POPULARITY
Categories
There was plenty of excitement to go around last weekend at Echopark. Andrew Kurland reports.
Another win at Echopark makes it two in a row for Reddick. Doug Rice, Alexis Erickson, Kyle Petty.
MRO Chapel from EchoPark Speedway on February 22, 2026 with MRO Chaplain Billy Mauldin. In this episode we're in a message series called "Do It God's Way."
HR1 - Tyler Reddick led beautiful brand of racing at EchoPark Speedway this weekend In hour one Mike Johnson, Beau Morgan, and Ali Mac quickly touch on some of the biggest headlines around the local and national sports scene, recap and react to Tyler Reddick winning the AutoTrader 400 at Echo Park Speedway here in Hampton, Georgia over the weekend, talk about how it was a great brand of racing at Echo Park Speedway over the weekend, and recap their weekend at Echo Park Speedway. Then, Mike, Beau, and Ali spend some time with WWE Superstar Gunther ahead of tonight's WWE Monday Night RAW in Atlanta's State Farm Arena that will feature the return of Brock Lesnar, crucial Elimination Chamber qualifying matches, and a special tribute to Georgia's own AJ Styles. Mike, Beau, Ali, and Gunther discuss him being a career ender, whose career he'll end next, his role as a heel being more of a lifestyle than a role he plays, and if he'll potentially ruin Georgia's own AJ Styles' special tribute. The Morning Shift crew also recap and react to both the U.S. men's and women's hockey teams achieving a historic milestone by winning gold medals at the same Olympics for the first time ever this year at this year's Winter Olympics in Milan, talk about if they think this will help hockey's popularity become more global and less regional, and then close out hour one by reacting to Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield downplaying there being any issue with his former head coach and now Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Kevin Stefanski.
Sam and Greg are joined by veteran NASCAR analyst Adam Alexander as NASCAR comes to Atlanta!
In the first hour, Sam and Greg open the show with their stories of the week. Are you going to see the Sea Lions at Echo Park? In the second segment, Sam gives highlights from his trip to Athens. What did Sam see during his trip to Athens? In the third segment, the guys talk about a wild night in the NBA, what's next for the Hawks and where does Ja Morant fit in the current NBA landscape? What do you want to see from the Hawks during the second half of the season?
In the last hour, Sam and Greg are Joined by 92.9 Atlanta United Color Analyst Jason Longshore as Atlanta United gets their season started in Cincinnati. Who's taking the next step for Atlanta United this season? In the second segment, Sam and Greg are also joined by College Basketball TV analyst Tim Scarborough as college basketball teams get in position for March Madness. Which teams are on your radar heading into March Madness? Will NASCAR get rained out at Echo Park Speedway?
This week on The LA Food Podcast, we're diving deep into LA's cocktail culture with James Beard semifinalist Max Reis, beverage director of Mirate and Daisy Margarita Bar. Max shares his journey from Napa to Los Angeles, how he became one of the country's most respected mezcal advocates, and what it takes to build a world-class bar program. In Part 1, Luca and Father Sal recap a legendary Echo Park bar crawl, including strategy, standout stops, and inevitable chaos. Plus, Chef's Kiss / Big Miss tackles the New York Times' essential LA dishes list, the Max & Helen's review debate, smart glasses in restaurants, AI reservation bots, and the battle over dining-room photography. Powered by Acquired Taste
Mike Johnson, Ali Mac, and Beau Morgan spend some time with EchoPark Speedway Communications Manager Tyler Head! Mike, Ali, Beau, and Tyler discuss it being busy during a race weekend at EchoPark Speedway, but that being what he lives for, what all Tyler has to do and the fires Tyler has to put out during a race weekend at EchoPark Speedway, how cool it's been to see and be apart of all the changes and transitions EchoPark Speedway has been through, all the racing and events fan can experience tomorrow at EchoPark Speedway, the Camper's Inn RV Mike and Beau are in and how nice they are, how the re-pavement and track changes to EchoPark Speedway have changed the style of racing at EchoPark Speedway, how the drivers feel about the racing at EchoPark Speedway, if EchoPark Speedway is helping NASCAR getting back to the old school plate racing that racing fans fell in love with, and how fans can get tickets to any and all of the events this weekend at EchoPark Speedway.
Mike Johnson, Ali Mac, and Beau Morgan spend some time with NASCAR Cup Series driver, driver of the number 47 car, and Daytona 500 winner Ricky Stenhouse Jr.! Mike, Beau, Ali, and Ricky discuss Ricky's second place finish at the Daytona 500 last weekend, Ricky liked that the green flag stayed out on the last lap of the Daytona 500 last weekend, how much Ricky's spotter was talking to him during the wreck at the Daytona 500 last weekend and how much Ricky listens to his spotter versus how much Ricky just lets his racing instincts come into play, EchoPark Speedway being a unique and fun track, and if Ricky thinks racing at EchoPark Speedway is like the old school plate racing that racing fans fell in love with.
