Chef Mike Minor is probably already familiar to listeners of the show because he’s been a regular guest over the years in his previous position as the long-time Executive Chef of Mary Sue Milliken’s and Susan Feniger’s Border Grill Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay Resort. Last year Chef Mike relocated to San Diego and now is at the culinary helm of the landmark La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club overseeing The Marine Room, The Shores Restaurant (at the adjacent La Jolla Shores Hotel) and all banquets at both properties. He succeeds the now retired (and revered) Chef Bernard Guillas, who was the well-traveled and the very prominent Executive Chef (graciously representing the San Diego culinary community globally) there for an incredible 27 years! We’ve hooked Chef Mike for a return visit.

“Caprio Cellars is a small producer of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc located in the heart of Walla Walla Valley, WA., one of the premier wine-growing regions in the world.

Winemaker/Owner Dennis Murphy purchased the land where Caprio Cellars stands in 2003. Previously wheat fields, Dennis set out to make it the site of his first vineyard. This dream came to fruition in 2005 when the first plantings went in. Dennis named this vineyard “Eleanor” in homage to his late grandmother Eleanor Caprio. The first harvest took place in 2008, and once the first wines were bottled, the operation was given the name Caprio Cellars.

Inspired by Dennis’ Italian ancestors’ connection to wine as an essential part of daily life, Caprio Cellars aims to carry on the tradition of establishing a culture of wine like that of Dennis’ Italian heritage while also contributing to the emerging tradition of Walla Walla winemaking.” Dennis Murphy joins us to uncork all that is Caprio Cellars.

“Now a popular chef, tv host, and storyteller, Jonathan Bardzik left a comfortable corporate position a decade ago to embark upon his culinary calling – to share food, stories, and joy with audiences everywhere. In July, Jonathan celebrated his career on the tenth anniversary of his first live cooking demonstration at Washington, DC’s historic Eastern Market with the release of his new book, Simple Summer: a recipe for joy and connection (Second Edition.) This new cookbook is an expanded and improved second edition of the wildly popular Simple Summer: a recipe for cooking and entertaining with ease. Each chapter highlights how to pair gorgeous food, delicious drinks, and the right music to make the most of summer.”

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Last week Chef Andrew started explaining his perspective on the ongoing labor shortage in the restaurant business. It’s not unique to the restaurant business. He’ll pick up the conversation.

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

The post Show 448, October 23, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.