Derek Timm is the Host of 'Small Bites Radio' The #1 Listed Food Radio Show Philadelphia & South Jersey on Simplecast, iHeartRadio, Player FM, iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, Audible, Amazon Music, and many more distribution partners.
La Tentacion Pizza & Mexican Grill – Westville, NJ
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and winner of Metro Philly Newspaper 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
This place truly hits the fusion of pizza parlor and Mexican restaurant perfectly. The service is really friendly and makes you feel at home while the ambiance is festive and makes it feel like a party eating there. The prices are decent for the quality of food and portion sizes. The mango habanero wings were awesome. Crisp on the outside and juicy wet and tender on the inside with a sauce that hits with a little heat to begin with but the sweetness settles it quickly and is nice. Fresh cut fries were great as well. I enjoy any place that goes with fresh cut fries. I had the rib eye tacos and they were seasoned just right. They also have lots of pizza choices that everyone in the place seemed to be enjoying so I will certainly be back to try them and an outdoor area for when the weather permits. This place was a pleasant surprise and if you have never been you should give them a try.
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:
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Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and winner of Metro Philly Newspaper 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
From their website, ‘Michael Schulson is the chef and restaurateur behind the Schulson Collective restaurant group whose imagination and vision have made him one of Philadelphia’s most successful hospitality professionals. In 2008, Schulson opened his first restaurant, Izakaya, a modern Japanese pub in Atlantic City’s Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. At Borgata, Schulson found himself among the likes of Bobby Flay and Wolfgang Puck, earning rave reviews and immense popularity. He opened his second restaurant, Sampan, in 2009 in Philadelphia’s bustling Midtown Village. The contemporary Asian restaurant and bar was promptly named one of Bon Appetit’s “Top Six places to Taste Asian Fusion,” and Schulson was named one of Esquire’s “Chefs to Watch” in their annual restaurant issue soon after. Sampan is an oasis of contemporary Asian small plates located in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia’s hot Midtown Village neighborhood. A dramatic back-lit wall mural sets the scene for artful food, emerging from the restaurant’s centrally located open kitchen while a carefully curated selection of wine, beer, sake and cocktails compliment guests’ experiences.’
After coming to Philadelphia 2009, Michael Schulson has been on a tear and Schulson Collective restaurant group is a major player in the area as well as expanding to Miami, FL recently. One man may have a vision, but it takes a team to play the game. Since the group brought on Michael Parisi in 2016 as Chief Financial Officer at Schulson Collective the group’s expansion, dominance at excellence, and fortune have increased tremendously. They also have stamped their place as a constant contender to be the location to see and be seen in the region. The entire team is on fire, yet their attention to detail has not slowed down one bit.
Even though Sampan has been open since 2009 and has consistently been named one of Philadelphia’s Best Of for numerous awards and is always a very popular Happy Hour destination, I somehow missed the memo to visit. The message was finally received and they are just as fantastic as ever. From start to finish this was dining at its finest. From sitting down exactly at reservation time, decor, ambiance, service, food, pace of meal, and price point everything was hitting perfectly on all cylinders. To perform at such a high level after all these years and many other restaurant openings in different areas and markets speaks to the dedication of leadership from the top all the way to the bottom with everyone still believing and executing the vision. Job well done to everyone involved and our server Jonathan was great.
Enough of the blah, blah, blah now to get to the food. Really enjoyed everything. Huge highlight was the General Tso Soup Dumpling. I have been to many places that say they specialize in soup dumplings that weren’t half as good as these and it was just as fun eating these as when I visited Din Tai Fung in Taipei, Taiwan. Another shining star are the Kung Pao Chicken Wings. Again anyone who serves wings should take notice. Crispy on the outside, super juicy on the inside, and a flavor that just pops with every single bite. The Wagyu Beef Satay was no slacker either. You can tell a happy cow makes a delicious piece of meat on a stick and they are so tender and yummy. Beef Short Rib Lo Mein was a delight with the beef able to be cut with the chopsticks and noodles seasoned wonderfully. It was a joy to eat every bite. The Roasted Branzino was truly delectable and green beans were a magical treat to eat. Something a little different was the kim chee fried rice that was a nice side dish and the crispy spring roll was good. A wonderful treat was the ice cream. Vanilla Swedish Fish & Chocolate Cocoa Puffs were the perfect way to end the meal.
Sampan is a culinary gem of the Philadelphia dining scene and you should definitely give them a try or visit them once more if it has been awhile.