Echopark Speedway is producing some great racing since its reconfiguration, but it has its challenges. David Styles reports.
In the last hour, Sam and Greg are excited for NASCAR to come to Echo Park Speedway. You can see racing and sea lions at Echo Park Speedway. In the second segment, Sam and Greg are joined by College Basketball TV analyst Tim Scarborough as college basketball teams get in position for March Madness. How many ACC teams could reach March Madness? Plus, what are you up to this weekend?
Carl and Mike are joined by Brandon Hutchison to discuss the latest updates on Echo Park Speedway including the upcoming Auto Trader 400.
TWR Route 66 Ep 3 of the Travels With Randy podcast is here! And We Begin At The End! Santa Monica Pier, Pasadena, and Barstow Charlotte Snowstorm Impact Discussion Bubba and Randy discussed the recent snowstorm in Charlotte, which resulted in 8 inches of snow and caused widespread disruptions. Bubba shared his experience of being stuck at home and the challenges faced by the city due to the lack of snow plows. They briefly touched on the weather conditions in other parts of the country, including Florida's iguana problem during cold weather. The conversation then shifted to the third episode of their Route 66 coverage. Route 66: History and Beginnings Bubba and Randy discussed the start of their Route 66 coverage, with Randy confirming he had begun the route from Santa Monica, its designated end point. They explored the history of Route 66, which was established in 1926 as part of a numbered highway system, though the roads already existed as trails. Randy shared that Chester Avery, known as the "father of Route 66," was instrumental in mapping and naming the route after discovering that "Route 60" was already in use. Route 66's Evolution and Impact Route 66 was originally designed as a commerce route connecting small towns from Chicago to Los Angeles, with Avery, who owned a motel in Tulsa, playing a key role in its promotion. The highway passed through downtown Los Angeles at 7th and Broadway, which was once a vibrant theater district but is now run-down. The discussion highlighted how the road evolved from dirt paths used by horse and buggy to a major transportation artery for farmers in the mid-20th century, eventually being replaced by the interstate system. Route 66's Historical Evolution Randy shared his experience exploring the original and historical routes of Route 66, highlighting its evolution from 1926 to 1938, when it became the first paved numbered highway. He explained how the route was realigned and extended to Santa Monica in the 1930s, despite its official endpoint being at Olympic and Lincoln Boulevards. Randy discussed the significance of Pasadena, noting its historical attractions like the Tournament of Roses and its role in the route, and mentioned the Figueroa tunnels, built in 1940, which rerouted Route 66 onto the Arroyo Seco Parkway. Route 66 Centennial Preservation Discussion The discussion focused on Route 66's centennial anniversary in 2026 and its current state. Randy shared insights about the varying signage and preservation efforts along the historic route across different states, noting that California does a good job by allowing cities to manage their own Route 66 markings. They discussed the end point of Route 66 in Santa Monica, where a significant sign marks its conclusion, and mentioned that Mel's Diner, originally from American Graffiti, is a popular breakfast spot near the endpoint. Route 66: American Cultural Highway The discussion focused on Route 66, its history, and its significance. Randy shared insights about the route's journey from a decommissioned highway to a symbol of American history and culture. They discussed the route's connection to the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl era, highlighted by John Steinbeck's novel "The Grapes of Wrath." Randy encouraged watching the film adaptation to better understand the experiences of those who traveled Route 66 during this period. Bubba expressed interest in rewatching the film and learning more about this historical route. Route 66: Legacy and Relevance The discussion focused on the historical significance of Route 66, its decline with the advent of the interstate system, and its cultural impact. Randy shared insights from the movie "The Grapes of Wrath" and the animated film "Cars," emphasizing key scenes that reflect the challenges faced by those who traveled the route during the 1930s. They highlighted the transition from the original Route 66 to the historic Route 66, noting the efforts to preserve its legacy. Randy assigned homework to watch these films and encouraged a reevaluation of Route 66's current state, emphasizing its relevance to small businesses and the spirit of the road. Route 66 Driving Adventure Randy shared his experience driving from Santa Monica to Chicago, offering advice for others to rent a car at LAX and start early on weekends to avoid traffic. He described driving through familiar routes, including a Tesla diner that replaced his old workplace, and emphasized taking the original Route 66 instead of freeways for a more authentic experience. Beth provided historical details about the pre-1935 route, which ran through downtown LA and Echo Park before connecting with Santa Monica Boulevard. Randy mentioned seeing a friend, Cindy, who expressed jealousy about his interaction with a computer, hinting at his close relationships with a few lifelong friends. Route 66 Journey and Challenges Randy discussed his ongoing journey along Route 66, highlighting the challenges of navigating the historic route due to poor signage and the need for guides like Austin Whittle's maps. He shared