Food Farms & Chefs Radio Show

Innovative Catering Concepts and Wawa Welcome America (00:00)

Rocco Gallelli, the food producer for Wawa Welcome America, discusses his role in coordinating food and drink for the festival. He explains that this is his 18th year managing the event, which includes various activities from June 19th to July 4th, culminating in the Party on the Parkway on July 4th that typically attracts about a quarter million people. Rocco describes the challenges of managing food logistics, including weather considerations, historical data analysis for planning, and balancing inventory to avoid shortages or overbuying. Rocco continued his discussion of catering for...

This week's show began with Kelsey Timmerman and his new book which focuses on regenerative agriculture, where they discussed his journey from anthropology to author, and the different farming practices around the world. The show continued with Melanie Ganzman from Fluffy Farms, who shared her success with a USDA grant for their silvopasture system and sustainable farming operations in New Jersey. The show ended with Lee Leung, the Regional General Manager of the Fearless Restaurant Group. Lee discussed all the latest trends for hosting a private party or event, the new European-based menu at Autograph Brasserie, and the full...

Chef Clara Park: Eat Cetera & The Cinema Chefs Podcast

Clara discussed her various projects, including her partnership with Drexel University where she offers recreational cooking classes on weekends, and her podcast " The Cinema Chefs" which is recording its final episode of season one. They cover food scenes from movies, with topics ranging from specific foods to special occasion dining. With her passion for culinary education, Clara believes in highlighting how foods can improve people's health, save them money, and help build a fuller sense of community. She also discussed the importance of teaching basic cooking skills to...

After learning how Gina Lizzo's career brought her into her role as Main Line Today magazine's Managing Editor, she and our host discussed all the fun and excitement that will happen at this year's Best Of the Main Line and Western Suburbs Party happening on July 31st at The Drexelbrook! The annual event is a year in the making, and highlights the top businesses within the region by way of tasting and sampling what those places offer!  This year, you'll be treated to live music by the Jellyroll Band, along with sweet and savory foods, beverages, and desserts by this...

This week's episode began with an interview of Suzanne O'Brien, CEO of Royal Restaurant Group, who discussed her career in the restaurant industry and the success of their partnership with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society's pop-up garden. This was followed by an interview with Maria Stewart, who is the owner of Gorgeous Goat Creamery. Maria shared her background in academia and nutrition before transitioning to goat farming and dairy production. The final segment featured Danny O'Malley, Founder of Before the Butcher, a plant-based meat company. Danny explained his journey from acting to food service and production, and discussed his company's plant-based...

Northeast Farmers Market Season
Host Amaris Pollock welcomed Devin Cornia who is the Executive Director of the Northeast Farming Association of New Jersey back to the show. They discuss the upcoming farmers market season and the opportunity for people to interact with farmers and learn about agriculture.  They also discussed Devin's history within the industry, along with some of the programs, initiatives, and the publication "The Natural Farmer" which NOFA provides to the community.

NOFA's Local Food Initiatives:
Devin explains that NOFA (Northeast Organic Farming Association) is a 50-year-old organization with seven state chapters supporting o...

Host Amaris Pollock first spoke with Revolution Bees and the two Owners/Beekeepers who have turned their honey into a multi-purposed production of infused honeys, alcoholic beverages, and spreads--and the processes in order to achieve each individual product.  We then drove to the Jersey shore to visit someone at the Kohr of a Jersey sweet treat: Kohr's Soft Ice Cream!  Our host sat with Owner Eva Kohr to learn more about the business' history, flavors, and how to participate in this year's ice cream tour.  We ended our show by revisiting Ekiben, a restaurant brand that fuses Asian and Ethiopian cuis...

Summary:

Tracy's Culinary Career Journey:
Amaris and Tracy discussed her personal experiences and career path that led her into the culinary industry. This included her journey from being a jeweler to becoming a bartender and eventually a manager at various restaurants, including Rosalie in Wayne. She highlighted the opportunities for growth and learning within the Fearless restaurant company, which she has been a part of for many years.

