Uncovering the Culinary Gems of California: A Nostalgic Journey through the State's Iconic Eateries

In a captivating event at the Villa Park Library, food historian and chef George Geary, author of 16 cookbooks, shared his insights into his latest work, "Made in California Volume 2," as well as his remarkable career. Geary, a former pastry chef for the Disney company, has left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape, creating iconic dishes for beloved TV shows and leading culinary tours around the world.

Discover the Untold Stories Behind California's Legendary Restaurants and Eateries

Cheesecake: The Unsung Star of "The Golden Girls"

Geary's culinary journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. As a former pastry chef for Disney, he had the unique opportunity to create food for various TV shows, most notably the iconic cheesecakes featured on "The Golden Girls." Geary fondly recalled how "cheesecake was a secondary cast member on the show," showcasing his talent and the enduring popularity of this beloved dessert.

Cruising the Culinary World: Geary's Globetrotting Adventures

Geary's expertise extends far beyond the television screen. He has led culinary tours since 1985 and taught cooking on cruise ships, an experience he described as "the hardest job I ever had." Despite the challenges, Geary relished the opportunity to share his passion for food with a global audience, completing an impressive 118 cruises and eight world cruises.

A Familiar Face on the Small Screen

Geary's culinary prowess has also made him a regular on morning television for the past 30 years. He has graced the screens of WGN-TV Chicago, NBC Tampa, and his home station FOX San Diego, as well as KCET's "Lost LA," captivating audiences with his vast knowledge and engaging personality.

Uncovering the Origins of California's Iconic Eateries

The inspiration for Geary's latest book, "Made in California Volume 2," came to him while teaching at Purdue University in Indiana. As he drove down the highway, he noticed a list of restaurants before reaching the off-ramp, and it dawned on him that many of these establishments had their roots in California. This realization led Geary to uncover the fascinating stories behind the state's iconic burger joints, diners, fast-food chains, and restaurants that have left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of America.

Rediscovering the Birthplace of the Bacon Cheeseburger and Other Iconic Dishes

Geary's book and his captivating presentation are filled with a wealth of intriguing facts and nostalgic details. For instance, did you know that A&W created the first bacon cheeseburger? Or that the Hof's Hut restaurant in Long Beach, which opened in 1951, was where none other than Marie Callendar made pies for the Hofman family before launching her own successful pie shops?

The Humble Beginnings of a Culinary Empire: The Cheesecake Factory's Origin Story

One of the most compelling stories Geary shared was the humble beginnings of The Cheesecake Factory. The iconic restaurant chain, known for its extensive menu and decadent cheesecakes, actually started almost 30 years before the opening of its first location in 1978. It all began with Detroit homemaker Evelyn Overton, who started baking a cheesecake recipe she had found in a newspaper and giving it to her husband's employer, who then began ordering more to give as gifts to his clients.

Recreating the Magic: Geary's Cheesecake Recipes

For those eager to recreate the magic of The Cheesecake Factory's iconic desserts, Geary's "The Cheesecake Bible" is a must-have resource. The book features 200 mouth-watering recipes, complete with baking tips, techniques, and stunning color photographs. Geary's version of the Oreo Dream Extreme, the chain's second most popular cheesecake, is a true showstopper, featuring a "wall" of sandwich cookies around the sides, as well as crumbs in the crust and quartered cookies in the filling.As Geary's captivating presentation and the stories behind California's culinary landmarks came to a close, it was clear that his passion for food and his dedication to preserving the rich history of the state's iconic eateries have left an indelible mark on the culinary world. From the humble beginnings of The Cheesecake Factory to the creation of the first bacon cheeseburger, Geary's insights have shed new light on the evolution of California's culinary landscape and the enduring legacy of its most beloved establishments.