Chef Simone Tong: Blending Asia in Austin's Zoe Tong
Today, I’m talking to Chef Simone Tong of the restaurant Zoe Tong in Austin. Her cross-cultural upbringing exposed her to many flavors throughout Asia, informing a blending of influences that resulted in a style uniquely her own.You’ll hear about her early food influences, from...
Panama to LA: Chef Jose Carles' Culinary Journey
Today, I’m talking to chef Jose Carles, the creative mind behind Venice’s newest restaurant, Si! Mon. Carles is originally from Panama, where he ran Donde Jose and currently operates Fonda Lo Que Hay in bustling Panama City. You’ll hear about his early start in...
El Paso to Mixtli: Chef Rico's Story
Today, I’m talking to chef Rico Torres from Mixtli in San Antonio, TX. Born and raised in El Paso, the vast desert landscapes helped inspire his creativity. His proximity to the border of Mexico fed his love for south of the border culinary traditions,...
Gavin Kaysen: Cooking Philosophy, Leadership & Future
Today, I’m talking to Chef Gavin Kaysen. He’s the executive chef and owner of several Minneapolis hotspots, including Spoon and Stable, Bellecour Bakery, Demi, Socca, and Mara. Kaysen was a 2018 recipient of the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef.You’ll hear about his...
Dough Masters: Crafting the Perfect Pizza
Today, I’m sharing a panel discussion dedicated to the art of perfect pizza. With me are Chef RobertAndreozzi from Marvin Pizza in Providence, RI, Chef Derrick Tung from Paulie Gee's in Logan Square in Chicago, and Chef Demetri Mechelis from Martha Dear in Washington...
Chef Panel Explores Culinary Creativity in Austin
Today, I’m sharing a recent panel discussion that took place in the thriving culinary scene of Austin, Texas. I was joined by Chef Fiore Tedesco of L'Oca D'Oro, Chef Fermin Nunez of Suerte and Este, Chef Philip Speer of Comedor, Chef Amanda Turner of...
Best Chefs' Stories – Flavors Unknown Ep150
This is the Best Chefs' Stories episode of the ‘Flavors Unknown' podcast, as we celebrate a milestone – episode 150 alongside, 100,000 episode downloads, and the one-year anniversary of my book, “Conversations Behind The Kitchen Door.” This special edition is a journey into the...
Talat Market: Thai Roots Meet Southern Flair
Today, I'm featuring Talat Market and chef Parnass Savang. He’s the co-founder of Talat Market in Atlanta. As a first-generation Thai-American, he’s learned to blend his cultural background in the form of unique and flavorful dishes that he describes as Georgian Thai. You’ll hear...
Ocean-Inspired Dishes at UMI by Vikram Garg
Today, I’m talking to chef Vikram Garg from UMI by Vikram Garg, located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Raised in India, Garg was trained in the French-style of culinary arts, providing him with the knowledge of classic techniques. With influences from Japan, the Middle East, Scandinavia,...
Exploring the Stories Behind American Chinese Food with Grace Lin
Today, I’m talking to Grace Lin, author of Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, and Legends Behind Your Favorite Foods. In her book, Lin explores the fascinating stories behind some of the most common and delectable favorites of Chinese cuisine paired with vivid illustrations. You’ll...
New England Cuisine: RI Chef Panel Discussion
5 Providence Restaurants. Today, I’m sharing a panel discussion I had with 5 of Rhode Island’s finest culinary professionals at the Star Chef’s event in Providence. Chef Derek Wagner from Nick’s on Broadway in Providence, Chef Eric Brown from Thick Neck at The Dean...
Bold Fork Books Chef Panel with Chefs Conroy & Crooks
Today, I'm diving into the Bold Fork Books Chef Panel discussion, organized by co-owner Clementine Thomas, co-owner of the Bold Fork Books bookstore in Washington DC. Joining me are Chef Matt Conroy from Lutèce in DC and Chef Opie Crooks from FARM Hospitality Group...