Rosalie's Unique Features and Event Spaces:
Tracy discussed the restaurant's unique features and its role as a venue for special occasions. She highlighted the restaurant's...

Michelle Delp is the Regional GM for Fearless Restaurants, and she joined our host so we could SPRING into what's fashionable to eat in University City! Louie Louie offers a vibe that feels very European French Bistro, and with their sidewalk-based seating now open, and new spring menu available and Happy Hours extended...everyone who visits can enjoy the atmosphere and menu options no matter what they're looking for! Whether you're looking for a lighter, brighter meal or dining for a richly, decadent dinner...Louie Louie offers whatever you desire to indulge in. And stay tuned for all the...

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Chef Nomu Reeves joined us to share her story and path to owning Le Sel Catering & Events. Chef Reeves grew up experiencing life from many different cultures and cuisines, and that exposure opened her to a love of the culinary industry with all of its flavors! Later in life, she started out cooking savory items and working inside the kitchens of some prestigious restaurateurs. At some point she switched her focus to become a pastry chef, and eventually turned back to the delights of the savory side of things. Years later her path led her to opening Le Sel...

We began with Chef Anthony Bonett from @Moshulu, who's about to enter into his new role as the Chef at Triple Crown, located in the Radnor Hotel in Wayne, PA.  Chef Bonett has been working inside restaurants in Philadelphia for most of his career, landing a job with Fearless Restaurant's Marty Grims 15 years ago, and has worked for the family-owned business ever since. His career has long since focused on seafood-heavy cuisines where he offers creative meals to entice everyone's palates.  Today, he joined us while getting ready for the FR Restaurant Week, Easter Brunches, and his interesting twists on f...

We first heard from Insatiable restaurant's Owner, Denise Gesek.  Denise's passion for the culinary industry began while spending time in the kitchen with her grandparents making gnocchi and other Italian dishes from scratch.  Never losing her love of cooking, Denise attended Johnson & Wales and continued her outstanding career by working at prestigious restaurants across the United States, even meeting one of her childhood idols along the way.  Today, Chef Denise offers her a menu which highlights European and American classics with her twist on them!  
https://www.insatiablephilly.com
1200 S. 21st Street, Philadelphia, PA 10146
P: 267-319-8932<...

The owner of Goodlands Food Co, Anna Dausman, joined us to take a more in-depth look into her career and what ultimately led Anna to building a business based on hot sauces.  As a young girl, Anna already showed an entrepreneurial spirit--making her first attempt at a culinary career with a cake-baking business.  Although that initial concept did not pan out, she nevertheless pursued a career which created opportunities for others to build up themselves and their communities.  And as another opportunity knocked, Anna found herself drawn back to the culinary world while growing ghost peppers in her plot of la...

Elegant and regal is one way to describe the ambience you'll discover upon entering Autograph Brasserie in Wayne, PA, and their General Manager, Willie Fajotina, joined us to describe the entire scene--from the decor, menu, and more!  From extended Happy Hours, to Fearless Restaurant's Restaurant Week (April 7th - 13th), Easter Celebrations, and hosting private events...you can fulfill all of your dining needs when visiting Autograph Brasserie!  And be sure to stay till the end to find out what dish both Willie and Amaris were drawn to...it's just that delicious!!!https://www.autographbrasserie.com

Philly is...

Chris Lerch is a Co-Founder of Not Pizza, a beverage that's grabbing headlines and attention due to a genius marketing plan aimed at grabbing your attention. We all love pizza since it's become a part of our lives as a go-to comfort food, so Chris landed on that name when he thought about what he (and friends) like when hanging out: To have pizza and something that is not pizza (aka a beverage). With a name chosen, Chris and his co-founders at Not Pizza sought out the best tasting pre-canned cocktails to put on the shelves for all 21+ people...

