Food Farms & Chefs Radio Show

Chef Jose Garces' Culinary Journey*Growing up, Chef Garces learned traditional dishes like ceviche, empanadas, and pan de bono from his mother and grandmother, while his father enjoyed grilling steaks. He emphasized the importance of sofrito, a foundational cooking technique using onions, garlic, and peppers, which he still prepares in large batches. Exploring Latin Culinary TraditionsJose and Amaris discussed the importance of sofrito in Latin cooking and its variations across families. Jose shared his journey from French classical training to embracing Latin cuisine, highlighting the foundational role of sofrito and other base ingredients in different culinary traditions. They also talked about Jose's experience with paella, which he has been perfecting for 20 years, emphasizing the complexity and precision required to make a great dish. Amaris praised Jose's interpretation of paella, which she found to be authentic and reminiscent of her experiences in Spain.Brand Expansion PlansJose discussed plans to expand the tapas-based concept Amada to Chicago in the spring and Dallas in the fall. He emphasized the importance of perfecting the paella recipe and mentioned that his team would be filming and annotating the process to ensure consistency. Jose also shared his experience with opening various restaurants, including Village Whiskey, and explained the decision-making process behind each venture.Brand Expansion and Partnership UpdatesJose discussed his brand's expansion to Nashville, planned for late 2026, and highlighted its southern-inspired menu and recent improvements. He mentioned a partnership with SPB Hospitality to enhance the beverage program and emphasized the brand's collaboration with Aramark at the Xfinity Mobile Center. Jose also shared his experience with Cook Unity, a home meal service, where he has been a chef partner since 2021, offering fresh, ready-to-eat meals in six markets. Amaris expressed her positive experience with the service and noted the quality and convenience of the meals.Community Initiatives and Future InvolvementsJose highlighted the importance of supporting restaurant workers through initiatives like English language classes and health screenings, and how his recently renamed foundation, Communidad Garces, reflects his service-oriented mission. Jose also expressed his excitement for the successful future of his newly-opened Japanese restaurant Okatshe, located in Allentown, PA. And he was very enthusiastic while expressing the value of not only supporting local purveyors, but ensuring the healthiest meals by utilizing local, sustainably sourced ingredients.*The following description was aided by an AI summarization, with original material included.

The show began with Harvest Seasonal Grill's General Manager, Paul Foglia. Paul discussed his lengthy history within the culinary industry, transitioning between a variety of roles within it. Then discussions shifted into the fresh approach that Harvest Seasonal Grill takes with their menu. The conversation continued with an interview of Steve Reynolds, President and Co-Owner of Delco Steaks, who shared the history and growth of his cheesesteak business and discussed potential expansion plans. We ended by re-visiting an interview with Matthew Chappina from Perla Oyster Bar, who also spoke about his history in the industry, along with what you can enjoy when visiting the restaurant or hiring them for your next catered event! *Food Farms And Chefs Radio Show, episode 340!

FRANK KABATAS and EAST VILLAGE PIZZA'S SUCCESS JOURNEYFrank Kabatas, the owner of East Village Pizza in New York City, shared his journey from being born in Turkey to becoming a successful pizza maker in the United States. He explained that after moving to the US at age 23 in 1997, he initially worked at East Village Pizza before being fired after six months. He then found a job at Ben's Pizzeria, where he learned valuable pizza-making skills. Frank emphasized his pride in owning East Village Pizza and his determination to succeed.Frank shared his journey in the pizza industry, starting with a local pizzeria where he learned the craft and worked long hours while studying English as a second language and briefly computer science. After the pizzeria was sold, he transitioned to Domino's in Long Island, initially as a driver but soon became a manager due to his pizza-making skills. Despite the differences between the local and chain pizzerias, Frank valued the experience gained at Domino's, particularly in marketing, which he applied in his subsequent role making pizza in Manhattan and the West Village.Frank's Pizza Journey and PassionFrank shared his journey of purchasing East Village Pizza in 2003 with his brother, emphasizing the importance of courage and happiness in achieving life goals. He discussed his passion for making pizza, particularly his signature margarita pizza, and highlighted the significance of using high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and his own secret recipe for the sauce. Frank also mentioned his other popular menu items, such as double-stack pizza and cheese and garlic knots, and expressed his LOVE for a margarita pizza.https://www.eastvillagepizza.netLEAH BEN and OLD CITY DISTRICT'S HOLIDAY EVENTS and ANNOUNCEMENTSLeah, the Director of Marketing for Old City District, joined Amaris to discuss the upcoming holiday season and events in Old City. They talked about the history and current state of Old City, including recent restaurant accolades and new businesses. Leah explained the evolution of the holiday shopping event into a "sip and stroll," combining shopping with dining and entertainment opportunities. They also discussed the importance of walkable cities and the collaboration between shops and restaurants to attract visitors.Leah discussed the upcoming HOLIDAY SHOPPING SIP & STROLL EVENT with open streets in Old City on December 6th from 12-4pm, featuring carolers, a Snow Queen on stilts, and a brass band, while Amaris highlighted the historic aspects like horse tethering bars and the Betsy Ross house chocolate demonstration. The holiday shopping sip and stroll will feature nearly 40 businesses offering promotions, including Cuba Libre's $4 espresso martini and mango cinnamon butter, while the Elfreth’s Alley fundraiser offers decorated home tours and discounts at participating restaurants.https://www.oldcitydistrict.orgRAGINI PARMAR and NATURE'S VINLastly, Amaris spoke with Ragini Parmar, who owns the natural wine bar and marketplace called Nature's VIN in Wayne, Pennsylvania. Ragini shared her background in tech and how she transitioned to opening Nature's VIN, which celebrates women in wine and the broader community. They discussed the differences between natural, organic, and biodynamic wines, as well as the bar's offerings, including tastings, classes, and gift options. Ragini emphasized the bar's focus on sustainability, digital experiences, and supporting women-owned businesses.Ragini also strongly believes in the philosophy of making wine accessible to everyone, for that reason she wanted to make sure to have transparency with the items you will find within her business' marketplace. You can also find more information about the products, the makers, and more by using the tablets provided to you while you shop.https://www.naturesvin.com

