KQED's Forum ‘Check, Please!,’ the Bay Area’s Longest Running Dinner Party, Turns 20
Oct 30, 2025
Leslie Sbrocco, the vibrant host of Check, Please! Bay Area, and Lori Halloran, the insightful series producer, join for a retrospective on the show's 20-year journey in food and community. They reveal its unique approach to spotlight all types of restaurants, from hidden gems to Michelin stars. Behind-the-scenes secrets come alive, including the impact of episodes on restaurant reservations and the heartwarming friendships formed through the show. Leslie also shares her personal battle with cancer and how the show became a source of strength and connection.
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Democratizing Restaurant Discovery
- Check, Please! treats mom-and-pop and high-end restaurants equally, spotlighting passionate local favorites across the Bay Area.
- The show deliberately avoids chains and focuses on discovery and community-driven recommendations.
Pupusas Praise Sparks Playful Banter
- Ruby Barra gushed about the mushroom and garlic pupusa at Panchitas as the best she'd had, praising its creaminess and char.
- Leslie and guests bantered about excess cheese, showing the show's casual, food-loving vibe.
Show Restaurants As They Are
- Present restaurants authentically: shoot dishes as they're served to customers and avoid staging them on fancy plates.
- Let owners tell their stories and balance mouthwatering footage with honest customer experiences.