Welcome to Beats, Vines & Life, where Gen X culture, music, and the philosophy of coming together over good wine take center stage. In this episode, MJ sits down with Mark Pascal and Francis Schott—the legendary Restaurant Guys—whose roots in the hospitality world run deep. Before launching one of the world’s first food podcasts back in 2005, Francis and his partner Mark Pascal were trailblazers in New Jersey’s restaurant scene, transforming Stage Left Steak and Catherine Lombardi into beloved community hubs for food and wine lovers.
We’ll explore their 30-year friendship, their love for music and authentic living, and how fostering genuine community—not just business—has shaped their journey. From wild stories of working the bar at The Frog and The Peach to organizing live podcasts with culinary legends and serving up Old World and New World wines, Francis shares the art of hospitality, the value of curiosity, and the enduring power of shared stories.
This episode celebrates Gen X sensibilities—opinionated, collaborative, culturally curious, and always chasing the next great track (or bottle). Get ready for laughs, life lessons, and a few slices of insider wisdom from one of hospitality’s most entertaining storytellers. Grab a glass, hit play, and join MJ, Francis, and Mark as they navigate the beats, vines, and life that make up the soul of a restaurant—and maybe, just maybe, the soul of a generation.
To listen to The Restaurant Guys Podcast click the link!
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For more information about restaurant Catherine Lombardi click the link!
For more information about Stage Left Steak click the link!
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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!
Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town.
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