Cambro Eats

Welcome to a new episode of the Camera Eats podcast, where host Felix Bazgan interviews Mike Bicocchi, the executive chef at Elegant Affairs, a full-service catering company serving Manhattan, New York City, Long Island, and the Hamptons. They discuss catering trends for 2023 and how Elegant Affairs distinguishes itself in the competitive market with exceptional presentation, service, and reimagining catering food. Mike shares his journey from working in restaurants to catering and the growth of Elegant Affairs from a basement business to a powerhouse. Mike highlights some trends in catering, such as the popularity of mini meals and individual small plates that emerged during the Covid-19 pandemic, the increased use of sous vide cooking techniques, and the focus on personalization and emotion in event planning. He also emphasizes that catering doesn't have to be limited to buffet-style food and can be elevated with proper planning and resources. Join Felix and Mike as they explore the world of high-end catering and discuss the importance of a strong team, overcoming misconceptions about catering, and the exciting future of Elegant Affairs. Guest: Executive Chef Mike Bicocchi Host: Felix Bazgan Elegant Affairs: Website | Instagram Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode, Cara Wade, a kitchen director at a K-12 facility and TikTok star known as ButterFace Lunch lady. Cara talks about her journey into the food service industry, from wanting to be a restaurant manager to eventually majoring in hospitality business management and getting industry experience. She also shares her experience working for a nonprofit running a coffee shop and bakery in Thailand. Cara explains that she started sharing content on TikTok because she loves food and loves what she does. She had plans to open a food cart before COVID-19 hit, and had already designed the Butter Face logo, which became the face of her TikTok account. The name "Butter Face" was a funny play on words, given that the food cart was going to be low-carb or keto-focused and involve a lot of heavy fat content. The name certainly is eye-catching! At school, she currently provides meals for 500 students. She shares the challenges and the fun of sharing her day to day activities with such a wide audience. When asked “What are some of the misconceptions or things that that the public may not know about school food service that you wish they knew a little bit more about?” she replied: “I think the biggest thing that people you know especially in my interactions with people in the TikTok comments and all that people don't seem to understand the implications of how much, how big, how many less quantity of stuff we're doing. And people have just they just do this. Why don't you just do that and like there is no just doing anything 500 times. And I know, especially for public schools, that their hands are tied a lot and your lunch staff cares about your kids. And if something is not the way you would want it to be, I guarantee it's not because that staff in the kitchen didn't care about it.” Enjoy the episode and check out Cara on TikTok. Guest: Cara Wade Host: Felix Bazgan Cara Wade TikTok Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

On this episode of Cambro Eats, I had the pleasure of interviewing the co-founder of Crumbl Cookies, Sawyer Hemsley. Sawyer started Crumbl with his cousin in 2017 while at Utah State. Focusing on making their signature milk chocolate chip cookies the best it could be while adding weekly flavors turned out to be a winning combination. Customer flock to the stores and online delivery for weekly tastings! In a very short time, Crumbl has become one of the fastest growing cookie businesses ever. With almost 600 locations and on target for 1,000 by the end of 2022, Crumbl is on course for a meteoric rise. In this interview, we discuss the start of the business, on-going business challenges and what the future holds for Crumbl. Guest: Sawyer Hemsley Host: Felix Bazgan Sawyer Hemsley – Crumbl Cookies: Website |  TikTok | Instagram  |  Twitter Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

On this episode of Cambro Eats, I had the pleasure of interviewing Chef Kix Nystrom. Chef Kix is the Senior VP of Kitchen Operations at The Cheesecake Factory. And quite unusual in the world of foodservice is the fact that he's been with The Cheesecake Factory for over 30 years! Chef Kix has been with The Cheesecake Factory since their 5th store opening and over that time has seen the company grow to over 300 global locations and several new concepts. In this inteview Chef talks about getting started in foodservice at an early age and finding his way to The Cheesecake Factory. Cambro has had a great relationship with him and the entire team at The Cheesecake Factory for many years. Fun fact: Cambro Camshelving Premium Series was first put into test at The Cheesecake Factory in Marina Del Ray, Calif. over 20 years ago and it's still there! Enjoy the show!   Guest: Kix Nystrom Host: Felix Bazgan Kix Nystrom - The Cheesecake Factory: Website |  TikTok | Instagram  |  Twitter Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

