This Is TASTE
537: The Father of California Cuisine Returns with Michael McCarty
Feb 3, 2025
Michael McCarty, the visionary behind California cuisine and owner of Michael’s restaurants, shares his culinary journey from Paris to Santa Monica, highlighting his role in establishing the farmers' market. He discusses the evolution of American dining and the meaningful connections between chefs and local farmers. Eater Chicago's Ashok Selvam joins to reveal his insights on the revival of Charlie Trotter’s restaurant, emphasizing the importance of legacy and innovation in modern dining. Together, they explore how these culinary narratives shape our dining experiences.
01:25:16
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Quick takeaways
- Michael McCarty's evolution in the culinary scene highlights the significance of his French training and transformative experiences in Paris.
- The establishment of farmers' markets played a crucial role in promoting the farm-to-table philosophy and reshaping California cuisine.
Deep dives
Michael McCarty's Culinary Journey
Michael McCarty offers a personal recount of his evolution in the food industry, emphasizing his foundational education in French cuisine and the transformative experiences he encountered while cooking in Paris. His early years shaped his culinary philosophy, as he interacted with various food and wine experts and learned the significance of terroir and ingredient sourcing. He credits his introduction into fine dining and California cuisine to his restaurant ventures, particularly his flagship establishment in Santa Monica, which opened in 1979. The exploration of regional American flavors during a time characterized by outdated wine and food pairings laid the groundwork for a new culinary movement.
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