Dining On A Dime

We first heard from Lisa Schoenbeck, who owns Good Good Chocolates--a artisan chocolatier who our host first met during an event years ago, and has been buying chocolates from ever since. Lisa is passionate about only using the highest quality ingredients to create Good Good Chocolate's Bon Bon and Chocolate Bars, something you can taste in every silky bite. The flavors, artistry, and textures that result from her passion will keep you coming back again...and again. And to make it even easier to visit, she is opening up a new location! So tune in to hear the exciting news and find out where and when you can experience her chocolates for yourself!https://www.goodgoodchocolates.comWe next heard from Jaclyn Ferry who is the owner and self-taught baker behind Ferry Good Treats. Jaclyn began her baked goods journey after making a Marshmallow Whipped Cheesecake for a friend. After tasting it, that same friend encouraged Jaclyn to start selling her cheesecake online--86 orders later, Ferry Good Treats was born.

We first heard from Jack Vo who owns the Baltimore, MD location of Bambu. According to their website, "In 2008, four Vietnamese sisters – Anh, Kelly, Jenny & Julie – opened their first Bambū Shoppe in the heart of the Vietnamese community in San Jose, California. Their exceptionally friendly service and large menu of fresh, healthy, and authentic Chè dessert drinks, crisp boba milk teas, signature Vietnamese coffees, real fruit smoothies and exotic juices captured the attention of the entire San Francisco Bay Area. Today, there are 63 Bambū Shoppes located in 24 states, Canada, and the Philippines and 9 Shoppes in development. Today Bambū continues to deliver a great customer experience and serve their one of a kind unique and 100% vegetarian drinks “Just the way you love it.”https://www.drinkbambu.com/John Cohl, who is an OG of the food culture, former host of Dining On A Dime, and currently a Moderator of South Jersey Food Scene joined the show with an update on what's been happening with him since ret

From a food truck, to a new owner, and a sneak peak at a new restaurant--this week's Food Farms And Chefs Radio Show opens the door to hear from the individuals that make dining out an amazing experience!We first heard from Jaime Juliano, who is the Owner & Pitmaster behind Big Papa Jai’s BBQ. Jaime's business was born from several influences and inspirations: From family members who influenced him, recipes he loved as a child, and finding inspiration while watching a Food Network show with his wife during the pandemic--Jaime found his passion for all things BBQ. Soon after, Jaime was using his skills as a mechanic to weld together a custom smoker so he could have a traveling barbecuer. Today, Jaime has since updated his BBQ equipment as well as offering creative takes and tried-and-true staples for Big Papa Jai's BBQ.Speaking of staples, the owner behind one of Philadelphia's favorite ice cream shops joined us on the show. Cristina Torres, who acquired Weckerly's Ice Cream about a year ago, gave us the s

You may want to pay attention to what goes into your body, including where the foods and beverages you consume are grown and raised.  This is one of the things that Ecologist Mark J. Easter discussed on the show and in his newly published book, "The Blue Plate: A Food Lover's Guide to Climate Chaos."  The impact that microbes have, whether negative or positive, on Earth's environment can change based on actions we take.  In his book, he combines his years of research and experience in his field and focuses his attention on what fuels Earth's carbon emissions crisis, and how we can help reverse the cycle through our consumption of food.  He breaks down each chapter like a plate of food while attending a dinner party, combining his scientific knowledge with personal history and stories.  If nothing else, it may change your mind and view on where you buy, eat, and discard your meals and perhaps inspire you after reading Mark's book, "The Blue Plate."(https://www.patagonia.com/product/the-blue-plate-a-food-lovers

You'll be delighted to know that the NJ farming community is looking out for your best interest, in particular a group of like-minded individuals who formed the Northeast Organic Farmers Association (NOFA) New Jersey chapter. In doing so, they've created an organization which focuses on providing information, fun activities, and yes--produce, from the local farmers, interest groups, educators, and AGRO enthusiasts alike. We've said it numerous times, and I'll say it again: Without farmers, we wouldn't have clothes, food, or beverages. The same goes for all the small (and large) vendors who create goods and services to make those provisions available to all of us, and NOFA is aiming to bring all of them together so everyone can benefit from fresh organic goods, shelf-stable organic products, and so much more! You'll have a blast learning about NOFA , and stay tuned to find out some of the exciting events that NOFA is offering this Fall and Winter!(https://nofanj.org)Next, you'll hear from Casey Carroll who

