In this special installment of Snacky Tunes, Darin continues the conversation on how the Los Angeles culinary community is responding to the devastating L.A. fires. First, we welcome back Brad Metzger and Jacqui Leanza, who are behind one of the most incredible fundraising dinners—Chefs Love LA. The event features an all-star lineup including Ruth Reichl, Daniel Boulud, Nyesha Arrington, Billy Harris, Phil Rosenthal, Jeremy Fox, Curtis Stone, Jonathan Waxman, and more!!! The dinner at the legendary Lawry’s is raising critical support for World Central Kitchen and Restaurants Care.

In the second half of the show, we sit down with Zak Fishman, owner of Prime Pizza and a longtime Altadena local, to discuss the impact of the fires on the neighborhood and the restaurant community. He shares his experience navigating the aftermath and the path to rebuilding.

For those looking to support LA restaurants, check out the latest Snacky Tunes Substack for donation links and action items.

Snacky Tunes: Music is the Main Ingredient, Chefs and Their Music (Phaidon), is now on shelves at bookstores around the world. It features over eighty of the world’s top chefs who share personal stories of how music has been an important, integral force in their lives. The chefs also give personal recipes and curated playlists too. It’s an anthology of memories, meals and mixtapes. Pick up your copy by ordering directly from Phaidon, or by visiting your local independent bookstore. Visit our site, www.snackytunes.com for more info.

Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support Snacky Tunes by becoming a member.

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In this episode of Snacky Tunes, Darin continues the conversation about the ongoing challenges faced by the Los Angeles restaurant community in the wake of the devastating fires. Over two weeks in, the fires continue to impact the city with little clarity on the road ahead.

First, Darin welcomes back Charles Namba and Courtney Kaplan of Tsubaki, Ototo, and Camélia, who share their experiences navigating the crisis. The duo instead provides an honest look at how the fires have affected their business and the broader restaurant industry—facing a 50% drop in covers, grappling with outdoor dining decisions, and doing their best to keep staff employed. They offer valuable insights and practical tips on how listeners can support their favorite spots during these uncertain times.

In the second half of the show, Courtney Storer joins the conversation to discuss how she has been feeding the community through her company, Coco’s to GoGo, an inspiring culinary initiative driven by a dedicated network of volunteers. She shares actionable advice on organizing community support, the importance of self-care for those committing to long-term relief efforts, and her goal to make her nonna inspired food feel like a warm hug.

Snacky Tunes: Music is the Main Ingredient, Chefs and Their Music (Phaidon), is now on shelves at bookstores around the world. It features over eighty of the world’s top chefs who share personal stories of how music has been an important, integral force in their lives. The chefs also give personal recipes and curated playlists too. It’s an anthology of memories, meals and mixtapes. Pick up your copy by ordering directly from Phaidon, or by visiting your local independent bookstore. Visit our site, www.snackytunes.com for more info.

Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support Snacky Tunes by becoming a member.

Snacky Tunes is Powered by Simplecast.

In this heartfelt and timely episode of Snacky Tunes, host Darin Bresnitz delves into the early recovery efforts following the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles, including the Palisades and Eaton Canyon areas. The culinary community, as always, is at the forefront of healing, offering food, love, and support to those in need.

This week’s lineup features three incredible guests:

• Mary Sue Milliken: The renowned chef and co-founder of Border Grill discusses her work with World Central Kitchen, her deep ties to LA, and how the culinary world comes together in times of crisis, like Re:Her & The James Beard Awards.
• Andy Valdez from HomeState: Andy shares how the beloved Tex-Mex spot mobilized to deliver breakfast tacos to first responders and emergency workers, offering comfort through food in challenging times. Sign up here if you would like to volunteer.
• Travis Hayden: Returning from last week’s episode, Travis reflects on how the fires have impacted him personally, as both a member of the culinary industry and a victim of the disaster.

This episode also includes a robust list of resources for listeners who want to support the recovery efforts, emphasizing the importance of financial aid, gift cards, and direct restaurant donations. Join us as we explore how LA’s food community is working tirelessly to rebuild, one meal at a time. Tune in, take action, and remember: Together, we can help restore what was lost.

Snacky Tunes: Music is the Main Ingredient, Chefs and Their Music (Phaidon), is now on shelves at bookstores around the world. It features over eighty of the world’s top chefs who share personal stories of how music has been an important, integral force in their lives. The chefs also give personal recipes and curated playlists too. It’s an anthology of memories, meals and mixtapes. Pick up your copy by ordering directly from Phaidon, or by visiting your local independent bookstore. Visit our site, www.snackytunes.com for more info.

Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support Snacky Tunes by becoming a member.

Snacky Tunes is Powered by Simplecast.