Loc Pham, the Philly Cookie Company, and the First-Annual Philly Cookie FestLoc Pham, a Vietnamese immigrant who arrived in America in 1991, shared his journey from initially studying to be an Engineer to learning Food Science, and eventually becoming a Pastry Chef and Founder of the Philly Cookie Company. He described how his career evolved through French bakeries, food processing, and corporate R&D roles before returning to his passion for baking, where he developed a unique shortbread cookie recipe inspired by Scottish shortbreads but with his own twist using molasses and brown sugar. The cookies, which are sold wholesale to over 20 retailers in Philadelphia and across 11 states, are noted for their buttery taste and subtle sweetness.Philly Cookie Festival PlanningThe discussion then switched focus to the upcoming Philly Cookie Festival happening on December 7th at Bok. The indulgently-sweet festival will feature 32 vendors, including 27 cookie vendors and 2 savory vendors, all required to offer a Philadelphia-themed item. The event will include activities such as a cookie decorating contest with Moon Flour Bakery, a cookie eating contest, and a Santa photo booth, with tickets available through Eventbrite and the event's Instagram page.Loc also mentioned there will be a children's activity corner sponsored by the Mendoza group, along with The Juvenile Law Center, another sponsor of the event, will be celebrating its 75th anniversary by hosting a cookie exchange during the festival. PLEASE NOTE: Anyone participating in the event and the cookie exchange who have dietary restrictions and/or allergies need to be cautious; some gluten-free and vegan options available, however there is no guarantee of the ingredients and food-processing procedures are.https://www.phillycookie.comEleni Chrisidis and The Brew Room:Eleni Chrysidis, co-founder of The Brew Room, discussed her and her husband Danny's journey into the food industry. Danny's background began with his family's restaurants, and had always desired to open a unique concept incorporating Greek elements. Years later, he and Eleni found the opportunity to open one in Ardmore, PA called The Brew Room. Eleni, who works in corporate consulting, supported Danny by managing the business setup and operations, highlighting the importance of organization and project management in launching a startup in the food industry. Both Danny and Eleni immigrated here from Greece, and are happy to introduce Ardmore residents to the relaxed, European-style coffee culture. When you visit, feel free to spend time enjoying one of their signature Greek pastries, sandwiches and coffee experiences. https://www.thebrewroompa.comREPLAY Chef Angie Brown and Rex At The Royal:Angie Brown is a well-known chef and restaurateur, gaining accolades and awarded top zagat ratings. In addition to being one of Philadelphia's sought-after chef's, Angie has been seen on television and is a member of the world renowned Philanthropic organization of Les Dames d'Escoffier - Philadelphia Chapter. And more recently she became the Culinary Director and Chef for Rex At The Royal, located in South Philadelphia. Rex at The Royal is known for being, "An innovative and multi-faceted hospitality establishment, creating exceptional experiences through a Food & Beverage program inspired by the culinary traditions of the American South, influenced especially by its coastal regions, and locally flavored by our home—the Royal Theatre on South Street in Philadelphia—expressed in elevated dining services, immersive special events, personalized private dining, and a thoughtfully appointed bottle shop" according to their website at https://www.rexphl.com.

