Talk and Chew

In this episode of Talk & Chew, we sit down with Ellie Parker, winner of Hell’s Kitchen Season 24, to break down her journey from a passionate young cook to culinary champion. Chef Ellie shares what it really takes to get cast on Hell’s Kitchen, the mental toughness required to compete at that level, and the lessons she learned under pressure. She also talks about mentorship, perseverance, and staying authentic in an industry that constantly challenges you.From navigating the Las Vegas culinary scene to her future plans and aspirations, this is a conversation about resilience, growth, and building a lasting career in the food industry.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

Today we dig into the story behind China Mama, one of Las Vegas’ most beloved Chinese restaurants. From classic soup dumplings and crispy beef to the importance of community support and maintaining quality while scaling, this episode goes beyond the plate.We talk about how the restaurant bounced back after a devastating fire, expanded into multiple concepts and locations across the valley — including its first casino spot — and why locals keep coming back for the food, atmosphere, and flavors that stand out in Vegas’ crowded food scene.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

Bake the Cookie Shop stopped by the Talk and Chew podcast to talk about building a cookie brand in Las Vegas during one of the toughest times to start a business. From launching in the middle of COVID to finding support from the local community, they break down how trust, consistency, and creative flavors helped them grow. We get into what makes their cookies stand out, the role packaging and presentation play in the experience, and why Valentine’s Day is such a big moment for their brand. They also share what’s next, including expansion plans outside of Vegas and the importance of building the right team as you grow.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

We sit down with Swetta, content creator and brand ambassador for Real Vegas Magazine, alongside Candice Wiener, owner of RVM, to talk about what Las Vegas really feels like right now. From food and beverage culture to influencers, downtown energy, and how local businesses actually get supported, this episode is all about the people shaping the city from the inside. We get into how Vegas has evolved, why community matters more than ever, and how platforms like Real Vegas Magazine connect restaurants, creators, and brands in a way that actually moves the needle. Real conversations about dining, entertainment, and where the city is headed next.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

We pulled up to the grand opening of Forke Restaurant to celebrate Las Vegas food, community, and a big milestone for Chef Miguel Martinez. From working for others to opening his own doors, Chef Miguel shares what it really takes to build something of your own, why community support matters, and how Forke came together as a space that feels welcoming, intentional, and rooted in collaboration.Vic and Donnie talk with local chefs, creatives, and influencers about networking, supporting small businesses the right way, and how food brings people together in this city. From the French-American menu to the energy in the room, this episode is all about showing love to the local scene and spotlighting the people pushing it forward.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

In this episode of Talk and Chew, Vic and Donnie sit down with Sunny, aka Always Sunny in Vegas, to talk about food, community, and what it really takes to support local in a city like Las Vegas. From food trucks to restaurants, Sunny shares how highlighting small businesses became his mission and how consistency and genuine love for the scene helped him build a trusted voice in the city.The conversation touches on content creation, building relationships, and why showing up for local spots matters more than ever. It’s an honest look at the grind behind the posts, the responsibility that comes with influence, and the passion that keeps Vegas food culture moving forward.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

In this episode of the Talk and Chew podcast, Chef Vic Vegas and Donnie Fobbs sit down with the team from SMKD BBQ to talk real barbecue, real work, and what it takes to build something meaningful from the ground up. From stepping away from corporate careers to committing fully to the pit, they break down the mindset, discipline, and intention behind their food — from smoked meats to the creative dessert ideas coming out of their kitchen.The conversation goes beyond barbecue, touching on entrepreneurship, community impact, and why supporting local restaurants actually matters. The SMKD BBQ crew shares the challenges of growth, the importance of doing things with purpose, and how passion projects turn into full-time realities. It’s an honest look at food, business, and the people behind the pit.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

Kicking off 2026 with a real conversation about food, work, and growth in Las Vegas. Vic and Donnie sit down with Richie Z to talk about his path from emergency services into the food world and how that experience shaped the way he approaches health, business, and influence today.They get into what healthy eating actually looks like when food is your job, how influencers can support restaurants the right way, and why relationships matter more than numbers. Richie shares his thoughts on mentorship, teamwork, learning through failure, and building something sustainable while still enjoying the process. Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

This episode of Talk and Chew is a little different — and a lot more personal. For the Christmas special, Vic’s dad and Donnie’s mom join the table while Vic cooks a nostalgic Italian holiday meal during the conversation. Growing up in New York and now living in Las Vegas, they share stories from back then, family traditions, and what life was really like before everything changed.Between the food, the memories, and the laughs, the conversation touches on how we all got here, what we carried with us, and why food has always been at the center of family, especially during the holidays.A true Christmas episode — built around family, tradition, and an Italian meal made the way it’s always been done.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

Chef Vic Vegas and Donnie Fobbs sit down with Chef Dan and Brandy D’Agostino to dive into the story behind D’Agostino’s Trattoria — a family-driven restaurant built on tradition, heart, and the kind of dishes that carry real meaning. They get into Chef Dan’s culinary journey, the lessons and mentors that shaped him, and the new happy hour menu that’s making waves. Brandy shares her perspective on supporting the vision, keeping the culture strong, and building something that feels like home to their guests. A conversation about food, family, and community — all rooted in authenticity.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