We began with friends from White Dog Cafe Chester Springs and their Executive Chef, Rob McKee. Chef Rob's culinary career is why he is so versatile in the kitchen, having initially learned on the line, and circled back to the industry via a culinary degree.  Chef Rob earned his marks while working in kitchens across the US, and is now back in his home state working at White Dog Cafe in Chester Springs as their Executive Chef.  He's now gearing up for not only the seasonal changes to their menu, he's also preparing the dishes that will be offered dur...

We began this week's show with Kim Bernaus, the owner behind Unruly Nature - a company which offers products that are very versatile.  Whether choosing a delicious way to start your day, enjoying a snack, or enhancing the meals you might create, Unruly Nature granolas offers unique flavors that will surprise you. "Each Bag is handmade with care from small batches utilizing gluten free and vegan ingredients, antioxidant rich elements and is defined by our unique, delicious flavors," stated on the website.  Tune in to hear from Kim on how you can get creative with her granolas, and "fuel yo...

Our host is spending time with Geoff Feder, the first guest of the new year. Geoff is the owner of Feder Knives, a business that provides the necessary tools every chef needs. Forging knives not only make a statement (check out his signature design collection) but are the perfect tools for any professional or budding chef. Geoff's craftsmanship hails from an artists and chefs background, where he melds the artistry behind blacksmith and creativity in the kitchen, designing knives that will help give you the cutting edge over your competition. However, Geoff emphasized that his knives are not for...

We have the dynamic and always appreciated Owner and Director of Business of Fearless Restaurants Group, Sydney Grims joining us first.  With all the holiday festivities happening, Sydney and Amaris chatted about the recently opened Testa Rossa in Glen Mills, PA and the newest addition to the White Dog Cafe locations in Chester Springs, PA.  With newly added events across several of the Fearless Restaurants family of dining establishments, including chef-led classes where you take home what you make, their annual WDC PJ Brunch, and Galentine's celebrations - there was a lot to cover and even more exciting news to...

We began with Executive Chef Todd Butler, who's mastery of the culinary arts spans the globe. Chef Butler is bringing his expertise to Topside Tavern, which offers a variety of starters, mains, and desserts that reflect his travels.  Chef Butler's menu has a strong influence of Asian cuisine fused with an American Pub style, so you can look forward to experiencing flavors that will tease your taste buds with something new.  Tune in to hear more about Chef Butler and what you'll indulge in when you visit Topside Tavern!https://topsidetavern.com
IG: @topsidetavernphilly

Next you'll hea...

McKenna's Bar was originally started by the family's patriarch in 1981, a role that daughter Lane McKenna has since taken over after his passing. Lane joined us this week to discuss how she is continuing their family's legacy, continuing to offer a space for neighbors to enjoy their laid-back atmosphere, with easy food options, PBR specials, and a lot of fun. If you're looking for the number one spot to grab a PBR City-Wide special, you needn't look any further than McKenna's Bar; they hold the record for pouring PBR and are gearing up for another celebration! So tune in...

Judy Einhorn expresses that she may not have taken the normal path to joining the ranks of restaurateurs, however with 30 years experience co-owning Seafood Unlimited with her husband David, it's safe to state they're a neighborhood staple. Judy joined our host, discussing Einhorn's history and how she came to know Dave, ultimately winning his heart and eventually becoming the co-owners of the established fish market and casual eatery. Years and a few renovations later, they've turned Seafood Unlimited into an intimate restaurant which offers a menu that new diners and regulars will love!
https://seafoodunlimited.com

...

With years of cooking professionally for high-end and high-volume restaurants, our first guest is no stranger when it comes to creating a dining experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.  Executive Chef Justin Nelson joined our host to discuss his culinary pedigree and how it led him to working inside Live! Casino and Hotel in Philadelphia at The Prime Rib.  Chef Nelson has worked at a number of stay-and-play restaurants and resorts, and with his and The Prime Rib's history, it's not surprising that Philadelphia's newest restaurant, casino, and hotel drew his attention.  The Prime Rib provides the...