his experience at Fort Nebo, a Marine Corps base where he was briefly detained for attempting to take a picture of a Route 66 sign near the base's entrance. Randy also outlined his plan to cover different states along Route 66 over the next few months, with two weeks allocated for each state except Kansas and Texas, which he plans to cover in one episode. He emphasized the importance of preserving Route 66's history, especially during its 100th anniversary, and suggested that listeners join his Facebook page and group for more photos, stories, and detailed information The podcast is for your ears and can be found everywhere - but you should REALLY see this trip with your eyes and so come find Randy's excellent and extensive photography in our little 20,000 person page on Facebook. Enjoy! Come join the conversation on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/travelswithrandypodcast Have a great idea for the guys? Want to sponsor us? Want us to sell something National Park or Route 66 related? Want to be a guest? Want to pay for both of us to go to Alaska? Want me to stop asking questions? Email bubba@travelswithrandypodcast.com Find our podcast home right here: http://travelswithrandypodcast.libsyn.com/website
Brandon Hutchison (EchoPark Speedway) 2.2.26 by Tiger Communications
On this week's Talkhouse Podcast, we've paired up two songwriters who love to wander musically but whose recordings are tough to mistake for anyone else's. It's Luke Temple and Will Westerman. Temple has been making incredible records at a pretty solid clip since around 2005, first making a real splash as part of a trio called Here We Go Magic, whose four-album catalog is legendary in certain circles. But Temple has also recorded fantastic records under his own name, under the alias Art Feynman, and, more recently, with Luke Temple and the Cascading Moms. That name is a little funny, kind of like his music—there's humor but also a little bit of menace hiding underneath sounds that sometimes flirt with ‘70s soft-rock in the best ways. Check out “Echo Park Donut,” which is out this month on the new Cascading Moms record, Hungry Animal. The other half of today's chat, Will Westerman, invited Temple to play on his 2023 album An Inbuilt Fault, and as you'll hear they sound eager to meet and perhaps work together again. Westerman has been releasing music under his last name since 2020, crafting subtly mellow records that reveal something more intense when you listen to his lyrics. The third and latest Westerman album, A Jackal's Wedding, came out last fall, and it's another evolution in his sound—it's been compared to mellow greats like Talk Talk, Tindersticks, and Nick Drake, so if those names mean anything to you—and they should—give it a shot. Check out “Mosquito” from A Jackal's Wedding right here. This conversation between Temple and Westerman may have been the furthest geographically we've ever recorded: Temple was at home in Los Angeles and Westerman at home in Milan, where he recently moved after spending several years in Greece. These two talk about being recently married, about growing as artists and perhaps tricking yourself in the process, and about the very different places they now live. Enjoy. 0:00 – Intro 2:35 – Start of the chat 4:35 – On Los Angeles and gentrification in Echo Park 9:39 – Westerman on Milan, Greece, and learning new languages 13:20 – On Luke Temple's new album, Hungry Animal 19:50 – On tricking yourself to keep the creative process fresh 20:57 – On art and "the capitalist need to innovate" 24:50 – Comparing the musical heritage between the US and UK 28:25 – On the spirit of Jazz and Hip-Hop 30:38 – How technology caused the death of regionalism Thanks for listening to the Talkhouse Podcast, and thanks to Will Westerman and Luke Temple for chatting. If you liked what you heard, please check out both of their great new records, and please follow Talkhouse on your favorite podcasting platform. This episode was produced by Myron Kaplan and the Talkhouse theme is composed and performed by The Range. See you next time! Find more illuminating podcasts on the Talkhouse Podcast Network. Visit talkhouse.com to read essays, reviews, and more. Follow @talkhouse on Instagram, Bluesky, Twitter (X), Threads, and Facebook.
The US Department of Justice has agreed not to seek wide-ranging medical information from patients of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles’s trans health clinic. A quarterly swap meet specializes in VHS tapes is happening in Echo Park. Punk rocker Steven McDonald of Redd Kross joins LAist for a performance. Plus, more. Support The L.A. Report by donating at LAist.com/join and by visiting https://laist.com Visit www.preppi.com/LAist to receive a FREE Preppi Emergency Kit (with any purchase over $100) and be prepared for the next wildfire, earthquake or emergency!Support the show: https://laist.com
In this episode of the FWRD Podcast, Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Eric Meahan to explore how data-driven reconditioning helps dealers reduce cycle time, control costs, and protect used vehicle margins.Eric shares how EchoPark cut reconditioning cycle time to five days by improving process visibility, labor allocation, and supplement management. The conversation highlights why idle time between recon steps is often the biggest bottleneck, not technician productivity, and how integrated tools eliminate manual tracking and errors.They also discuss how tighter controls, upstream recon decisions, and mobile repair strategies will become critical as used vehicle market conditions shift. The episode reinforces how aligning people, process, and technology can turn reconditioning into a competitive advantage.
