Tag Archives: cooking

Small Bites Radio Episode 197

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

🎙️Italian Excellence in Philadelphia – New Episode of Small Bites Radio!🎙️Presented by D & L Coffee Services Inc.

This week on Small Bites Radio, we’re spotlighting true Italian excellence in the heart of Philadelphia. From master bakers to cultural culinary ambassadors. 🍰 First up, we’re thrilled to welcome Berardino Varallo and his sons Michael and Luca Varallo of the iconic Varallo Brothers Bakery a beloved family-owned institution that’s been serving South Philly since 1981. A true story of heritage, heart, and handmade perfection, the Varallo family has spent decades preserving and passing down traditional Italian baking techniques. From their roots in Montella Avellino, Italy, to the bustling streets of Philadelphia, their dedication to quality and authenticity is unmatched. 👨‍🍳 Highlights include: Founder Michele Varallo is one of the only bakers known to make Sfogliatelle entirely by hand from start to finish Their journey from Italy to the U.S., and how the bakery has grown over three generations Signature pastries like award-winning cannoli (in six mouthwatering varieties), Zuppa Inglese, and homemade gelato How they’ve kept the family dream alive and what’s coming next for the Varallo legacy.

☕ Next, we sit down with Riccardo Longo, Founding Partner and Culinary & Wine Director of Gran Caffè L’Aquila, the most authentic Italian café in America rebuilt in Philadelphia after the original was tragically destroyed in the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake. From its original home in Piazza Duomo to a meticulously designed and imported location in Center City, Gran Caffè L’Aquila is more than a restaurant, it’s a full immersion into Italian culture. 🍷 What you’ll learn: How Riccardo and Italian Gelato Champion Stefano Biasini brought the dream back to life Their weekly rotating menu focused on regional Italian cities and their culinary specialties What makes their gelato and coffee internationally recognized including being selected by the Italian Government to represent Italian coffee culture at the G8 Summit The Italian-style bar that evolves throughout the day: from breakfast to aperitivo to cocktails A full upstairs experience: restaurant, wine bar, cultural and language school, and coffee/gelato labs A retail and online store offering over 500 products of excellence from all 20 regions of Italy.

🎧 Don’t miss this rich episode filled with family traditions, culinary passion, and true Italian excellence only on Small Bites Radio, presented by D & L Coffee Services Inc.

📍 Whether you’re craving fresh pastries or a deep dive into Italian culture this episode is a must-listen.

#SmallBitesRadio #ItalianExcellence #VaralloBrothersBakery #GranCaffeLAquila #PhillyEats #DLCoffeeServices #AuthenticItalian #ItalianCulture #Sfogliatelle #Cannoli #Gelato #ItalianCoffee #PhillyFoodies #SupportLocal #FamilyBusiness #ItalianHeritage

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

Small Bites Radio Show

#foodradioshowphiladelphia #FoodRadioShowSouthJersey #tophospitalityshow #foodradio #foodradioshow #topphiladelphialifestyle #toplisted #bestfood #bestpodcast #bestofphilly #bestphillyblog #bestfoodfeed #bestphillyartsentertainment #metrophillybest

Small Bites Radio Episode 196 – Davon Moseley the creator behind Royale Eats

Small Bites Radio Episode 196 – Davon Moseley the creator behind Royale Eats

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

🎙️ Latest Small Bites Radio Segment: Presented by D & L Coffee Services 🎧 In our most recent episode, we dive deep into the world of food, identity, and comfort with none other than Davon Moseley, the charismatic culinary creator behind Royale Eats. 🌟Davon’s newest venture is his upcoming cookbook, “Let’s Get Into It: 130+ Comfort Food Recipes for Novice Cooks”, hitting shelves on November 4th (published by DK)! 📚🍴 The book features over 100 mouthwatering recipes that bring a modern twist to classic comfort food. Whether you’re making Homemade Pasta or Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, Davon’s clear, approachable instructions make cooking feel like a breeze—no experience required! 🥘 In this segment, we also discuss: Food as Connection: Davon shares how food has been his way of connecting to legacy and creating new traditions. Accessible Home Cooking: No need for complicated techniques—Davon proves simple dishes can be unforgettable. The Business of Food & Content Creation: How Davon is using his 2.5M followers and viral recipes to create a thriving culinary empire. 🔥 Breaking Borders with Food: His new YouTube series “Borders” explores heritage, community, and the power of food to unite us. 🌍 But that’s not all—we also chat about some Washington D.C. food legends like Ben’s Chili Bowl 🌶️, the iconic Old Bay, and, of course, the Philadelphia Eagles’ recent win over the Dallas Cowboys. 🏈 Catch the full segment now and get ready for all the flavors coming your way this fall with Royale Eats! 🍽️💥 #RoyaleEats #LetsGetIntoIt #Cookbook #ComfortFood #FoodAsConnection #DavonMoseley #SmallBitesRadio #HomeCooking #FoodAndIdentity #CulinaryEmpire #SoulFood #DandLCoffeeServices 👉 Pre-order Davon’s Cookbook

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio.

