Show Introduction and Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

SoCal Restaurant Show

“In early 2022, with the support of Chef David LeFevre and Simms Restaurants, Chef Ray Hayashi embarked on his most ambitious culinary adventure to date, opening his very own restaurant in Hermosa Beach with his wife Cynthia Hetlinger (formerly sous chef at Providence) as chef de cuisine. RYLA serves Hayashi’s take on seasonal Los Angeles cuisine driven by seasonal produce from local farms and a menu influenced by L.A.’s diverse cultures, and of course, drawing from Hayashi and Hetlinger’s respective Japanese and Taiwanese heritages.” Chef Ray takes a break from his busy Holiday kitchen to join us.

Going to Las Vegas for Thanksgiving? “Once again Las Vegas’ The Golden Tiki is inviting everyone to kick off the Thanksgiving holiday weekend with the return of their annual “Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” celebration on Wednesday, November 27th from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.! This night has become a pre-game ritual for Las Vegans and visitors in town for the holiday and is truly one of the best events at this notable tiki bar. As always the festive pre-turkey day event will feature all of the treats from the iconic holiday TV special including jelly beans, popcorn, pretzels, and buttered toast, served on the ceremonial ping pong table (complimentary with any beverage purchase). This year, Beverage Director and Snoopy Surrogate Adam Rains has also created a special boozy “Peanuts Punch” available one night only!” Master Barman Adam Rains joins us in the Thanksgiving spirit with a freshly stirred Peanuts Punch at the ready.

“Ghost Hill Cellars is a fifth-generation farm, vineyard estate, and unforgettable event destination, sustainably tended by the Bayliss-Bower family (and, perhaps, the ghost of a murdered gold miner) since 1906. Neighboring the vineyards of Ken Wright, Tony Soter, and other Willamette Valley luminaries in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, the family’s highly prized soils produce Pinot Noir of exceptional finesse and longevity, crafted by legendary Oregon winemaker Eric Hamacher. With a spectacular new hospitality center to match the award-winning wines, Ghost Hill Cellars is a family treasure far more enduring than a prospector’s lucky break.” Representing the Bayliss-Bower family is Cameron Bower, resident “Business Guy and Wine Lover.”

California Wine Country for the Holidays? “Experience the warmth of the holiday season at the Allegretto Vineyard Resort’s annual 12 Days of Holiday celebration. Taking place from December 20 to December 31, 2024, this vibrant event transforms the Paso Robles luxury resort into a holiday wonderland, offering seasonal delights and joyful experiences sure to make the season bright. The 12 Days of Holiday begin with the spectacular annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, held Friday, December 20. Featuring performances from local carolers and the Artistry in Motion dance troupe, this beloved tradition marks the beginning of the holiday season at the Allegretto. Prior to the ceremony, guests will enjoy opportunities to capture cherished moments at a photo station with Santa, decorate gingerbread cookies, and indulge in sweet treats including hot cocoa, mulled wine, and an interactive s’mores station.” Our guide to Allegretto’s upcoming “12 Days of Holiday” is Thomas Humphrey, Director of Food & Beverage and his assistant, Ronnie Johnston.

“Zov's Restaurant Group has transformed the former Roxy’z restaurant into a premier private event space, now reimagined as 1801 Private Events by Zov’s. Located in the heart of Anaheim, the newly branded 1801 Private Events offers a versatile venue perfect for a variety of special occasions, from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations. With 3,900 square feet of indoor space, 1801 Private Events by Zov’s can comfortably accommodate events up to 120 guests, making it an ideal setting for bridal showers, birthdays, wedding receptions, and corporate events. The spacious reception-style patio, which can host up to 40 guests, adds a charming al-fresco option to the venue.” Second generation restaurateur and CEO, Armen Karamardian, joins us with all the details of 1801 Private Events by Zov’s.

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. Thanksgiving is now upon us. Chef Andrew is a fountain of genuinely useful, stress-free Thanksgiving cooking tips which he generously shares. He’s cooking fur 20 on Thanksgiving at Home ! This week’s final tips offer creative ideas for winning stuffing and thoughts on cooking the bird so all parts are evenly cooked. All good wishes to our listeners for a stress-free Thanksgiving celebration.

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