On this episode of Cambro Eats, I'm joined by Kyle Inserra. Kyle is a self-described “recovering restaurant owner” turned real estate advisor and he assists emerging restaurant brands. With his culinary background and experience, he also creates some great content for restaurant owners – especially on Tiktok where I was first introduced to Kyle. We discuss his background and evolution to where he is today - we invite you to check out Kyle's content on Instagram and Tiktok. Enjoy the show! Guest: Kyle Inserra Host: Felix Bazgan Kyle Inserra: Website |  TikTok | Instagram  |  LinkedIn Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website  

On this episode of Cambro Eats, we talk to Chef Bill Bracken, founder of Bracken's Kitchen. Bracken's Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) organization based in Orange County California. Through food rescue, culinary training and their community feeding program they are committed to rescuing, re-purposing and restoring both food and lives. Through our Cambro Cares initiative we've had the chance to volunteer and help out at Bracken's Kitchen. Bracken's Kitchen will make and serve almost 2 million meals in 2021. That is an overwhelming number since Bill started the organization just in 2013. In this interview, Chef Bill discusses his background, the idea for Bracken's Kitchen and the continuing need for their work in the community. Enjoy the show. Guest: Chef Bill Bracken Host: Felix Bazgan Bracken's Kitchen: Website |  Twitter | Instagram Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

On this episode of Cambro Eats, we talk to Chef John Locascio, co-founder and co-owner of Stuf'd Catering Truck in New York City. Some of the topics we dive into with Chef John are the idea and pursuit of starting the business, growth, pandemic challenges, and future outlook. Check out some of these awesome food pics and listen to the show! Enjoy the interview and connect with John and Stuf'd Catering Truck on social: Guest: Chef John Locascio Host: Felix Bazgan Stuf'd Catering Truck: Website |  Twitter | Instagram Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

2021 is Cambro's 70th anniversary. In 70 years, the company has grown from 1 product to 14,000+ products. The first Cambro product was the Camtray. In this episode we talk to Argyle Campbell, the owner of Cambro, about the development of the first product and how far it has come in 70 years. Cambro is now the largest manufacturer of trays in the world with a wide variety of options, colors, sizes, and uses. Older Camtrays:   Newer Camtrays: Enjoy the interview and connect with Cambro on social: Guest: Argyle Campbell Host: Felix Bazgan Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode of Cambro Eats, we talk to Ellen Marie Bennett. One of the great things about the foodservice community is how entrepreneurial it is and it is inspiring to talk to many of them. Ellen started her business, Hedley&Bennett, while working at a restaurant. As with many entrepreneurs she saw a common issue that no one else was addressing and decided to jump in. With the determination she made Hedley&Bennett the premiere name in restaurant-quality aprons. The Hedley&Bennett brand is the favorite of industry pros, and many celebrity chefs like Martha Stewart, Alton Brown, Roy Choi. The company manufacturers in downtown Los Angeles. Ellen is passionate about helping people with business-ideas to make the leap into making those ideas reality - she has a book called Dream First, Details Later launching in April 2021. During the pandemic, Hedley&Bennett donated 500,000 masks to front line workers, hospitals, restaurants and charities. Enjoy the interview and connect with Ellen and Hedley&Bennett on social: Guest: Ellen Marie Bennett Host: Felix Bazgan Hedley&Bennett : Website |  Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Ellen Marie Bennett: Instagram | Dream First, Details book info Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website    

In this episode of Cambro Eats, we talk to Dan Raskin, co-0wner of Manny's Deli in Chicago. Dan is a 4th generation owner of this old-school, pick-a-tray (Cambro Camtray) and walk through the cafeteria-style line and load up on their corned beef hash, stuffed cabbage, beef pastrami, reuben, or any other item that keep bringing people back to this Chicago landmark. A lot has changed since 1942 but Manny's keeps serving up the favorites that have made it part of the fabric of Chicago. During coronavirus, being a traditional cafeteria-style operation with capacity for 300 was something that they needed to adapt to changing regulations and remote work. Being in a downtown-Chicago location and so many people working remotely, it meant a lot of empty offices and a big hit to the lunch business. Dan moved to add suburban delivery expansion quickly to keep the business going. In summer of 2020, Dan reached out to Barstool Sports and Dave Portnoy and immediately received a response - take a look: https://cambroeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Barstool-feature.mp4 https://cambroeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Phone-Call-from-David-Portnoy.mp4 Guest: Dan Raskin Host: Felix Bazgan Manny's Deli : Website |  Twitter | Instagram Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode of Cambro Eats, we talk to Matt Groark of GroarkBoysBBQ. Matt is a school teacher and he also does BBQ catering. He has found a lot of success on social media including Instagram and TikTok. Listening to the interview you'll see Matt's love of BBQ and authentic approach to how he communicates to a massive audience is what keeps people connecting and interacting with him. Check out some of the posts from his Instagram and TikTok accounts. https://cambroeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Matt-Tik-tok.mp4 Guest: Matt Groark Host: Felix Bazgan GroarkBoysBBQ : TikTok | Instagram | YouTube | Snapchat Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

Texas Trinity at Heritage BBQ: Brisket, Ribs and Sausage Heritage BBQ has been in business less than one year and it is already garnering nationwide attention. Based in San Juan Capistrano, it is California’s first offset smoking pop-up to become a standalone restaurant. If you’re not familiar with Central Texas Style BBQ or off-set smokers, listen to the interview and hear why owner, Daniel Castillo, was determined get the smokers approved and open for business. Please listen to the interview and check out the links below to connect. Guest: Daniel Castillo Host: Felix Bazgan Foodspace : Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

Cloud kitchens. Ghost kitchens. Virtual kitchens.  Whatever you call them, they're a hot topic. If the general public wan't that aware of them prior to coronavirus, they certainly are now - with major brands like Chuck E. Cheese, Cracker Barrel, and Bloomin' Brands all getting into the virtual space to keep growing. Joseph Shumaker In this episode of Cambro Eats, we talk to Joseph Shumaker - founder of Foodspace, a Silicon Valley-based company that designs and manages the food and beverage operations for a variety of clients - from high tech companies to sports venues. Topics covered in this show: Future of Virtual Kitchens Who Owns Delivery: Battle of the Apps Supermarkets vs. Restaurants Please listen to the interview and check out the links below to connect. Guest: Joseph Shumaker Host: Felix Bazgan Foodspace : Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode we bring you an interview with Chef Bruno Serato. Chef Bruno is the owner of the historic Anaheim White House restaurant but what really has made him known around the world is the non-profit organization he founded – Caterina’s Club. Named after his mother, this organization serves 5,000 warm meals to underprivileged kids every single night. Caterina’s Club has expanded to 90 sites in 30 cities. This interview was conducted before the coronavirus pandemic and I’m sure you can imagine the demand for Chef Bruno’s non-profit work has been in great demand, not just by underprivileged kids but the larger local community. Since the pandemic has hit Orange County, Chef Bruno’s charity has served 1 million meals. That is very impressive. The White House restaurant has a great vibe and it was really great getting a tour of this historic place by Chef Bruno. One last thing to point out, if you google Bruno Serato, you’re likely to see Sir Bruno listed – that’s because he’s made such an impact that he’s been knighted by the Italian government. Please listen to the interview and check out the links below to connect. Guest: Sir Bruno Serato Host: Felix Bazgan Anaheim White House Restaurant : Website | Twitter | Facebook Caterina's Club: Website Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter |  Tik Tok | Cambro Eats Website

Welcome to another episode of Cambro Eats! In this episode, I had the chance to talk to Fred Guerrero of Burgerlords in Los Angeles. Fred and his brother Max are co-owners of this growing burger chain. While having a robust vegetarian menu, Burgerlords definitely hits the spot for all dietary preferences. This interview occurred right in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic and Fred talks about how that has impacted their business as well as steps they've taken to support their employees during this time. Please listen to the interview and check out the links below to connect. Guest: Fred Guerrero Host: Felix Bazgan Burgerlords : Website | Instagram | Facebook Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website

