On The Menu News
July 04, 2008
Morton's Eat a Burger, Make a Wish
OTM buddy Bill Ferron, GM of Pittsburgh's Morton's Steakhouse tells us about a great national campaign "30 Wishes for 30 Years". Starting July 6 through the end of September visit any Morton's on a Sunday, order the $19.78 Prime Sirloin Burger special and Morton's will donate $5 to the Make a Wish Foundation. This new menu item is offered exclusively for Make a Wish and only on Sundays. Their goal is to raise $125,000 to grant the wishes of at least 30 children through this program plus a series of special events. Watch OTM News for announcements of these events. Why 30? This is Morton's Steakhouse's 30th Anniversary. And Bill reminds OTM that Morton's Pittsburgh also is celebrating its 15th Anniversary at the 625 Liberty Avenue location. We hope that you'll enjoy, here in Pittsburgh and throughout the country, to support this great cause. www.mortons.com/30wishes.
July 01, 2008
Go Green (Tea) in NYC at ITO EN & dine too at Kai
Follow in OTM's footsteps on this one. After three days hustling & bustling at the Fancy Food Show we retreated to the serene flagship quarters of ITO EN, at Madison at 69th. Manager Shiho Tonoshima showed us around the elegant tea store, then we lunched fabulously on Chef Hitoshi Kagawa's accomplished Japanese creations at Kai, upstairs. Our thanks to GM Masatsugu Kawai for the hospitality and Senior VP Rona Tison for the arrangements. We commend the calm surroundings, friendly, efficient service and the stunningly delicious cuisine. www.itoen.com for information.
June 18, 2008
So you think you can grill like Molto Mario!
Here's your chance to prove it! In conjunction with the publishing of his latest cookbook Italian Grill, Mario Batali and sponsor Viva towels are running an online contest, Mario's Ultimate Grilling Challenge. Submit your best grilling recipe and a video demonstration by July 30, 2008. To get instructions for entry go to http://mariobatali.com/grillingcontest. And may the best griller win!
June 11, 2008
Notes from New York
Bodacious bivalves, BBQ with 125,000 of our best friends, top Beard winners,
tapas taste treats, champion charcuterie, just a few of OTM's NY City
experiences from last weekend. You'll hear the interviews in the next 2 or
3 programs, but a few words right here in case you're headed for the Big Apple
before the broadcasts.
Chef co-owner Sandy Ingber of the Grand Central Oyster Bar arranged a tasting of recent champion oysters, the best overall Island Creek and best tasting Totten Inlet Virginica. The TIVs came in 3 sizes, regular, large and extra large, the last being the first oyster Peter had to cut in 2 before slurping (see photo in OTM in Pictures). We didn't have room for lunch! At the Snapple Big Apple Barbecue Block Party we joined the huge crowd in sampling plates from many places in the BBQ belt, best in our judgement being Ubon's from Yazoo City, Mississipi - and who should we meet at their station but event founder Danny Meyer of Union Square Hospitality Group with his wife and family of 4.
Danny wasn't done for the weekend! His Grammercy Tavern won the prestigious Best Restaurant Award - we're thrilled for him and Chef Michael Anthony, who we recognized as a new star based on a visit last year. Daniel Boulud's group struck again with the Rising Star Chef award going to Cafe Boulud Chef Gavin Kaysen. Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich won Outstanding Restaurateur for Babbo - Joe's acceptance speech was both an explanation and a tribute to what it means to be in the business. Miraculously cured from cancer, Grant Achatz of Alinea, Chicago, was the evening's most popular winner for Outstanding Chef. OTM met many old friends and "partied hearty", but with the good sense to skip the after parties.
We found time to sample Andy Nusser's great tapas at Casa Mono, and the wonderful charcuterie at Bar Boulud. How do we do it? We're not sure but we know it's fun!
June 04, 2008
BIG Weekend in NY City 6/7&8 - OTM'll be there, will you?
No we're not referring to Carrie's love interest in SATC. The Snapple Big Apple Barbecue Block Party runs Saturday and Sunday, 12-6PM in and around Madison Park, details at www.bigapplebbq.org. And Sunday evening at the James Beard Awards the restaurant business honors its own at the Awards Ceremony and "strolling" dinner at Lincoln Center, www.jamesbeard.org. OTM will be at both events on Sunday. If you want to connect with us call Peter's cell, 412 720 6838, and we'll look forward to meeting you.
May 30, 2008
Sip Tea for the Cure!
The Republic of Tea adds two new flavors, Red Cherry White Tea and
Pomegranate Vanilla Red Tea, to its popular Sip for the Cure Collection,
benefitting Susan G. Komen for the Cure and honoring the 2008 National Breast
Cancer Awareness Month. The brand’s signature Sip for the Cure Collection also
includes original favorites: Pink Lady Apple Green Tea; Pink Lemonade Green Tea;
and Pink Grapefruit Green Tea--for a total of five exclusive teas created to
support the fight against breast cancer. The collection of five teas will
be available July 1. For every tin of Sip for the Cure tea sold, The
Republic of Tea proudly contributes $1 to Komen for the Cure, for every
Traveler’s Tea Tin sold--36 cents . The Republic of Tea has contributed over
$600,000 to Komen for the Cure to date and continues towards its $1 million
donation goal.
The Cure Collection is available nationwide at natural and specialty food stores, cafes and through the company Web site, www.REPUBLICofTEA.com.
May 29, 2008
Quench your conscience - go Green, Tea that is
OTM guests ITO EN, makers of bottled green tea beverages, have just announced the chance for you to win a Toyota Prius hybrid, one of 50 Felt bicycles, or a free bottle of Teas' Tea (3000 of these). Enter at www.teasteacom.win. We're planning on visiting their tea room and Kai estaurant on an upcoming trip to NYC - see www.itoen.com/kai.
May 29, 2008
UK Dining - Observer Food Monthly 2008 Awards
Check these out at observer.guardian.co.uk/foodawards/story/0,,2269147,00.html. OTM is having some trouble getting to an electronic version of the "long" list called "Best of the Rest", but we did get a scanned copy and it includes some of our favorites including past OTM Guests Wild Honey and Chez Bruce in London, The Fat Duck in Bray, Berkshire, Simpsons in Birmingham and Anthony's in Leeds. There are also a lot of new ones that we'll have to try. Restaurant of the Year is the eponymous (that word again) Sat Bains in Nottingham - the Chef-owner is of Punjabi descent but cooks French - go figure.......
May 29, 2008
Sherberts from Cleveland - great new flavors...........
OTM guest (October 28, 2007 program) Pierre's Ice Cream has added fabulous new flavors and convenient new sizes to its Hola Fruta line of super premium pure fruit sherberts. Mango becomes the 8th flavor - we love it but still think Pomegranate is the best. Pint sizes are also available and popular Pina Colada has been added to this line. For the portion/diet conscious, Pomegranate-Blueberry and Pina Colada now come in 100 calorie "popsicles" - Pierre's calls them bars. Check out where to buy at www.holafruta.com, but mute your speakers unless you like funky jingles.
May 24, 2008
NY's Grand Central Oyster Bar launches Herring Festival
June 3-20 are the very opposite of "red herring" days, red letter days! To celebrate the arrival of Dutch "nieuwe maatjes" herring GCOB Chef Sandy Ingber and GM Jonathon Young and representatives of the Netherlands Consul General & Heiniken USA will welcome visitors with a herring craving. Admission is free every day of the week (except Sunday when GCOB is closed) and various herring preparations will be offered at modest price. The rest of GCOB's menu, including the bivalves for which they're best known, will also be available. OTM hopes to be there at lunchtime on June 9. For information, updates and reservations call 212 490 6650 or go to www.oysterbarny.com.
May 17, 2008
Charleston Restaurants Rock!
OTM just spent 3 great dining days in Charleston, SC. Three Chefs at “the top of their game” are 2008 James Beard Award nominees: Sean Brock of McCrady’s is up for the hugely competitive Rising Star award, Mike Lata of FIG makes it in Best Chef SE category for a well-earned 2nd year in a row, and Robert Stehling of Hominy Grill debuts in the same category. We wish the Chef trio the best of luck! We enjoyed meals with each of them and their interviews will air soon. Thanks Mike and partner Adam Nemirow for fabulous pig’s trotters with lentils, and the freshly boiled local stone crab claw. Sean’s house made charcuterie and 48 hour slow cooked short ribs were McCrady’s highlights.
We couldn’t resist visiting with incomparable “dining room dynamo” Mickey Bakst, GM at Charleston Grill and chatting with Chef Bob Waggoner about his first cookbook. They’ve transformed the staid traditional dining room into a space where both the food and atmosphere truly ROCK. Not to be outdone Mark Collins at Circa 1886 at the Wentworth Mansion plates modernized versions of low country dishes, with deft additions like foie gras with banana gelato and chocolate bread. We’re saving Frank McMahon’s Hank’s for a future visit – we heard great things about his reinterpreted traditional seafood dishes - but we were able to catch up with Jeremiah Bacon, now serving southern favorites like a Fried Green Tomato BLT & shrimp with grits at lunchtime as well as a dinner menu echoing Perditas which is credited with launching Charleston’s fine dining scene back in the 1950s in the same space on quaint Exchange Street.