A celebrated Chef, celebrity musician-turned-hospitality director, and an award-winning farm joined Food Farms and Chefs Radio Show this week.

Located in the heart of Media, PA, Stephen's on State is the most exquisite steakhouse and bar on State Street. You can visit Stephen's to experience their newly renovated venue, menu, and cocktail offerings inside their open-air setting.  Vince Dimaco, who is the General Manager of Stephen's on State, joined Food Farms and Chefs to detail how you can either enjoy a full dinner service, have a fun night out with light bites and cocktails with friends, and with the holidays fast approaching--host your next celebration inside one of their private dining rooms.  https://stephensonstate.com

A li...

"Chef Keesha's culinary journey began at the Natural Gourmet Institute for Culinary Arts in NYC, where she mastered the art of organic, vegan, and health-supportive diets. With a BS in Information Systems Engineering and an MBA from Simmons College, Chef Keesha brings a unique blend of culinary expertise and business acumen to the Live Loud table. From gracing the NYC fine dining catering scene to dazzling on Epicurious's 50 Person Prep Challenge and making waves on Food Network's Chopped, Chef Keesha is a force to be reckoned with," as described on Live Loud Foods website: https://www.liveloudfoods.com

We first heard from Lisa Schoenbeck, who owns Good Good Chocolates--a artisan chocolatier who our host first met during an event years ago, and has been buying chocolates from ever since. Lisa is passionate about only using the highest quality ingredients to create Good Good Chocolate's Bon Bon and Chocolate Bars, something you can taste in every silky bite. The flavors, artistry, and textures that result from her passion will keep you coming back again...and again. And to make it even easier to visit, she is opening up a new location! So tune in to hear the exciting...

We first heard from Jack Vo who owns the Baltimore, MD location of Bambu. According to their website, "In 2008, four Vietnamese sisters – Anh, Kelly, Jenny & Julie – opened their first Bambū Shoppe in the heart of the Vietnamese community in San Jose, California. Their exceptionally friendly service and large menu of fresh, healthy, and authentic Chè dessert drinks, crisp boba milk teas, signature Vietnamese coffees, real fruit smoothies and exotic juices captured the attention of the entire San Francisco Bay Area. Today, there are 63 Bambū Shoppes located in 24 states, Canada, and the Philippines and 9 Shoppes in development. Today Bambū continues to deliv...

From a food truck, to a new owner, and a sneak peak at a new restaurant--this week's Food Farms And Chefs Radio Show opens the door to hear from the individuals that make dining out an amazing experience!
We first heard from Jaime Juliano, who is the Owner & Pitmaster behind Big Papa Jai’s BBQ. Jaime's business was born from several influences and inspirations: From family members who influenced him, recipes he loved as a child, and finding inspiration while watching a Food Network show with his wife during the pandemic--Jaime found his passion for all things BBQ. So...

You may want to pay attention to what goes into your body, including where the foods and beverages you consume are grown and raised.  This is one of the things that Ecologist Mark J. Easter discussed on the show and in his newly published book, "The Blue Plate: A Food Lover's Guide to Climate Chaos."  The impact that microbes have, whether negative or positive, on Earth's environment can change based on actions we take.  In his book, he combines his years of research and experience in his field and focuses his attention on what fuels Earth's carbon emissions crisis, and...

You'll be delighted to know that the NJ farming community is looking out for your best interest, in particular a group of like-minded individuals who formed the Northeast Organic Farmers Association (NOFA) New Jersey chapter. In doing so, they've created an organization which focuses on providing information, fun activities, and yes--produce, from the local farmers, interest groups, educators, and AGRO enthusiasts alike. We've said it numerous times, and I'll say it again: Without farmers, we wouldn't have clothes, food, or beverages. The same goes for all the small (and large) vendors who create goods and services to make those...