Brandon Parish and The Kibitz Room:Amaris welcomed Brandon Parish, the owner of The Kibitz Room in KOP to the show. Our host and Brandon then discussed how his growing up within the industry influenced his decision to expand on the family's business. Brandon was born into the deli and restaurant business and followed in his father's footsteps. They discussed the menu offerings at The Kibitz Room, including large portion sizes and the availability of breakfast items all day. Brandon's approach to the current menu is to focus on classic dishes while incorporating some creative twists, particularly for Hanukkah. He plans to offer various latke options, including traditional and innovative varieties, and will introduce a loaded latke with pastrami. The Kibitz Rooms can be found online at: https://thekibitzroomkop.com Chef Brad Daniels' Culinary Journey and Gloria Sports & Spirits:Brad Daniels, head chef and co-owner of Gloria Sports & Spirits in Warrington, PA, opened up about his culinary journey before discussing the newest restaurant from he and his partners. Chef Daniels' culinary journey stemmed from family influences, working for and with former restaurateurs, and after attending the CIA in New York. Chef Daniels then discussed his third restaurant venture, Gloria Sports and Spirits. Opened only 7 weeks ago, Gloria Sports & Spirits aims to be a female-friendly sports bar concept under Daniels' partnership with Trifecta Hospitality Co.Brad discussed the transformation of the bar with an emphasis on their scratch-made pizzas. Daniels' and his partners wanted to focus on using simple, yet high-quality ingredients in their menu offerings, along with creating an inviting atmosphere for families. He described the pizza-making process, highlighting the use of a double-stack deck oven and a hybrid Roman-style pizza technique. He also highlighted other menu items including snacks, shareable plates, wings in various flavors, sandwiches, and a unique hot dog. Brad also described their pasta offerings, emphasizing their collaboration with a local producer for their mac and cheese. You can find Gloria Sports & Spirits online at: https://gloriasportsandspirits.comRandy Pulayya and West Indies Peppa Sauce (WIPS):We rounded out the show with Randy Pulayya, co-owner of West Indies Peppa Sauce (also known as WIPS), about their family-owned business that produces two scotch bonnet pepper sauces based on a four-generation-old recipe. Randy explained that the company, based in Florida, was founded 20 months ago and recently participated in their first trade show, where Amaris met Randy and sampled their products. They discussed the differences between the red and yellow sauces, with the red being citrusy and smooth, and the yellow being tangy and bold.Randy shared the story of West Indies Pepper Sauce, a premium Caribbean brand founded in February 2024, inspired by his great-grandmother's recipe. He explained their two products, red and yellow pepper sauces, are versatile for cooking, marinating, and as a condiment, with recent expansion into 31 Florida Sprouts stores. Amaris and Randy further discussed the two sauces' flexibility for use in other recipe ideas, including drizzling some on eggs for breakfast, whipping some into an aioli for spreads, and as a marinade for meals.You can find more information and how to purchase WIPS online at: https://shopwips.com

Juice Basin and Owner Madeline VricellaAmaris welcomed Madeline Vricella, co-owner of Juice Basin, to discuss her background in hospitality and the family's connection to the juice industry. Madeline shared her experience working in hotels and her family's history in citrus, which she felt that owning Juice Basin was meant to be. They discussed the smooth transition when Madeline and her partner took over ownership of the business' original founder, and Madeline expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the previous owner. The conversation also touched on the importance of using organic fruits in their products and the collaborative aspect of preparing juices.Madeline discussed Juice Basin's sourcing challenges, noting that they are the only USDA organic certified juice manufacturer and rely on partners to source organic fruits year-round. She explained that while they try to stay seasonal, they sometimes need to substitute with other juices like greens or beet when certain fruits are unavailable. Madeline further explained that Juice Basin offers 45 different juices and various cleanses, including a popular bridal cleanse and custom options for special dietary needs. She highlighted the benefits of wheatgrass shots, which are known for their energy-boosting and immune-boosting properties, and mentioned that some customers use shots like the Painless Shot (ginger and turmeric) for daily maintenance. Madeline also noted that the business ships products nationwide and is looking to expand its online presence to reach more customers.https://www.juicebasin.com/Chef Jim Hasson with Stargazy, Tanglewood Fire & Smoke, & Passion Projects/other Collaborations:Jim shared his career journey, starting with his childhood where he learned to cook with limited resources and watching PBS cooking shows. After briefly working as a police officer, he transitioned into the culinary industry, working at various restaurants including fast-casual concepts which eventually led to working inside higher-end restaurants. He described how he took jobs focused on learning new skills, eventually becoming a plant manager at a butcher before helping open Royal Boucherie where he worked the raw bar. Always a hard worker, Chef Hasson has worked multiple jobs at once, including his current roles at Stargazy off of East Passyunk Ave, Tanglewood Fire & Smoke in Folsom, PA, and current passion projects under his well-named endeavor, "Jimmy Biscuits" with New Jersey-based businesses.https://www.tanglewoodfireandsmoke.comhttps://www.stargazywastaken.comhttps://www.instagram.com/jimmybiscuits1971/?hl=enhttps://www.haddonculinary.comhttps://cupcakecarnivale.comReplay from Nov 4th 2024: Jezabel's Cafe:Jezabel Careaga's passion, traditions, and love of food is palpable when you hear her story in her own words on this week's Food Farms And Chefs Radio Show.  With origins in the hospitality and business management, Jezabel's hands-on approach guided her to creating a venue that was welcoming to not only visitors of Jezabe's Cafe, but also to the individuals who work in the spaces that she crafted by hand. Ultimately, she shares the comforting meals she grew up with through her menu, store, and bakery.  https://www.jezabelscafe.com

