On this episode of Snacky Tunes, Darin heads down to San Diego to catch up with Chef Tara Monsod of ANIMAE and Le Coq. She shares her journey from growing up in LA to shaping a new kind of restaurant experience that blends her Filipino heritage with modern flavors. We talk about her culinary philosophy, the energy of her kitchens, and what makes a Saturday night at her spots something special.

Then, we take a trip into the archives for a performance from Freelance Whales, the very first band ever featured on Snacky Tunes. While their debut appearance is buried deep in episode 26 (go find it on Heritage Radio Network if you’re curious), today, we’re spinning their second live session—an early gem from the show’s history.

Also, a quick note: if you're looking to support the ongoing relief efforts for the LA fires, World Central Kitchen remains one of the best places to donate.

For those looking to support LA restaurants, check out the latest Snacky Tunes Substack for donation links and action items.

Snacky Tunes: Music is the Main Ingredient, Chefs and Their Music (Phaidon), is now on shelves at bookstores around the world. It features over eighty of the world’s top chefs who share personal stories of how music has been an important, integral force in their lives. The chefs also give personal recipes and curated playlists too. It’s an anthology of memories, meals and mixtapes. Pick up your copy by ordering directly from Phaidon, or by visiting your local independent bookstore. Visit our site, www.snackytunes.com for more info.

Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support Snacky Tunes by becoming a member.

Snacky Tunes is Powered by Simplecast.

In this special installment of Snacky Tunes, Darin continues the conversation on how the Los Angeles culinary community is responding to the devastating L.A. fires. First, we welcome back Brad Metzger and Jacqui Leanza, who are behind one of the most incredible fundraising dinners—Chefs Love LA. The event features an all-star lineup including Ruth Reichl, Daniel Boulud, Nyesha Arrington, Billy Harris, Phil Rosenthal, Jeremy Fox, Curtis Stone, Jonathan Waxman, and more!!! The dinner at the legendary Lawry’s is raising critical support for World Central Kitchen and Restaurants Care.

In the second half of the show, we sit down with Zak Fishman, owner of Prime Pizza and a longtime Altadena local, to discuss the impact of the fires on the neighborhood and the restaurant community. He shares his experience navigating the aftermath and the path to rebuilding.

For those looking to support LA restaurants, check out the latest Snacky Tunes Substack for donation links and action items.

Snacky Tunes: Music is the Main Ingredient, Chefs and Their Music (Phaidon), is now on shelves at bookstores around the world. It features over eighty of the world’s top chefs who share personal stories of how music has been an important, integral force in their lives. The chefs also give personal recipes and curated playlists too. It’s an anthology of memories, meals and mixtapes. Pick up your copy by ordering directly from Phaidon, or by visiting your local independent bookstore. Visit our site, www.snackytunes.com for more info.

Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support Snacky Tunes by becoming a member.

Snacky Tunes is Powered by Simplecast.

In this episode of Snacky Tunes, Darin continues the conversation about the ongoing challenges faced by the Los Angeles restaurant community in the wake of the devastating fires. Over two weeks in, the fires continue to impact the city with little clarity on the road ahead.

First, Darin welcomes back Charles Namba and Courtney Kaplan of Tsubaki, Ototo, and Camélia, who share their experiences navigating the crisis. The duo instead provides an honest look at how the fires have affected their business and the broader restaurant industry—facing a 50% drop in covers, grappling with outdoor dining decisions, and doing their best to keep staff employed. They offer valuable insights and practical tips on how listeners can support their favorite spots during these uncertain times.

In the second half of the show, Courtney Storer joins the conversation to discuss how she has been feeding the community through her company, Coco’s to GoGo, an inspiring culinary initiative driven by a dedicated network of volunteers. She shares actionable advice on organizing community support, the importance of self-care for those committing to long-term relief efforts, and her goal to make her nonna inspired food feel like a warm hug.

Snacky Tunes: Music is the Main Ingredient, Chefs and Their Music (Phaidon), is now on shelves at bookstores around the world. It features over eighty of the world’s top chefs who share personal stories of how music has been an important, integral force in their lives. The chefs also give personal recipes and curated playlists too. It’s an anthology of memories, meals and mixtapes. Pick up your copy by ordering directly from Phaidon, or by visiting your local independent bookstore. Visit our site, www.snackytunes.com for more info.

Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support Snacky Tunes by becoming a member.

Snacky Tunes is Powered by Simplecast.