May 07, 2008
Pittsburgh Wine Festival tomorrow & it's not too late for you to plan to go
For the first time tickets for the event will be available "at the door",
actually 2 entrances, Gates B & C at Heinz Field. The Grand
Tasting kicks off at 6.30PM and the tickets will go on sale at 5PM. www.pittsburghwinefestival.com
May 06, 2008
Barbecue & Beard Awards - head for NYC June 7-8
Headed for NYC for the James Beard Awards in June 8? BBQ is headlining
the same weekend. So get ready for the sights, sounds,
smells, and delicious flavors of New York City’s favorite barbecue event. Union
Square Hospitality Group, Blue Smoke and Jazz Standard proudly announce the
6th Annual Snapple Big Apple Barbecue Block Party
(BABBP), to be held on June 7th and 8th, 2008, from
12-6pm. Join us in beautiful Madison Square Park and surrounding
streets for another unforgettable weekend of great award-winning
barbecue, live music, seminars, demos, merchandise and more! Proceeds this
year will once again benefit the Madison Square Park Conservancy, supporting the
park’s horticulture, maintenance, and year-round cultural offerings.
Details at www.bigapplebbq.org.
May 02, 2008
2008 Best Tasting Oyster
OTM's favorite Oysterman Jon Rowley reports that Totten Inlet Virginica from Puget Sound took the blue ribbon at the EAST coast Shellfish Grower's Association inaugural Annual Invitational Oyster Challenge in Providence RI on April 7. Plaudits for the TIV included "plump & juicy with a crisp flavor", "the superiority of the Totten's flavor was stunning". An east coast entrant Island Creek from Duxbury MA was the overall winner. The TIVs were produced by another OTM pal, Bill Taylor of Taylor Shellfish Farms, where their grown for 2-4 years after hatching. Bill notes that the original brood stock is descended from Eastern oysters that were brought to Washington State by TRAIN almost a century ago. Thanks to Jon & Bill for sending OTM this information. We hope they'll let us know when next year's Festival is held so that we can make it a point to be there.
May 02, 2008
Lidia cooked for Pope Benedict - she'll cook for you next week!
Old friend Lidia Bastianich was honored to cook for the Pope during his
recent visit. Next week she'll be in the Burg for the Pittsburgh Wine
Festival and doing lunch at her Strip District restaurant on May 8. Rumor
has it that she and Lidia Chef and good OTM buddy Eric "Spuds" Wallace will be
serving up some delicacies during the Wine Festival on Thursday evening.
You can bet that OTM will be there sampling. So don't forget to get your
Wine Festival tickets at www.pittsburghwinefestival.com,
and be sure to say hi to us.
Oh and by the way Lidia's latest TV series was just nominated for an Emmy, and the companion book is a James Beard Awards finalist. Lidia, how do you do it?
April 29, 2008
OTM discovers traditions old & new in and around Milano, Italy
Fresh from a great visit, OTM reports that tradition is respected AND expanded. The Valpolicella vineyard of Masi has been producing Amarone wines, created from 100-day "dried" grapes since the 18th century. Their collaboration with neighbours of the Serego-Alighieri family is much more recent - these ancestors of the famed poet Dante moved to Valpolicella in the 14th century! Some of these new wines are produced in the region of Toscana, the Alighieri family's ancestral home. Under the leadership of Dottore Sandro Boscaini, Masi is taking Amarone to new heights! Risotto is a traditional specialty of the region, but for an exciting new variation head for Antica Trattoria Da Bepi where Amarone Risotto makes a wonderful new flavor treat.
In Milano dining traditions are fabulously upheld at Ermanno Taschera's Il Baretto, now located in the luxurious Carlton Baglioni Hotel. In the mood for innovative "molecular gastronomy"? Head for Cracco Peck where Chef Carlo Cracco creates culinary masterpieces in keeping with the super-modern interior. OTM would like to thank Ermanno at Il Baretto and Lucca (who was in charge while Chef Carlo and Manager Davide were away) at Cracco for two meals that showed cucina traditizionale and creativo at their best. The accompanying wine selections were also impressive.
Closing of the autostrada due to an overturned truck provided OTM with an unneeded adventure, but the tender loving care at the Carlton Baglioni and two fabulous meals more than made up for it!
A last and important tip - you need to book several weeks if not months in advance to see Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece "The Last Supper". Ann had seen it before but Peter missed out. http://www.milan-museum.com/booking.php is one site you can use for booking, a Google searh will find others.
April 18, 2008
May 5, Mio food & S Rhone wines - what a combination!
Chef Matt Porco teams with iconic wine producer Michel Chapoutier for a don't miss dinner that's part of the Pittsburgh Wine Festival program. Get details at http://www.mio-pgh.com/features.htm#
April 15, 2008
London dining just keeps on rolling........
It snowed heavily on the spring day OTM arrived in London By contrast dining establishments couldn’t have been more welcoming. Marcus Eaves at L’Autre Pied was our rising starfavorite, although the competition was tough from Colin Kelly at Wild Honey. These two have much in common since both are second, quickly successful places opened in the last 9 months by David Moore & Shane Osborn of Pied a Terre and Anthony Demetre & Will Smith of Arbutus. The Chefs were both deservedly promoted from Sous Chef at their "alma maters". Also the Marriott hotel chain has upped the ante for hotel dining with newly opened Bord’Eaux at the just renovated Grosvenor House with Ollie Couillaud heading the kitchen, and Pearl at the Renaissance Chancery Court, redesigned and renamed from its former designation QC, where Chef Jun Tanaka continues at the helm. The former represents a spectacular recreation of a Paris brasserie, complete with authentic furnishings and already a following of frequent diners from the Mayfair neighborhood. Pearl adds numerous strings of illuminated crystals to the glorious marble interior of a grand old banking chamber for a perfect cocktail or dining setting. At The Goring, a hotel still owned by the founding family now in a 5th generation, OTM supped with Chef Derek Quelch and PR director Michael Bevan in a private dining room with floor to ceiling glass windows looking out to the garden. This favorite haunt of international celebrities is right around the corner from “Buck House" (Buckingham PalaceLocals who visit include Dame Margaret Thatcher. We’re planning to try the haute traditional welcome at The Goring on our next trip. One-O-One in Knightsbridge lived up to it's reputation as London's best for seafood, with innovative preparation and presentation adding even more sizzle following Chef Pascal Proyat's recent "sabbatical" while the space was renovated. Head for Southwark’s Borough Market – we suggest Thursday or Friday because Saturday is getting too crowded –and lunch (or breakfast) at Roast serving reinvigorated Brit food under the direction of Owner Iqbal Wahhab and Chef Laurence Keogh. The walk from St. Paul’s Cathedral across the Millennium footbridge (no longer swaying) past The Tate Modern and Globe Theatre will stimulate your appetite or aid your digestion depending on whether you walk before or after – perhaps both would be in order to fully appreciate the London vistas along the way. For a quick bite, or more substantial fare if you’re so inclined, stop in at one of 10 Leon restaurants distributed throughout London; their focus is fast but healthy and nutritious food created by the founders and Chef Benny Peverelli, and we know there are more sites to come. Listen to interviews recorded at all of these establishments in upcoming OTM programs.
April 15, 2008
More activities during Pittsburgh Wine Festival
The Festival just announced wine seminars in conjunction with Peter Hanowitch of the Chaine des Rotisseurs, and a list of wining-dining events at area restaurants. But don't miss the main event, the VIP and Grand Tasting at Heinz Field on May 8. We'll see you there! Get all the details at www.pittsburghwinefestival.com.
April 02, 2008
OTM Audio Archives makes History!
We promised you, and finally delivered! On the Menu programs going all the
way back to the Premiere broadcast on January 25, 2004 are all loaded for access
via OTM Audio Archives - with a very few exceptions where we couldn't find an
electronic version. We hope you will enjoy reviewing this piece of
history, and following how OTM's style and content have evolved. We'd
love to have your comments on this, whether pro or con so email us at onthemenu@onthemenuradio.com to
let us know what you think.
March 24, 2008
We're back but not for long!
Ann & Peter are safely back from OZ, and just "dug out" of all the accumulation resulting from a month away from the office and the studio. Programs featuring interviews recorded around Australia started yesterday and will continue for several weeks as we feature other parts of Western Australia, then Sydney, Melbourne, Victoria's Yarra Valley, Tasmania and South Australia - and oops I almost left out Brisbane, Queensland and Byron Bay, NSW. Next up we'll be making our annual pilgrimage to London's wondrous dining scene.
March 24, 2008
Pittsburgh Wine Festival - it's almost that time again
Mark your calendars and get your tickets quickly for the anchor VIP and Grand Tasting "bash" on May 8 at Heinz Field. Even more events are planned for this year's overall Festival program, May 3-9, so head for www.pittsburghwinefestival.com for all the details - and we'll see you there!