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:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
This is one of those places that is hard to describe. It is basic, but wonderful. The inside is large, but with the service you feel like you’re in the owners home. Best of all the food is delicious. Really enjoyed their Gỏi Cuốn, Hoành Thánh Chiên, and Bún Bò Huế. Everything was fresh, fragrant, and great. The menu is large so I do look forward to going back to try even more items.
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 list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and winner of Metro Philly Newspaper 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
Could a French revolution be in the works around South Jersey? If you go to the movies you’ll find Joaquin Phoenix playing the role of a spectacle-filled action epic that details the checkered rise and fall of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte in the film Napoleon. Then within a 2 mile radius South Jerseyans can enjoy wonderful French cuisine at Cafe le Jardin or June BYOB. French food is an art form and the type of dining experience you normally expect in big name cities. Lucky for South Jersey, they have two great destinations to choose from with amazing food being served.
A little about Cafe le Jardin. It is from the owner’s of June BYOB in Collingswood, NJ, Richard and Christina Cusack who have opened another French dining destination called Café le Jardin – “the garden” – which is a charming French café and bistro nestled in the heart of downtown Audubon, NJ. While you are having brunch or dinner in its cozy dining room or outdoor patio, you will feel as though you have been transported to a corner café in Paris. Enjoy classic bistro fare by chef Rich and, chef de cuisine, Jay Shipp. They also offer a full coffee bar, supplied by Bean2Bean Coffee Company. So don your beret and favorite bottle (BYOB) for your next romantic dinner for 2 or casual meal with friends.
Eating here was a treat. I really enjoyed the Coq au Vin which was rich and brimming with flavor. Coq au Vin is a classic French stew of chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms and crispy pancetta. Every piece of the entree was delicious from the carrots to potatoes, everything was great and every bite bursting with deliciousness. I really enjoyed the French Onion Soup as well. Definitely top notch and one of the better ones around South Jersey. WIth the caramelized onions, rich broth, and toasty bread topped with melted cheese, this soup is the ultimate comfort food and perfect to get cozy with the cold weather upon us now. The ending couldn’t have been any better with an amazing creme brûlée. It is a simple but elegant dessert with a creamy custard topped with caramelized sugar. From start to finish Cafe le Jardin really shined. Looking forward to my next visit for sure.
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 list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
Aversa’s Italian Bakery is a renowned and cherished establishment in the world of Italian baked goods. Upon entering, you’re met with a warm and cozy atmosphere. The interior is tastefully decorated and as you approach the bakery, you’re greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread, pastries, and other Italian delights. I tried a cannoli, ricotta cookies, and a huge chocolate chuck cookie. Everything was better than the average bakery and prices in line with what you would expect. What do you enjoy here?
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 list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
This is an old fashioned Italian and American bakery that opened in 1987. They have all the treats would expect and those with an updated twist. I had the original ricotta cannoli and the chocolate peanut butter version as well as a few of their cookies. Everything was good and prices were reasonable with very friendly service.
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 list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
I will admit I had low expectations about what I would experience here. Well thankfully they proved me completely wrong. Their white chocolate macadamia nut cookie was amazing! One of the best I’ve had in a very long time. The chocolate chip was very enjoyable as well, but the white chocolate macadamia nut cookie was simply the star of the show during my visit. As I write this all I can think about is having another one and going back to try all of the other flavors available now too.
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:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and winner of Metro Philly Newspaper 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
Was recently advised of a new restaurant Grand Opening that for some reason has been completely under the radar and not well known. Well after my visit there, they should be in the lineup for anyone that lives around that area to try. The service was very friendly, prices were decent for the quality and quantity of food, and they are next to a municipal parking lot making it easier to get to them on the busy road they sit on. The interior is nicely done for how tiny the location is. They are 99% take-out only as it looked like a total of around 10 seats with about 4-5 tables available for a cozy and tight dining experience if you decided to eat there. Tried a little bit of everything and it was all top notch. I had their shrimp fried rice that was packed with shrimp and very flavorful, Beef Drunken Noodles and the beef was a step above most places as it seemed it was fresh sliced and a really nice texture with a good balance throughout, the Beef Pad See Ew was fantastic, Steamed Crab Cakes were good little morsels to pop in your mouth, Lemongrass Soup was very tasty and had a profile popping with all sorts of tastes and nice slices of chicken, Panang Curry with chicken was solid, and the Thai Tea that was given as a gift for coming in and having to wait just a few minutes while everything was ready was so nice of them and best part is was a yummy treat. They might not be well known right now, but I have a feeling the more people who visit, word will get out. If ever around the area, they are a great addition to the food scene and you should give them a try.
