Food and Loathing

The home of over-the-top burgers and "Bam-Boozled" milkshakes, about one year after closing its spot in the Cosmopolitan, is back in business in the Arts District. Billy Richardson, CEO of parent company Gen3 Hospitality, grabs a seat in the corner booth to share the Holsteins story with Al, Rich and guest co-host Bob Barnes. Bob also offers up a beer report -- because that's his claim to fame. Gemini joins us from Chicago, fresh from attending the James Beard Awards ceremony. Along with the usual Happy Hour report, this episode is loaded with short interviews from: French Chef Jean Joho, El Segundo Sol's Wesley Pumphrey and Marissa Demello, Chef Marquita Duren of Tailgate Social, James Cox of Brewdog and Underdog, All'Antico Vinaio's Zach Allen, Chef Dan Krohmer and Angeline Kuhlman of Amari.  

Superstar chef and humanitarian Jose Andres has opened another Las Vegas restaurant, and Al gets the lowdown from CEO Sam Bakhshandehpour on the pan-Mediterranean menu at Zaytinya. Natalie Young is also here, talking about her new Arts District place, Echo Taste & Sound. The big interview is with Ethan Spiezer at the new outpost of Solamete Pizza on West Sahara. Also: The Happy Hour Report looks at great deals in Fremont East. Al and Rich also share their dining experices at Main St. Provisions, Nudo Italiano, Vito's Tacos, Bar Boheme and Wild Fig. 

A classic upscale steakhouse right across from The Aztec on Las Vegas Boulevard? There is a method to that apparant madness, and Mae Daly's owner Richard Femenella explains it to Al, Gemini and Rich. Executive Chef Tomas Espino also joins the conversation, and brings a fantastic sample of Mae Daly's fantastic cuisine. Also: another wine dinner at Joe's, Chef Leticia Mitchell is bringing Leticia's Cocina and Cantina to Boulder Station, and James Trees expands his empire to the 51st floor. Listen to find out WHICH 51st floor. And we offer Happy Hour tips in Summerlin along with dining reports from Winnie & Ethel's, Shainghai Taste, Vesta Coffee, Basillico, Flanker. 

The full team is together again, with Gemini Zooming in to Al and Rich from Oklahoma City. Also on the show: From the Arts District, we have Chef Bruce Kalman at Soulbelly and Gen 3 Hospitality's Stacia Stephens at Holsteins. Chef Steven Piamchunter tells us about the food at the new Thai spot Blue Orchid. Football legend Emmitt Smith talks butter cake. Boulder Station's Lakeita Ahern talks about the return of the Broiler salad bar. And we have a nice long conversation with Chef Martin Heierling of Wynn's Pisces. If that's not enough, Happy Hour Vegas's Andrew Morgan talks Arts District, Gemini has a hospital “room service” report, and Al discusses visits to Union Biscuit, Emmitt's Vegas, Nudo and Bardot Brasserie.

Diane Mina, the founder of Diane's Bloody Mary, is hosting a Bloody Mary brunch this weekend at her husband Michael Mina's Aria restaurant, Bardot Brasserie. She talks to Al about convincing Michael to invest in her mix. Also: Chris Clifford talks about his efforts to bring a new, restaurant-heavy development to Henderson, and the challenges he's facing from both the city and a few of his neighbors. Our restaurant visits include the Oyster Bar at Sunset Station, Suzuya Japanese Pastry, All'Antico Vinaio in Uncommons, Nomikai sushi and PastaRamen. 

Rang's Concina Moderne is a small place in a strip mall on West Charleston near Jones. And it serves up Italian and Spanish dishes, but with an Asian flare courtesy of its namesake, Chef Rang Tan. Al, Rich and Rob Kachelriess sit down with Rang in the restaurant, enjoy some of her signature dishes, and get the story on the place she and her husband opened last year. Also: Restaurant reports on Pisces at Wynn, Le Spritz, Ai Pono Cafe, Bourbon Steak and The George Sportsman's Lounge. 