Passion for creating and enjoying the highest quality of chocolates are what drives the owner of Le Rouge Handmade Chocolates and Cakes by Aarti to begin her business.  Aarti Khosla was inspired by memories of her father bringing home chocolates from France.  Years later, Aarti noticed there was a lack of artisanal chocolate shops where she and her family resided. Seeing a need, she began her pursuit of owning a chocolatier business in her hometown of Westport, CT.  Today, her decadent chocolates and custom cakes have won her many accolades from her community and localized media, as well as gaining the attention of our own host Amaris Pollock.  Aarti, who's passion for chocolate-making stems from worldly influences, combines unique flavors to tempt everyone's palates and creates each one by hand. So if you're craving richly decadent chocolates, make sure to stay tuned for the full hour of Food, Farms, & Chefs! (https://lerougebyaarti.com)"Big Mike" Peacock began his Australian meat pie business in the ear

We began the show with a venue that celebrates all things Austrian & German year-round, with surprisingly delicious twists to what you might think you'd find at a German-inspired pub. Entrepreneur Bibi Singh and her Culinary Director, Chef Pablo Torres decided to start an open The Hoboken Biergarten after Singh acquired The Pilsener Haus & Biergarten--a former business which is well known to locals and visitors alike. Armed with ideas on how to update and expand upon the venue and menu, they made sure that Hoboken Biergarten's food offerings are approachable to everyone's dietary needs--something that has already gained their pub-restaurant some notable attention. Currently, both Chef Torres and Singh are preparing for this year's Oktoberfest, so keep an eye out for specials, events, and so much more! Tune in to find out more about both Bibi Singh and Chef Torres, what they offer, and how you can enjoy your next happy hour when it's actually convenient by listening to Food Farms and Chefs Radio Sho

We began with an inside look with Jake Kahan, the Chef and Partner of Sam and Maggie's Dockside Grill, located in Pasadena, MD. Having owned properties under Rockcreek Management Co. at Fairview Marina, it was a life-long dream of Jake's father to own a restaurant.  Although neither Marc nor Jake have attended culinary institute, both father and son dove into owning a family-run restaurant business with a huge success!  Extending the awe-inspiring vibes with views of the marina, each week the team of family members work together, creating a new menu for guests to enjoy.  Sam and Maggie's offers latin and caribbean-inspired cuisines, along with cocktails that are just a seasonally inspired as their dining options.  If you're looking to host an intimate wedding, gathering, or simply wish to enjoy a delightful night out--tune in so you can taste what the best of Pasadena, MD offers! (https://www.samandmaggies.com)Patrick Kohr is a third-generation of ice cream aficionados, and his family's name might ring a bell

Frank Sinatra had it right when he sang, "Luck be a lady...tonight," as my first two guests are co-owners of The Lady Fingers Bakery & Bar, located in Bloomfield, NJ.  Owners Lauren Kavourakis and Samara Cinque met while working, and continued working inside restaurants in New York and New Jersey, and at one point came up with a plan to start their own business.  Today, they are serving up a wonderful array of baked goods, meals, coffee, and cocktails that visitors keep coming back for.  And soon, they will be celebrating their one-year anniversary of Lady Fingers on Sept 28th, so stay tuned to find out how you can taste what they have to offer and help celebrate their first year! related link: https://ladyfingers.comPhiladelphia's known for their love of a good 'underdog' story, and my next guest, Richie Tevlin is banking on his up-coming brewery's branding, Space Cadet Brewing Company.  Richie's focus is to offer single-batch brews that offer unique only-offered-once craft brew experiences.  He coupled

I was first joined by Executive Chef Maurizio Peccolo from Ristorante Lucca, located in Bordentown, NJ. Chef Peccolo has traveled the globe, sharing his vast experience in the creative art of authentic Italian cuisine. Having earned global recognition, awards, and author of several recipe books, Chef Peccolo shares his background and passion for the industry he loves. His passion far exceeds the simplicity of an indulgent and delicious meal - as he takes pride in his achievements, Including showing a medal of honor given to him by (fill in the blank), as well as the honor of being a International Judge of the Tiramisù World Cup in 2021. His many achievements are remarkable and well-deserved, however, what he loves most is to create dining experiences for all to enjoy. So, he joined me to chat about the menu and desserts that he's created for Ristorante Lucca, and how you can indulge all your senses in them too.Related Links:https://ristorantelucca.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/maurizio-peccolo-20264323b/

