Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

The classic patty melt is back in fashion on better restaurant menus. As a burger devotee Chef Andrew has his spatula at the ready. The chef’s hint is to form your own burger patty (loosely packed meat) and use a microplane to grate the cheese for a better melt.

There is some new legislation on the horizon in California (AB 478) mandating (among lots of other things) the clear visibility (up-front) of the mandatory Service Charges now appearing on restaurant checks. Remember a Service Charge is not a gratuity and subject to Sales Tax in California. Chef Andrew explains.

Look for Chef Andrew’s new cooking video with Cathy Thomas on Orange Coast Magazine. He prepares One-Pan Seared Salmon with Sweet Potatoes (from Melissa’s), mushrooms, and garbanzo beans.

Check out Chef Andrew’s handy and practical cooking tips on Substack at “American Gravy.” There is an accessible free level as well as a premium option with a modest cost.

The post Show 566, February 24, 2024: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef” appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.