News Summary
Beachwood Pizza & Beer in Huntington Beach introduces a limited-time menu honoring the late culinary icon Chef John Ash. Available from October 23 to November 2, the menu features dishes inspired by Ash’s sustainable cooking philosophy, including unique offerings like Earth To Table Sourdough Pizza, Wine-Braised Chicken Orecchiette, and Spiced Wine Poached Pear. This tribute not only showcases local ingredients but also celebrates the influential legacy of a champion of Wine Country cuisine.
Huntington Beach Welcomes a Tasty Tribute to Culinary Legend Chef John Ash
In a delightful fusion of food and legacy, Beachwood Pizza & Beer in Huntington Beach is rolling out a limited-time menu that pays homage to the renowned Chef John Ash, often hailed as the father of Wine Country cuisine. This exclusive menu will be available from October 23 to November 2, giving locals and visitors the perfect excuse to indulge in some delicious offerings while celebrating a culinary icon.
A Fond Farewell to a Culinary Pioneer
Sadly, Chef John Ash passed away at the age of 83 in August 2025, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of cooking. Known for championing the art of sustainable cooking, Ash inspired countless chefs by emphasizing the importance of using local and seasonal ingredients, particularly the exquisite wines of Sonoma County. His influential cookbook, “From Earth to Table,”, published 30 years ago, has served as a guiding light for many aspiring food enthusiasts.
A Creative Touch from Beachwood’s Head Chef
The kitchen at Beachwood has been in the capable hands of Chef Ashley Arias, who has meticulously crafted three special dishes inspired by Ash’s celebrated cookbook. Arias reflects on how she has transformed Ash’s timeless recipes into a fresh, new world cuisine that captures the essence of his philosophy on cooking.
Indulge in Mouth-Watering New Offerings
What can you expect from this limited-time menu? Let’s take a look at the flavorful creations:
- Earth To Table Sourdough Pizza: This isn’t just any pizza; it features a rich Bechamel sauce, topped with mozzarella, Dutch brie, Canadian bacon, portabella mushrooms, and caramelized onions. Arias likens it to having a charcuterie board on a pizza, giving you a hearty bite filled with unique flavors that compliment each other beautifully.
- Wine-Braised Chicken Orecchiette: A delicious combination of creamy chicken paired with herbed Shiitake mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan, this dish is packed with herby and savory goodness. It’s a perfect tribute to the local wine and ingredient inspiration Ash advocated for.
- Spiced Wine Poached Pear: For those with a sweet tooth, this dessert showcases pears poached in wine from Ash’s cookbook, resulting in a tender texture that’s simply irresistible. It’s a delightful way to end your meal on a high note, combining sweetness with a hint of sophistication.
A Personal Connection to the Culinary Icon
Owner Gabriel Gordon of Beachwood has noted how profoundly Ash impacted his journey as a chef, especially growing up in Santa Rosa, where Ash made his mark. Gordon remembers him not just as a celebrity chef but as an influential mentor who inspired many, including himself.
Visit Beachwood Pizza & Beer
For a unique dining experience that honors a legendary figure in the culinary world, be sure to stop by Beachwood Pizza & Beer, located at 5205 Warner Ave., Huntington Beach. This limited-time menu is an extraordinary opportunity to savor dishes that embody the spirit of a culinary giant. For more details about the restaurant and this special menu, you can find information at beachwoodbrewing.com/huntingtonbeach.
Don’t miss out on the chance to relish these exclusive dishes while they last!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: Beachwood Honors Culinary Legend
- Wikipedia: Chef John Ash
- Press Telegram: Best Pizza in Long Beach
- Google Search: Chef John Ash
- OC Register: California Pizza Kitchen Turns 40
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Culinary History
- OC Register: Super Bowl Deals on Food
- Google News: Pizza Events 2025

Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.