One of the great things about this job is getting to interact with a variety of people in the foodservice industry. At sometimes it’s a real life, face to face interaction. This episode is one of those. We had the opportunity to visit a local French establishment called Moulin. It’s a bit of everything – a café, a bakery, a great place for a baguette sandwich. Moulin currently has four locations and this interview with Executive Chef Joffrey Offer was at their newest location in Costa Mesa, California. Take a look at some of the delicious items and behind the scenes action. This is the video interview:   Please listen to the interview and check out the links below to connect. Guest: Jeoffrey Offer Host: Felix Bazgan Moulin : Website | Instagram | Facebook Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode we talk to the founders of a very interesting private dining and catering catering service in Chicago. The Nude (shirtless with aprons) gets your attention but the founders are serious about "being transparent about the food we serve and using seasonal and sustainable food by forming strong relationships with local suppliers." We are pleased to call Seth Bradley and Ryan Van Voorhis, the NudeDudeFood founders, Cambro ambassadors.   Please listen to the interview and check out the links below to connect. Guests: Seth Bradley, Ryan Van Voorhis Host: Felix Bazgan NudeDudeFood: Website | Instagram | Facebook Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode we talk to a Chef whose love for Cambro is literally skin deep. Chef Chris Rivest is not unlike many foodservice professionals. Started in the industry young, went into broadcasting and advertising, started a comedy YouTube cooking show, got selected to be on Masterchef Canada and is now the sous chef, beekeeper, head butcher and pit master a newly opened restaurant. Well, maybe not quite everyone had the same path as Chris. Hear all about his varied career thus far and that famous tattoo that got him viral attention.

In this episode of Cambro Eats, we take you to Baltimore! Steve Chu, co-owner of Ekiben, shares the story of his popular Asian Fusion restaurant. From humble beginnings with a hot dog cart (and trusty Cambro insulated transporters), Steve and his team are celebrating 3 years in a brick and mortar location and planning a new store opening later in 2019.  Even today though they rely on those Cambro transporters to keep those artisanal steamed bun sandwiches and rice perfect for all types of delivery and events. Check out some of the pics from Ekiben: Guest: Steve Chu Host: Felix Bazgan Ekiben: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode of Cambro Eats, we talk to Chef Lamar Moore. Chef's journey through foodservice takes some very interesting turns. From his time at Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago to working on the expansion of McCormick and Schmick's across the US to working at stadiums all over the country, his experiences are eye opening. Oh and he was on a TV reality show so for more check out the interview. Guest: Lamar Moore Host: Felix Bazgan The Swill Inn: Website | Instagram Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website

On this week’s show, we talk to Chef Marc Marrone. After several years of being the Corporate Chef for the Tao Group, known for the Tao Las Vegas venue in the Venetian, he has recently started Graffiti Bao, a Vegas pop-up inspired by Asian street food. We talked to him about his background, trends in foodservice and of course what he loves about Cambro. Please listen to the interview and check out the links below to connect. Guest: Marc Maronne Host: Felix Bazgan Graffiti Bao: Website | Instagram Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode we took a short trip north to LA County to visit Chef Katsuji Tanabe at his restaurant, The Nixon Steakhouse. You probably recognize Chef Kat from one of his many restaurants across the US or from his appearance on TV – notably the show, Top Chef. In this interview he talks about his background, getting his start in foodservice and of course, what Cambro products he relies upon. We had the opportunity to film the installation of Cambro Shelving at the Nixon Steakhouse and invite you to watch that video as well. Please listen to the interview and check out the links below to connect. Guest: Katsuji Tanabe Host: Felix Bazgan The Nixon Steakhouse: Website | Instagram | Facebook Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode, we talk to Ameer Natson. To say he’s an Executive Chef would be too easy so you’ll have to listen to him describe his journey. Check out the podcast and here’s the link to Ameer’s website to get all the info on his upcoming adventures. Guest: Ameer Natson Host: Felix Bazgan Ameer Natson: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website

In this episode, meet Rameez Parveez of Basant Catering. Rameez started his company with the dream of bringing modern halal American food to the people of Long Island. Basant Catering has grown into an extremely successful business, with Rameez regularly preparing catering orders for events that serve hundreds of people. Rameez has an incredible energy and passion for food, life, family—and Cambro products! He took some time between prepping orders to talk to us – take a listen to the interview and check out the links below toconnect. Guest: Rameez Parveez Host: Felix Bazgan Basant Catering: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube   Cambro: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Cambro Eats Website