This week's episode was recorded at The Legends Oyster Bar, which recently celebrated its 5th anniversary. Rich and Al have a nice long chat with founder/chef Jack Jarukasem, and devour several items from the menu. The guys share their recent experiences at William B's Steakhouse, Coco Donuts, Sorellina, Doberman Drawing Room, La Mona Rosa, Tony Luke's and The Empire Strips Back, as they try to hold down the fort without Gemini. Also: interviews with Robert Biale of Robert Biale Vinyards, Marche Bacchus' Lupe Avila, CarverSteak's Daniel Ontiveros and Rudy Aguas of Basilico, as well as a Happy Hour Report from HappyHourVegas.com's Andrew Morgan.

Al and Rich throw out the format for this episode, which they recorded at Vegas Unstripped at The Palms. Basically, they just walk around the big event and talk to the best chefs in Las Vegas. We begin with a bit of news and the latest Happy Hour Report. And then it's walking and talking!

This episode focuses on two programs that give back to the community, and check in with a couple of celebrity chefs. The entire episode was recorded at the brand-new Blooming Bistro, where young people in recovery are training for careers in and around the hospitality industry. Later, we speak to Monica Garcia about the Love Yourself Foundation's upcoming event at the Beverly Theater, focusing on mental health issues faced by hospitality and entertainment workers. We also catch up with Chef Tal Ronnen, just prior to a celebrity chef collaboration at Crossroads Kitchen, and speak to Masaharu Morimoto at a party to celebrate Season Two of his Roku show "Sushi Masters."  Al and Gemini tell us about recent meals at Bramare, The Cracked Egg, The Palace Station Oyster Bar, Panino Sandwich Shop and Borracha. And Rich brings gifts from France (Translation: blowing out those last few Euros at duty-free before getting on the plane). 

It's the premier of a new feature on the podcast: the Food and Loathing Happy Hour report, thanks to our new collaboration with the site Happy Hour Vegas run by Andrew Morgan. Each week, Andrew and Al take a few minutes to run down a few of the valley's best happy hours. Like Neon Feast, they're organized by category. To kick off the new feature: Steakhouse happy hours. Also, Al talks to Metro Pizza's John Arena about his new foundation, appropriately named The John Arena Foundation. Plus, music is back at Evel Pie, Gemini recounts her girls' road trip to Oklahoma City and Al shares the mission of Blooming Bistro, the new Medical District place with a mission to help at-risk kids discover the restaurant business. 

Al and Gemini take the podcast sky-high this week, recording at the Chef's Table in Rivea by Alain Ducasse, which is located at the top of the W hotel.  They're there to speak to MGM resorts International's Chef Justin Fredericksen about the entire MGM culinary team being honored at the upcoming Chefs For Kids gala. But while they were in the restaurant, they chatted with Rivea GM Mark Thomas, and enjoyed an incredible feast prepared by Rivera's executive chef, Winnie Wong. Also: an interview with Sean Griffin of Bellagio's Prime Steakhouse discussing the recent renovations at the restaurant. And Brezza's Chef Nicole Brisson explains her upcoming pop-up collaboration with Pasta Ramen. There are restaurant reports on Sparrow + Wolf, Stubborn Seed, Bar Boheme, Bourbon Steak and Chica, among others. And just to keep it real, we have news on Olive Garden, Texas Roadhouse and Arizona Charlie's, as well as Giada.

Rich is in Europe. Gemini is in Oklahoma. Al is in Vegas. And they have a BIG show that's jam packed with interviews.  Don't believe us?  How about these names: DW Bistro's Bryce Krausman; Elizabeth Blau, Nina Manchev and Lorena Garcia at the Women's Hospitality Institute's Leadership conference at Wynn Las Vegas; Alessandro Capuano and Morgan Basile talking about Bottiglia's Brunch Club; Mariena Mercer Boarini at the opening of Baccarat Bar in Wynn Las Vegas; Bruce Bromberg on collaborations at Ortikia; Dan Krohmer looking back on 10 years of Other Mama; The M Resort's Michael Credico at the new Patio; and Robert Lomeli at Atomic Golf. You'll also hear about meals at Anima, Scotch 80 Prime, Ortikia, Sushi Tower, Laguna Pool House and Naxos Taverna – and the brand new Bar Boheme. And Rich tells us about dining in Paris and London.