More of my interview with ‘The King of Queens' star Patton Oswalt. Patton shares the story of proposing to his wife and how his first wife, the late true crime writer Michelle McNamara, played a role in identifying the Golden State Killer. This episode was recorded at Levant Bistro & Bake Shop in Echo Park, CA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Comedian Patton Oswalt joins the show. Over Lebanese egg pie and Mediterranean chicken, we talk about Patton's hilarious new standup special on Audible: ‘Black Coffee and Ice Water.' We dissect a lot of things that make him laugh -- from his daughter's dissection of the horror genre to AI's bent toward racism. We also talk about falling in love after losing his first wife and how important it was to have his daughter a part of the proposal. And we can't leave without talking about the late great Jerry Stiller, his costar on ‘The King of Queens.' This episode was recorded at Levant Bistro & Bake Shop in Echo Park, CA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
WHAT'S UP FOOL? EP 557Felipe welcomes Doknow to What's Up Fool?! DoKnow is a comedian and content creator hailing from Echo Park, Los Angeles. After exploding onto the scene with his viral reels, DoKnow has transitioned into a touring stand-up comic and a staple of digital culture. Catch him weekly on Brown Bag Pod and Figgmunity World, or on stages nationwide as he brings his signature "crazy thoughts" to a city near you.Connect with us on InstagramFelipe - @ FelipeesparzacomedianRizo - @ ComicMartinRizo Doknow - @ doknowsworld_ Hear about Felipe's tour dates, new merch drops & more by signing up @ http://felipesworld.com Felipe Esparza is a comedian and actor, known for his stand-up specials, “They're Not Gonna Laugh at You”, “Translate This”, and his latest dual-release on Netflix, “Bad Decisions/Malas Decisiones” (2 different performances in two languages), his recurring appearances on Netflix's “Gentefied”, NBC's “Superstore” and Adultswim's “The Eric Andre Show”, as well as winning “Last Comic Standing” (2010), and his popular podcast called “What's Up Fool?”. Felipe continues to sell out live stand-up shows in comedy clubs and theaters around the country.
This week on The LA Food Podcast, Luca sits down with Ben Leventhal — the founder of Eater and Resy — to talk about his most ambitious project yet: Blackbird, a next-gen restaurant loyalty and payments app that might reshape how we dine out and how restaurants survive. Recorded at Rustic Canyon in Santa Monica, the conversation breaks down how Blackbird rewards you for actually showing up and paying at your favorite restaurants, why Ben thinks this model could transform the industry's financial future, and how LA's rollout fits into his vision for the app. We also get into Ben's background in food media and reservations, and as a die-hard New Yorker, what he really thinks about Los Angeles as a tier 1 dining city.Before that, Luca and Father Sal kick things off with recent eats — from Atelier Manna to the San Diego Food + Wine Festival — before diving into a rare silver lining for food media. We react to a week of big news:The New York Times naming two new associate food critics, including friend of the pod Ryan SuttonElazar Sontag taking over as restaurant critic at The Washington PostEmily Sundberg's Feed Me launching the podcast Expense AccountAnd rumors of a brand-new food media startup from former Puck staffersIn Chef's Kiss / Big Miss, we tackle:Robot woks and automation at LA spots Tigawok and RobowokThe Infatuation's Best New Restaurants in LA list for 2025Big three-star demotions in the Michelin Guide (Alinea, Masa, The Inn at Little Washington)AI-driven restaurant marketing and fully AI-generated ad campaignsAnd looming tariffs on Italian imports and what that could mean for pasta nightWe close with a Mailbag question on whether it's finally time for us to launch a LA Food Awards of our own.If you care about LA restaurants, restaurant tech, loyalty apps, Blackbird, food media, Michelin stars, and the future of dining, this episode is for you.Powered by Acquired Taste Media.–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
Peso Pluma BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Peso Pluma has dominated headlines and social media this past week, making waves both musically and culturally. Fresh off a high-profile performance at ComplexCon Las Vegas 2025, one of the top stories is his collaboration with GAS Trading Cards and ComplexCon, producing a specially designed collector's item featuring Peso Pluma himself. This exclusive trading card, described by Complex as a way for fans to “own a piece of that moment,” comes in various collectible editions with some containing rare gold foil and personal autographs. The card rollout caught intense buzz, with Complex noting Peso's role in “redefining regional Mexican music for a new generation.” The collectible trend further cements his status as not just a star performer but a cross-media influencer courted by lifestyle and branding ventures.On the live scene, Peso Pluma played a major role at this year's ComplexCon, while also being included in upcoming top-level shows at venues like Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas, a clear testament to his staying power as a touring force, with box office demand that rivals global superstars according to venue announcements. Social media lit up after his appearance, with fans and critics praising his on-stage charisma and genre-busting collaborations. This hype fueled real-world fan activity too, as LAist reported on a Peso Pluma lookalike contest that drew hundreds to Echo Park in Los Angeles, a testament to his outsized cultural footprint. The community event showcased just how quickly Peso Pluma's persona and style have become iconic, inspiring both adoration and playful imitation.Romantically, Peso's personal life is again a topic of interest, especially after WECB Urban and other outlets confirmed he and Kenia Os are now very publicly a couple, sharing affection and music clips across TikTok and Instagram. Their displays—smiles, pet names, and candid moments—have delighted fans and fueled a new round of “couple of the year” predictions online. This follows the much publicized end of his relationship with Nicki Nicole earlier this year, a breakup that itself earned major coverage from People and other international media.However, Peso also continues to navigate the complexities that come with stardom in regional Mexican music. Rolling Stone pointed out ongoing cartel threats to major regional stars including Peso Pluma—a sobering reminder of the realities many artists in the genre face. Authorities in Baja California are reportedly monitoring these threats closely, but Peso Pluma's continued prominence and resilience amidst these concerns only add to his mythos.At a time when Latin artists are drawing global attention, Peso Pluma's multifaceted presence—from music, branding, and public life to social media chatter—both reflects and propels the movement. Headlines this week are flooding the feed with tales of his success, style, and staying power, marking him as one of the most significant Latino cultural figures in the world right now.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
On this episode of The LA Food Podcast, host Luca Servodio sits down with legendary chef Ludo Lefebvre — the culinary rockstar behind LudoBites, Petit Trois, and some of Los Angeles' most influential restaurants. Recorded inside his intimate Paris-inspired bistro, this candid conversation dives into Ludo's early days disrupting the LA dining scene, his transition into a restaurant empire, and why he still believes food — and butter — are the ultimate forms of creative freedom.Plus, co-host Karen Palmer returns to discuss what's hot in LA dining right now: the rise of a local restaurant chain, David Chang's new Century City spot, recent meals at Funke, Garibaldina Society, and Wallflour Pizza, and the biggest “Chef's Kiss, Big Miss” moments — from The Infatuation's Top 25 list to the backlash against The Bear and Unreasonable Hospitality, and even Erewhon's wild new toothpaste smoothie.Powered by Acquired Taste Media.Keywords: Ludo Lefebvre, LudoBites, Petit Trois, LA restaurants, Los Angeles food podcast, Chef Ludo, Jonathan Gold, David Chang, Funke, The Infatuation, Erewhon, The Bear, Unreasonable Hospitality, LA dining scene, Acquired Taste Media–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
Today on The LA Food Podcast, we're flipping the script — focusing not on the restaurant, but on you, the diner. Joining Luca and Father Sal is James Beard Award–winning author Adam Reiner, whose new book The New Rules of Dining Out redefines how we experience hospitality from the other side of the table. Reiner shares insider wisdom on how to dine like a pro, earn the respect of even the most jaded servers, and why “enlightened hospitality” might be due for a rethink.Plus, Father Sal recaps recent eats including Quarter Sheets Pizza in Echo Park (was it worth the line?), and the guys unpack Great White's racist controversy, LA Taco's questionable Mexican restaurant rankings, the new rules of visiting gentrified Mexico City, and Tyra Banks's mind-boggling new “hot ice cream.”A candid, funny, and occasionally spicy conversation about what it really means to be a good diner in 2025. Powered by Acquired Taste.
Jordan and Max answer audience questions and it's all Christmas eve plans, the Jones Hollywood fritto hack, Max & Helen's, favorite dive bars, The Smoke House onion ring thing, death row chewing, Holbox menu highlights, lots of nog, shrimp cocktail obsession, salty cocktails, where in the world is Peckerman, best pizza chains, Mott 32 Hollywood's opening, Dunsmoor vs. Republique, Echo Park beef tacos, storing parm, Eater LA's website, Only Fans models of the food world, criticism backlash, and a game of Still Open or Way Closed?
Welp, another ridiculous list has hit the food media landscape, so Jordan and Max break all the losing and winning down. But first, Genghis Cohen has finally re-opened in a new location and the fellas have the shrimp toast and orange chicken first look featuring a member of Jordan's family. And no restaurant in Los Angeles is currently more hyped than Baby Bistro, so the fellas talk it and their experience with the Echo Park farmer's market driven hospitality house.