March 06, 2008
Yes OTM is really in Australia!
Check out some up to the minute photos of the fabulous food, wineries, people,
scenery and some of OTM's other adventures at OTM in Pictures. We visted a
Truffle - yes Truffle - producing property in Tasmania, and that island
state's Tamar River Wine Trail, and today we're in the famous Barossa
Valley. We've enjoyed fab food around Sydney and Melbourne. Next up
is Western Australia, so watch for more news and pictures.
February 17, 2008
OTM one step ahead even Downunder!
Jonah's is a great getaway set above bucolic Whale Beach just north of Sydney, NSW. So of course Ann & Peter had to include it in our Australian itinerary. Well here we are. You'll never guess who checks right after we leave tomorrow - the finalists for America's Biggest Losers will be here for the ultimate healthy breakfast, as part of their prize tour of the island nation downunder. We even know their menu, but of course we're sworn to secrecy. Watch for the TV coverage back in the USA, and we're guessing you'll eat your heart out, this is such a lovely spot.
February 07, 2008
OTM is headed West, Australia that is
A month from now OTM will begin a whole new travel adventure in a region we have never visited before. Thanks to two great West Australians, Zoe and Peter, we'll be sampling the foods, wines, lodgings and sights of Perth and the Swan Valley, and two great wine producing areas, Margaret River and Pemberton. Those of you who like us have explored these exciting wines will be familiar with names like Vasse Felix, Cape Mentelle, and Leeuwin Estate. Xanadu, Voyager and others are new to us. And there's a local truffle producer we'll be visiting. You'll hear first hand interviews recorded right there starting with the March 23rd program and for several weeks thereafter, so be sure to mark your calendars and tune in.
February 07, 2008
ISI Soda Siphon makes Sparkling water
No more environmentally unfriendly bottled water for OTM! We love San Pelligrino and the like, but we're also concerned about non-reusable and not well recycled containers. Now with our ISI Soda Siphon we can make our own sparkling water in seconds. We hear from ISI that some top NYC restaurants, which shall be nameless, are actually placing these siphons on their tables and charging guests for their use. Capitalism run riot? Don't worry just get one for yourselves and feel good about saving the planet as well as what you've been spending for bottled sparkling water. And they look great on the dining table. Get details of various siphon models at www.isinorthamerica.com/consumer/c_soda.shtml
January 27, 2008
OTM Highlights - a new OTM Feature
Here you can go straight to OTM's interviews with some of the most famous and
interesting guests we've welcomed to On the Menu in ths past 4+ years.
Peter is scouring the old archives, including programs never before saved
on-line to bring you some of OTM's best moments. Listen to numerous James
Beard award winning Chefs and Authors, top Chefs and leading Winemakers from
around the globe as they respond in their own spontaneous words to the questions
we ask them because we know what you, our listeners, want to know about what
"makes them tick". The OTM Highlights button is two below OTM Audio
Archives on the left side of the website.
January 21, 2008
Let's hear it for the Rabbits!
Frequent OTM listeners know that Peter is also dubbed "The Rabbit" or "Rabbito", Ann's pet name for her beloved co-host. So you won't be surprised that OTM picked up on a Rabbit Festival in Iowa, Louisiana (yes we thought caucuses when we first read about it). The main dates for the Festival are March 14-16, but there are also lead-up events. Get details at www.travelnewsfast.com/showemailrelease/358/1118/j/.
January 21, 2008
London calling
In a slight break with tradition OTM will be in London for April showers, not Valentine's Day - our customary timetable. That's of course due to our Australia trip. This year we'll enjoy all the spring flowers, not just a few early daffodils. So our antenna is tuned in on news of the great London dining scene. A few things to note if you're headed there before us. Anthony and Will, owners of hugely successful Arbutus already have a new place, Wild Honey, can't find a web site yet, but try Arbutus at www.arbutusrestaurant.co.uk first and we're sure they'll help you get into Wild Honey as well; Shane Osborn and David Moore of Pied a Terre just opened L'Autre Pied www.lautrepied.co.uk, The Grosvenor House is about to launch a brasserie with the witty name Bord'eaux, and their fabulous new Red Bar is going strong. Richard Corrigan at Park Lane in the same hotel is not yet open, so you'll have to be satisfied with Lindsay House and Bentley's - but we know you'll be delighted at both. Alain Ducasse is open at The Dorchester... OTM as always will be on the trail of other new and great dining spots. Remember your $ goes just a little bit further these days.
January 20, 2008
OTM's Antipodean Adventure
OTM will soon be in Melbourne - where Tennis fans now have their eyes glued - but we'll be doing food and wine! We just reconnected with old friend Gail Donovan of Donovan's House on the beach in St. Kilda, and the Grand Hyatt's going to tell us about a big renovation of their flagship restaurant. Also on the agenda is Melba, the Langham Hotel's restaurant, Phillipe Mouchel's Brasserie, and events associated with the Food & Wine Festival which'll be in progress. Not forgetting an interview with Neil Perry, a founding figure of Mod Oz cuisine. But before that we'll be in Sydney at Luke Mangan's Glass, and catching up with old friends Angela and Daniel Mosedale - their names will be familiar from The Pittsburgh Fish Market and Big Burrito - now owners of The Blue Angel in Noosa, Queensland. More to come..........
January 14, 2008
Cleveland becomes a Chocolate Attraction
Perhaps it's just coincidence, but two upcoming Chocolate events just came to OTM's attention. February 2 in nearby Medina is the For the Love of Chocolate Festival, get details at www.discoverohio.com. Starting February 9 until May 4 at The Great Lakes Science Center will be an entire exhibit about the history of man's favorite sweet indulgence. www.glsc.org promises that details will be available soon.
January 12, 2008
Small World yet again!
OTM just reconnected with Phillipe Mouchel, a great French-Japanese trained Chef we first met at the Paul Bocuse Restaurant in Melbourne Australia eight years ago. Five years ago Phillipe was at Langton's, also in Melbourne. Now he has his own place once again, the Brasserie in the Crown complex, and we plan to meet him there next month. And all it took was Google and an email. The Brasserie is getting rave reviews and we are looking forward to our visit. Phillipe is set to participate in a "My Last Supper" event that's part of the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival that OTM will be covering. Add these to your list, maybe we'll see you there between Feb 28 and March 2. For more information, www.thebrasserieatcrown.com.au and www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au.
January 10, 2008
OTM congratulates Yves Carreau, 2007 Restaurateur of the Year in W. PA
Yves, we're delighted but not surprised. Please share our greetings with Patrick and Uri and Chefs William and Curiel at Sonoma and Seviche respectively. This well earned recognition shows how dedication to excellence can create success in Pittsburgh's downtown. We hope OTM listeners will take note and visit both places soon. Reservations are recommended, because business is brisk. For guest convenience both restaurants offer valet parking at cocktail and dinner time. For more information go to www.thesonomagrille.com and www.seviche.com. Go soon and enjoy!
January 09, 2008
Charleston "Dine Around" on Leap Year Day
Here's the scoop. Don't miss this great night on the town, in a great town. Book early to be
sure to lock in your favorite, assuming you can manage to make a choice from all
the great options.
Friday, February
29, 2008 6:30 p.m.
$150 per person
(Cash
Bar not included)
Anson, Chef Kevin Johnson
ä
Featured
Guest Chef:
TBD
Featured
Winemakers: Susan Lueker, Simi Winery, Sonoma, Calif.
and
Michael Eckstein, Franciscan Oakville Estate, Napa, Calif.
Carolina’s, Chef Jeremiah
Bacon
Featured
Guest Chef: Scott Crawford, Georgian Room, The Cloister, Sea Island, Ga.
Featured
Winemaker: Sarah De Loach, Hook & Ladder Vineyards and Winery, Sonoma,
Calif.
Charleston Grill, Chef Bob
Waggoner
Featured
Guest Chef: Mark Monette, Flagstaff House, Boulder,
Colo.
Featured
Wine Personality: Eileen Hallmark, Wines of Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, Ala.
Circa 1886, Chef Marc Collins
ä
Featured
Guest Chef: Dean Max, 3030 Ocean, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. and Latitude
41
Featured
Winemaker: Leigh Bartholomew, Archery Summit Winery, Dayton,
Ore.
Sponsored
by: Cenegenics
Cypress, Chef Craig
Deihl
Featured
Guest Chefs: Ben and Karen Barker, Magnolia Grill, Durham,
N.C.
Featured
Winemaker: Eric Dunham, Dunham Cellars, Walla Walla, Wash.
FIG, Chef Mike Lata ä
Featured
Guest Chef: Suzanne Goin, Lucque, West Hollywood, Calif., Chef Michael
Laiskonis, Le Bernadin, New York, N.Y. and Chef Heather Carlucci-Rodriguez,
Lassi, New York,
N.Y.
