In this episode, Preeti dives into the heart of food's nostalgic power with guest Telly Justice, chef and owner of HAGS in New York City. The conversation centers around Telly's family's old-fashioned cream pie recipe—a simple, yet emotionally charged dish that ties back to her German-American heritage and childhood memories. Telly's journey from a non-culinary family background to receiving the 2023 New York Young Chef Award by Michelin highlights the melange of personal and professional experiences shaping her approach to food. Through the lens of queerness and community, Telly and Preeti explore how food serves not just as sustenance, but as a medium for self-expression, healing, and connection. They touch upon the challenges and joys of operating a queer-inclusive restaurant that aims to celebrate identity and belonging, all while navigating the competitive landscape of New York City's culinary scene.

For more from Telly:

• More about HAGS
• HAGS Instagram

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