550: Cult Melons and a Wild Elk Plug with How Long Gone’s Jason Stewart
Feb 28, 2025
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Jason Stewart, DJ and co-host of How Long Gone, joins restaurant critic Tejal Rao for a flavorful discussion. They delve into Stewart's recent dining experiences in LA and NYC, from innovative chefs to beloved local spots. Rao shares insights about the legacy of Pasadena's Panda Inn and its iconic dishes like orange chicken. The duo also reflects on the evolution of food media, the interconnectedness of dining and culture, and the charming nostalgia tied to personal food memories. Humor and heartfelt anecdotes make for an engaging conversation.
Jason Stewart's reflections on dining in Los Angeles and New York highlight the intersection of personal taste and the evolving food culture.
Tejal Rao's insights on the legacy of Panda Inn emphasize the significance of restaurant history and its influence on contemporary dining.
The resilience of Los Angeles restaurants amid external challenges underscores the importance of community support to sustain local businesses.
Deep dives
The History of Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard has a rich history that traces back over 270 years, with M.I. being a key player in its craftsmanship. Starting in 1747, M.I. perfected the art of mustard-making, enhancing the flavor of various dishes from basic sandwiches to gourmet meals. This deep-rooted tradition underscores the importance of authenticity in food preparation and the ability of a singular condiment to elevate numerous culinary experiences. M.I.'s commitment to quality showcases how a simple ingredient can have a significant impact on the dining landscape.
Culinary Experiences and Comfort Foods
The importance of comfort food is highlighted through personal anecdotes about memorable meals, such as a hearty lamb neck soup and pancakes. These dishes evoke strong sentiments, serving as both nourishment and comfort during various life moments, whether it be from celebrating or recovering from a long night. The notion that certain meals can transcend the ordinary, turning into nostalgic experiences, illustrates the emotional connections we form with food. These connections often define our palate preferences and culinary explorations.
Insights from Culinary Influencers
Jason Stewart, a notable DJ and co-host of a food-focused podcast, shares his dining experiences and cooking stylings, shedding light on the relationship between food and lifestyle. His reflections on the restaurant scene in Los Angeles and New York showcase his appreciation for both innovative cuisine and traditional dining. By discussing the blending of personal taste with broader culinary trends, he exemplifies how individuals influence and contribute to the evolving food culture. This dialogue represents the dynamic nature of the food industry, showcasing varied opinions and experiences.
The Evolution of Restaurant Culture
The conversation touches on the challenges faced by restaurants in Los Angeles amid significant ongoing changes, including environmental factors and shifting consumer habits. Notably, the threat of deportations creates uncertainty within the workforce, affecting both service and patronage. Despite these challenges, resilience within the restaurant community is observed as establishments adapt and continue serving their clientele. This resilience highlights the importance of community support for local businesses during difficult times, reminiscent of the broader impact of crises on the food industry.
The Uniqueness of Culinary Experiences
The conversation delves into the notion of originality and how certain dishes, such as orange chicken, have been interpreted and redefined over time. While there are often competing stories about the origins of famous dishes, embracing the multiple narratives offers insight into culinary evolution. The recognition that recipes can be shaped by culture, marketing, and consumer preferences highlights the diversity within food. Ultimately, this adaptability is crucial in creating memorable and cherished dining experiences that resonate across different audiences.
Jason Stewart is a DJ (playing as Them Jeans) and cohost of How Long Gone, a podcast that dips in and out of the food world with surprising and entertaining frequency. It was so great to have Jason back on the show to talk about where he’s been dining out in Los Angeles and New York, his home cooking stylings, and some of his recent writing for TASTE.
Also on the show we have a great conversation with Tejal Rao, a critic at large for the Food section of The New York Times. Tejal is based in Los Angeles and wrote a terrific story about Pasadena’s Panda Inn, the parent restaurant of Panda Express. We talk about the restaurant’s legacy while digging into some of Tejal’s recent favorite Los Angeles restaurants.
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