This week's episode began with Min Kong, the Director of Culinary Innovation for Dig Inn. Dig Inn is a healthy, fast-casual eatery concept that is expanding within Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs. We then switched gears and spoke with the Chef and Co-Founder of Get Saucy, a dietary and allergen-friendly sauce company based out of California. Chef Suhan Lee, a Co-Founder of Get Saucy, joined me from his home-base in New York to discuss their lineup of sauces that can be a big hit for all eaters at your table! Lastly, we heard from Lee Leung, who is the Regional General Manager for Fearless Restaurants. Lee joined us to announce the recently-launched breakfast, brunch, and mid-day options at Triple Crown. Fearless Restaurants always offers a dynamic combination of food and vibes, and now Triple Crown can help you power through your next breakfast meeting, family visit, or simply just to enjoy a delightful meal! Related Links:https://www.diginn.comhttps://getsaucy.comhttps://www.triplecrownradnor.com

On this week's episode of Food Farms And Chefs Radio Show we centered our focus on a particular cause, the fast rising foodie event which benefits the Fight On Makenna Foundation. We opened the show with Chef Brian Duffy, who discussed his involvement in the Bite for the Fight Food Festival as the event's headliner celebrity chef. Our host learned that during the event, Chef Duffy performed cooking demonstrations and meet-and-greets for his fans. After sharing his background in the food industry and the significance of how much it meant to be involved with Bite for the Fight, Chef Duffy helped introduce our listeners to the event and Fight On Makenna Foundation's Co-Founder, Rich Massi.The show then focused on Fight on McKenna Foundation's mission and how they offer support for families facing the battle against pediatric cancer. Bite for the Fight Food Festival's proceeds directly impact the various programs and initiatives offered through the Fight On Makenna Foundation, a charitable organization that raises awareness of pediatric cancer and offers support for families that rely on weekly treatments from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's (CHOP) integral cancer treatment services. The conversation concluded with details about the foundation's ongoing initiatives and opportunities for supporters to get involved through donations, social media, and future event participation.For more information on this week's guests, please follow these related links:https://www.fightonmakenna.orghttps://www.bite4thefight.comhttps://chefbrianduffy.com/about-chef-brian-duffy/https://duffifiedexperiencegroup.com

White Dog Cafe - Glen Mills and Executive Chef Michael SelserHost Amaris Pollock spoke with White Dog Cafe's Executive Chef Michael Selser regarding their upcoming wine dinner happening inside the Glen Mills location. The exclusive dinner will pair a signature menu from White Dog Cafe to pair with a variety of Pennswood Wines, an event that will sell out fast and is happening on Wednesday September 24th 2025 at 6pm. Chef Selser explained that attendees will enjoy a 5-course tasting menu paired with 5 local wines from Pennswood, including their new White Dog Red vintage. They plan to educate guests about the pairings and local ingredients while providing a unique dining experience. The dinner, priced at $70 per person, will culminate with a steak dish meant to highlight their new vintage of the White Dog Red blend. https://whitedog.com/glenmills/Wilder - Center City Philadelphia and Executive Pastry Chef Russ JohnsonOur host next chatted with the Executive Pastry Chef for Wilder, located in the heart of Philadelphia's center city. We first learned about Chef Johnson's career path and the creative and technical aspects of pastry making. After learning about Chef Johnson, we turned a page to find out about Wilder's upcoming tasting event coinciding with author Leni Zumas' new book, "Wolf Bells." The tasting event, happening on September 23rd, 2025 at 6:30pm, highlights dishes inspired by excerpts from the book and sales of the event benefit the non-profit organization: Savage Sisters. Additionally, Chef Johnson discussed the fall dessert menu that he is currently developing, incorporating seasonal ingredients like muscadine grapes and granny smith apples. And stay tuned till the end to find out about even more exciting new opportunities happening with Wilder! https://www.wilderphilly.comRiamede Farm - Chester, PA and Owner Ashley AsdalAmaris and Ashley Asdal, who is the owner of Riamede Farm, discussed the history behind Riamede Farm which is located in Chester, NJ. The farm has been producing apples on its orchard for many years, and Ashley shared her unexpected journey from a career in the Navy to becoming the farm's owner. After taking over ownership of Riamede, Ashley has been expanding upon what they have to offer, including summer vegetable picking, spring blossom festivals, and fall activities like pumpkin picking and line dancing. She highlighted the farm's history as the first pick-your-own orchard in 1973 and its community-oriented approach, offering educational classes and events throughout the year. Ashley also mentioned that she has started hosting weddings and other large events in her barn and is excited about her first wedding this fall. Feel free to begin your plans to visit Riamede Farm this Fall, as they'll be open from August 1st to November 5th, 9am to 4:30pm Tuesday through Sunday, with live music and food offerings on weekends. https://www.riamedefarm.com

