536: Jason Diamond’s Guide to NYC with Writer and Garlic Lover Jason Diamond
Jan 31, 2025
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Join writer Jason Diamond, known for his work on The Melt and books like Searching for John Hughes, as he dishes on New York City's culinary landscape. He shares his favorite eateries and the challenges of dining as a new parent. Vivian Song, a writer for the New York Times, dives into her piece on Paris's evolving coffee scene, highlighting the buzz between Zinc Bar and Barista. Together, they explore the nostalgia of indie bookstores and how food reflects cultural diversity, making this a delightful exploration of gastronomy and storytelling.
Jason Diamond emphasizes the importance of reliable local eateries as comforting havens for new parents navigating life changes in NYC.
Vivian Song highlights the dynamic rivalry between traditional Parisian cafes and emerging third-wave coffee shops, reflecting shifting consumer preferences.
The podcast encourages exploring the multicultural dining options in Paris, showcasing the city's diverse culinary landscape beyond classic French cuisine.
Deep dives
Southern California Food Road Trip
The hosts recount an extensive food road trip throughout Southern California, spanning from San Diego to the San Gabriel Valley in Los Angeles County. During this journey, they explored a variety of dining experiences, including restaurants, breweries, ice cream shops, and farms. They emphasize the fun and adventure of this culinary exploration as a way to highlight the vibrant food scene in the region. The road trip is not just about food, but also a way to support local businesses as they navigate the challenges of recovery from the pandemic.
Jason Diamond's Culinary Journey
Jason Diamond, a notable writer and creator of the newsletter 'The Melt,' discusses his recent experiences dining in New York City, especially as a new parent. He describes a favorite local eatery, Leland, known for its unique vermouth offerings and consistent quality. His account reflects the importance of having reliable go-to spots for dining, especially during the adjustments of parenthood. Another memorable dining experience mentioned is at Hawksmoor, where he humorously likens the indulgent burger to a high-end version of a fast-food classic.
Vivian Song's Take on Paris Coffee Culture
Vivian Song, a journalist for The New York Times, shares her insights on the evolving coffee culture in Paris, highlighting both traditional coffee houses and modern specialty cafes. She notes that the introduction of third-wave coffee shops has transformed the coffee scene, catering to a younger demographic in search of new experiences. These newer cafes often serve as a social gathering point, reflecting a cultural shift away from traditional cafes. Song discusses the delicate balance and rivalry between these old-school establishments and the new coffee shops, focusing on the changing preferences and habits of younger Parisians.
Cafe Culture and Community
The podcast highlights the significance of café culture in Paris, where local cafes serve as vital social hubs for residents. Regulars gather in these spaces to connect, share stories, and enjoy their routines, fostering a sense of community. One interviewee reflects on her morning rituals at a café, where she meets friends and participates in the daily rhythm of life. This vibrancy underscores the role of cafes beyond just dining—their contribution to social life and community cohesion in the city.
The Environmental Shift in Coffee Preferences
Discussion turns to the emerging trend of takeaway-only coffee shops in Paris, indicating a shift in consumer preferences towards convenience and efficiency. Newer establishments are adapting their business models to align with this trend while maintaining a focus on high-quality coffee. These shops often ban laptops to encourage a more transient experience, catering to a clientele that seeks quality coffee without the expectation of lingering. This evolving dynamic challenges the traditional notion of the café as a leisurely space for conversation, introducing tensions between old and new coffee cultures.
Exploring Cuisine Beyond Tradition
The conversation emphasizes the idea that visitors to Paris should explore more than just classic French cuisine. The hosts advocate for experiencing the growing diversity of international dining options available, showcasing the city's multicultural landscape. Restaurants offering various global cuisines enrich the Parisian dining scene and reflect contemporary food trends. This encourages a broader understanding of food culture in Paris, inviting visitors to expand their culinary horizons beyond traditional bistros.
Today on the show, we welcome one of our favorite writers in the game, Jason Diamond. Jason writes the wonderful newsletter The Melt and has written two books, Searching for John Hughes and The Sprawl: Reconsidering the Weird American Suburbs. He’s also worked on the truly amazing New York Nico’s Guide to NYC, which we talk about in this great episode. We get into what Jason has been eating and reading, and the Jason Diamond way of life. I always enjoy catching up with Jason, and I hope you enjoy this episode.