Passion for creating and enjoying the highest quality of chocolates are what drives the owner of Le Rouge Handmade Chocolates and Cakes by Aarti to begin her business.  Aarti Khosla was inspired by memories of her father bringing home chocolates from France.  Years later, Aarti noticed there was a lack of artisanal chocolate shops where she and her family resided. Seeing a need, she began her pursuit of owning a chocolatier business in her hometown of Westport, CT.  Today, her decadent chocolates and custom cakes have won her many accolades from her community and localized media, as well as gainin...

We began the show with a venue that celebrates all things Austrian & German year-round, with surprisingly delicious twists to what you might think you'd find at a German-inspired pub. Entrepreneur Bibi Singh and her Culinary Director, Chef Pablo Torres decided to start an open The Hoboken Biergarten after Singh acquired The Pilsener Haus & Biergarten--a former business which is well known to locals and visitors alike. Armed with ideas on how to update and expand upon the venue and menu, they made sure that Hoboken Biergarten's food offerings are approachable to everyone's dietary needs--something that has already gained their pub-restaurant...

We began with an inside look with Jake Kahan, the Chef and Partner of Sam and Maggie's Dockside Grill, located in Pasadena, MD. Having owned properties under Rockcreek Management Co. at Fairview Marina, it was a life-long dream of Jake's father to own a restaurant.  Although neither Marc nor Jake have attended culinary institute, both father and son dove into owning a family-run restaurant business with a huge success!  Extending the awe-inspiring vibes with views of the marina, each week the team of family members work together, creating a new menu for guests to enjoy.  Sam and Maggie's offers lat...

Frank Sinatra had it right when he sang, "Luck be a lady...tonight," as my first two guests are co-owners of The Lady Fingers Bakery & Bar, located in Bloomfield, NJ.  Owners Lauren Kavourakis and Samara Cinque met while working, and continued working inside restaurants in New York and New Jersey, and at one point came up with a plan to start their own business.  Today, they are serving up a wonderful array of baked goods, meals, coffee, and cocktails that visitors keep coming back for.  And soon, they will be celebrating their one-year anniversary of Lady Fingers on Sept 28th...

I was first joined by Executive Chef Maurizio Peccolo from Ristorante Lucca, located in Bordentown, NJ. Chef Peccolo has traveled the globe, sharing his vast experience in the creative art of authentic Italian cuisine. Having earned global recognition, awards, and author of several recipe books, Chef Peccolo shares his background and passion for the industry he loves. His passion far exceeds the simplicity of an indulgent and delicious meal - as he takes pride in his achievements, Including showing a medal of honor given to him by (fill in the blank), as well as the honor of being a...

Sydney Grims' family has been involved in the hospitality industry for several generations, a family that strongly believes in supporting the organizations and communities surrounding them.  So when the original owner of White Dog Cafe was looking to sell her restaurant, one that Judy Wicks founded through her passion for preservation, the Grims' and their equal passion were the perfect fit.  Years later, Sydney Grims and her father, Marty Grims have continued to grow the White Dog Cafe brand by acquiring, renovating, and offering a delicious variety of experiences through their company FearlessRestaurantsGroup (FRG). Having recently opened White Dog Ca...

The world is a busy place, and we all know a good thing when we taste (and smell) it...and my next guest, Jonathan Pastore and his company Bean2Bean Coffee, is here to help you keep up with life's demanding pace. Jonathan is no stranger to the allure of a rich, dark brew--he started out working in the culinary industry since he was a youth. His passion for the industry grew stronger as he moved onto college, learning the business behind marketing food and beverage companies. Today, his passion for an eye-opening cup-o-joe filtered into providing locals a...

Whatever you're looking for, whether to eat, drink, or wear an item...it boils down to the farmers that grow and tend to the land and animals. More importantly we need farmers like Matthew Braud who co-owns Hollow House Farms in Furlong, PA to help bring the farming community new ways to maintain regenerative and sustainable practices, so that local produce, livestock, and products will be available for generations to come. Matthew joined me to discuss the importance of his farming practices, what he and his wife offer, and a deeper understanding of what sustainable aquaponic farming is.