Culture Study Podcast Figuring Out What's Behind Seven Recent Food Trends
Sep 17, 2025
Join chef and cookbook author Evan Kleiman as he dives into the fascinating world of food trends. He unpacks the rise of Nashville hot chicken and why every restaurant must have a Brussels sprouts dish. Discover how food reflects cultural values and societal shifts, from the evolution of comfort foods to the burgeoning popularity of tinned fish. With insights on marketing strategies and nostalgic flavors, Evan makes food culture compelling and relatable, ensuring you'll feel inspired to explore new culinary delights!
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Lava Cake's Long Trickle Down
- Evan Kleiman recounts the lava cake's journey from 1981 invention to appearing on Chili's menu in 1998.
- He uses this to illustrate how long trends can take to trickle down into corporate foodservice.
Food As A Cultural Lens
- Food functions as a lens to examine art, science, geography, labor and politics.
- Evan Kleiman says food culture reveals hidden ecologies and social systems.
Why Corporate Menus Lag
- Corporate foodservice often lags because risk-averse buyers choose safe, proven items.
- Kleiman notes trends now move faster but also burn out more quickly than before.