Pack Your Knives

S22 Ep 9: Cooking on the Edge with Buddha Lo

May 9, 2025
Buddha Lo, a two-time Top Chef winner and head chef at Huso, shares his culinary journey and insights from judging Top Chef Canada. He discusses the emotional connections chefs have with their dishes, comparing his experiences with fellow competitor Tristen Epps, particularly around loss and ambition. Buddha also dishes on the pressures of cooking for Padma Lakshmi, highlighting standout dishes like a flawless salmon Wellington. The conversation dives into the evolving dynamics of competitive cooking, from presentation strategies to personal narratives, making it an unforgettable listen.
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ANECDOTE

Kevin's Bungee Jumping Story

  • Kevin Arnovitz shared a bungee jumping experience in New Zealand that was terrifying but exhilarating.
  • He described the adrenaline rush lasting hours and the subsequent exhaustion requiring a long nap.
INSIGHT

Nature of Fear of Heights

  • Fear of heights may be influenced by brain function and risk assessment.
  • Environmental and possibly learned factors affect how we develop height fears over time.
ADVICE

Challenge Selection Insight

  • Producers assign Buddha Lo to judge challenges that require deep technical skill and creativity.
  • He believes certain Top Chef episodes, like Restaurant Wars and finales, best showcase essential chef skills.
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