Dining On A Dime

Karen Gershowitz is a seasoned pro at traveling. In fact, she wrote a book on it. Well folks, Mrs. Gershowitz not only wrote one book regaling her travel tales, she just came out with her 2nd novel: "Wanderlust: Extraordinary People, Quirky Places, and Curious Cuisine." In it she describes numerous activities, experiences, and her personal do's and don'ts when it comes to eating across the globe via her own positive experiences (and amusing mishaps). If you want to know more, tune in to Food Farms and Chefs to hear the stories straight from Karen's own lips--and be sure to pick up her books to find out even more!We also spoke with Yvonne Yang, who is no stranger to opening and collaborating with highly successful restaurants, including a Michelin-Recommended restaurant. Yvonne joined us to describe what Takumi Bistro and Bar has to offer! With a lengthy history within the Hospitality Industry, Yvonne was integral with managing the daily operations of Takumi, which recently opened in Wayne, PA. Takumi off

All of our guests on this week's Food Farms and Chefs Radio Show have (or are currently experiencing) being a viral sensation. So, if you're wondering how to try them for yourself, tune in to hear their story and to find out how you can dig into their products and more! *Episode 251

Our first guest is a very familiar voice to our dedicated FF&C's fans, as our own Gene Blum updated us on all the goings-on at Tranquility Brewing Company. You may not know this, but Tranquility Brewing is located inside the former training facility for astronauts, so if you're looking to dress up for their upcoming Halloween celebration--you may bring home the top prize if you attend as one. And if you're looking to have some fun while giving back to a great cause, check out Tranquility Brewing's website as they host numerous events--some of which include FUNdraising celebrations. Speaking of which, they're amping up for their barrel-aged, whisky-infused Cider and Oktoberfest Beer which coincides with Tranquility's Oktoberfest Party! Don't worry, you needn't miss the festivities, as they're happening this Sunday (October 15th) at the Brewery!We know from old commercials that, "Beef. It's what's for dinner," and our next guest is doing just that. Rachel Sickler and her husband had the farming bug, an

If you've ever tuned in to the show, then you're familiar with our first guest, Chef Elijah Milligan. He's joined us on several occasions, and now he's back to let all of you know about Rosemary Ridley Park. We dove deeper into the nuances behind choosing the freshest ingredients--including how he and the staff at Rosemary grow and pick their own herbs, which are then highlighted in the dishes and cocktails that are created. In addition to his fresh picks, Chef Milligan is building a menu that will change depending upon what is in season, bringing a fresh new vibe to the Ridley Park, PA restaurant scene. So if you are in the area and want an elevated meal that is less about the pomp and circumstance and more geared towards the enjoyment of every bite...check out Rosemary Ridley Park and tune in to hear more about Elijah and the restaurant!Our next guest, Wyatt Piazza, is the Chef and Co-Owner of Kiddo Restaurant which is in the works to open around mid-October 2023. Now that is fresh! Piazza is opening

When you visit our first guest's restaurant, you'll surely be as enamored with Chef Ehren Ryan's menu as I was from simply researching his culinary creations. After speaking with Ryan regarding Common Lot, his restaurant which is located in Milburn, NJ, I learned that his mastery of plating the perfect dish was founded upon a global background. That same background, from Chef Ryan's own description, consisted entirely from working inside Michelin Star rated kitchens. This is most likely the reason Common Lot's name appears on NJ Monthly's Top 25 restaurants to visit since it opened in 2016, and why so many other publications and shows have praised him and his co-owner/wife's business. If you want to learn more about Ehren and Common Lot, tune in to this week's show!During our interlude, our own co-host, Amaris Pollock, takes you on a quick tour around the tri-state area for festive Fall fun! She took a short moment to help plan your festive fun this spooky season, including Pop-Up bars with Halloween-them