Santa Barbara might be known as the American Riviera, but its food scene is finally demanding the spotlight. This week on The LA Food Podcast, we recap 72 hours of eats — from surprisingly great Mexican food to a bao joint everyone's obsessed with — and explain why SB might just be California's most exciting dining city right now.Plus, we sit down with the team behind Dom's Taverna, the Basque-inspired newcomer from Dominique Crisp, Raj Nallapothola, and Ben Carey that's redefining Santa Barbara dining.In Chef's Kiss/Big Miss: goodbye Birdie G's, the rise of convenience sushi, and a burger list showdown (how dare you, Farley Elliott).Powered by Acquired Taste Media.–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
This week on The LA Food Podcast, we dive into one of the most heated debates in the LA dining scene: why are Angelenos calling for a boycott of Enrique Olvera's acclaimed downtown restaurant Damian? Is the backlash justified, or has a whistleblowing media outlet (LA Taco) gone too far?Father Sal joins the conversation as we unpack the Damian controversy, celebrate the two Los Angeles spots that landed on Bon Appétit's 2025 Best New Restaurants in America list (Komal! Camelia!!), and highlight four beloved LA restaurants saved by community support (The Reel Inn! The Pantry!! Dulan's!!! Cole's French Dip????). We also break down the New York Times' lukewarm review of one of America's most famous dining rooms (Alinea).Plus, we recap recent eats across the city—from the new tasting menu at Firstborn in Chinatown, to the ever-popular Saffy's in East Hollywood, to Father Sal's first (and unforgettable) trip to the celiac-unfriendly cult favorite, Courage Bagels.Powered by Acquired Taste Media.–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/
Today on The LA Food Podcast, Dave Beran—the award-winning chef behind Santa Monica's Pasjoli and the tasting-menu temple Seline—sits down for his most candid interview yet. We talk about stepping into roles before you feel ready, the line between an intense kitchen and a toxic one, fundraising and vision, and how he truly feels about Seline not earning a Michelin star in year one. We also rewind to his Chicago years with Grant Achatz at Alinea and Next, and dig into how those experiences shaped his approach to leadership, hospitality, and creativity in Los Angeles.Before that, part-time co-host Karen Palmer joins for recent eats in Ojai, what she's working on next (including a shockingly great pizzeria in a surprising location), and Chef's Kiss / Big Miss:Food & Wine's LA snub on its latest Best New Chefs listWhich LA spots made The New York Times 50 Best Restaurants in America (2025)The latest trend sweeping LA restaurants and how we actually feel about itIf you care about fine dining, honest kitchen culture, and where Los Angeles food is headed next, this one is for you.Powered by Acquired Taste Media.–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
Today on The LA Food Podcast, we're joined by none other than Nancy Silverton — LA's Queen of Carbohydrates, President of Pizza, and Secretary of Sourdough. Recorded at Osteria Mozza, our free-flowing conversation covers Nancy's legendary career, her impact on multiple eras of Los Angeles dining, and why she continues to bring new and exciting concepts to life. We also preview her upcoming panels at LA Chef Con 2025, including a tribute to Jonathan Gold and a celebration of 10 years of Netflix's Chef's Table.But first, Luca and Father Sal finally make it to Kato, the #1 restaurant on Bill Addison's 101. Did Jon Yao and Ryan Bailey's Michelin-starred spot live up to the hype? We break it down.In Chef's Kiss, Big Miss, we dive into Jenn Harris's review of Nobu, a buzzy new West Hollywood hotspot from a Southern celebrity chef (Sean Brock), plus an ode to the timeless Chinese American combo plate from a local legend.Powered by Acquired Taste Media.–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
What happens on the pod, stays on the pod—or does it? Following the hit Palm Springs recap, Luca is joined once again by his wife to break down a herculean three-day eating marathon at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the Strip's buzziest new food destination. From Mother Wolf's pasta to indulgent dinners at Don's Prime and Chyna Club, dim sum at Washing Potato, and an ambitious food crawl at the Promenade Food Hall, they ask the big question: is Fontainebleau the best Vegas dining resort for true food obsessives?In Part 2, Luca sits down with Chef Laetitia Rouabah, executive chef of La Fontaine, who built her career alongside Alain Ducasse in Paris, London, and New York before bringing her classic French sensibilities to Vegas. They dive into her inspiration for leaving NYC, how she adapts French cuisine for a new audience, and the biggest misconceptions about Vegas as a food city.And of course, there's Chef's Kiss / Big Miss—covering the latest Cracker Barrel controversy, a new California restaurant requirement, a killer Infatuation Wallflour review, and the viral US Open cocktail that has everyone buzzing.If you love Las Vegas dining, fine dining perspectives, and food world hot takes, this episode has it all.Powered by Acquired Taste.