Fearless Restaurant Group's "Dining Out for the Dogs" Jamie Blackburn, who is the Director of Public Relations for Fearless Restaurants discussed the upcoming 8th annual "Dining Out for the Dogs" event at White Dog Cafe on August 4th. The event benefits Alpha Bravo Canine, a nonprofit organization which provides service dogs to veterans. The event will be held at suburban locations and will feature special menu items, including a popular hot dog flight, puppy kissing booths, and Tito's cocktail offerings. Blackburn emphasized the importance of reservations, especially for the VIP dog-friendly tables, and highlighted the opportunity for community members to volunteer as puppy raisers for the service dog program.Farina Pasta Bar Our host next sat down with husband and wife team Dan and Taylor Lee who own Farina Pasta Bar, located in Philadelphia.  Dan shared his journey in the culinary industry to starting his business, eventually meeting his wife and business partner. The couple now runs both a food truck and a brick-and-mortar restaurant, balancing their busy schedules while inspiring others with their delicious dishes.Dan and Amaris discussed the concept of a pasta restaurant, where customers can build their own pasta dishes by choosing sauces and shapes. Dan explained that they make fresh pasta in-store, offering four main shapes, and plan to expand to include flavored pastas in the future. They discussed the differences between American and Italian dining portions, with Dan noting that their restaurant aims for a casual, lunch-focused concept with reasonable portion sizes. Dan also discussed Farina's customizable menu options for private events, including pasta, sauces, and gelato, as well as their unique pasta salads. He explained that their Rittenhouse location at 132 South 17th Street offers both in-store dining and takeout, and they can be found online at farinaphl.com and on Instagram @farina.phl. Revolution BeesLastly, Steve Occiolini and Walter Talunas discussed their journey into creating Revolution Bees. Steve and Walt are both beekeepers, with Steve starting his process of beekeeping to enhance his garden's productivity, while Walt was drawn to the hobby after reading a blog about beekeeping. They both emphasized the importance of bees in pollinating crops, with Walt noting that honeybees are responsible for 30-60% of all crops. They have been successful beekeepers for over 20 years, with Walt now maintaining over 40 hives.Mead Production and Flavor ExperimentationAmaris and Walt discussed the process of creating mead, a honey-based alcoholic beverage along with a number of other products that their company creates.  After chatting about the process of what the honey goes through for the various products, Steve and Walt shared the history and process on mead-making, ending with where you can purchase their products and find them in person, including farmers markets, Renaissance fairs, and wine festivals. For more information and where to find them, please visit revolutionbees.com. 

Anna Hackman's Journey From Law to BotanicalsWe began this week with Anna Hackman. Anna shared how she transitioned from working as a real estate attorney into the world of horticulture, and through persevering through a few mistakes...how her passion for herbs and living a healthy, natural lifestyle led to owning her business, The Naked Botanical. Anna finds joy through helping people improve their health through her herbal products and the continuous learning process involved in growing and understanding herbs. You can find her teas, salves, hydrosols, and many more products that she lovingly grew, created, and processed for your use on her website at https://thenakedbotanical.com or in person at various farmers markets.Rex at the Royal's Executive Chef, Coco Sanzetenea Coco Sanzetenea joined us on Food Farms And Chefs Radio show, first sharing his culinary journey, starting with his experience at a Princeton eating club where he learned to make beer and dishes from scratch. After moving to Rhode Island and working in multiple kitchen jobs, including a busy Irish pub and a high-end restaurant with a pizza oven, Coco eventually moved to Philadelphia. He began his Philadelphia restaurant career at Rhino Bar, where he worked under a notable mentor before moving on to work inside a former renowned restaurant in Philadelphia. All of which eventually led him to his current role as the Executive Chef at Rex at the Royal. Chef Coco discussed the elevated menu offerings at Rex at the Royal, including their signature fried chicken, and the Catfish & Waffles (a Philadelphia-inspired dish). He highlighted their Bourbon Mussels as a standout dish and mentioned their popular Wednesday burger night featuring a house-made pimento cheese burger. Among all of the delicious foods, Coco also lamented the new Cocktail Program that Rex at the Royal is launching with their new Beverage Director at the helm. And with so much to look forward to, as Rex at the Royal is also a cafe and bottle shop, as well as a venue space to host private events. For more information about Chef Coco and Rex at the Royal...stay tuned till the end and visit https://www.rexphl.com.Specialty Food Association & The Summer Fancy Food Show ExperienceAmaris shared her experience at the Specialty Food Association's Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City, where she was introduced to Savory PR's Jennifer Lea Cohan by Chef Clara Park. She described the event as a comprehensive showcase of food brands, including startups and established vendors, across multiple floors featuring international foods, plant-based products, and cultural offerings. Amaris highlighted the opportunity for networking and brand exposure, mentioning specific products like a tomato-free barbecue sauce and cultural seasonings, and expressed her gratitude for attending, encouraging others in the industry to consider participating in future shows.