We began by introducing you to David Dietz, Owner of BBC Tavern and Grill and the recently opened Bar Reverie in the adjacent venue. Dietz, who has worked in the restaurant industry since a youth, opened BBC Tavern and Grill under the original concept Brandywine Brewing Company. As time went on, they essentially switched venues with Pizza by Elizabeth's and Dietz re-established his business as BBC Tavern and Grill as the new venue lacked space for brewing craft beers. Now, Dietz has extended his culinary pedigree with his French-based concept, Bar Reverie. Bar Reverie offers "a travel-inspired menu with a nod to French cuisine" and an extensive wine selection. Next, we caught up with the owner of Spotted Horse Provisions, Amanda Newman. Amanda's 'jam' is to focus on fresh ingredients from local farmers to create her sought-after sauces, preserves, and other delicious products. As a fourth-generation canner, Newman is well-versed in the versatility of creating scratch-made, sustainable foods for herself

We sat down with Robert Woloshin, Co-Owner of Manny's Deli and Manny's Deli Stop in Pennsylvania. After years of friendship, Woloshin and his fellow co-founders, Jeremy and Chase Thomas, renovated and opened Manny's Deli located in Holland, PA with the mission to update the concept of how a traditional Jewish Deli is. Armed with modern twists on traditional menu items, they found success. Recently they've expanded on their brand by opening a new fast-casual version of their deli: Manny's Deli Stop is their concept of an on-the-go eatery where traditional deli items can be ordered and enjoyed, offering a more stream-lined menu with grab-and-go options! Next, we spoke with Chef Elizabeth Falkner and her new documentary, "Sorry We're Closed." If her name is familiar to you, it's due to her numerous appearances on must-see culinary television shows as a competitor and judge, as well as being a cookbook author and successful restaurateur, having opened and run restaurants on both the West and East coast of th

We sat down with Marilyn Schlossbach, whose name is synonymous with the successful restaurants and community-related foundations within the Asbury Park area. Her drive to create supportive, educational, and sustainable environments in an industry, and let's face it, a general lifestyle that runs fast-paced and easy is beyond admirable. Marilyn's conversation touched on numerous points, however, her ability to continue pursuing a sustainable and supportive business for her community will always remain at the heart of her life's mission. If you want to find out more, stay tuned till the end of this week's episode!We then switched gears and looked at the glitz and glam behind Superfrico inside The Hook by Spiegelworld in Caesars in Atlantic City, NJ. They're expanding into the east coast, and we spoke with their Executive Culinary Director, Chef Anna Altieri for an insider's look at the swanky new spot. Housed in what was formerly known as the Warner Theatre, Superfrico and The Hook offers an unapologeticall

Do you love dumplings? We do too. That's one of the many reasons we spoke with Nick Sordoni, one of the owners behind the growing brand Brooklyn Dumpling Show (Philadelphia). The brand, which originated in Manhattan, New York, quickly gained in popularity when it launched during the pandemic. As a fully automat-based eatery, visitors can order ahead and use a QR code to pick up their fresh bites. Guests can choose from a hot or cold menu, with options like Rueben, Philly Cheesesteak, or Peanut Butter & Jelly Dumplings. If you want to hear more about their brand new business--tune in to Food Farms and Chefs Radio Show!Everyone loves a sweet ending--and our next guest is positioned to satisfy your sweet tooth! We spoke with Laura Carroll, whose role as Insomnia Cookies' Director of Sales offers not only insight, but sheer bliss with every delectable bite. Carroll's career took on a life of its own within the culinary industry, and after finding her path drawing closer towards food, she eventually be