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 list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites is still thrilled and humbled to win Metro Philly’s Best of Best 2023 Arts & Entertainment category last week. We close out 2023 with our last episode of the year with a show so big it is close to 3 hours long with some of the biggest names in the food industry!!! See you again in 2024.
D and L Coffee Service Inc. presents Small Bites Radio the #1 listed “Food Radio show Philadelphia” and #1 listed “Food Radio show South Jersey”. Our newest episode has a fantastic lineup! #SmallBitesRadio has been named #14 out of the Top 30 Best Hospitality Shows on the planet for 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, #23 Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Influencer in 2021, 2022, and 2023 and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper as 2022’s Best of Philly Arts & Entertainment, and Winner of Metro Philly Newspaper 2023’s Best of Philly Arts & Entertainment.
John Howard-Fusco started the show off talking about SIN Philadelphia, Schulson Collective restaurants, Royal Tavern, South Jersey Food Scene, Wawa, Philadelphia Pretzel Factory, and more.
We had a fantastic conversation with Frankie Faison (01:58:30 of episode), a talented and accomplished actor and a legend in the entertainment industry with a successful career spanning several decades. He is best known for his versatile performances in film, television, and on stage. One of his most notable roles is as Commissioner Ervin Burrell in the critically acclaimed television series “The Wire.” Faison’s contributions to the entertainment industry have been significant, and his performances have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. Now he is entering the food industry with a successful launch of Frankie’s Fabulous Granola with an anticipated nationwide launch in 2024. After spending more than 2 decades carefully crafting his recipe, Frankie is ready to share his product with the world! During the actors strike, with every bag that was sold, a portion of the proceeds were donated to the SAG-AFTRA Emergency Relief Fund to help support those in his union during the strike against the AMPTP. Frankie’s Fabulous Granola is hand made (and mixed) with love and care. Each batch is crafted in small quantities to guarantee freshness and flavor. Using only the finest organic ingredients, their granola is the perfect combination of crunch and sweetness, making it a delightful addition to your breakfast or snack time.
With the holiday season in full force in the Philadelphia area we welcomed Grace Gosnar (59:30 of episode) Marketing Coordinator for Teddy Sourias’s Craft Concepts Group. CCG really goes all out to make any visit a full sensory experience. The collection of CCG restaurants, bars, beer gardens and pop-up concepts focuses on showcasing and being a driver in the elevation of Philadelphia’s thriving dining and nightlife scene. Their locations include BRU Craft & Wurst, U-Bahn, Kontrol, Finn McCool’s Ale House, Uptown Beer Garden, Tradesman’s, Blume Burger, Sueño, Tinsel holiday pop-up bar, and more.
Coming soon to Philadelphia is Bake’N Bacon that will open a new bacon themed restaurant in South Philly. We chat with Chef/Owner Justin Coleman (01:16:50 of episode) about the new 2,500 sq. feet space that will seat around 74 people inside and around two dozen outside, with room for more as they complete additional dining and event space. From the kitchen, foodies will find Bacon BBQ, Bacon Mac, Bacon Buffalo Sandwiches – and more handhelds, plus Bacon Burnt Ends, Bacon Caramel Pound Cake, Chocolate Covered Bacon, and Coleman’s favorites Savory Brisket Waffle and Bacon Brisket Sandwich. The restaurant and bar will have a full liquor license with a menu of cocktails designed special to pair with the bacon-centric food offerings. Talking about bacon we even discussed 322 BBQ’s triple smoked candied bacon.
Steve Luttmann (23:10 of episode) of Hercules Mulligan Rum and Rye available at Reading Terminal Market joined us to describe how they started and the history of the name. A unique recipe from the era of revolution and self-determination, custom-tailored for the modern independent thinker. Perfectly balanced Caribbean Aged Rum & American Rye Whiskey create an equilibrium of duality. The Rum & Rye blend is combined with macerated, fresh organic ginger – not artificial flavors. And it’s the essence of this magical root that gives the blend a kick and builds its distinctive character. The potion is finished with a dash of bespoke bitters that add that extra flavor. No fakery, only honest-to-God ingredients that capture the essence of a bittersweet life.