Featured
Winemaker: Kevin Pike, Terry Theise Estate Selections: Michael Skurnick Wines,
Germany
High
Cotton, Chef Anthony
Gray
Featured
Guest Chef: Tory McPhail, Commander’s Palace, New Orleans,
La.
Featured
Winemaker: Stacy Clark, Pine Ridge Napa Valley Wines, Napa,
Calif.
Featured
Guest Chef: Louis Osteen, Louis’s at Pawley’s and the Fish Camp Bar, Pawley’s
Island, SC
Featured
Winemaker: David Whitehouse, Trefethan Family Vineyards, Napa,
Calif.
McCrady’s, Chef Sean
Brock
Featured
Guest Chef: David Chang, Momofuku Noodle Bar, New
York, N.Y.
Featured
Winemaker: Jed Steele, Steele Wines, Inc., Kelseyville,
Calif.
Oak Steakhouse, Chef Brett
McKee
Featured
Guest Chef: Randy Evans, Brennan’s of Houston, Houston,
Texas
Featured
Winemaker: Margie Olson/Torri Mor Winery, Dundee, Ore.
Peninsula Grill, Chef Robert
Carter
Featured
Guest Chef: Frank Stitt, Highlands Bar & Grill and Bottega and Chez Fonfon,
Birmingham, Ala.
Featured
Winemaker: Andre Tamers, DeMaison Cellars, Spain
Sienna, Chef Ken Vendrinski
ä
Featured
Guest Chefs: Carrie Nahabedian, NAHA, Chicago, Ill. and Chef Michael Schlow,
Radius, Boston, Mass.
Featured
Winemaker: TBD
Slightly North of Broad, Chef Frank
Lee ä
Featured
Guest Chef: Yannick Cam, La Paradou, Washington,
D.C.
Featured Winemaker: Kate MacMurray, MacMurray Ranch, Sonoma,
Calif.
Tristan, Chef Ciaran Duffy
ä
Featured
Guest Chef:
Chris
Hastings, Hot and Hot Fish Club, Birmingham,
Ala.
Featured
Winemaker: Dennis Fife, Fife Vineyards, Napa, Calif.
Sponsored
by: The Art Institute of Charleston
ä restaurant closed to the general public that evening
January 03, 2008
Join OTM downunder in February
The Melbourne Food & Wine Festival will be a major highlight of OTM's antipodean adventure, so get busy with your plans to join us there! Information is available at www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au. The World's Longest Lunch and Last Supper are iconic events. The main event dates are February 20 through March 3. We have heard rumors of appearances by Jamie Oliver and Michel Roux, celebrated owner of England's Michelin 3-Star Waterside Inn. Top OZ Chefs like Neil Perry of Rockpool are also expected. Want to plan more stuff into your trip? Email us so we can let you in on some of our actvities.
January 03, 2008
So what's a Cruck Barn?
See OTM in Pictures for the image. This example located near Burnsall in North Yorkshire is the first of its type to be built in more than 4 centuries. The key construction element is a complete tree trunk cut into two vertical halves that form an A-frame to support the roof, independent of the walls.
December 23, 2007
John Besh does it again!
Revisiting a long time OTM theme nice guys do finish first, we are pleased to report on new recognition for Chef John Besh, a truly nice guy. Restaurant August (you MUST go there) was named to NOLA's ten best once again, according to Times Picayune's restaurant critic Brett Anderson. New Orleans Magazine proclaimed John the Chef of the Yeasr.
But we think John would be proudest of the recognition gained by other people and places in his restaurant family. Anderson named Luke one of the best new restaurants, and New Orleans Magazine selected it as THE best new. Alan Shaya, Chef at Besh Staek was named a "Chef to Watch", and La Provence was featured as a North Shore favorite, both of these by The Times Picayune.
Congratulations to John and the Besh restaurant family, and let's hear it again for nice guys.
December 11, 2007
Better than Budweiser!!
OTM has always been astonished at overseas acceptance of Bud, a beverage we find quite taste and character-less. But now hear this! US craft brewers caried off 8 medals at the Stockholm Beer & Whisky Festival, including Golds for Rogue Ales Shakespeare Stout, Harpoon IPA, Dogfish Head 90 minute IPA and Sierra Nevada Porter. At the European Star Competition Rogue Ales Shakespeare Stout got a Bronze, but Brewery Ommegang Hennepin Farmhouse Saison, Boston Beer Samuel Adams (3!), Deschutes Brewery (3!), Great Divide Brewing Co. (2), Left Hand Brewing Co. and Victory Brewing Co. all received Gold medals. Congratulations to all these winners. In all US craft brewers won an astonishing 30 total medals while competing with 575 entries from 58 countries. Great stuff.
December 06, 2007
Australia's Jonah's doubles Relais & Chateaux luxury destinations
Jonah's located at Whale Beach, a 45 minute drive north of Sydney joins Chateau Yering as only the second Oz lodging to be honored by induction into the prestigious Relais & Chateaux group. Originally built in 1929, Jonah's completed a major renovation in 2004, and has become one of Australia’s most luxurious ocean front retreats. Each of its 11 rooms has a private balcony, giving a 180 degree view of the spectacular Pacific Ocean. Chef George Francisco's "star-studded" (pun intended) resume includes stints at San Francisco's Stars and Farallon and several great spots in Sydney since he was drawn there in 2001 by the exciting culinary scene. On the Menu heartily agrees with George, having reached the same conclusion in 2000 when Ann scoped the scene for the upcoming Olympics. Be sure to check out the list of past celebrity guests, soon to be joined by On the Menu, but be sure to book early as may dates in February next are already sold out. Get more information and make reservations at www.jonahs.com.au/.
December 03, 2007
Charleston SC Food & Wine Festival 2008
Plan early to attend the marvelous event, in its 3rd year next Feb 28-Mar 2. On the Menu was there last year, and would be next year except that we'll be in Australia. These southeners surely know how to throw a party. Good hotel rooms go fast! Get details at http://www.charlestonfoodandwine.com/, and tell them On the Menu sent you.
December 03, 2007
Daniel's Bar Boulud to open in January
Coveniently located opposite Lincoln Center, Chef Daniel's latest NYC venture opens next month. It will serve a seasonal Bistro menu, featuring artisinal house-made charcuterie by Parisian Gilles Verot laid out at a special bar on a great communal table, which is also deigned for wine tasting "in the round". Executive Chef Damian Sansonetti, Chef de Cuisine Laurent Kalkotour and Pastry Chef Ghaya Olivera are promoted from within Daniel's NY restaurant empire. Sommelier Steven Meir moves over from Daniel. Wine Director Daniel Johnnes shares DB's love of the wines of Burgundy and Northern Rhone wich are the main focus of the cellar. OTM has been overjoyed at all of Daniel's existing establishments; we anticipate that Bar Boulud will be just as good, and we'll be geting there as soon as we can to give a first hand report.
November 25, 2007
Bedford Springs Chef Konrad Meier at the James Beard House
Recently heard On the Menu, Chef Konrad will join colleagues from Benchmark Hospitality for a Beard Dinner in NYC on December 27. Get further details at www.jamesbeard.org. Benchmark is the management company which operates The Bedford Springs Resort.
November 18, 2007
Co-host Ann returns to On the Menu
We hope you are all as delighted as Co-host Peter that Ann is (mostly) back on the show, and she is recovering slowly but well. So OTM will be up and about just like before in the very near future. We appreciate your support during the past two months of great difficulty.
November 10, 2007
5 Diamonds for Lautrec at Nemacolin!
We're thrilled to congratulate Chef Dave Racicot and his team at Lautrec on receiving AAA's top rating, well deserved recognition for a great dining experience. To help you judge how big an honor this represents, Lautrec is one of only 2 restaurants nationwide to join the 5 Diamond ranks this year, the only one is the eastern half of the country and first ever in SW Pennsylvania. Only 46 properties hold this status in the entire country. You can find out more about Lautrec and the entire Nemacolin experience at www.nemacolin.com, and be sure to plan a visit for Chef Dave's fabulous tasting menu, backed by the top flight service team headed by Manager Michael Scherzberg.
November 04, 2007
The link for Crescent Dragonwagon's YouTube
Here is the video referenced in today's program during the interview with Crescent Dragonwagon. www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCy0adEF80M. Enjoy!
November 03, 2007
Jon Rowley & Taylor Shelfish - thx for the Birthday Bi-valves
We consumed the beautiful oysters that you sent for Peter's 65th at a single
sitting. Ann gave Peter a bit of help in the eating, but not in the
opening. Two dozen taste delights! Want to try some
yourself? Go to www.taylorshellfishfarms.com/ to
order for overnight delivery. They'll include a professional quality
shucking tool and instructions
October 30, 2007
Dave wants to turn your recipes into $
Do you have a fantastic recipe that you make at home? The Peoples Food Movement would like to turn it into $$$. Founded by Dave Hirschkop of Daves's Gourmet. Inc. Launched in September, the PFM already has 500 members and a goal of 10,000 within a year, and its free to join. If a recipe is accepted and gets launched by Dave's Gourmet, profits are split three ways between all PFM members, Dave's and the creator of the recipe. Get more details at www.davesgourmet.com and www.peoplesfoodmovement.org.