–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1127: We're diving into major tariff relief for EU carmakers, Sonic Automotive's EchoPark outpacing expectations, and how generative AI is rewriting the rules for online retail traffic. Show Notes with links:The automotive industry is watching closely as the U.S. and EU hammer out a framework deal that could bring massive tariff relief for European automaker. The fine print could mean big savings and new market access.The EU and U.S. announced a new trade framework aiming to reduce U.S. auto tariffs from 27.5% to 15%.Relief would be retroactive to August 1 if the EU introduces enabling legislation this month.In exchange, the EU pledged to cut tariffs on U.S. industrial goods and increase access for American agricultural products.The deal may expand to include mutual recognition of auto safety standards and influence future U.S. agreements with Japan and South Korea.EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic emphasized urgency: “It is the European Commission's firm intention to make proposals by the end of this month.”Sonic Automotive just dropped its Q2 2025 earnings, and while a hefty impairment charge dented the bottom line, EchoPark's performance made sure the story stayed bullish.Total revenue reached a record $3.7B, up 6% YoY.Despite a $172.4M impairment charge, adjusted EPS surged 49% to $2.19, beating expectations.EchoPark led the charge with $62.1M in gross profit (+22%) and a 679% increase in adjusted segment income.Segment income rose from $3.9M to $11.7M — a 200% leap.“EchoPark is just on fire,” said Sonic President Jeff Dyke.Adobe reports a massive 4,700% YoY increase in U.S. retail site traffic driven by generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini — a clear signal that AI is transforming the online shopping journey.Traffic from gen-AI sources has grown monthly since the 2024 holiday season.90% of users trust gen-AI recommendations; bounce rates are down 27%.Visits from AI referrals are 10% more engaged, with 32% longer durations.The conversion gap between AI and non-AI traffic has shrunk from 49% in January to 23% in July.“It's allowing a very optimized, urgent, efficient journey,” said Adobe's Vivek Pandya.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier1:35 Next week, Paul and Erroll Bomar III will be at NAMAD next week2:38 EU-US Finalizing New Trade Deal4:35 EchoPark Boosts Sonic's Q2 Earnings6:52 4700% Increase In Retail Traffic From GenAI SitesJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
This week on The LA Food Podcast, Luca and Sal dig into the biggest story in food media: the latest round of layoffs at Eater. With reporters like Jaya Saxena and Amy McCarthy let go and LA's newsroom slimmed down, what does this mean for local food journalism, restaurant coverage, and the future of dining media in Los Angeles? We also debate whether influencer content and guides like The Infatuation can really replace in-depth reporting, and whether there's a path forward for food journalism in LA.Plus: our signature Chef's Kiss or Big Miss segment—covering everything from the rise of tableside carts and Florence's iconic Pino's Sandwiches opening in Los Feliz, to Anajak Thai's renovations, Netflix's new Next Gen Chef competition, and the return of the Gelato Festival World Masters. If you care about LA's dining scene, the role of food critics and journalists, and the culture wars playing out in restaurants, this episode is for you.The LA Food Podcast is powered by Acquired Taste Media. Be sure to check out our sister shows: Taqueando with Bill Esparza and Let It Rip. And don't forget to rate and review!–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
That's CHARLES to you buddy. And this Charles? Well… let's just say he's in charge!It's Chuck week babyyy everyone's favorite cut of meat and probably some people's favorite tv show. Chuck is the brainchild of Josh Schwartz (the OC, Gossip Girl) and stars Zachary Levi as a computer repair man who is brainwashed with government secrets. His world is flipped upside down when his ex roommate Matt Bomer is revealed to be a recently murdered spy. The series stars Yvonne Strahovski, Adam Baldwin, Joshua Gomez, Sarah Lancaster and so many more. So if you don't like this episode, have you tried turning it off and turning it back on again?HostsGeoff KerbisMax SingerRich Inman
Today's LA Food Podcast is a first — our debut three-part episode. First up, host Luca Servodio breaks down the week's biggest food stories, from Eleven Madison Park's bold new pivot to Bill Addison's glowing RVR review and how Ozempic is reshaping restaurant menus. He also sings the praises of recent meals at Budonoki, Lasita and Teddy's Red Tacos. Then, LA Chef Con founder Brad Metzger joins us to preview the October 6 event at Redbird and Vibiana, bringing together the city's top chefs and industry leaders. Finally, our headliner: Michael Voltaggio, the Top Chef season 6 winner, bad boy of molecular gastronomy, and creative force behind restaurants like ink. and The Bazaar. We revisit his groundbreaking career, unpack how the 2010s put LA fine dining on the global map, and explore why he's still relentlessly pushing culinary boundaries.The LA Food Podcast is powered by Acquired Taste Media. Be sure to check out our sister shows: Taqueando with Bill Esparza and Let It Rip. And don't forget to rate and review!–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
Chef Daniel Patterson has lived more culinary lives than most chefs could dream of. From earning multiple Michelin stars at San Francisco's Coi, to shaking up the fast-food world with Roy Choi and Keith Corbin at Locol, to now hosting a 12-seat tasting menu out of his own home, Patterson's journey is as unconventional as it is influential. Ahead of opening his new LA restaurant Jaca in the former Son of a Gun space, he joins us for a deeply personal conversation on mental health, why tasting menus still matter, and what it means to create work that truly lasts.But first—Father Sal returns to unpack Joe Rosenthal's bombshell exposé on YouTube mega-chef Joshua Weissman, featuring allegations of recipe plagiarism, toxic workplaces, sexual harassment, and more. Is Weissman just another ego-driven chef—or something darker?In Chef's Kiss / Big Miss, we're talking Nancy Silverton's Korean-Italian pasta bar, a radical new hospitality business model in Sonoma, the heartbreaking closure of LA Cha Cha Chá, and yes… breast milk–flavored ice cream.If you care about food, restaurants, and the messy, fascinating people behind them, this is your episode.The LA Food Podcast is powered by Acquired Taste Media. Be sure to check out our sister shows: Taqueando with Bill Esparza and Let It Rip. And don't forget to rate and review!–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
