Las Vegas has quietly become one of America’s most exciting culinary cities, and Chef Sarah Thompson is helping lead that transformation.
In this episode, Sarah shares how she unexpectedly fell in love with Mexican cuisine while working at Cosme in New York, why humility became the foundation of her learning, and how Casa Playa celebrates the remarkable diversity of Mexico’s regional cooking.
Beyond the food, this conversation explores creativity, mentorship, leadership, ingredient sourcing, and why great chefs remain lifelong students.
Grounded in Sarah’s experiences at Casa Playa and her reflections on Las Vegas’ evolving food scene, the episode highlights regional Mexican cuisine, fresh heirloom masa, collaborative leadership, and the importance of curiosity in both cooking and innovation.
What you'll learn from Chef Sarah Thompson
- Why Las Vegas has become a legitimate global culinary destination.
- The enormous diversity of regional Mexican cuisine.
- Why fresh heirloom masa completely changes the dining experience.
- How chefs respectfully learn another culture’s cuisine.
- How travel fuels culinary creativity.
- Why mentorship matters more than hierarchy.
- How great kitchens develop future leaders.
- What innovation looks like inside a James Beard Award-winning restaurant.
- Why authenticity starts with curiosity rather than expertise.
- Lessons food innovators can borrow from restaurant chefs.
Beyond the Mic: My Stories in Print
A Taste of Madagascar: Culinary Riches of the Red Island invites readers to join me on his unforgettable journey across the island of Madagascar, where a vibrant culture and stunning ecosystem intertwine to create an extraordinary culinary experience. Explore the unique ingredients and traditions that define Madagascar and discover their profound impact on the global culinary landscape. Alongside the captivating stories, the book presents a collection of exciting recipes that showcase the incredible flavors and ingredients of Madagascar.
Publication date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Pre-order the book here!
“Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door” is my debut book, published in Fall 2022. It features insights from chefs and culinary leaders interviewed on the Flavors Unknown podcast, offering a behind-the-scenes look at creativity, culture, and the future of the hospitality industry.
Get the book here!
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