October 28, 2007
Kudos for Pittsburgh, OTM's Home City
Amidst a plethora of winter vacation getaways, New York Magazine cites Pittsburgh for its great jazz scene. Check out the entire article at http://nymag.com/travel/2007/winter/39306/. Not to be outdone, Tom Pastorius of Penn Brewery came back from the national Beer Festival with yet another medal, this time for his wheat beer. Well done Tom! Check out Penn Brewery at http://www.pennbrew.com/.
October 27, 2007
Appreciate the darkness with Green & Black chocolate samples
American's can celebrate turning back their clocks by tasting the intense darkness of G&B's splendid chocolate. Log on to www.appreciatethedarkness.com between 6PM November 3 and 6AM November 4, US Eastern Time to get your complimentary samples. Needless to say we like their dark chocolates best.
October 21, 2007
John Mariani names OTM guests among his 2007 Best
Congratulations to Michael Psilakis of Anthos, NY City named Chef of the
Year. We agree! Check out his thoughtful interview in OTM Audio
Archives, July 15, 2007. Kudos to William Bradley of Addison, San Diego,
whose fabulous cuisine matches the fabulous room; hear him in the March 4, 2007
program. Tarver King of Woodlands Resort & Inn, Summerville SC heads
the list of Chefs to Watch. Having dined with hin twice we know why.
He's in the December 31, 2006 show. We're also thrilled for Shaun Doty,
Shaun's Atlanta, his own place. We met him two restaurants ago at Mumbo
Jumbo, and knew then he was going to be a star. Restaurant of the Year
goes to Fearing's, Dallas, where Chef Dean surpasses the great cuisine that made
the Mansion on Turtle Creek so famous.
October 15, 2007
Louis Osteen opening in Las Vegas
Celebrated Southeast Chef Louis Osteen will debut two restaurants at Town Square on Nov 14. A leader in developing Lowcountry South cuisine, Osteen is "taking his show on the road" and will spend 6 months each year in Vegas, and back homer at Pawley's Island, SC. 70 seat Louis's Las Vegas and Louis's Fish Camp will mirror his like-named SC places. Fish Camp will be 5 times larger and more casual. Executive Chef Carlos Guia, formerly of Commander's Palave LV will oversee daily operations. Whether you're nostalgic about southern cooking, or you never tried it, Osteen's new ventures will be sure to please. Hear him for yourself in the April 29, 2007 OTM program, accessible under OTM Audio Archives.
October 13, 2007
Passion for Wine, Nov 3, listen to the October 14 program
Benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, headlining Chilean Montes wines and great grub from Sonoma Grille and Seviche, this is an event you shouldn't miss - it's set in the magnificent PPG Place Wintergarden. Hosts and major contributors Yves Carreau, Uri Markovitz and Patrick Mercier talk with Peter about the event in the October 14 program. To get your tickets call CFF at 412 321 4422, or go to www.cff.org, and search through the events calendar.
October 11, 2007
Sweet kick-off for NYC Food & Wine Festival
On November 16, 17 of NY's top pastry chefs will cater SWEET, a huge dessert party at The Waterfront. OTM guests Cat Cora, Alan Rosen of Junior's and Pichet Ong of P*Ong will be among them, also Michael Laiskonis, James Beard Outstanding Pastry Chef, from Le Bernadin. The event is billed as a kick-off for the NYC version of the South Beach Miami event, scheduled for fall 2008. Details at www.nycwineandfoodfestival.com.
October 09, 2007
TASTE THE SPIRIT OF THE REBELLION ON NOVEMBER 2, 2007
The spirit of the American Whiskey Trail continues with the 2007 Pittsburgh Whiskey Festival, Pittsburgh's first large-scale whiskey and premium spirits tasting event, to take place Friday, November 2, 2007, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. in the West Club Lounge at Heinz Field. Produced by Pittsburgh Wine Festival LLC, the Pittsburgh Whiskey Festival is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.
You're advised To Purchase Advance Tickets Now:
To
avoid the lines at the door, it is strongly recommended to purchase tickets now.
Tickets to the Pittsburgh Whiskey Festival, which include the tasting,
buffet and other whiskey-related activities, are $85 in advance and $95 at the
door.
Feeling Rebellious? Participants should take advantage of
the "TASTE THE SPIRIT OF THE REBELLION" Ticket Block -- 25 Tickets
for $1,875 (a $250 savings). Ticket Blocks are a perfect way to celebrate the
festival with friends, colleagues, clients, club members or bachelor parties.
Limited quantities are available.
PS, it's also Peter's birthday (we're not telling what age), so be sure to
join him for a celebratory dram.
Tickets are available for advance
purchase online at www.pittsburghwhiskeyfestival.com along with additional event information.
Designated Driver Tickets. Special discounted Designated Driver
tickets will be available for purchase at the door.
October 09, 2007
Co-host Ann's recovering from injuries due to a fall
But "the show must go on". Ann is working behind the scenes, and we hope she'll be back on the air soon. In the meantime Peter is flying solo in the studio. Good wishes for Ann can e-mailed to onthemenu@onthemenuradio.com.
September 24, 2007
Oysters & Littlenecks Galore, Oct 13-14
The 7th Annual Wellfleet OysterFest is featuring wonderful local clams this year, as well as the legendary oysters. There's also the famous Oyster Shuck-Off and lots of other fun activities. Check it out at www.wellfleetoysterfest.com.
September 24, 2007
9/28-29 Pittsburgh Comedy Lovers alert -Amish Burlesque
Brian Leach's rollicking good time Amish Burlesque returns to the stage at The Cabaret at Theater Square, Sep 28 and 29. Get information and tickets at www.pgharts.org/events, and look for the event listings by date.
September 17, 2007
Nov 2 Whiskey Festival tickets on sale
The spirit of the American Whiskey Trail continues with the 2007
Pittsburgh Whiskey Festival, Pittsburgh’s first large-scale whiskey and
premium spirits tasting event, to take place Friday evening, November 2,
2007 from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. in the West Club Lounge at Heinz Field.
The 2007 Pittsburgh Whiskey Festival will
attract and engage both “whiskey” and “whisky” enthusiasts alike. The
festival will feature more than 60 premier distilled spirits producers and will
present a wide variety of the finest Scottish, American, Canadian and Irish
whiskies, including single malts and bourbons. Premium tequila, rum, gin,
vodka and cognac will also be presented for tasting. The fest, sponsored by the
Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, will include a buffet and a silent auction.
For details go to www.pittsburghwhiskeyfestival.com.
September 16, 2007
Say it isn't so Joe! Tribute Sep 22
Not DiMaggio, Chiodo! Joe Chiodo will be sorely missed by his legion of friends and customers. His bar was world famous. Ann nominated it as a "Unique, down-home, funky and ethnic favorite" and Playboy's May 2000 issue agreed, publishing Ann's description "Huge collection of beers, war and sports memorabilia and customer's bras." How we miss Chiodo's!
If you want the chance to say goodbye, there will be a Tribute event September 22; details at www.post-gazette.com/pg/07256/817006-34.stm.
September 10, 2007
Attention PA diners - PA Preferred Best Chef 2008
OTM spent last weekend at the Pittsburgh Irish Festival judging this competition. Both the Pittsburgh qnd Great Lakes regionals were contested. Pittsburgh's winner was Curiel Bame of Seviche, a new favorite of ours, www.seviche.com, who outmatched Joseph Carei of Caleigh's Uniontown in the semi-final. Runner-up Wilbert Simms of Sonoma Grill, www.thesonomagrille.com, overcame Garth Deardorff of August Henry's City Saloon. Turns out Will used to work with Curiel at Sonoma before Curiel crossed Penn Avenue to launch Seviche, so it was like "Family Feud". In the Great Lakes regional Shaun Alcorn of Bella Cucina edged out Bertrand Artigues of Bertrand's Bistro, both spots to seek out in Erie, www.bellacucinapa.com and www.bertrandsbistro.com. Semi-finalists were Matthew Sarbak of Erie's Matthew's Trattoria and Martini Bar, www.matthewstrattoria.com and Jim Baldauf of Stonehouse Inn in Franklin, www.stonehouse-inn.com. Congratulations to all contestants, to the PA Dept of Agriculture and sponsor Sysco Foods, www.syscocentralpa.com. Finals are at the PA Farm Show in Harrisburg, January. It's sure to be an exciting event so mark your calendars now. Also be sure to add these fine dining discoveries to your list of places to visit.
September 09, 2007
September 28, BRCohn Charity Dinner and Concert
OTM attended this great weekend event last year, at the BRCohn winery in Glen Ellen, California. The Charity Auction Dinner kicks off the proceedings on September 28. The Saturday concert featuring The Doobie Brothers is already a sell-out, but we're guessing there will be some VIP ticketsleft. Three Dog Night highlights Sunday's concert. Details at www.brcohn.com.
