This Is TASTE

501: The Guy Who Visited McDonald's in 56 Countries with Gary He

Nov 27, 2024
Gary He, an accomplished journalist and photographer, shares his extraordinary journey visiting McDonald's in 56 countries, exploring how local cultures shape their unique menu items. He dives into McDonald's adaptability and its influence as a cultural symbol globally. Alexander Smalls, a celebrated chef and author, discusses his book on African cuisine, highlighting the connection between food and heritage. The engaging dialogue touches on the evolution of fast food traditions and personal narratives, making for a delightful exploration of culinary experiences.
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ANECDOTE

Campaign Trail Food

  • Gary He spent time on the campaign trail, observing candidates' relationships with food.
  • He found that while some interactions were performative, others, like Andrew Yang's preference for Jimmy John's, seemed authentic.
INSIGHT

Gary He's Story

  • Gary He's stories often involve deep dives and visual elements.
  • He seeks unique stories and invests significant time, which allows for in-depth reporting.
INSIGHT

McDonald's Appeal

  • Despite criticisms, McDonald's food is engineered to be delicious, similar to how pop music is designed to be catchy.
  • Its global popularity and success validate its appeal.
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