Sydney Grims' family has been involved in the hospitality industry for several generations, a family that strongly believes in supporting the organizations and communities surrounding them.  So when the original owner of White Dog Cafe was looking to sell her restaurant, one that Judy Wicks founded through her passion for preservation, the Grims' and their equal passion were the perfect fit.  Years later, Sydney Grims and her father, Marty Grims have continued to grow the White Dog Cafe brand by acquiring, renovating, and offering a delicious variety of experiences through their company FearlessRestaurantsGroup (FRG). Having recently opened White Dog Cafe in Chester Springs, Grims is preparing to open three new concepts under Fearless Restaurants; if you want to hear more about them, then be sure to listen to the show and hear all about it from Sydney!(https://www.fearlessrestaurants.com)I next spoke with Koren Draper, who has worked within the catering industry for years. As a result of the pandemic she shif

The world is a busy place, and we all know a good thing when we taste (and smell) it...and my next guest, Jonathan Pastore and his company Bean2Bean Coffee, is here to help you keep up with life's demanding pace. Jonathan is no stranger to the allure of a rich, dark brew--he started out working in the culinary industry since he was a youth. His passion for the industry grew stronger as he moved onto college, learning the business behind marketing food and beverage companies. Today, his passion for an eye-opening cup-o-joe filtered into providing locals a comforting cup through both the Bean2Bean Cafe, located inside of Billy Penn Studios and to anyone interested in buying their products wholesale. But our focus wasn't limited to that--tune in to hear from Jonathan what else is brewing for this coming September--you'll be barking up the right tree if you do!My next guest who is the Owner of Lost Worlds Brewing Company, David Hamme, joined Food Farms and Chefs to talk about how he transitioned from his care

Whatever you're looking for, whether to eat, drink, or wear an item...it boils down to the farmers that grow and tend to the land and animals. More importantly we need farmers like Matthew Braud who co-owns Hollow House Farms in Furlong, PA to help bring the farming community new ways to maintain regenerative and sustainable practices, so that local produce, livestock, and products will be available for generations to come. Matthew joined me to discuss the importance of his farming practices, what he and his wife offer, and a deeper understanding of what sustainable aquaponic farming is.I next spoke with a long-time friend of the show, Megan Hilbert who is the CEO and Owner of Reds Rolling Restaurant I, II, and III. Megan originally joined the show in 2020, and has since grown her business from owning one truck to now having a fleet. There's a reason for that, as her entrepreneurial spirit was backed with a PR & Marketing education, along with a history within the food-truck and restaurant industry.

Our friend, Niki Toscani, joined us on the show and we did a deep dive, discussing the many collaborations that both she and her co-founder (and husband) have participated in, including their about-to-launch collaboration and turning lemonade into a refreshing and unique mix! I know I was excited to hear about it, and even more excited to taste it once it launches!!! But you don't have to wait to bite into some of their delicious and crisp pickles--you can either pick up a batch at your local store, or have them shipped to your door (nationwide!)!!! If you want to hear more about it, and what Niki and Mike are doing in the very near future (including a sneak teaser for Philly Magazine's Best Of Event)...tune in till the end and find out!Speaking of collaborating for the benefit of everyone...my next guest is the Market Manager for Rancocas Woods Farmers Market (RWFM) which happens every Sunday running until Oct 13th. Allison Coulter, who goes by Allie, is well versed in farming and the farmers market cult

We began with Jess Remshard and Liz Denon, two cousins who just happened to bartend in order to make a little extra money.  That side-hustle eventually blossomed into a business idea now known as Spartacus Events.  Their mobile bar can accommodate whatever your party-planning needs are including options for a full bar, a smaller pop-up bar, and more!  So reach out to Jess and Liz  to add that extra wow-factor for your next party, celebration, or event!Family means everything to our next guest, which includes making you feel like part of the family when you visit his restaurants in Hatboro, PA.  Bob Ross and his wife both worked in the culinary industry, and according to Bob, he always wanted to start a restaurant of his own.  Years later that dream came to fruition as he and his wife opened Gypsy Blu.   Their new venture was a huge success, so the Ross' decided to expand on their dream and have since opened a second restaurant, Ross & Co.  And stay tuned to find out the exciting new events and offerings a

My first guest offers a wealth of insight and availability for enjoying healthy, energizing, and chef-driven meals for at home or on-the-go. Anjali Gupta began her career in the corporate world, but found herself drawn into the culinary industry. She was drawn there as a result of leading a too-busy life and wanting delicious and healthy meals that were easy to prepare for her family. This eventually led to her creating Pinwheel Provisions. Now, listeners like yourself (and everyone you know) can eat hearty and nutritious meals while traversing your busy lives. Pinwheel Provisions offers flavor-packed ready to heat and eat, and build-your-own meals inside her BrynMawr-based business. And if you're not looking to cook at home, there's something for everyone--as Pinwheel Provisions also offers a select menu that you can grab-n-go at anytime!Friends are like family and so are our pets, so I was excited to have my friend, Jaimi Blackburn who is the Director of Public Relations for Fearless Restaurant Group on

Will Porras, who is the Executive Chef at Vault Brewing Company in Yardley, PA learned and honed his knowledge as a chef while working inside various kitchens while growing up, and further refined his craft under some very esteemed chefs. I spoke with Will, learning about his history within the culinary industry and what led him to become Vault Brewing Company's Executive Chef. Taking on the role of an Executive Chef is not for the faint of heart-something that Will has excelled at. Speaking of excelling at things, Vault Brewing Company has created a delicious combination of beers and elevated dining menus that they're now looking to expand (spoil alert--and you heard it first on Food Farms and Chefs Radio Show!). So be sure to keep an eye out for their official announcement by following them on their social media pages, as well as when you visit them in person!https://vaultbrewing.comMy next guest, Joseph Staffieri, is the owner behind Fusco’s Water ice with two locations in Delaware. Joseph is a chip of

There was a lot of energy and positive vibes as Co-Chairs of the Leverage Event, Howard Lebold and Haley Schmidt, along with CDC's 2024 Linchpin recipients Victoria Williams and Co-Founder of Tiny WPA Alex Gilliam, Esteemed 2024 Leverage Awardee Prema Katari Gupta who is the President and CEO of the Center City District (CCD), Co-Owners Mallory Stetter and Justin Scott of Logo Cookies Direct who donated 200 cookies for the event, Head Distiller of KLYR Rum, Rebecca Foxman, Owner and Chef of Fox & Son, Diana Widjojo of Rice & Sambal, and Kyle Cuffie-Scott of Darnell's Cake.The Leverage Event represented each borough of Philadelphia with amazing Chefs and Restaurateurs, and everyone in attendance were able to sample the decadent small bites and beverages available throughout Philadelphia's Center for Design building--where the event was being held. And all eyes were on center stage as awardees were announced during the evening before CCD's President & CEO Prema Katari Gupta took the stage to remark

I'm certain that all of you LOVE a cup of tea or coffee in the morning, and our first guest is brewing up a great start to your day with her business, The Rose Room Cafe. The coffee and baked goods come with a lot of love, as Jess Sabine and her staff make freshly-baked pastries and other foods from scratch to accompany your cup-o-joe (or tea). The love doesn't end there--The Rose Room Cafe has created a space for the community to get together, hosting events which include first Fridays, private parties, and so much more! So, if this sounds like your cup of tea ;) then make The Rose Room Cafe part of your next destination! (https://www.theroseroomcafe.com)From Coffee to Bagels...I chat with Managing Partner of Bagels & Co., Mike Marsh. Mike is very invested in what Bagels & Co. has to offer, including the lengthy list of cream cheeses crafted to compliment their abundantly large bagels of your dreams. New York arguably has the best bagels this side of the world, but theirs can give New Yorkers a

I began with Executive Chef Kyle Timpson, who started out with aspirations to be a pastry chef. Sometime after graduating Atlantic Cape Community College, he found that challenging himself within a larger spectrum was appealing, and cultivated a space where he could continue to grow in the industry. Today, Executive Chef Timpson joined us to talk about the delicious steakhouse and beverage menus at SIN in Philadelphia, and what to look forward to in the coming weeks. (https://www.sinphiladelphia.com)I next spoke with Army Veteran, Cookbook Author, three-time Food Network winner and Executive Chef Kevin Cooper aka "Chef Steek." Chef Steek sat down with me to discuss how he began in the culinary world, what influenced his progression within the industry, and what it was like to not only appear on the Food Network, but also win and be able to open the Chicken Guy in King of Prussia. Chef Steek and I also dug into the menu items available at the Chicken Guy, along with some of the milkshakes too--have I mentioned