Al and Gemini recorded this week's show at P.O.P.S. Philly Steak, and talked with second-generation owner Christina Walton. But she's not the only guest. You'll also hear from Stubborn Seed's Jeremy Ford, pizza makers Sam Faccini and Tony Gemignani, Slice Out Hunger's Scott Wiener, Prime Steak's Sean Griffin and a Clark County rep telling us about the Tacos and Tamales festival. All that, plus news and restaurant reports.

Al and Rich steer the ship this week, for an episode that revolves around an interview with Chef Noe Alcala of the brand new Lucia Mexican Grill in Virgin Las Vegas. We also have interviews with Circa's Valari Esposito, Josh Dunson of Ocean Prime, Forte's Nina Manchev and Brandon Clark of Stew's Sticks. There's also lots of news, and dining reports from Nanny's Café, NASCAR, Snooz, Ada's, Ocean Prime, Amari and Proper Sandwich.

On this week's episode, Al pays a visit to Bourbon Steak's new executive chef, Josh Smith, to find out what he has in mind for the Michael Mina steakhouse at the Four Seasons Hotel. We also chat with Clique's Mustafa Abdi about the beginning of pool season at the Durango resort, catch up with All'Antico Vinaio founder Tommas Mazzante to discuss their current and future Vegas locations, and talk Vegas Unstripped with Kim Owens, John Church and Steve Kestler. And if you like our restaurant reports, we have several this week, ranging from Joel Robuchon to McDonalds. (How's that for variety?)

Al and Rich are again on location -- this time at the luxurious private dining room at Tamba, the new upscale Indian/Asian restaurant at Town Square. General Manager Oliver Morowati shares some cutting-edge appetizers and how the place, under the care of Michelin-recognized Chef Anand Singh, focuses on live-fire cooking four ways: the Josper charcoal oven, the tandoor, the mangal grill and the Chinese wok. Also this week: visits to The Broken Yolk, Burgundy Bakery Café & Bistro, Hummus Bowls & Wraps, Baan Bann Thai House, Kusa Nori, Lazy Dog, Golden Tiki, Good Pie, Bazaar Mar and Amaya.

This week's episode was recorded at Winnie & Ethel's Downtown Diner, and includes a nice long interview with the proprietors, Mallory Gott and Aaron Lee. Other interviews this week include Keri Kelli and Chef Krystal Meza of Evolve Brewing by Aces and Ales, Ken Heck sharing details of Hot Noods in The El Cortez, Aroma Latin American Cocina's Steve Kestler talking about his upcoming collaborative dinner at Garagiste, and Mark Shunock explaining the mental health support he's planning to offer to the restaurant and hospitality communities at his new project, The Space 2.0.  And of course, we have restaurant reports, from places like Ike's Love & Sandwiches, Red Rock's Oyster Bar, Dupar's, the Black Sheep, Ocean Prime, Evolve and Stay Tuned Burgers, and get a wee bit of news on the time Al Spent with Christopher Kimball and his team, recording THEIR podcast.

Meet Ellie Parker, the new executive chef at Main St. Provisions in The Arts District. Al paid her a visit this week, and you'll hear that extended interview at the center of this week's episode. You'll also hear from Mimmo Ferraro about the new Happy Hour and pre-theater menu at Ferraro's, and learn about the next Ferraro's wine dinner. And we have restaurant reports from Ciao Vino, Nora's, Windy City Beef & Dog, Pizza Rock, Café Breizh, Pier 215, Honey Salt and Town Square's brand new upscale, Indian “fusion” restaurant Tamba.

Al's back, but it's James Beard semi-finalist DJ Flores who's front and center this week, along with his Director of Bar Lou Lopez. They tell Gemini all about their plans for a pair of projects in The Arts District. Other interviews this week include Bryce Krausman, who shares details about the final party at DW Bistro, as well as Steve Jerome and Alexandra Lourdes talking about their new Italian spot, Sorellina. And to round it out, we have restaurant reports from The Legends Oyster Bar, Sammy's Woodfired Pizza, The Bagel Café, The Bedford by Martha Stewart, Jaleo, Ocean Prime, Marafuku Ramen, Sorellina, The Composer's Room, The George, Café Leon, The Coronado Café and The Peppermill.