For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below: http://www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia #FoodRadioShowSouthJersey #tophospitalityshow #foodradio #foodradioshow #topphiladelphialifestyle #toplisted #bestfood #bestpodcast #bestofphilly #bestphillyblog #bestfoodfeed #bestphillyartsentertainment #metrophillybest

Small Bites Radio – Episode 193 – Chef Joel Gamoran

🎉 Exciting News on Small Bites Radio! 🎉 We’re thrilled to introduce the newest segment featuring Homemade Live!, the viral cooking show hosted by the incredible Joel Gamoran—a celebrated chef known for his hit A&E series Scraps and collaborations with Sur La Table. Joel brings unparalleled kitchen expertise and a warm, approachable style that has won the hearts of food lovers everywhere. Each episode of Homemade Live! dives deep into the personal food stories of celebrity guests, revealing a side of them you’ve never seen before. Now streaming nationally on PBS.org, the free PBS App, and Amazon Prime Video, the show combines live cooking, interactive recipes, and star-studded fun. The latest partnership with Mighty Sesame® shines a spotlight on delicious, better-for-you tahini-based recipes perfect for your next summer party. Get ready to try crowd-pleasers like: 🔥 Harissa 7-Layer Dip 🍋 Zesty Lemon Loaf Cake 🍏 Tahini Apple Dippers 🌯 Spicy Chicken Wraps As part of the largest interactive cooking community in the U.S., Homemade Live! brings global, plant-based flavors right into your kitchen, making healthy, flavorful cooking accessible and fun for everyone. Tune in, download recipes, and join Joel and surprise guests for high-energy live classes that will elevate your home cooking game!

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024. Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us.

We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below: https://bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio/

Ocean City, Maryland – Summer 2025

Ocean City, Maryland – Summer 2025

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

Recently visited Ocean City, MD and let me tell you, this place is packed with dining options for every taste. Whether you’re craving seafood, comfort food, Caribbean flavors, or just a sweet treat, OCMD has it all. 👇

🦀 Ropewalk – Ocean City, MD

Perfect for serious seafood fans. I started with their Maryland Crab Soup — classic and delicious. Then came the Crawfish Steamer, the Deadliest Steampot (featuring snow crab legs), and the Maine Lobster Steamer. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and cooked just right.

🌊 Harborside Bar & Grill – Ocean City, MD

Home of the original Orange Crush! Where it all started and now the official drink of Maryland! This laid-back waterfront spot was a must-visit. I had the Broiled Seafood Platter, which was a combo of jumbo lump crab cake, flounder, jumbo shrimp, and sea scallops, all served with a baked potato and green beans. A seafood lover’s paradise.

🔥 Northside Pit & Pub – Ocean City, MD


Talk about comfort food done right. The Fried Chicken Platter came with mashed potatoes smothered in gravy and a side of collard greens. The chicken was crispy on the outside, juicy inside, a true southern-style meal that hit the spot.

🏝️ Seacrets – Ocean City, MD


This place is a party any time of day! It’s a massive, vibrant spot right on the bay with tropical vibes and even better food. I went all out with:

  • Jerk Chicken Appetizer: Tenderloin marinated for 48 hours in their spicy jerk blend.
  • Seacrets Famous Steamed Shrimp: Jumbo shrimp with that classic seafood seasoning.
  • Brown Stew Chicken: Rich, savory, and full of flavor with red beans, rice, and plantains.
  • Petit Filet topped with lump crab meat, served with mashed potatoes and fried plantains.
    Everything was packed with flavor and the vibe was unforgettable.

🍦 Dumser’s Dairyland – Ocean City, MD


No trip to Ocean City is complete without Dumser’s! Since 1939, they’ve been serving up homemade ice cream and I had to go for a cup of their classic twist soft serve. A sweet ending to an amazing food journey.

If you’re heading to Ocean City, go hungry. There’s something for everyone and the food scene is just as memorable as the beaches! 🌅🍴🦞

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

Small Bites Radio Show

#foodradioshowphiladelphia #FoodRadioShowSouthJersey #tophospitalityshow #foodradio #foodradioshow #topphiladelphialifestyle #toplisted #bestfood #bestpodcast #bestofphilly #bestphillyblog #bestfoodfeed #bestphillyartsentertainment #metrophillybest

Flambo Caribbean/Indian Restaurant – Center City – Philadelphia, PA

Flambo Caribbean/Indian Restaurant – Center City – Philadelphia, PA

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2024, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2024, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-24, Top 25 Philly Food RSS Feeds in 2024, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

If you’re looking for a culinary experience that transports you straight to the heart of the Caribbean and Indian fusion, Flambo Caribbean/Indian Restaurant in Center City Philadelphia is a must-visit. From its vibrant flavors to its warm and inviting atmosphere, this hidden gem delivers an unforgettable dining experience that you’ll crave again and again.


Located in the bustling heart of Center City, Flambo offers a cozy, vibrant setting that perfectly complements the rich, bold flavors on the menu. The service here is top-notch — attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu, ensuring that each guest feels welcome and well-cared for. And what’s even more remarkable is that the prices are incredibly reasonable, especially for the quality of the food and the prime location. It’s a rare find in a city where dining can often break the bank, but Flambo manages to deliver outstanding value.