We began our show with some 'Made with Love' comforts from Kathleen Bianco of The Crazy Kat and Crave Pitman.  Bianco not only grew up baking with her grandmothers, she brought those memories {and love} of baked goods to their businesses.  Later on, she and her husband expanded on their business ventures by adding ice cream in addition to introducing new items regularly, including a heavy focus on gluten-free options. So if you're Craving something like Cheesecakes, Cookies, or Mousse Bombs...tune in to our show to find out everything that Crave Pitman and The Crazy Kat offers! "Never give up on your vision, always keep going" are words to live by according to Shamaya "Bella" Oberlton of Rock N Rolls Philly.  Since 2016, Oberlton has pursued her dreams of owning Rock N Rolls Philly, beginning with a business that was operated out of her family's home. That same business  transitioned into food trucks--and more recently, a brick and mortar location.  Speaking of transitioning, stay tuned to hear how Shamaya gi

From the age of 15, our first guest had a first taste of his future while busing tables at a local restaurant, and fell in love with the fast-paced industry.  After pursuing that love by way of The Art Institutes, Chef Michael DeLone gradually worked his way from line cook to becoming the Executive Chef--and along the way meeting, learning under, and earning the respect of Chef Nunzio Patruno.  Years later, Michael was seeking locations to open his own restaurant when his mentor called with the perfect opportunity: Becoming the new Owner and Chef of Nunzio's in Collingswood, NJ.  Since then, Chef DeLone has been making his mark on the popular Italian restaurant, and is excited to share the new look and re-branding of Nunzio's in the coming months.Speaking of new looks and re-branding, the Craft Beer Store's (Springfield) Owner, Matthew Titus Sr. was elated to share some big news--and you get to hear it first on Food, Farms, and Chefs Radio Show!  After Titus Sr. acquired the business via his position within a

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Our first guest, Matt Satten, is no stranger to the popularity of libations-and drew upon the acquired knowledge to form Top Dog Cocktails.  The cocktails, Greyhound, Whiskey Lemonade, Blood Orange Margarita, and Peach Mango Iced Tea are all crafted using hard liquor.  In a world inundated with hard seltzers, Top Dog Cocktails offers great mixed drinks without the hassle to make it from scratch.Next, we heard from Nery Burgos, Chef and Owner of Breakfast at Blume located in Delaware.  Burgos, who graduated with a BA in Business Management, utilized her career to follow through with her life-long passion within the culinary industry.  Nery's career path was inspired by one of her high school teachers, which she vowed to follow the three rules he suggested: Have a means to make money, have a passion, and have a hobby. Burgos' focus on three rules lended itself to the success that bloomed Breakfast at Blume.Lastly we spoke with Ash & Pretha Kailath, the owners of Lu & Aug's in Ardmore, PA.  They founded

Food Trucks have become a popular (and dare we say sought-after) foodie trend, but what happens when you bring two hot trends into one concept? Our first guests, Electronic Eats set out to do just that. Co-Founders Nina-Maria Lara-Daniels and Armand Wilson met during the filming of a movie, and found a mutual love of gaming and food. Somewhere along the way, the pair's love and ideas blossomed, and Electronic Eats was born. Of course not all ideas run smoothly when they are first established, so tune in to hear how they turned a second-hand food truck into a well-run, entertaining, and food-centric mobile gaming center. Co-Founder Rich Shaget and his Chef, Randy Smith, joined us to discuss Osteria 545. The location offers a deeper connection to the community, holding a history in the culinary world which you'll find etched into their bar-literally. As for their venue's refurbished areas--the rooms were established to offer a better dining experience. They wanted to ensure that guests of Osteria 545 would have

When you think of Scandinavian cuisines, Pennsylvania might not be your first thought.  Our first guest, Nik Forsburg, may change your mind.  Nik, who conceptualized Fet-Fisk Pittsburgh with his soon-to-be Creative Director, Sarah LaPonte during the pandemic.  Together, they hosted bi-weekly pop-up meals at their house, in what Forsburg described as "speakeasy dinners."  This coincided with Nik's desire to keep himself busy throughout the pandemic by acquiring a plot of land to farm at a local community space, which yielded the ingredients he uses for his dishes.  Soon, the Fet-Fisk Pittsburgh pop-up became a popular (and sought-after) dining experience and now Nik is preparing to open the doors to Fet-Fisk Pittsburgh this Fall (September).You don't have to travel far for our next guest, who opened Lilly's Ferry in Old City Philadelphia in what used to be Victoria's Freehouse.  With views that will make you want to explore Philadelphia, Anas Hamed offers the savory dishes of Middle Eastern fare to your palate

Founder Colleen Falicki was inspired to compost years before starting Back To Earth Compost.  She grew up learning little tricks from her grandparents who had maintained a healthy garden.  Then in high school, the budding entrepreneur formed the group STEM (Save the Environment Man).  Years later, after marrying and having a family of her own, Colleen formed Back To Earth Compost and has since turned the Green-friendly business into a community gem.  With options to have your compost picked up (locally), or utilize one of the drop-off locations--you can save the environment one 5-gallon bucket at a time.Next, Gene Blum chatted with the Director of Operations for M2O Burgers & Executive Chef, Richard Dobies of the newly opened Töska Restaurant and Brewery in Philadelphia's Germantown area.  Chef Richard Dobies grew up learning how to cook, with his first job at the young age of 12 inside his cousin's restaurant.  Later, he re-entered the culinary scene after health issues arose in his family's restaurants

00:00:17~There was so much to unfold with our first guest, Master Mixologist Toby Maloney, that our co-host was overwhelmed with the abundance of his achievements! Not only has Maloney spearheaded the art of craft cocktails wherever he lands, he created a recipe book to help you craft them at home (or wherever you go too).  "The Bartenders Manifesto: How to Think, Drink, and Create Cocktails Like a Pro" is the premiere guide on the methodology behind making your next favorite drink; I needn't say more on the book, as it has earned Toby his second James Beard Award (his first was earned in 2015 for Outstanding Bar Program at the Violet Hour in Chicago).  What's even more exciting?  He is currently the Bartender in Residency at Hop Sing Laundromat in Philadelphia! So if you're looking to mix it up, Maloney can serve you one of his elevated amalgamations of ingredients in Philly or pick up his book and create one at home! 00:16:40~Next, we returned to the beachy vibes of LBI in NJ with Director of Operations for

We're diving into summer with in-depth conversations regarding the page-turning heat behind Tracey Medeiros' latest cookbook, "The Vermont Farm Table Cookbook: Homegrown Recipes from the Green Mountain State." Then we kick our heels up for a relaxing weekend-long retreat at Daddy O Hotel, Restaurant & Bar with the Director of Operations, Pete Palladino. And since traveling and family-friendly fun coincides with touring museums, zoo's, and more--we spoke with SSA Group's Corporate Executive Chef, Matthew Beaudin, on how the family-owned business integrated an elevated, diversified, and sustainable menu into their partnership's locations. (episode 235)

What drives you? We wondered what drives our guests in their success, and Kayla Bolyai of Altamerea Group, Kyle Algaze of Iron Rooster, and Scott Noye of Chef Dad's Table joined us on Food Farms & Chefs to discuss their respective backgrounds, current ventures, and what to look forward to in the near future! (episode 234)

We began this week's episode with Chef Kiki Aranita, who's delicious creations for Poi Dog put her on the culinary map.  She has since had to close the beloved Poi Dog restaurant, however the name (and sauces) live on!  You've most likely heard of her, considering Chef Aranita has appeared on numerous magazines, television shows, and syndicated news outlets--and currently, on the shelves of businesses throughout the Philadelphia region.  Join us as we speak with Kiki about her heritage, how she grew her business, and transitioned into creating a line of sauces that we're clamoring for!We then spoke with Farmer Lee Jones, who has literally wrote the book on regenerative farming methods! Not only has Jones written a book on how to grow  nutrient-rich vegetables, his more than 300-acres of farmland has been nurtured to provide ingredients sought-after by the likes of Rachel Ray, Wolfgang Puck, and many more!  His merits do not end there, he and his farm family have garnered James Beard Foundation Awards, a colla