It's just Gemini and Rich this week, as Al got sick, got better, then lost his voice just in time for the show. But he did have a nice conversation with Sylvia Welsh of The Composer's Room on E. Sahara. That includes a detailed explantion of just what The Composer's room is. Also: the man synonamous with competitive eating, Joey Chestnut, came to Las Vegas and won another crown: his second victory in the Bagelmania bagel eating competition. Gemini got a few comments from him, and runner-up Paterick Bertoletti. There are also lots of dining out downloads, including a dinner that Rich and Gem had together. And we light a very small candle to mark the Las Vegas demise of TGI Fridays.  

Al talks to Gio Mauro, the chef/owner of Old School Pizzeria and Monzu Italian Oven & Bar, about being named Nevada Chef of the Year. Al also shares his conversation with Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. The owners of Border Grill have been very busy, with the staff of their Southern California restaurants, feeding firefighters and others since the huge blazes destroyed hundreds of homes and other buildings. Also: reports on visits to The Steakhouse, Havana 1957, Marafuku Ramen, Buddy V's, The Palm, The Dawg House, Shanghai Taste, Legends Oyster Bar, Ada's and more. 

This week's episode was recorded on location at the 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show, with Rich and Al reporting on the big trade show, while Gemini was under the weather. They speak to dozens of exhibitors at the show, get serenaded by a candy maker, and share Chef Scott Conant's big announcement from his keynote address. We share restaurant reports on visits to  Rosalie French Café, The Cheongdam Food Hall, Basilico, Tim Ho Wan and Rang's Cocina. Also: news about Sparrow + Wolf, Vegas Valley Winery, a bagel-eating championship, five Vegas semifinalists for James Beard Awards, and interview with Amari's Alan Mardonovich, Champion eater Joey Chestnut and Patty Peters.

It's a very happy episode, despite the absence of Samantha Gemini Stevens, because our main focus is happy hours in Las Vegas Joining us is the founder of HappyHourVegas.com, Andrew Morgan. Other interviews include Sammy Hagar, Clique Hospitality's Corey Nigrelli, Station Casinos' Casandra Northwick, Sam Facchini of Metro Pizza and Vincent Rotolo of Good Pie. We share news of some Vegas relief efforts for California fire victims, the latest opening for Seventy-Six Taverns and the grand opening party for Caspian's Rock and Roe. To round it all out, we have restaurant reports from Farm Basket, Sushi Neko, The Lucky Penny, Gaetano's, Mijo, Caspian's and the Brunch of Broken Dreams at the Composer's Room.

Mark Steele, founder of the Restaurant Hospitality Institute, sits down for a long talk with Al about how his organization helps front of the house staff and managers maximize their potential. Steele also shares news of the newest course RHI is offering on allergens and food sensitities. Rich reports from the Consumer Electronics Show and leads a discussion on the best food-related films. And Gemini tells us about her search for Laksa in Australia. Also: interviews with restaurateur Freddie Paloma, sommelier Harley Carbery and Vegas Citycast's Sarah Lohman, and restaurant reports on Vino Aromi, Wineaux, General Admission, Fiorella Pasta Bar and Gyu+.  

Chicken Zamboni? Yes, it's a thing at Vegas Golden Knights games, and Al has the full description (Spoiler: it's chicken fingers!). But this first-of-the-year episode is anchored by Al's conversation with Keith Bracewell and Jonah Gibbs, the guys on the front line of Petite Boheme, the soon-to-be French place from James Trees. Al also talks to veteran Vegas chef Eric Luhlier, who's taken over the kitchen at the Hawthorn Grill in the JW Marriott in Summerlin. Also: Gemini checks in from Australia, and Rich shares more than you want to know about KFC. 

Happy holidays. With Gemini celebrating in the Southern Hemisphere, and Las Vegas in holiday mode, Al and Rich avoided the temptation to take a week off, and put in just enough effort to create an abbreviated episode. But it's still packed with good stuff – especially if you're a fan of Michael Mina. Al talked to Mina just hours before the new Bourbon Steak in the Four Seasons resort opened its doors to the public. But before we even get to that, Al will tell you about his experience getting bites in the Bourbon Steak lounge. Other restaurant reports this week include visits to William B's in the Suncoast, Brooklyn Bowl, New York Bagel and Bakery, and The George Sportsmen's Lounge. And Al drops by The Gambler pop-up at Amari, and speaks to Mina Group veteran Chef Adam Sobel and Amari GM Jason Rocheleau.  