Start your meal with a must-try appetizer — the Mussels cooked in a spicy Trinidad curry sauce. These mussels are tender, perfectly cooked, and drenched in a sauce that’s rich with layers of aromatic spices. The curry itself is bold, with a kick of heat and a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Pairing the mussels with a side of Paratha “Buss-up-Shot” is a game-changer. This soft, layered roti is a masterpiece in itself. The dough is meticulously prepared, wrapped in layers, and cooked before being beaten to loosen the layers. The resulting texture is perfect for tearing apart and dipping into the luscious mussel sauce, creating a symphony of flavor in each bite.

For a touch of sweetness, the fried Plantains are served to perfection — crispy on the outside, soft and tender inside, and dusted with just the right amount of cinnamon. The result is a satisfying contrast of sweet and savory that pairs beautifully with the rest of your meal.


For your main course, don’t miss the Chinese Chicken, a standout dish that combines Caribbean and Indian influences with a touch of Chinese culinary finesse. The dark, boneless chicken legs are deep-fried to crispy perfection after being coated in a dry rub of spices that deliver a savory flavor that’s addictive. Accompanying the chicken are sautéed veggies, seasoned with a unique Trinidad Chinese seasoning that perfectly balances the spices, all served over a bed of fried rice. It’s a delightful fusion of textures and flavors — each bite bursting with freshness and complexity.


Flambo Caribbean/Indian Restaurant is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of bold, exotic flavors, vibrant cultures, and impeccable service. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Philadelphia, this spot is a must-try. With its flavorful dishes like the Trinidad curry mussels, Buss-up-Shot, fried plantains, and the mouthwatering Chinese Chicken, Flambo provides a dining experience you won’t soon forget. The perfect combination of exotic spices, unique cooking techniques, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it an unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Highly recommend!

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025.

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

http://www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

The Secret French Fry Club – East Greenwich Little League – Clarksboro, NJ

The Secret French Fry Club – East Greenwich Little League – Clarksboro, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2024, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2024, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-24, Top 25 Philly Food RSS Feeds in 2024, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-23 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and winner of Metro Philly Newspaper 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.

Discover another of the hidden gems of South Jersey! I unveil for you the culinary secrets that only a select few know about. Just months ago, the South Jersey Food Scene revealed the unexpected: Virtua Hospital’s Voorhees Campus Cafeteria boasts some of the finest sushi in the region, captivating not only locals but also the attention of FOX 29, Philadelphia Inquirer, Courier Post, NJ.Com, JL Jupiter, and more.

That was  just the tip of the iceberg. There are many places. Now have you heard about The Secret French Fry Club at East Greenwich Little League? Tucked away in this unassuming baseball haven lies a snack stand that’s causing a sensation. It’s not just for Little League families; it’s drawing in food enthusiasts from far and wide. If you’ve never heard, it’s probably because you probably don’t live around the immediate area or your child is not involved with baseball or softball. The obvious people who already know are the families of softball and Little Leaguers that call these fields their home. Then once those seasons are over picture Sandlot-style baseball games under the summer sun, accompanied by the aroma of freshly cut fries while giving all children no matter their ability level in the surrounding towns the opportunity to play ball without the input or direction from adults just letting the kids play. 

What has really put this location on the map is that this complex hosts Perfect Game Tournaments which is a big deal in the baseball community and has teams traveling hours to be able to play in them. This is truly where this little gem of french fry fandom has expanded and has people involved in baseball from all over the East Coast talking about a Little League snack stand. Everyone who visits raves about the little league snack stand that could with fresh cut fries topped with all sorts of deliciousness. It’s not just the spectators enjoying them either. You will overhear umpires chatting up fans who are chomping on their fries and hear the umps tell the crowd they look forward to doing these games because they know they’ll be eating some of those amazing fries afterwards. 

What’s the secret behind their success? It’s simple: potatoes piled high, sliced on demand, deep-fried to perfection, and served piping hot. And the prices? They’ll make restaurant owners blush. But that’s not all. Indulge in hand-spun milkshakes, made with a generous sprinkle of childhood nostalgia. From cookies and cream to classic strawberry, they’ve got your cravings covered. In addition they have many other items that most other snack stands don’t offer, along with all the usual suspects pleasing all palates. The hotdogs are prepared on the rollers, but they even went above and beyond when I asked if they were grilled and popped the hot dog on the grill to give it a quick crisp. My order was grilled hot dog, strawberry milkshake, and the pièce de résistance of their old bay cheese fries. 

But what truly sets them apart? It’s the stories whispered in line, tales of travelers who journey far and wide just for a taste of those legendary fries and aren’t there to watch baseball or softball. Don’t miss out! Keep an eye on social media for game days and become a member of The Secret French Fry Club at East Greenwich Little League. Experience some of the best fries in South Jersey and become part of a deliciously exclusive community.

Again, in 2023, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2023. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us.

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

http://www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest