Dining On A Dime

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 your next adventure!"https://www.unrulynature.comNext, Amaris sat down with the General Manager of Testa Rossa in Glen Mills, Luke Tamney. One of Fearless Restaurants groups latest concepts, Testa Rossa (which means Redhead in Italian) includes an array of Italian-based dishes offering lunch, dinner, and brunch (weekends only). Testa Rossa offers a scratch-made menu, working with locally-sourced ingredients. And you'll hear fro

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 show, he wants you to use them daily to create delish meals at home, and to forget that you're using an exemplary tool--enjoy the ease that the sharp edges and careful craftsmanship garners for every slice, dice, and chop that you make.https://federknives.comNext, we spoke with Owners Chris & Jen Harvey of Pond Pit BBQ, located in Sandy Creek, NY. Chris and Jen offer a variety of smoked meats along with a plet

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 look forward to!  Tune in to find out how you can score tickets to one of their events, when they will happen, and even more locations in store for 2025!https://www.fearlessrestaurants.comIG/FB/TikTok/LI/YT: @fearlessrestaurantsWe almost had a round table discussion with our next guests, as one of our long-time friends of the show joined us with her new clients from Jalsa Indian Kitchen on the show.

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.comIG: @topsidetavernphillyNext you'll hear from Nikki Graziano, owner of the recently-opened Bar Palmina in Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood.  Nikki's backstory is quite the comeback story; one that took a lot of perseverance and inner-strength along with finding her own way to have a good time.  So, after a few unforseen life events, Nikki has opened a non-alcoholic bar for all to enjoy!  There's been an on-going trend in the world of mocktails, n/a beers, wines, and

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 to find out how you can score some free swag, take the stage during their last EMO Karaoke competition and possibly win a cash prize--I don't know about you, but I think that sounds like a great way to spread some holiday cheer!IG: @McKennasbarphillyFizzy Mama is a modern twist on an old-fashioned soda fountain, and Mama Hawks Kitchen & Coffee is a spot to indulge in all things sweet and savory. So feel free to grab a seat at either of Ow

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.comOur host might not have correctly guessed how Dale Thomas Vaughn and Elizabeth Menzel met, however the pair's unique take on cocktails is sure to make them rising stars in the industry. With their eyes on the future, Vaughn and Menzel conceptualized Space Bar to focus on molecular mixology while you feel like you're in orbit inside their spaceship-based venue. Vaughn and Menzel wanted to create

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 sophistication of an upscale steakhouse without the fuss of being exclusive.  Tune in to learn about Chef Nelson and what you can look forward to when visiting The Prime Rib inside Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia!https://philadelphia.livecasinohotel.com/dine-and-drink/the-prime-ribSharing what you're thankful for is a tradition for most families during the holidays, especially on Thanksgiving Day.

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.comA little kindness goes a long way, something that Karen Moffitt has believed for her entire life.  What began as reminder gifts to her children unintentionally became the building blocks to Little Miss Moffitt, an e-commerce wholesale and gifting business for cookies and dessert bars.  Since its inception, Little Miss Moffitt has expanded and can be shipped nation-wide! So, if you want to send a gift from her standard menu of c

"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.comCheryl Gilmore joined Food Farms And Chefs Radio Show, first discussing how her career blossomed from one opportunity to the next, and ultimately rooting her path as the Wrightstown Market Manager.  Per Wrightstown Farmers Market's website, "On September 29, 2006 the newly founded Bucks County Foodshed Alliance held a Harvest Festival at the Middletown Grange Fairgrounds in Wrightstown to kick off the Wrightsto

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 news and find out where and when you can experience her chocolates for yourself!https://www.goodgoodchocolates.comWe next heard from Jaclyn Ferry who is the owner and self-taught baker behind Ferry Good Treats. Jaclyn began her baked goods journey after making a Marshmallow Whipped Cheesecake for a friend. After tasting it, that same friend encouraged Jaclyn to start selling her cheesecake online--86 orders later, Ferry Good Treats was born.

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 deliver a great customer experience and serve their one of a kind unique and 100% vegetarian drinks “Just the way you love it.”https://www.drinkbambu.com/John Cohl, who is an OG of the food culture, former host of Dining On A Dime, and currently a Moderator of South Jersey Food Scene joined the show with an update on what's been happening with him since ret

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. Soon after, Jaime was using his skills as a mechanic to weld together a custom smoker so he could have a traveling barbecuer. Today, Jaime has since updated his BBQ equipment as well as offering creative takes and tried-and-true staples for Big Papa Jai's BBQ.Speaking of staples, the owner behind one of Philadelphia's favorite ice cream shops joined us on the show. Cristina Torres, who acquired Weckerly's Ice Cream about a year ago, gave us the s

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 how we can help reverse the cycle through our consumption of food.  He breaks down each chapter like a plate of food while attending a dinner party, combining his scientific knowledge with personal history and stories.  If nothing else, it may change your mind and view on where you buy, eat, and discard your meals and perhaps inspire you after reading Mark's book, "The Blue Plate."(https://www.patagonia.com/product/the-blue-plate-a-food-lovers

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 provisions available to all of us, and NOFA is aiming to bring all of them together so everyone can benefit from fresh organic goods, shelf-stable organic products, and so much more! You'll have a blast learning about NOFA , and stay tuned to find out some of the exciting events that NOFA is offering this Fall and Winter!(https://nofanj.org)Next, you'll hear from Casey Carroll who

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 gaining the attention of our own host Amaris Pollock.  Aarti, who's passion for chocolate-making stems from worldly influences, combines unique flavors to tempt everyone's palates and creates each one by hand. So if you're craving richly decadent chocolates, make sure to stay tuned for the full hour of Food, Farms, & Chefs! (https://lerougebyaarti.com)"Big Mike" Peacock began his Australian meat pie business in the ear

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 some notable attention. Currently, both Chef Torres and Singh are preparing for this year's Oktoberfest, so keep an eye out for specials, events, and so much more! Tune in to find out more about both Bibi Singh and Chef Torres, what they offer, and how you can enjoy your next happy hour when it's actually convenient by listening to Food Farms and Chefs Radio Sho

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 latin and caribbean-inspired cuisines, along with cocktails that are just a seasonally inspired as their dining options.  If you're looking to host an intimate wedding, gathering, or simply wish to enjoy a delightful night out--tune in so you can taste what the best of Pasadena, MD offers! (https://www.samandmaggies.com)Patrick Kohr is a third-generation of ice cream aficionados, and his family's name might ring a bell

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, so stay tuned to find out how you can taste what they have to offer and help celebrate their first year! related link: https://ladyfingers.comPhiladelphia's known for their love of a good 'underdog' story, and my next guest, Richie Tevlin is banking on his up-coming brewery's branding, Space Cadet Brewing Company.  Richie's focus is to offer single-batch brews that offer unique only-offered-once craft brew experiences.  He coupled

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 International Judge of the Tiramisù World Cup in 2021. His many achievements are remarkable and well-deserved, however, what he loves most is to create dining experiences for all to enjoy. So, he joined me to chat about the menu and desserts that he's created for Ristorante Lucca, and how you can indulge all your senses in them too.Related Links:https://ristorantelucca.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/maurizio-peccolo-20264323b/