On this week's episode, Vegas CityCast's Rob Kachelriess sits in for the traveling Gemini, and joins Al and producer Rich Johnson at Dom DeMarco's Pizzeria and Wine Bar. Rob tells us about his recent experiences Craftsteak (with Tom Colicchio in the house) and Dominique Ansel Marche (with Dominique Ansel in the house). Rich will share culinary highlights from his road trip from Chicago to Vegas. And Al will tell you about experiences at the openings of Pinky's by Vanderpump and China Mama in Palace Station, judging a cocktail competition in a topless club, and meals at Balla Italian Soul and Carmelitas Mar Tier. (Al will also reveal which Jason Aldean song titled triggered him at the opening of the country star's new Strip bar.) The centerpiece is all about Al's visit to Jive Turkey in the Huntridge neighborhood to interview the dive bar's proprietors, Sam Pulliam and Adam O'Donnell. Also: interviews with Jeff Bauman of Glitter Gulch Tiki, Alexander Ortega of Casa Playa, Palace Station's Lee Torres, Lisa Burney and Albert Scalleat of Dom DeMarco's, Ri Ra's Wally Lang and country star Jason Aldean. And of course, there's some news.

Al and Gemini were invited to spend two days at the judging sessions for the 2024 Proof Awards spirits, wine and beverage competition -- where local and national booze buyers sampled hundreds of products to grade, and perhaps purchase for their companies. And, much to Rich's chagrin, they had so much fun they decided to create a gigantic episode featuring some of their favorite conversations. They speak to national (Delta Sky Club, Walmart, Pacifica Hotels) and local (The Palms, Hot Noods, Brezzam Craft Creamery) about what they look for in new spirit offerings, as well as a few celebrities (Aishe Tyler, Neil Geraldo Ian Somerhalder) showing off their brands. Other fun conversations conversations include chats with Vanderpump Rules veteran Peter Madrigal and the creator of the Neat Glass. If you work in the booze biz, or have ever been curious about how new products end up in your local bar, this is the episode for you!

December is here, which means the arrival of National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, as well as the launch of several holiday pop-up bars/menus. And we take a deep dive into both in this week's episode, alongside a few restaurant reports and some news. You'll get the lowdown on the NFR festivities at Easy's in Aria's Proper Eats, Gilley's in TI and Emmitt's at the Fashion Show Mall, thanks to interviews with Chef Antwan Ellis, TI's Paul Reams and Clique Hospitality's Ryan Brunty.  If you're looking for some holiday offerings, we have interviews with representatives of The Sand Dollar Lounge, Flanker, Stray Pirate, The Silverton, Dom DeMarco's, Rouge Room, and Easy's. And you'll hear about what Al and Gemini have been eating at places like Bramare, Archi's Thai and the Bagel Café.

We have lots of Vetri in this week's episode, with a nice long interview with Chef Marc Vetri in the center of the show, as well as Al's restaurant report on his meal at Vetri Cocina. Other interviews include Andy Wang of L.A.'s Industry Only, Chef Sterling Buckley of Palate and Solamente Pizza's Ethan Spiezer.  There's a bit of news, and Al and Gemini will fill you in on their recent visits to Bramare, EDO Tapas, Ciao Vino, La Casa de Julliette, Main St. Provisions and Indulge: Race Week Edition.

Longtime friend of the podcast Chef Gary LaMorte talks about his new company Fortune Events, which is creating several high-end VIP events for this year's Las Vegas Grand Prix.  Al pays a visit to the Las Vegas Pizza Festival, and chats with a few of our favorite pizza pros.  Also: a full report on the Masters of Mixology competition at Clique, including an interview with the winner, and an interview with 50 Eggs CEO John Kunkel at the opening of the Golden Gai cocktail lounge inside Wakuda. Al and Gemini will share restaurant reports from their recent visits to Winnie and Ethel's Downtown Diner, The Legends Oyster Bar & Grill, Toasties Burritos, Bar Centro at Bazaar Mar, Fukuburger and D'Agostino's. And we have news on Caspain's Kitchen and Caviar and Jason Aldean's Kitchen, as well as some memories of the now-closed Ocean One. 

