Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Radio Moose and Cake Mix: Inside The Alaskan Diet
Jan 23, 2026
Join Julia O'Malley, a third-generation Alaskan cook and journalist, as she explores the unique fusion of subsistence foods and processed treats in Alaskan cuisine. Discover how fishing and food sharing shape community bonds. Photographer Riley Arthur shares captivating stories of New York diners, revealing their surprising connections to organized crime and the rich fabric of diner culture. Adam Gopnik reflects on the evolution of New York's restaurant scene from French dominance to a celebration of regional flavors.
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What Makes A Diner A Diner
- Riley defines a 20th-century diner as a prefabricated modular structure with counter seating and long hours.
- She includes storefront luncheonettes in her count, totaling 348 diners in New York City today by her definition.
Order Diner Staples To Judge Quality
- Riley suggests testing diners by ordering staples like French toast, matzo ball soup, club sandwiches, and tuna melts to judge authenticity.
- These menu items reveal a diner's quality, ownership influences, and traditional style.
A Waitress Who Delivered Her Baby At The Counter
- Riley shares a multi-decade diner story where a longtime waitress delivered her baby at the counter and later passed the job to a younger server.
- The tale illustrates the familial atmosphere and deep staff-regular relationships in diners.
