Troy Johnson, for those who don’t read Riviera magazine, is their senior editor for food and drink.  He’s also a pretty clever and funny guy in person as well as on the written page.  If you’ve ever aspired to be on the Food Network, check out Troy’s audition tape that got the Network to put him on the air.  The show, called Crave, is written and hosted by Johnson and  premiers June 20 at 10pm.  Here’s a short clip.

Caffè Vergnano 1882 opened this week in Hillcrest and Buzz has tried it and it’s good.  Owner Hector Rabellino comes from Genoa and soon you can also expect to find savory sandwiches, pizza and focaccia to munch while you enjoy an espresso.   If you want a proper coffee, espresso to be exact, this place (as well as Caffé Calabria in North Park and Little Italy’s  Caffe Italia) are the three best around–they understand that a shot isn’t a half a large cup of coffee but one that fits perfectly in a small ceramic cup.

Chef Chad White has joined Sea Rocket Bistro in North Park  as executive chef and partner. Look for menu changes in the next few weeks.