September 09, 2007
November 2 & 3 Event dates for Pittsburgh area listeners
November 2nd, Pittsburgh Whiskyfest, at Heinz Field, brought to you by the organizers of the Pittsburgh Wine Festival. OTM will be there sipping wonderful whiskeys and celebrating Peter's birthday (its a very special but secret number). Next day The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation hosts Passion for Wine at the PPG Wintergarden. Save the dates and watch for further details.
September 01, 2007
RIP Beer Hunter Michael Jackson
On the Menu is saddened to learn of Michael's passing to a higher service. We're sure he's already pairing beer and food for the angels. A native of Peter's hometown of Huddersfield, the "other' Michael Jackson as he liked to call himself, followed his passion for the Best in Beer to become a (the!) world renowned expert in this field. More recently he turned his attention to Whiskey, and produced a definitive book on Whiskey worldwide. His OTM interview on this subject can be heard in the OTM Audio Archives, program date July 30, 2006. Please join us in raising your glass to Michael at the next opportunity. You can get two of his best books at OTM Bookshelf.
August 31, 2007
Eat Well Tour Harvest Barbecue and Webcast, Sep 7
The great Eat Well road trip makes its last stop at Gigi's Market at Greig Farm, located at Red Hook in the picturesque Hudson Valley. To get tickets contact GiGi Market, info@gigitrattoria.com, or the www.sustainabletable.org website.
August 31, 2007
Charleston Food & Wine Festival tickets on sale
Feb 28-March 2, 2008 seems like a long way off. But we bring this to your attention now as the Festival is sure to sell out and the best hotels like Charleston Place and Planter's Inn will fill up early. See details at www.charlestonfoodandwine.com. On the Menu was there this year, so we know it's a great event that you won't want to miss, especially if you love the Old South or the inventive new Southern cooking that great local Chefs are offering. There's also a great roster of top Chefs from throughout the country who team with the locals to create truly great dinners - John Besh from NOLA was Chef in charge of the dinner we attended last year, and it was just fabulous.
August 28, 2007
Shine/Dine on Harvest Moon
Slow Food Pittsburgh and Eleven are teaming up to offer a special dinner celebrating the harvest season, and the local products available at this time. You won't want to miss this great dining extravaganza created by Executive Chef Derek Stevens and his innovative kitchen team. The date, September 26, the time 6PM. Call 412 201 5656, or get further details at www.bigburrito.com/eleven/events/2007/09/slowww.shtml.
August 25, 2007
Abruzzo alimentary adventure!
Our old friends Alessio Digiulio and Giorgio Tomasi of ILEX just announced a Cooking Class Program in the beautifil village of Fontecchio. OTM stayed there with Alessio last year, and you can hear the interviews we recorded then - October 1, 2006 program under OTM Audio Archive. The all-inclusive cost is 1280 Euros, very reasonable for a 6-day program that starts and ends with shuttle service from and to Rome. Non-Italian speakers need not worry, the tour guides are fluent in English and several other languages. We recommend this adventure to all who would like to experience "real Italy". Details at www.ilexitaly.com.
August 18, 2007
Sustainable Table heading for Farm Aid
Check the progress of Sustainable Table's Eat Well cross country bus tour en route to the big concert at NYC's Randall's Island on September 9. The bus stops at sustainable farms and restaurants along the way. www.sustainabletable.org. Diane Hatz will be On the Menu with us September 30, so be sure to check in on that as well.
August 13, 2007
Wen Chocolates opens Denver storefront
Wen Chocolates, one of our favorite chocolatiers, is opening a shop in Denver at 1541 Platte Street. In addition to Chef William Poole's amazing truffles and chocolates, there'll be breads, pastries and cakes; and the chance to chat with the Chef. You can listen to his fun interview with On the Menu, June 11, 2006 by visiting OTM Audio Archives.
August 09, 2007
Beer nuts go Mile High - Oct 11-13!
Denver hosts the Great American Beer Fest, organized by the Brewer's Association. Over 400 breweries represented, 1700 beers for sampling, and a packed program of educational programs, beer dinners, etc. Check it out at www.beertown.org/events/gabf/index.htm. Sounds like a don't miss for "suds" fans. Brewer's Association division director Julia Hertz will be on our program August 26 so be sure to tune in via the media stream or audio archives.
August 02, 2007
Sonoma meets NOLA, August 25 at Landmark Vineyards
Our old friend and OTM guest Mary Colhoun of Landmark invites you to a unique wine and food event at the vinyard in Kenwood, CA. Chef Maria Vieages will create a special menu of Big Easy favorites that will be paired with Landmark's great new Pinot Noir, Kanzler 2005. We tasted this on a recent visit, and in a word it is sublime. Reservations required, call Jane Rogers at 707 833 0224. A portion of the $40 price will go to Katrina victims. There might just be a bit of great Landmark Chardonay available too.
August 01, 2007
Dickie Brennan to host Bourbon Bash
On August 16 top New Orleans Chef-restaurateur Dickie Brennan will prepare 5 courses paired with Small Batch Bourbons from Jim Beam. Fred Noe, great-grandson of the eponymous founder, is working with Dickie to develop expert food and drink pairings. Get details at www.bourbonhouse.com. You can hear an OTM interview with Dickie in the April 21, 2007 program under OTM Audio Archives.
July 24, 2007
How does John Besh find the time?
Just when you would assume Chef John Besh of Restaurant August, Besh Steak, La Provence, and Luke might be kicking back and enjoying some hard-earned vacation time, there he is on your television, out working on a shrimp boat and slaving away in his kitchen - with the eldest of his four boys, Brendan. The father-son team will be featured on an episode of the award-winning PBS program, Chefs A'Field, on Sunday, August 26 at 5pm EST (HD and digital) / 2pm and 11pm PST. Check the local station for local listings for local airtime.
July 17, 2007
New Iron Chef features several OTM guests
The Food Network has begun production of The Next Iron Chef. Competitors include John Besh and Traci Des Jardins. Judges include Michael Ruhlman and Donatella Arpaia. Just as a reminder, be sure to visit superstars John and Traci at their restaurants in New Orleans and San Francisco respectively, and Donatella at her GREAT new NYC restaurant Anthos. Listen to Anthos Chef Michael Psilakis in the July 15 broadcast. To find interviews with the others go to OTM Audio archive, select Find on this page from the Internet Explorer toolbars Edit drop downs and type in the name you want to locate.
July 15, 2007
Peter was careless with the July 8 program description
I apologizeto the OTM community for inadvertently posting the wrong program description for the July 8 broadcast. Those of you who listened already know about it. For the rest of you it was NOT a repeat of the July 1 show.
June 30, 2007
Chef Daniel Boulud has MOJO
For those who know him well this headline will not surprise. But it has a different meaning. The HD TV network MOJO has just announced a second season of After Hours with Daniel is in production. This behind the scenes series is a window into the tradition of great chefs gathering after work to cook for each other. The list of participating chefs and celebrity guests is too long to include here. This series is set in Los Angeles (season 1 was in NYC), and it will premiere in October.
June 20, 2007
Fancy Food Show NYC, July 8-10
100K products, 2150 Exhibitors and 22K visitors will throng at the Javis Center, and OTM will be among them. If you're interested in the latest and greatest sign up at http://www.specialtyfood.com, and let us know you will be there so we can try to connect.
June 19, 2007
Attention Pittsburgh Diners
June 25-28, make reservations not dinner! During Pittsburgh Restaurant Week more than 60 places will offer at least one choice of Three Courses for $30. Kevin Joyce of The Carlton and Chairman of the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association, an old friend of OTM, says this type of event has been very successful in other cities, and he recommends that everyone should take the opportunity to dine out at least once. Chris Jackson of 6Penn has participated in numerous restaurant weeks in other cities, and he'll be pairing wines with each course. Check www.pittsburghcelebrates.org for the most up to date list of participating restaurants, or just call your favorites to see what they'll be offering.
June 18, 2007
Go Cleveland, June 23!!
Imagine one place where you can get food from the Hitching Post, Blue Smoke, Galileo and Spago….all in one sitting. You can dine on appetizers from
On June 23, more than 60 world-renowned chefs and vintners will join together to serve up their finest specialties for University Hospitals of
Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck is, once again, honorary chairman of the event that is the only that attracts more than 1,500 guests to raise funds for the Ireland Cancer Center of University Hospitals of Cleveland.
Five Star chefs include Frank Ostini, chef and owner of the now famous Hitching Post, a setting in the Oscar-nominated film Sideways; Ken Callaghan of Blue Smoke in New York; Floyd Cardoz of Tabla in New York; Roberto Donna of Galileo in Washington, D.C.; Kerry Heffernan of Eleven Madison Park in New York; Wines will be poured by famed vintners from France, Italy, Canada and Argentina as well as California and Geneva, Ohio. Wineries include Blackstone Winery, Badia Coltibuono, Frog’s Leap Winery, Hess Collection Winery, Laurel Glen Vineyard and Toasted Head.
Call 440.446.0713 for more details or go to www.fivestarsensation.com
June 15, 2007
For Cooks who like to Grow
Cool Springs Press publishes month-by-month gardening guides for several states, including Pennsylvania, www.coolspringspress.net/publicity/monthbymonth.php.
Coming late this year will be instant gratification at their new
website www.digplantgrow.com where their authors will be reachable on-line.
June 12, 2007
Carricks say hi from Greenville SC
Edgewood Club tennis players and other old friends, check out the picture taken May 26 when OTM made a flying visit to Greenville. This city looks like a "happening place" well worth a visit.
June 12, 2007
Pittsburgh Restaurant Week, June 25-28
We're expecting more details any day now, but what we do know already is that more than 60 local restaurants are participating and offering Three Courses for $30 alongside their regulat dinner menu. www.pittsburghcelebrates.org or 412-325-2785 for more information.
June 08, 2007
US Open Visitors
First of all welcome to OTM's home city and Rand McNall places rated #1. If you're Looking for suggesions on where to dine, what sights to visit, drop us an e-mail at onthemenu@onthemenuradio.com and we'll be pleased to help. But don't ask us to get Open tickets!
June 05, 2007
Pittsburgh Restaurant Week - coming soon
Watch for details as soon as we get them, but mark your calenders now for the week of June 24.
June 05, 2007
The OTM Bookshelf - finding the book that you need
Be sure to use this to obtain the latest and greatest books about cooking, food and wine. We keep new ones and fold avorites close to the top of the list. Once you're on the OTM Bookshelf page you can search by keyword, like author name, or a word in the title using Edit/Find on this page. Then a simple click through will give you more information and the opportunity to order from Amazon right there at your fingertip. Want to let us know your favorite books so that we can include them? Send us an e-mail at onthemenu@onthemenuradio.com.
June 05, 2007
Ding Dong the Glitch is Gone
We apologize to all OTM listeners who tried to listen to or podcast the June 3 program in the last 2 days, or tried to listen during the broadcast time on Sunday. Due to an unforeseen glitch the program aired and was saved with the volume turned down. All is corrected so you can tune in at your convenience.
May 30, 2007
Endangered Exotic Destinations
Before you plan a trip to an exotic place, check out the on-line article about World destinations that are becoming endangered. You may have to register at www.forbes.com to have access, and the direct link is www.forbes.com/lifestyle/travel/
May 30, 2007
Charleston Place - Southern Hospitality Exemplified
OTM is in Charleston again - we love it here because the city has both charm and energy. With the Spoleto and Picolo Spoleto festivals going on you'd think it might be a bad time for a visit. But at CP's Club Level everything is calm, unhurried, the word serene springs to mind. Breakfast, day long
snacks and beverages, afternoon tea, cocktails and after dinner drinks are included. All of this and the pool, sundeck and spa will tempt you not to venture out into the city, but you must do this for some great sightseeing, shopping and dining. Make sure that the Charleston Grill, with its new exciting 4-part menu and renovated interior is your first
dining stop - and be sure to tell them you are friends of OTM. www.charlestonplace.com
May 18, 2007
5 Star Sensation, Cleveland, June 23
Honorary Chair Wolfgang Puck heads an ALL Star cast of Chefs at this great
event, including past OTM interviewees Floyd Cardoz, Gordon Hammersley, and
Luciano Pellegrini. Nobu Matsuhisa, Roberto Donna, Alan Wong - the list
goes on! Fine wines from names like Caymus, Cosentino, Duckhorn, Miner
Family.......... Get details and tickets at www.uhhospitals.org/irelandcancer/tabid/2314/Default.aspx.
University Hospital's Ireland Cancer Center is the deserving beneficiary.
OTM will be there interviewing celebrities and guests, so plan to join us.
May 17, 2007
Pittsburgh Taste of the Nation event a great success!
The event last evening was lively and well-attended. Celebrity Guest Chef Floyd Cardoz of Tabla in NYC inspired local Chefs to create their own wonderful taste sensations, many with matching cocktails. Congratulations to the organizers! Go to www.strength.org to find out more about this great charitable organization, and don't miss next year's event, which of course you'll read about right here.
May 10, 2007
London websites
To help you get more information and make reservations.
For restaurants without
websites, the street address and phone number (for dialing from the
Amaya, Chutney Mary and
Veeraswamy, www.realindianfood.com
L’Atelier de Joel Rouchon,
Arbutus, www.arbutusrestaurant.co.uk
Assaggi,
Benja,
Bentley’s, www.bentleys.org
Blue Elephant, www.blueelephant.com
Brown’s, www.brownshotel.com
Capital, www.capitalhotel.co.uk
Chez Bruce, www.chezbruce.co.uk
China Tang, www.thedorchester.com/restaurants_bars/china_tang.html
Club Gascon, Cellar Gascon,
Comptoir Gascon, Le Cercle, www.clubgascon.com
The Fat Duck, www.fatduck.co.uk
Fino and Barrafina, www.finorestaurant.com
Galvin’s Bistro de Luxe, www.galvinbistrotdeluxe.co.uk
Galvin at Windows,
www.hilton.co.uk/property/1201_Restaurant.jsp?vid=11377338&hid=11000749
Le Gavroche, www.le-gavroche.co.uk
Gordon Ramsay, www.gordonramsay.com/royalhospitalroad/
Hakkasan,
Hibiscus, www.hibiscusrestaurant.co.uk
The Ledbury, www.theledbury.com
Lindsay House, www.lindsayhouse.co.uk
Locanda Locatelli, www.locandalocatelli.com
Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, www.manoir.com
Mocoto, www.mocoto.co.uk
Nahm, www.nahm.como.bz
Nobu, www.noburestaurants.com
Petrus, www.gordonramsay.com/petrus/
Pied a Terre, www.pied-a-terre.co.uk
Providores, www.providores.co.uk
Rasoi Vineet Bhatia, www.vineetbhatia.com
River Café, www.rivercafe.co.uk
Roast, www.roast-restaurant.com
Roka, www.rokarestaurant.com
Sketch, www.sketch.uk.com
The Square, www.squarerestaurant.com
The Waterside Inn, www.waterside-inn.co.uk
Zafferano, www.zafferanorestaurant.com
Zaika, www.zaika-restaurant.co.uk
Zuma,
www.zumarestaurant.com
May 10, 2007
Luke, New Orleans, new from John Besh
Classic New Orleans Brasserie cuisine is the specialty of just opened Luke, superchef John Besh's latest restaurant venture. Having recently sampled John's cooking at Restaurant August, OTM heartily recommends that you include Luke in your dining agenda in the Crescent City. www.lukeneworleans.com for details.
May 06, 2007
Definitive review of London dining options
Check out our just published Tribune-Review feature published today. Just click OTM in Print.
May 05, 2007
You too can meet Chef Floyd Cardoz
OTM dined at Tabla www.tablany.com in NY City yesterday. Don't miss the chance to meet Chef Floyd Cardoz and taste his superb, subtly-spiced creations at Pittsburgh's Taste of the Nation, May 16. Details at www.tasteofthenationpgh.org. Check out Ann pictured with Floyd at OTM in Pictures.
May 02, 2007
Hurry for tickets to Taste of the Nation, May 16 in Pittsburgh, other dates elsewhere
As you emerge from the elevator on the 17th floor of the Omni William Penn, you will be captivated by the aromatic installation of Indian spice offerings. Pittsburgh’s legendary pianist Harry Cardillo will start the evening during the VIP reception. Organic Indian-spice-infused cocktails will be
offered by Pittsburgh’s top mixologists, curated by Alana Bly of The Firehouse Lounge. Special performances from Pittsburgh’s only professional Indian classical dance company will stimulate your eyes while the Indian-fusion DJs stimulate your ears.
Beautifully dressed cupcake models and colorful friends, courtesy of designer Kelly Freed of Ulterior Motive, and Pittsburgh’s
top chefs will join Chef Floyd Cardoz to stimulate your palate. Some of the most fortunate guests will go home with live and silent auction items, including chef's dinners, weekend culinary get-aways, dinners at some of the most exciting restaurants in the region, cookbook packages, art and more.
Participants
include many of Pittsburgh's best restaurants and purveyors of fine food and beverages 17th St. Cafe, Bigelow Grille, Café Zao, The Carlton, Casbah, Dozen, Eleven, The Firehouse Lounge, Iovino's Café, Kaya, The Library, Mediterra Bakehouse, Nine on Nine, The Palm Court Lounge, Pennsylvania Macaroni Co., Raise Your Spirits, Seviche, Six Penn Kitchen, Soba, The Terrace Room, UUBU 6, Vanilla Pastry Studio, Willow Restaurant, The Willow Room, and more.
100 PERCENT OF TICKET SALES BENEFIT THE FIGHT TO END CHILDHOOD HUNGER:
Local beneficiaries: Just Harvest Education Fund, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center.
Share Our Strength's Taste of the Nation presented by American Express is the world's
finest and largest culinary benefit supporting the fight to end childhood hunger in America. Every year, thousands of the best chefs and restaurateurs donate their time, talent and cuisine at over 70 events throughout the United States
and Canada.