A little more conversation about cocktails with Carey Jones & Mixologist John McCarthy (37:40 of episode) joined us to talk about their new book ‘Every Cocktail Has a Twist: Master 25 Classic Drinks and Craft More Than 200 Variations’ published by Countryman Press. You love your favorite libations, but sometimes you want something different that you know you’ll like. Providing all the tools you need to create delicious new concoctions, this comprehensive collection reconfigures 25 timeless tipples, from Bloody Marys, Daiquirís, and Manhattans to Margaritas, Negronis, and Old-Fashioneds.
Jeremy Scheck (07:25 of episode) has charmed a new generation of home cooks with his simple yet remarkably tasty recipes and his reliable culinary know-how. Now, in this stunning and personal book ‘ScheckEats―Cooking Smarter: Friendly Recipes with a Side of Science’ published by Harvest & William Morrow HarperCollins it is brimming with approachable recipes and step-by-step guidance. Jeremy shares the building blocks of what he calls culinary literacy: understanding why a recipe works and empowering readers to cook with confidence every day. Recipes are designed to minimize single-use ingredients and equipment (for example, all baking recipes are no-mixer-required), encouraging versatility with easily available essentials and Jeremy’s favorite kitchen staples.
If the young gourmands on MasterChef Junior are anything to go by, lots of kids are eager to get into the kitchen. We talked to Danielle Acken (01:43:05 of episode) about the new book ‘Let’s Eat: Recipes for Kids Who Cook’ published by TouchWood Editions. Seasoned cookbook author Danielle Acken, food stylist Aurelia Louvet, and their six proteges (age 7 to 17) are here to help. Let’s Eat brings together kitchen basics, tools, terminology, and 60+ recipes with loads of variations to suit a range of tastes. You want to be the toast of town hosting a holiday gathering?
We talk to Lea Dixon (02:27:30 of episode), known online as ThePlatterGirl about her new book ‘Mostly Plant-Based Platters & Boards: Gorgeous Spreads for Clean Eating + Great Gatherings’ published by Castle Point Books. Treat yourself and others to an eye-catching, party-friendly array of mostly fruits, veggies, nuts, and grains—with a side of dips and cheeses. Whether you’re feeding just you, a cozy few, or a full house of family and friends, Mostly Plant-Based Platters & Boards features 60 delicious grazing designs and platter starters that are easy to put together and guaranteed to please.
You say you STILL NEED MORE!!! The Small Bites team consists of many segment producers and correspondents. Expect culinary tips and events from celebrity Chef Barbie Marshall who was awarded the title of Pennsylvania’s most influential chef by Cooking Light Magazine, Season 10 Hell’s Kitchen Finalist and appeared on Season 17 Hell’s Kitchen All Stars. You’ll be provided with latest food news and happenings from John Howard-Fusco who has been featured in the Courier-Post South Jersey (a Gannett newspaper), as a contributor for NJ Monthly Magazine, and a New York Times recognized blogger for Eating in South Jersey. The latest trends and food concepts from Chef Beth Esposito the Chef/Owner of Pink Garlic Private Events and Butcher’s Pantry in the Reading Terminal Market and has been spotlighted on The Rachael Ray Show, The Food Network programming, multiple appearances on Fox 29 Good Day, and many more television and radio outlets. Enjoy a funny joke from legendary joke teller Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling, the former head writer for “The Howard Stern Show”. Last but not least we also have freelance writer William Knowles, the personality behind “Around Town” for Bluejeanfood.com doing coverage and blog posts about events.
Listen to Small Bites Radio worldwide on Simplecast, iHeartRadio,TuneIn, Stitcher Radio, PodOmatic, Player FM, iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, Audible, Amazon Music, and many more distribution partners.
D & L Coffee Services has an expert staff of highly qualified, certified, and experienced office, technical, and sales personnel. D & L Coffee Services are able to provide your business, home, or special event the absolute best from the beans they sell, vendors they work with, Italian delicacies available for delivery, catering on-site for any sized affair, hands-on barista training, equipment available for purchase, and maintenance/repair services for your espresso and coffee machines. You can stop by their warehouse at 7000 HOLSTEIN AVE, SUITE 3, Philadelphia, PA 19153 during business hours or call the office at 215-365-5521 for an appointment, consultation, or any questions.
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
Junior’s Cheesecake is a renowned bakery and restaurant famous for its signature cheesecakes, which are considered some of the best in the world since 1950. Lucky for the Philadelphia/South Jersey region you can get a taste of Brooklyn without the trip. The cheesecake I enjoyed was creamy with a velvety texture rich flavor featuring a dense and smooth cream cheese filling on a buttery graham cracker crust. There is a good reason people love them, because they are indeed GREAT!!!!
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 list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
BlueJeanFood 