On this week's episode, Al and Gemini offer options for those who want a gourmet Thanksgiving dinner at home (or in their hotel room), but don't want to cook. The show centers around reps of Barry's Downtown Prime, Big B's Texas BBQ, Echo & Rig, Table 34 and Basilico telling us about their take-home Thanksgiving options, as well as what they're doing in the restaurants on the holiday. Also on the show, Gemini covers a hotcake eating championship and interviews the winner, while Al visits the Celebrity Food Court at Caesars Palace to speak to Chef Esther Choi and takes a trip to the new Swingers golf attraction to learn about the food by Emmy Squared. You'll also get restaurant reports from Honey Salt, Ada's Food and Wine, Aroma Latin American Cocina, Anima by EDO and the new Flower Child location, among other great spots. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, Al and Gemini offer options for your gourmet Thanksgiving dinner at home (or in your hotel room) if you don't want to cook. The show centers around reps of Barry's Downtown Prime, Big B's Texas BBQ, Echo & Rig, Table 34 and Basilico telling us about their take-home Thanksgiving options, as well as what they're doing in the restaurants on the holiday. Also, Gemini covers a hotcake eating championship and interviews the winner. Al visits the Celebrity Food Court at Caesars Palace to speak to Chef Esther Choi and takes a trip to the new Swingers golf attraction to learn about the food by Emmy Squared. You'll also get restaurant reports from Honey Salt, Ada's Food and Wine, Aroma Latin American Cocina, Anima by EDO and the new Flower Child location, among other great spots.

This week's episode was recorded at Ciao Vino in Boca Park, and centers around an interview with three representatives of HUKL Hospitality: Corporate Chef Lupe Avila; Cia Vino Chef Joel Myers; and Marche Bacchus Chef Avian Tun. They'll share news on all of their restaurants and talk about their new partnership with Count's Vamp'd Rock Bar and Grill. Also in the show, interviews with Bryce Krausman of D.W. Bistro, the Hard Hat Lounge's Frank Sidoris, and plenty of news and restaurant reports. Al will also play theater critic this week, with a report on his visit to DiscoShow, and the attached restaurant, Diner Ross. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The gang is back together this week, with Gemini, Al and Rich recording the episode together at Dom DeMarco's Pizzeria and Wine Bar. At the center of the show, Al has an extended interview with Other Mama Chef/Owner Dan Krohmer, recorded at his new breakfast and lunch restaurant Chamana's Café; Gemini explores the new cocktail menus at Chandelier Bar with The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas' lead mixologist, Gideon Tsegaye. Other interviews this week include celebrity chef Susan Feniger and El Dorado Cantina's Darin Feinstein. We have reports on visits to Norm's, Ada's Food and Wine, Sin Fronteras Tacos y Mas, Café Mong, Sparrow + Wolf and Main St. Provisions. And there's some news on Toasted Gastrobrunch, Gaetano's, One Steakhouse and Aroma Latin Cucina. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gemini is back from Greece and Turkey, and dives right back into the Vegas food scene with meals at Moko Ramen, Dom DeMarco's, Bramare and more. Al lived to tell the tale of his Main St. brewery crawl, along with a meal at Giada and a preview Gina Marinelli's 5th Anniversary Witches Gala at La Strega. In the show's centerpiece, Al talks about the start of stone crab season with Dave Quillen of Joe's Seafood Prime Steak and Stone Crab. The aforementioned Gina Marinelli drops by, and Mimmo Ferraro talks truffles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Gemini continues her world tour, longtime friend of the pod Rick Moonen steps in to share his many comings and goings -- including escaping Hurricane Milton. In the centerpiece interview, Al sits down with Christina Dylag of Velveteen Rabbit. Also: news from Chef Michael Mina, Chef Steve Kestler of Aroma Latin American Cocina and Vincent Rotolo talks about the new branch of Good Pie in Henderson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Al and Rich hold down the fort while Gemini is traveling. But they've called in some friends to fill out the show. The episode centers around two extended interviews: Michael Symon discussing the changes that have come to Mabel's Bar & Q in The Palms, and Keris Kuwana explains the Teatime In Wonderland experience she's offering at The Electric Playhouse in The Forum Shops. Also this week: HUKL Hospitality's Chef Jose “Lupe” Avila, Ellis Island's Christopher Gosse, Brezza's Chef Nicole Brisson, Luis De Santos of Gyu+ and the one and only Sammy Hagar. There's also news and a few restaurant reports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Al and Gemini get the download on the Proof Awards from Michele Tell and Michael Politz, creators of the event to honor Vegas-based spirits. You will also hear about Al going large at the Four Sixes Ranch Steakhouse popup at Wynn, and doing breakfast with developer J Dapper. Meanwhile, Gemini parties down at Esther's upstairs room and does the deed at Munch Box Breakfast Burrito (eating being the 'deed'). Also: News of Lavo's reopening and the 5th anniversary of Toasted Gastrobrunch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Al and Gemini are at Ada's Food + Wine in Tivoli Village to hang with James Trees and Chef Jackson Stamper, and especially Wine Goddess Kat Thomas. All three are back from London, where Ada's won the award for "Most Original Wine Line" in THE WORLD!! Also: new items on the menu at Spago and Carversteak, and a look back at the 2nd Picnic in the Alley. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gemini and Al recorded this week's episode at Social Station, on Eastern Avenue in Henderson. It features an interview with one of the owners Kelley Jones, who talks about the restaurant, the menu and its charity initiatives. Also on tap: Roy Ellamar at his farewell dinner at Amari, and Bruno Marini at the 25th anniversary party for Canonita in the Grand Canal Shoppes. You'll hear from Michael Clark about Raiders Game Day festivities, and from Vincent Rotolo on the Henderson Good Pie. And of course, we have news and restaurant reports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gemini takes over while Al is on vacation and invites her friends and food authors Kim Foster (The Meth Lunches) and Sarah Lohman (Endangered Eating, Eight Flavors) to talk about why food is important in communities, where food and food ideas come from, and what it means to use food to uplift people. In all the seriousness, there are plenty of laughs, revelry and talking over one another as they turn this week's podcast into one long conversation over the ladies' lunch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's a jam packed show this week, centering around Al's conversation with Chef Sterling Buckley of Palate in the Arts District. Also joining the fun: Chuck Fromer of John Mulls Meats and The Roadkill Grill, Soulbelly BBQ's Chef Bruce Kalman, Chef Leticia Mitchell of Leticia's, Letty's and the brand new Carmelita's, 1228 Main's head baker Chef Noel Rosello, Eiffel tower Restaurant partner Sharon Boudreau, and The Mob Museum's Food and Beverage Director Clint Thoman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Al and Rich anchor the show this week. But have no fear. Gemini is on board for the big centerpiece interview with Evan Glusman and Chef Joe Valdez. We also have an extended interview with former 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea Chef Taylor Persh, discussing a very intense pop-up she's bringing to the Palms. Other highlights include conversations with both Elizabeth Blau and Circa's O'Ceana Clemens, talking about a pair of events, past and future. And you'll hear about Al's recent meals at Bramare, Orla, The Durango pool, Nene Japanese, Boom Bang and La Madre Canyon Grill, and Rich's ongoing search for a Vegas style diner in Chicago. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Border Grill's Yancy Perez gives Gemini and Al a crash course in Mexican wine, while Al shares some stories about some super-cool Italian champagne glasses he discovered in San Francisco. Also, you'll learn about Gemini's recent meal at Boom Bang, her exploration of Allegiant Stadium's dining options, and Al's California pizza adventures. And we have interviews with Cheri Rooftop's Chef Anthony Carron, Brezza and Bar Zazu's Chef Nicole Brisson and Solamente Pizza's Ethan Spiezer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week's episode, Al shares the full interview with Jose Andres Group CEO Sam Bakhshandehpour that he previewed last week, and the pair discuss the new Bazaar Mar in The Shops At Crystals. There's an extended interview with longtime Las Vegas barman David Cooper, discussing his new vodka brand, Spur. Also: the founder of Angie's Lobster, explains how they can sell a lobster roll for $9.99, and Brian Howard talks about Sparrow + Wolf's new pop-up series, Bar Snacks, which will host Casa Playa's Sarah Thompson for its inaugural event. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Importing a bar concept to the Vegas Strip is always hard. But doing it from a hospital bed after a paralyzing motorcycle accident would be impossible for most of us. Titan Brands co-founder Scott Frost was still in his hospital bed following his accident when he finalized the deal to bring the Ensenada dive bar Hussong's to Mandalay Place. Frost talks about his life, his accident, and his career in the Las Vegas hospitality industry in the center of today's episode. Other interviews this week include Jose Andres Group CEO Sam Bakshandehpour, Monzu's Gio Mauro, Richard Femenella of Mae Daly's, cookbook author Alicia Shevetone and cookbook librarian Nichole Beer. And you'll hear about recent meals Gemini and Al had at Case De Juliette, Vesta Coffee, Shanghai Taste, Basilico, Taps & Barrels Beerhouse and Lemontree Café, and a report on the opening of Bazaar Mar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While a concierge can be a foodie's (or any traveler's) best friend, many don't really understand how to utilize them. So Al, who has been both disappointed by and impressed with various hotels' concierge desks, sat down with Mildred Schneidman, a veteran hotel concierge and president of the Southern Nevada Hotel Concierge Association, for some advice on making the most of the service (as well as a tipping etiquette, and warnings on what they cannot do for you in Las Vegas). Also on this episode, Al sits down with Bruce Kalman to discuss his appearance on Season 5 of BBQ Brawl, his desire to do more food TV, his new Allegiant Stadium burger outlet, and Monday's pop-up preview of those burgers. Other interviews include Chef Gene Villiatora of Ai Pono Café, Clique Hospitality's Mustafa Abdi, and three generations of Oak & Ivy barkeeps (Chris Guiterrez, Eric Kleuver and Russell Dow). And we'll hear from Al and Gemini about the things they've been eating and drinking at Bramare, Bel Aire Backyard, Yukon Pizza and Winnie & Ethel's. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gemini's out this week, but Al and Rich are together with reports from Vegas and Chicago, some opinions on The Bear, a bit of news, a Chef Joe Valdez interview we forgot to run last week, and a few longer-form interviews. Rich bumped into a food TV star filming in Chicago. Al dined at Bobby Flay's newest spot, Brasserie B by Bobby Flay – where he was reunited with a true old-school FOH pro, back in Vegas to work there. And that reunion led to the first of the two longer-form interviews. At the center of the show, Al gets the lowdown on a pair of restaurants mingling French and Spanish influences. First, he sits down with Ed Tracy and Chef Candace Ochoa in the private dining room of Brasserie B by Bobby Flay. From there, he heads to the PDR of Anima by EDO, where partners Robert Liendo and Joseph Mikulich about their forthcoming THIRD venture with Chef Oscar Amador: Braseria. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Al and Gemini get a personal tour of Scotch 80's new Social Hour menu at Palms Casino. And that includes a deep dive into the steakhouse's beef sourcing. Also this week: Gemini checks out Carson Kitchen, which is celebrating ten years of serving up cutting edge cuisine downtown. Meanwhile Al shares what he can about an "off the record" meal at Anima. He also scoped out the brunch at Middle Child, and gets some advance intel about National Tequila Day coming up on Wednesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week's episode was recorded live at the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas, and centers around a conversation with chef/instructors, Nick Preston and Culinary Apprenticeship Coordinator Chiara Astriab. They share all sorts of info on how they can help advance your culinary career, whether it's a new idea or a continuation of your journey. Other interviews this episode include Evan Glussman talking about the opening of Bramare, and Richard Femenella discussing the brand new Mae Daly's. We also have news on Bastille Day celebrations at March Bacchus, Sparrow + Wolf and Mon Amu Gabi (plus a short interview about wine pairing with the latter's sommelier). And you'll hear about Al's recent visits to Eat Your Heart Out Food Hall, Boom Bang and Hard Hat Lounge, as well as some of Gemini's recent takeout adventures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices