Quick Look: Niner Wine Estates, Paso Robles
The Niner Wine Estates in Paso Robles is nestled into the dramatic lower slope of Heart Hill, a picturesque vineyard of cabernet sauvignon, malbec and petit verdot.
Dish of the Week: Kohada from Sushi Ii, Newport Beach
It is often said that sushi chefs judge each other by their kohada, or gizzard shad. And the kohada at Sushi Ii in Newport Beach is surely the envy of sushi chefs everywhere.
Quick Look: Presqu’ile Winery, Santa Maria
Presqu'ile Winery is a must-stop on any serious tour of northern Santa Barbara wine country.
Photo Diary: Eating and Drinking During the 2020 Quarantine
If there's a silver lining to the coronavirus lockdown of 2020, it's that I got the chance to rediscover my kitchen. Or at least the kitchen table. I ate more takeout than anything else. Here's a look back at some of my favorite memories of eating and drinking at home during the quarantine.
Memories of a Mentor, and the Perfect Caesar Salad
I have often credited chef Frederic Castan as a key figure in my life who put me on the path that inspired me to open a restaurant and eventually to become a critic. He taught me how to make the perfect Caesar salad, among other things.
Dish of the Week: Cacio e Pepe at Oliver’s Osteria, Laguna Beach
The cacio e pepe at Oliver's Osteria in Laguna Beach is available for takeout during the pandemic. Stay safe out there!
Dish of the Week: Bistec Encebollado at Isla, La Palma
Southern California has never had a shortage of Cuban restaurants, but we've never had a truly great Cuban restaurant, either. And, yes, I know the ones you're thinking of right now — and they're not as good as you think they are. Want proof? Go to the new Isla in La Palma.
Just Announced: Society for Features Journalism Awards!
This just in! The Society for Features Journalism has announced the 2019 Excellence-in-Features Awards, and I’m thrilled to have won the category Best Food Criticism for my review of Journeyman’s…
Quick Look: Firehouse Hotel Restaurant, DTLA
The Arts District in downtown Los Angeles is having a moment, thanks in large part to the new Firehouse Hotel and it's excellent little restaurant.