This week we sit down with Steven Stott—also known as Old Man Liver—to talk about the history, grit, and wild creativity behind the Pioneer Saloon. From whiskey and live music to signature dishes and new food concepts, Steven shares how community has shaped everything he does.They dive into the culinary gauntlet inspired by Fallout, how the event drew a massive turnout despite the weather, and why the Fallout community is one of the most supportive groups out there. Steven also opens up about his journey through music and food, the evolution of the Old Man Liver brand, and the perseverance it takes to grow something real in Las Vegas.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

Exploring the culinary journey of Cheese Time, we sit down with Charlie Lee and Chef Magali Jimenez to talk roots, fusion, and the heart behind their restaurant. They break down how Italian and Asian flavors came together, the pricing strategies that keep their food accessible, and why community engagement is at the center of everything they do.From live entertainment and social media presence to quality ingredients and family heritage, this episode dives into the craft and commitment behind building a unique dining experience in Las Vegas. Chef Big and Donnie also reflect on the importance of gratitude, authenticity, and the people who help elevate local restaurants—from influencers to suppliers to the loyal customers who keep the city’s food scene thriving.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

In this episode of the Talk and Chew Podcast, Brian Spoor and Antonio Morales sit down with the crew to talk food, community, and the journey that brought them into the heart of the Las Vegas culinary scene. From personal health transformations to becoming trusted voices in the food space, they share how their love for discovering great spots turned into something much bigger.The conversation dives into the impact foodies have on local restaurants, the responsibility that comes with honest reviews, and how the evolution of food content continues to change the way we eat, explore, and support our city. Brian and Antonio open up about the moments that shaped them, the dishes they can’t forget, and the drive behind wanting to uplift small businesses and fellow creators.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

In this episode of Talk and Chew, Chef Vic Vegas and Donnie Fobbs sit down with Zach Tolen, hibachi chef from Vanilla Rice, to talk about his culinary journey from small kitchens to serving up fire-grilled favorites for celebrities like IShowSpeed.Zach shares how he built his career through consistency, social media creativity, and a deep love for connecting with people through food. From perfecting his signature sauces to running hibachi setups across Vegas, this episode is all about passion, hustle, and flavor.

In this episode of the Talk and Chew Podcast, hosts Chef Vic Vegas and Donnie Fobbs welcome Rick DiPippo from Twisted Pizza in Las Vegas. They dive into the passion behind perfecting pizza, the creative drive that keeps chefs pushing boundaries, and how the love for the craft connects back to Rick’s East Coast roots. The conversation also explores how innovation in the kitchen and smart use of social media have become key ingredients in growing a successful modern restaurant.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

In this episode of the Talk and Chew Podcast, Chef Vic Vegas and Donnie Fobbs sit down with Chef Michael Vitangeli (Middle Child, Herbs & Rye, Cleaver), Candice Wiener (Real Vegas Magazine), and Kimberly Yee (Abe Pagoda) for a lively conversation about connection, friendship, and the moments that bring people together in Las Vegas.They share stories about high school days, the power of reconnection, and how unexpected friendships can turn into lifelong bonds. From nostalgia to new beginnings, this episode celebrates the people and places that make Vegas feel like home.#TalkAndChew #VegasEats #RealVegasMagazine #HerbsAndRye #CleaverLV #VegasCommunity

We sit down with Chef Joe Valdez and managing partner Rudy Aguas from Basilico, one of Las Vegas’ premier Italian restaurants. From signature dishes to the vision behind the restaurant, we dive into what makes Basilico special — including the chemistry that goes into creating unforgettable dining experiences.Along the way, we discuss community engagement, accommodating dietary restrictions, the role of social media, and the balance between personal health and running a successful restaurant. Chef Joe and Rudy also share their future plans, career milestones, and what it takes to keep growing in the competitive Vegas food scene.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

In this episode of the Talk and Chew podcast, Chef Vic Vegas and Donnie Fobbs sit down with Tony Lee, the owner of Smash and Slice — a one-of-a-kind spot blending the best of burgers and pizza. Tony opens up about his journey in the food industry, the inspiration behind his menu, and how he built a restaurant centered around community and great experiences. They discuss the ups and downs of running a business, the importance of adapting to dietary needs, and Tony’s plans to expand with a new breakfast concept. As they sample some of Smash and Slice’s standout dishes, the crew dives into the creativity, passion, and flavor that make this Vegas gem a must-try.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

In this episode of Talk and Chew, we sit down with Jason and Aza from Sago’s Bar, a true Vegas favorite keeping the local spirit alive. We dive into the story behind their bar, how they navigated the challenges of the pandemic, and the creative food and community initiatives that set them apart.The conversation also explores the connection between sports culture and local business, their mission to bring back the vibe of old-school Vegas, and what’s next for Sago’s — including exciting plans to open their own brewery.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network

This week we’re joined by Maria from Stephano's and Coach Rose Peterson. From family recipes to fitness coaching, this episode dives into how food, health, and community come together. Maria shares her family’s passion for fresh, seed oil–free cooking, while Coach Rose opens up about her journey from non-fit to fitness coach, showing just how powerful nutrition and accountability can be.Along the way, we talk about the importance of quality ingredients, the joy of cooking together as a family, and the impact that healthy choices can make in everyday life. It’s real stories, good food, and a whole lot of inspiration.Please support us by checking out all of our social media:Talk and ChewInstagram: / talkandchewpodcast TikTok: / talkandchewpodcast Sunrise Media NetworkInstagram: / sunrisemedianetwork LinkedIn: / sunrise-media-network