

549: Was There Ever a Bon Appétit vs. Food & Wine Rivalry? Dana Cowin Has Thoughts.
Feb 26, 2025
In this discussion, Dana Cowin, the former editor-in-chief of Food & Wine and founder of Progressive Hedonist, reflects on her influential role in food media. She shares insights on the magazine's shift to digital and the rise of chefs as cultural icons. Dana reminisces about the Best New Chefs program and its impact on the culinary landscape, celebrating emerging talent and community in food. The conversation also touches on nostalgic dining experiences and the vibrant food scene in New York, from delicious local eateries to artisanal treats.
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Chefs as Innovators
- Chefs are the innovators and tastemakers of the food world, driving culinary trends.
- Food&Wine recognized this early on, centering chefs as key figures in their coverage.
Discovering Chefs' Passion
- Early in her career, Cowin found chefs to be surprisingly engaging interview subjects.
- Their passion for food and creative process contrasted with the snobbery she observed in other fields.
The Symphony of the Kitchen
- Cowin notes an initial flaw in food media's focus on individual chefs, overlooking the collaborative nature of restaurant kitchens.
- She highlights the importance of recognizing the entire team's contribution to the dining experience.