May 02, 2007
Taste of the Nation across the USA
To find out dates and details of the event in a city near you, go to http://taste.strength.org/site/PageServer?pagename=TOTN_homepage
April 30, 2007
Pittsburgh Places Rated # 1 Again!
Pittsburgh is certainly pleased to be back on top as America’s #1 Most Livable City. Now comes a behind-the-selection-scene dish as On the Menu co-hosts, Ann and Peter Haigh, discuss the details about cities’ boasts and busts with David Savageau, publisher of Places Rated Almanac. The show airs May
27.
April 30, 2007
What's coming up On the Menu?
Upcoming celebrity guests include: Bon Appetit magazine’s Dorie
Greenspan, discussing Baking: From My Home to Yours (June 3); Patricia Wells, veteran food writer and restaurant critic for The International Herald Tribune, out with her tenth book, Vegetable Harvest (June 10); and Master Sommelier Evan Goldstein, partnering with his mother, Chef Joyce Goldstein, in Perfect Pairings
(June 17).
Recent interviews on the website, searchable and available with a click: Chef Floyd Cardoz, Tabla; Paula Disbrow, Cowboy Cuisine; John Besh, Restaurant August, New Orleans; Chef Gary Danko, San Francisco; Dun Gifford, Oldways Table; and dozens more
April 28, 2007
Oyster Wines
The beloved bi-valve is notoriously difficult to pair with wine- but not any more. Bill Taylor and Jon Rowley of Taylor Shellfish Farms, old friends of OTM (listen to their interview in the February 11, 2007 program) are seeing to that. 10 wines finished up in a tie for 1st place in the just concluded Pacific Oyster Wine Competition. Get details at www.oysterwine.com. Five preliminary round judges had the enviable task of consuming 1200 Kumamoto oysters. There is no report on the quantity consumed by the finals panel of 12-13 judges - they probably lost count. The 2007 winners will be featured at a special oyster and wine event in Monterey, June 8 -www.montereywine.com.
April 27, 2007
Spread the Sharing Cities
Roving reporters are scheduled to visit the following cities.
Raleigh April 26-28
Charlotte April 28-29
Cleveland April 28-30
Detroit April 30 - May 3
Cincinnati May 3-6
Louisville May 6-9
But you can also enter your story online at www.spreadthesharing.com.April 26, 2007
Second Harvest - Fighting Hunger in the USA
38 million people, including 14 million children, 11% of US households are at risk of hunger, a bigger number than ever before. www.spreadthesharing.com will help you join the fight. Launched last week by country music star Amy Grant, STS has the goal of collecting 1 million stories about food sharing and similar acts of kindness. Sponsor Country Crock kicked off the campaign with a donation of 1 million meals, and they'll donate one more for every sharing act
that is reported. Recipient of the donations is the Nation's Food Bank Network. Enter your story on the website, and even look for information about when STS Roving Reporters will be in your city so that you have the chance to appear on a streaming newscast. We hear they are in Pittsburgh this week and Cleveland next, and we'll add more of the schedule when we can get it.
April 23, 2007
Not too late to sign up for the Pittsburgh Wine Festival
Thursday tasting tickets are still available but HURRY. The VIP part is almost sold out. Blocks of 10 tickets for the Grand Tasting offer a 20% discount. Call 412-281-2682. Check out www.pittsburghwinefestival.com for other details, including top winemakers who'll be there, a silent auction, private home and restaurant wine dinners... Don't miss out!
April 18, 2007
Slow Food & Pittsburgh Wine Festival
SFP sponsors a tasting of wines from untraditional US regions; Long Island-NY, MI, VA and PA's Chaddsford. Find out why wine critics are applauding! April 27, 6.30-9PM at Duane Rieder Photography, 3339 Penn Ave. Lawrenceville. $45 cost includes wine tasting and hearty bites from Piccolo Forno and Mediterra. E-mail your reservation to neemes@aol.com and mail your check to Jack Neemes, 265 Morrison Drive, Pittsburgh 15216.
April 18, 2007
Taste of the Nation Pittsburgh
Support this great cause on May 16 at the Omni William Penn; VIP reception at 5.30PM, general admission at 6.30PM. Guest Chef Floyd Cardoz from NY's acclaimed Tabla will prepare his signature New Indian cuisine, alongside leading local chefs. Details and ticketing at www.tasteofthenationpgh.org. You'll sample cocktail concotions from Pittsburgh's top mixologists. Music from Harry Cardillo, silent and live auctions and a chance to chat with OTM
... What more could you ask for?
April 15, 2007
Pittsburgh Wine Festival - more info on-line
Check for an updated list of participating wineries, especially the showcased and VIP reception only pours. www.pittsburghwinefestival.com. Also find out which local restaurants are having special dinners, and the wineries they're teamed with. Tickets are selling fast, and the VIP tasting is almost sold out, so be sure to act quickly to avoid disappoinment. And OTM will be there, so please say hello.
April 11, 2007
Pittsburgh Cheese Lovers take note
OTM good buddy Lon Durbin, now Executive Chef at Whole Foods, is offering a series of cheese "classes" at the Eastside store, 7-8PM on Tuesdays. Classes are free, but you must call 412-441-7960x215 to make a reservation. Upcoming dates and subjects are:
4/17 Picnic in Provence
4/24 Cheddar Chatter
5/1 AmericanMasters
5/8 To Brie or not to Brie
5/15 Tuscan Picnic
5/22 Not Your Momma’sCheese Sandwich
You can bring your own wine to imbibe during tasting.
April 10, 2007
New York's Anthos is Greek food lover’s Silver Lining
Those driven to despair by the closing of Dona, the Greek-Italian wonder restaurant created by Donatella Arpaia and Michael Psilakis need worry no more. The dynamic duo are back and better than ever at Anthos, at 36 W52nd, phone 212 582 6900. The same team that made Dona such an instant success delivers even newer expressions of Greek food as haute cuisine. Chef promises “This is the defining moment ...."
April 09, 2007
April 21, Grilling Guru coming to Pittsburgh
Rick Rodgers, author of the just-published Kingsford Complete Grilling Cookbook, will be demonstrating the art of backyard grilling at Giant Eagle's two Market District stores on April 21. For details see http://www.marketdistrict.com/Article3.aspx?pg=24
April 05, 2007
... and the Cotton is High!
High Cotton in Greenville SC opened its doors March 5. Namesake of Maverick Southern Kitchens' great Charleston dining destination, HC Greenville brings the unique flavors of Low Country cuisine to this dynamic Upstate metro. Top toque Jason Scholz opened the original HC. It's a family affair too - Jason's new bride Julia Romano Scholz is one of the restaurant managers. www.high-cotton.net.
March 30, 2007
Bon Appetit says Viva Las Vegas
Standing tall among the world's great food destinations, Las Vegas has redefined the culinary experience and taken it to new heights. Bon Appétit celebrates the best of Las Vegas and its spectacular assemblage of world-class chefs, sommeliers and new dining meccas with the Culinary & Wine. Enjoy intimate dinners with BA editors, celebrity chefs and high-rollers from the world of food and entertainment. Indulge in heavenly cuisine, a concert under the stars, a fabulous wine auction, workshops and demonstrations led by master chefs, and a full roster of lavish events that will dazzle your taste buds and excite your senses. Get details at www.bonappetitfocus.com.
March 29, 2007
Pittsburgh Wine Festival Schedule now on-line
The kick off event is an April 21 dinner with former Whie House Chef Walter Scheib and a Liv Auction of collectable wines, etc. at The Carlton. Call 412-391-4152. For all the details http://www.pittsburghwinefestival.com, and download the schedule.
March 19, 2007
John Besh reopens La Provence on April 4
New Orleans superstar chef John Besh reopens La Provence, location of his first Chef de Cuisine posting. John bought the restaurant from his mentor Chris Kerageogiou earlier this year, closed it for renovation, and it's now ready to
go. The web site www.laprovencerestaurant.com is out of date, but it will give you directions and a phone number. Be sure to visit Restaurant August in New Orleans as well. OTM dined ROYALLY here a couple of weeks ago. More news about La Provence soon..........
March 17, 2007
March 11 program is now on-line
The problem has been corrected, so you can click to Listen now or download. Regular podcasters should get the download as a new program.
March 15, 2007
True Chocolate!!
Theo Chocolate might just be the best we've ever tasted. Fair trade and organic besides. Chocoholics should check this out at www.theochocolate.com. Enjoy!!
March 14, 2007
March 11 Archive and Podcast are wrong
Due to a glitch at Edge1550 the March 11 program is not correct. What's there is the music program which follows. We hope this will be corrected by tomorrow & we'll post another update when it is.
March 05, 2007
Feb 28-March 2, 2008, Save the Dates!
Just returned from the Charleston SC Food & Wine Festival. OTM wants to highly recommend this event. Great hospitality, great guest Chefs, local Chefs and Food-Wine purveyors combine to make a great experience in this absolutely charming c