Elon Musk's space-age Tesla Diner has been grabbing headlines—but when activist group Tesla Takedown staged a protest, it forced the media to look beyond burgers and milkshakes. This week on The LA Food Podcast, SF Gate's Karen Palmer joins host Luca Servodio to explore how food writers should approach stories where dining intersects with politics, labor, and activism. Should they just stick to the food—or dig deeper?Plus: Karen teases her new feature on California's barbecue boom, and in Chef's Kiss / Big Miss, we unpack:The influencer scandal that shut down a restaurantA spicy New York Times review that reads like a political takedownAnd a potential happy ending for LA institution Cole's French DipThe LA Food Podcast is powered by Acquired Taste Media. Be sure to check out our sister shows: Taqueando with Bill Esparza and Let It Rip. And don't forget to rate and review!–Go check out The Lonely Oyster in Echo Park! https://thelonelyoyster.com/–Get 10% off at House of Macadamias using code "LAFOOD" https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/pages/la-foods
On today's episode of The LA Food Podcast, we're diving into the culinary comeback of Palm Springs. Once dismissed as a “culinary wasteland,” the desert is now attracting big-name chefs like Mary Sue Milliken, Susan Feniger, and Richard Blais — and perhaps no opening captures that momentum better than The Thompson Palm Springs. We explore how this stunning hotel on Palm Canyon is transforming the local dining scene with bold new restaurants like Lola Rose Grande Mezze, Bar Issi, and Hall Napa Valley, plus buzzy food events and chef collabs that are finally giving the Coachella Valley its due.Plus, in a very special twist, Luca is joined by his wife as guest co-host — and let's just say she might be coming for Father Sal's spot.In Chef's Kiss Big Miss, we react to the opening of Elon Musk's Tesla Diner, the In-N-Out heiress Lynsi Snyder's California exit, the just-announced destination for Top Chef Season 23, and the epic return of LA Chef Con.Listen to our sister shows Taqueando with Bill Esparza and Let It Rip, and don't forget to leave us a review.
Kyle Robert and Brian Twining get you set for the Autotrader EchoPark 400 as NASCAR battles the Monster Mile. The guys run through every driver on DraftKings to break down their favorite targets and fades for this weeks NASCAR DFS slate! Then they build three GPP lineups for the race. For more of our favorite bets and the full card make sure you are subscribed to the completely FREE Newsletter! It can be found at aoppodcast.substack.comAs a reminder, check out our friends over at GridRival and use code AOP25 for a 100% match deposit up to $100.00:00 Intro04:39 Autotrader EchoPark 400 High priced options19:01 Autotrader EchoPark 400 Mid pack options24:30 Autotrader EchoPark 400 Cheaper options27:26 Autotrader EchoPark 400 GPP lineups37:27 Autotrader EchoPark 400 Updated Odds
MRO Chapel from Echo Park Speedway on June 28, 2025 with MRO Chaplain Nick Terry. In this episode we're in a message series called "Fruit of the Spirit."
Chase Elliott grabs his first 2025 Win at Echopark, and Daniel Suarez and Trackhouse part ways. Brett McMillan welcomes Shane Connick of The Charlotte Observer and Doug Turnbull of PRN and the FiveToGo podcast.
Chase Elliott gets the win at Echopark Speedway, now off to Chicago! Doug Rice, Alexis Erickson, Brad Gillie.
Which drivers without a win missed a prime opportunity to steal a playoff spot after the Big One at EchoPark?
Corey and Skip discuss Corey's rating of Briscoe's burnout in Pocono and the broadcasts moving from Prime to TNT. Plus, Corey is back in the car this weekend at EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta for the first time since Bristol this spring and the guys discuss the unpredictability of the In-Season Challenge.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Follow EchoPark Speedway on Twitter/X: @EchoParkSpdwy
Jeff Goldblum is an actor and musician currently living in Florence, Italy, but speaking with us today from the Carlyle Hotel in New York City. His newest record, Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra's Still Blooming, is out now. We chat about a Thom Browne party, an Echo Park book party, and a dinner at Baby Bistro, Jeff has two different smoothies going while we record, big floppy bow ties, who helps him with his wardrobe, bespoke wingtips, his Canadian gymnast wife, his sons are playing piano whether they want to or not, all the neighborhoods he's lived in Los Angeles, we compare his 80's and current day workouts, when his band "takes it for a walk," Frank Sanatra's daughter used to be his agent, his LA sushi spot, his stellar dental regiment, and Jeff reveals his stratgey for dining out as a celebrity. instagram.com/jeffgoldblum twitter.com/donetodeath twitter.com/themjeans howlonggone.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Memorial Day – Remembering our Veterans! Penny production to stop! // Being caught doing embarrassing things! Fired from KLSX with no money, copying resumes at Kinkos. LAX rush is ON! People are getting out of town // Residents in Echo Park have had it with delivery drivers. Ghost kitchen has 20 vendors and drivers are constantly coming & going // June 4th I'll be at the Queen Mary! 8 convicted in Kim Kardashian Paris heist trial. Guy pulls out his guns in Pasadena and then calls the police on himself.