Elijah Milligan's New Restaurant VentureElijah Milligan, who is the Chef and Owner of Love Child in Philadelphia, began this week's show, discussing his brand-new restaurant. Set to launch in the Fall, Love Child has been a labor of love and perseverance; Elijah has been working towards this new venture for five years. After explaining the name's significance, Elijah discussed that his restaurant will offer wood-fire contemporary American cuisine with global influences. He plans to serve small plates, a raw bar, and grilled meats, with a focus on technique-driven dishes incorporating flavors from various cultures. He wants to ensure the best experience for visitors, including sourcing ingredients from 20 different suppliers from local and international vendors for the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. Leading up to the Love Child's launch, Elijah is planning pop-up events in Philadelphia, New York, and DC to tease the opening. You can follow Elijah's journey and updates through Love Childs' social media channels or by visiting their website, https://lovechildphilly.com.Riamede FarmAmaris and Ashley Asdal, who is the owner of Riamede Farm, discussed the history behind Riamede Farm which is located in Chester, NJ. The farm has been producing apples on its orchard for many years, and Ashley shared her unexpected journey from a career in the Navy to becoming the farm's owner. After taking over ownership of Riamede, Ashley has been expanding upon what they have to offer, including summer vegetable picking, spring blossom festivals, and fall activities like pumpkin picking and line dancing. She highlighted the farm's history as the first pick-your-own orchard in 1973 and its community-oriented approach, offering educational classes and events throughout the year. Ashley also mentioned that she has started hosting weddings and other large events in her barn and is excited about her first wedding this fall. Feel free to begin your plans to visit Riamede Farm this Fall, as they'll be open from August 1st to November 5th, 9am to 4:30pm Tuesday through Sunday, with live music and food offerings on weekends. https://www.riamedefarm.comGardens of SolBrittney Portes joined us on Food Farms And Chefs to discuss Gardens of Sol, which focuses on urban agriculture and food equity. She shared her journey to become a farmer and educator, emphasizing the importance of connecting people with food and nature. Brittney explained her approach to teaching gardening, including workshops on container gardening, seed saving, and cooking, as well as virtual classes for those unable to attend in-person sessions. She also highlighted her efforts to address food insecurity by partnering with local organizations and encouraging the sharing of surplus produce through established relationships with food pantries. Gardens of Sol will help to educate and enrich your lives, and your community through its initiatives and if you would like to find out more about Brittney and her programs, please visit https://www.gardensofsol.com for more information.

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 the upcoming 4th of July event in Philadelphia, highlighting a shift towards healthier menu options for crew catering. Mentioning how he coordinates 25 food trucks offering diverse cuisines, as well as his own trucks serving popular festival foods. Rocco also noted the trend towards healthier eating but observes that at street fairs, people often indulge in traditional favorites. He also touches on catering for celebrities and his upcoming projects, including events in Tennessee and Williamsport.An Upcoming Mobile Cocktail Bar by Mark GrabowskiCurrently you can find our next guest while he works for Mid Atlantic Bartenders, a company that handles staffing for events along the east coast. However, Mark Grabowski joined the show to discuss his plans for starting a mobile cocktail bar business. After discussing his experience in the bartending industry, he is now branching out on his own. He aims to provide customizable bar services for events using a trailer, offering a more stylish and flexible alternative to traditional portable bars. His passion for creating a memorable experience was evident as he explained the importance of meeting the needs of his clients. Including his approach to what's trending in the industry, noting the growing trend of mocktails and his expertise in creating appealing alternatives for non-drinkers. You can find Mark on "X" at @MarkTBartender and email address marktbartender@gmail.com. Byzantine Empire Catering and Drunken Hen Eatery and WineryAmarildo "Mo" Boyco and his wife, who have backgrounds in the culinary industry, started the Byzantine Empire Catering Food Truck about seven years ago. The business combines Mediterranean and Latin cuisines, reflecting Amarildo's Albanian heritage and his wife's Colombian background. Recently, they expanded their operations by opening a brick-and-mortar establishment called Drunken Hen Eatery and Winery in Mayfair. Although guests can visit Drunken Hen during regular operating hours, your next event can be catered via Byz Empire Catering as well as the Drunken Hen, with a wide variety of foods to choose from. He explains that the Drunken Hen focuses on comfort food with a fine dining twist, and can offer that same level of service through Byz Empire Catering's food truck. Looking forward, Mo will be vending at this year's Summer Ale Festival at the Philadelphia Zoo on July 19th, and Northern Liberty's night market on July 23rd! Related Links:https://www.icccatering.com/abouthttps://july4thphilly.comhttps://midatlanticbartenders.comhttps://www.instagram.com/byz.empire/?hl=enhttps://drunkenhen.com

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 capacity of what Triple Crown (their newest restaurant and event space) can offer!Related Links:https://kelseytimmerman.comhttps://www.patagonia.com/home/https://fluffyfarms.grazecart.comhttps://www.triplecrownradnor.comhttps://www.autographbrasserie.com

Chef Clara Park: Eat Cetera & The Cinema Chefs PodcastClara 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 empower people and change their lives, noting that many lack foundational culinary knowledge.Ayesha Dolasa & Noble MushroomsAmaris welcomed Ayesha Dolasa who owns Noble Mushrooms along with her husband, Jacob. With a background in Environmental Engineering and her husband's entrepreneurial spirit, Ayesha explained the science behind mushroom cultivation, emphasizing the importance of sterile conditions for growing safe and healthy mushrooms. Ayesha also shared information about different types of mushrooms, including the cultivation, health benefits, and culinary uses behind some of their products, like Lion's Mane and Cordyceps mushrooms. She mentioned Noble Mushrooms' grow kits and classes, as well as their online presence and market locations.Chef David Feola: Culinary Journey & Corio Amaris interviewed David Feola, whose culinary career began in New York City after initially pursuing film school. David shared his journey from working in prestigious kitchens like Veritas, Gramercy Tavern, and Jean-Georges to helping to open Vernick and working in Ember & Ash in Philly. He highlighted the challenges of breaking into the competitive New York City restaurant scene and the pivotal role of personal connections in his career advancement.Chef David explained the concept and atmosphere of his new restaurant, Corio.  He emphasized that he and his partners wanted Corio to be an approachable, casual dining experience while maintaining high culinary standards. He described the menu as innovative, featuring their innovative takes on dishes; like creating clams in white wine sauce as a pizza and a mushroom-based chopped cheese sandwich called Mushroom Duxelle. Corio is currently serving lunch and dinner, and currently offers cocktails through neighboring business Two Locals Brewing; full catering services and their wine and cocktails program are still in development. Related Links:https://claraparkcooks.comhttps://www.eatceteraphilly.comhttps://www.instagram.com/thecinemachefs/https://www.noblemushrooms.comhttps://www.njmyco.orghttps://nofanj.orghttps://www.coriophilly.comhttps://www.cooknsolo.comhttps://www.hearthsidebyob.comhttps://www.bondfiremediaco.comhttps://www.twolocalsbrewing.com

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 year's winners.  Along with all the dining and dancing, there will be a silent auction held, which benefits Baker Industries. For more information and to purchase tickets for the event please visit Main Line Today online.Our next guest's path is paving the way towards a healthier coastline.  Principal Founder, John Zander, spends painstaking hours growing and collecting salt hay on Cohansey Meadows Farms. Salt hay is integral in the health of the coastline, as well as offering many other beneficial uses for agriculture, meat farms, private use, and more.  With a degree in Mechanical Engineering, John's laser-focus on problem solving comes in handy; farming salt hay along with other indigenous plants is a tasking project.  During the interview, we learned how he grows and harvests the salt hay, the importance of it, along with his other endeavors on the farm. For more information, tours, and what he offers please visit Cohansey Meadows Farms online and in-person in Fairton, NJ.From Australia to New Zealand to America, our final guest is helping you handle your hunger.  Founder, Owner, and Chef Michael Peacock joined our host to chat about G'Day Gourmet.  His hand-held Aussie meat pies are not only delicious--they've gone viral!  After moving to the USA and starting a business with his cousin, "Big Mike" offering something that America did not have: His beloved Aussie meat-pies.There are always fan favorites--including his collaborations which led to the Butter Chicken Meat Pie (Jordan Mailata), and the Hawaiian BBQ meat pie (Poi Dog's Chef Kiki Aranita)--which a portion of each pie sold goes to Chef Hui's Maui Relief Fund.  What's even better?  You can have his meat pies shipped directly to your door, arrange for Chef Mike to cater your next event, or meet him in-person inside the Link!  For more information on Mike and where you can purchase his meat pies, please visit G'Day Gourmet online, and follow him on his socials to see where his food truck is vending!Related Links:https://mainlinetoday.com/events/best/https://www.bakerindustries.orghttps://www.cohanseymeadows.comhttps://gdaygourmet.comhttps://www.poidogphilly.comhttps://www.chefhui.com/maui-relief

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 protein products along with the environmental impact of meat eating versus consuming plant-based foods. *Food Farms And Chefs Radio Show, Episode 325

Northeast Farmers Market SeasonHost 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 organics, land stewardship, and local food. The New Jersey chapter, which is 40 years old, focuses on supporting community and economic vehicles that make local food work. Devin discusses the challenges and opportunities in the current economic environment, emphasizing the need for collaboration and investment in local economies to build resilient, self-reliant food systems. He also highlights the importance of organic farming for health and the environment, and shares two exciting projects: a commercial kitchen to support value-added product creation for farmers, and a grains project involving a documentary and grain processing equipment installation to strengthen the local grain economy.NOFA-NJ Updates and Initiatives:Devin also discussed NOFA-NJ's upcoming events and website, encouraging people to check for future activities starting in July. Amaris and Devin also talked about NOFA-NJ's outdoor project which is nearly complete and can accommodate around 50 people. That space will open the doors to future opportunities for dining events, discussions, and more--which both farmers and the surrounding communities can benefit from. ------------------------------------------- Next Segment------------------------------------------Annette Anthony's Book Tour Event at Free Library:Annette Anthony, author of "Always Enough: A Global Memoir," discusses her upcoming event at the Free Library of Philadelphia as part of World Heritage Week. The sold-out event, scheduled for Tuesday evening, will include a talk, book signing, and food tasting featuring two seasonal salad recipes from her book. Annette shares her background as a native Philadelphian and how her experiences in West Philadelphia and as part of a military family shaped her global perspective. She expresses excitement about Philadelphia being honored as a global city and its renowned culinary scene, including the recent attention from Michelin.Cookbook and Cultural Flavors:Annette discusses her cookbook and her love for Ethiopian food. She shares a humorous story about taking her father to an Ethiopian restaurant for the first time, where he mistook the injera bread for a napkin. Annette explains that her cookbook includes recipes from various cultures and that she enjoys seeing readers make the recipes their own. She highlights the Casablanca Couscous recipe as a versatile dish that can accommodate different dietary preferences. Annette also mentions that she is working on another cookbook and emphasizes the importance of being mindful about food choices. ------------------------------------------- Next Segment------------------------------------------Chef DiMeo's Culinary Empire Expansion:Chef Antimo DiMeo discusses his culinary journey and how his passion led him to form the Bardea Restaurant Group with numerous concepts, all located in Wilmington, Delaware. He shared what inspired him while growing up; with his origins founded in his grandmother's kitchen. After a brief period studying finance at Drexel University, he found himself focusing on the fermentation of dough and decided to pursue his passion. This decision resulted with DiMeo learning his craft under a Michelin-starred restaurant in Naples, Italy.  DiMeo then returned to the US, and after working in a notable restaurant in PA, he began his journey as a Chef-Owner and opened his first restaurant, Bardea Food & Drink. Since then, he has expanded and now offers multiple concepts like Bardea Steak, Casa Nonna, and the upcoming Roost. DiMeo focuses on Italian-inspired cuisine with global influences, emphasizing quality ingredients and innovative techniques. He takes pride in elevating Wilmington's food scene, maintaining consistency across locations through a central commissary kitchen, and expresses excitement about continuing to grow and improve the local culinary landscape. ------------------------------------------- End of Episode------------------------------------------Related Links:https://nofanj.orghttps://annetteanthony.comhttps://www.bardeafoodanddrink.com

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 cuisines together offering a delicious array of menu items to ignite your appetite...all while helping the communities they serve. *Food Farms And Chefs Radio Show, Episode 323

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 beautiful architecture, rustic design, and romantic ambiance, making it a popular choice for baby showers, bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners. She also mentioned the hotel's lobby, which serves as a contemporary space for cocktail parties and other events. She emphasized the restaurant's ability to cater to various needs and preferences, from casual dining to more formal events.Rosalie's Spring Menu and Happy Hour:Tracy discussed the new spring menu at Rosalie, emphasizing the farm-to-table concept and the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. She highlighted the consistency of certain dishes, such as gnocchi and Castanelli, and the changing setup of the menu to keep it exciting. Tracy also mentioned the homemade pasta and the personal pizzas, which are popular among guests. She expressed her preference for the Bronzino dish and praised the burrata cheese. The conversation also touched on the happy hour specials, including discounted menu items and drinks.Rosalie Brunch Menu and Reservations:Amaris and Tracy discussed the brunch menu at Rosalie, a restaurant in the Wayne Hotel. Tracy highlighted popular dishes such as the egg in the hole, Shakshuka, and mushroom toast. They also mentioned the crispy potatoes as a side dish. For those interested in visiting or booking private events, Tracy provided the website fearlessrestaurants.com and the Wayne Hotel as contact points.Roosters Coffee House:Family-Owned BusinessClaudia Molina, who is the owner of Roosters Coffee House, discussed the family-owned business and its unique features. Claudia explained how the business came about, emphasizing their goal of creating a welcoming community space. They also highlighted their commitment to sustainability, including a refillable store offering grains and other items, and the use of repurposed materials in the coffee house's design.Community Art and Support Initiatives:Claudia discussed her passion for art and community, highlighting her shop's mural and local artist collaborations. She shared her gratitude board and pay-it-forward initiative, which aim to foster community support. Claudia also mentioned hosting events like pet adoption and small business markets, and her shop's in-house coffee roasting and brewing process. She expressed her desire to create unique and fun experiences for customers, especially children.Roosters Coffee House Menu Options:Amaris and Claudia discussed the various coffee and food options available at Roosters Coffee House. Claudia highlighted the popularity of the caramel haystack and pistachio drinks, as well as the Taylor ham and cheese croissant. They also discussed the testing process for new menu items, which involves customer feedback. Amaris expressed interest in trying the oat milk flat white with a Taylor ham and cheese croissant. Claudia provided information on how to find Roosters Coffee House online and in person.  https://www.roosterscoffeehouse.comBirchrun Hills Farm:From a previously recorded segment on Feb 27th, 2024:Our final guest literally offers the cream of her crop to all of us; Sue Miller co-owns and operates Birchrun Hills Farm located in Chester Springs, PA.  The first-generation and family-owned and operated farm offers cheeses produced from the milk of the 80+ holstein cows they raise.  Their award-winning cheeses can be found inside the kitchens of local restaurants, at farmers markets, and on-site at Birchrun Hills Farm. And for anyone curious about their cheeses, tune in till the end of our show to find out how you can sample some for yourself!  For more information about the Miller's, Birchrun Hills Farms, and locations their products are sold, please visit https://birchrunhillsfarm.com.