The Dave Chang Show Innovation in Tradition and a Pre-Reopening Diaries with Mark Ladner
Oct 2, 2025
Mark Ladner, a veteran New York chef and restaurateur known for Lupa and Del Posto, joins to discuss the highly anticipated reopening of Babbo. He shares memories of New York's dining scene and the evolution of Italian cuisine. The duo delves into risotto techniques, innovative pasta approaches, and the importance of embracing traditional flavors. Mark also reveals insights on kitchen upgrades and his ambitious new menu. Listeners get a sneak peek of Babbo's thrilling offerings, including a unique aged minestrone and a revival of the iconic 100-layer lasagna.
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Episode notes
Simple Dish, Lasting Influence
- Dave Chang recalls a simple sugar snap pea dish at Lupa that changed his view of Italian cooking.
- The austere dish (olive oil, lemon, sea salt) inspired him to innovate within tradition.
Innovation Inside Tradition
- Mark Ladner helped shift American perceptions of Italian food toward regional authenticity and restraint.
- His work shows innovation can live inside traditional frameworks rather than replace them.
Keep Crudo Super Cold
- Keep crudo super cold to preserve texture and flavor when serving raw fish.
- Use heavy chilled serving vessels to maintain temperature through service.
