-oriented Mexican repertoire, with the help of family recipes that taught him the flexibility of a simple foundation. Twenty-four months later the family sold the restaurant, and Licairac joined the Cabana Restaurants organization, where he took on front-of-house managerial responsibilities, as well as elevating the kitchen operations.

Toward the end of his three-and-a-half year tenure with Cabana, Licairac came to the attention of Jeremy Merrin, who had a vision for the creation of an authentic Cuban restaurant several cuts above the typical storefront variety. A novice to the restaurant industry, Merrin knew he needed a chef and a manager with experience and credibility in the Latin culinary community. He found both in Licairac.

Furthermore, Licairac was armed with a treasure trove of family recipes that would help define the character Merrin wanted to create for Havana Central, that of comforting home-style cooking. “It’s very family-oriented here. To this day I’ll call my mother and grandmother every day in Florida and we’ll test new dishes in our kitchens and check in with each other the following day. Also, we have 230 employees at Havana Central and most have a Latin American background — Cuban, Colombian, Puerto Rican, Dominican — and I ask them to taste everything. If 230 people give their seal of approval, I’m good!”

Aside from continuously reading anything he can get his hands on about Cuban cooking, Licairac finds the inspiration to work 12-16 hour days by feeding off the enthusiasm of everyone around him. “Everyone in our restaurants, from the cooks to the dishwashers, everyone has to be passionate about what they do. I will ask each of them every single day, ‘What would you like to see on the menu?’ And I will take bits and pieces of what they say and I’ll Cubanize it!”

According to Licairac, creating high-quality, authentic Cuban cuisine boils down to one main ingredient: Passion. “When it comes down to it, Cuban food is all about salt, pepper and garlic—it’s very basic. But real Cuban cooking is deeper than that. Take white rice, for example. You don’t just cook the rice and come back when it’s done. You have to watch over it, stir it, taste it, and nurture it. And that’s where the passion comes in. Latin American people are very warm and loving and that’s exactly the flair I put into all of my cooking.”