Dean Norris’ Temecula

On this episode of California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson welcomes celebrated character actor and longtime Temecula resident Dean Norris. During their conversation—available on both audio and video platforms—Norris discusses his latest projects, including his work on Ghosts and Law and Order: Organized Crime. He also shares a memorable anecdote from his time filming with Arnold Schwarzenegger, recalling, “He was so cool that when the camera was on his closeup, he'd have a cigar down here while the camera was going. It was awesome.”

Norris then discusses the joys of owning the Swing Inn Cafe and BBQ in Old Town Temecula, a nostalgic neighborhood joint that dates back to 1927. He recounts the story of how he acquired the cafe and his decision to introduce barbecue to the menu. “I found a great pitmaster who makes just really legendary stuff,” Norris notes. “We have people from Texas that come in and say, ‘This is legit.’” The actor goes on to highlight some of his favorite menu items, including the slow-cooked brisket and his signature Shraderbräu beer, along with other Breaking Bad–themed cocktails.

Finally, Norris calls out some of his go-to Temecula wineries, golf courses, and one uniquely local nightlife spot. “You can line dance and hear some country music... it's a very Temecula experience to hang out at the Stampede.” Norris ends the episode by taking the California Questionnaire, offering his takes on the best ways to play, splurge, and road-trip around the Golden State.

GUEST

Dean Norris

RESOURCES

Temecula

Inland Empire

Swing Inn Cafe and BBQ

Old Town Temecula

Shraderbräu

Rocket Fizz

Temecula Stampede

Hollywood Hills

San Diego

Pechanga Resort Casino

South Coast Winery

Leoness Cellars

San Francisco

Sequoia National Park

Yosemite National Park

Mammoth Lakes

Lake Tahoe

Sushi Row

Los Angeles

Torrey Pines Golf Course

Orange County

South Coast Plaza

Death Valley National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Big Bear Lake

ABOUT THE HOST

Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on New York radio station WNYC, has been the host of the California Now Podcast since its inception in 2018.

OUR TEAM

Host, Soterios Johnson

Editorial Director, John Godfrey

Producer, Kate Eplboim

Technical Producer, Jessica Marshall

Theme music, Aaron Taos