The Dave Chang Show

Besha Rodell, the food critic for The Age and author of 'Hunger Like a Thirst,' shares her insightful journey from anonymity to industry respect. She delves into the evolution of food criticism and the importance of genuine passion, while examining the intricate relationship between critics and chefs. The conversation highlights the challenges of maintaining authenticity in dining and the necessity for cultural awareness when critiquing diverse cuisines. Besha also discusses the decline of unique voices in food journalism, advocating for a return to honest, passionate storytelling.

Chris Ying, a former host of The Dave Chang Show and food writer, joins Dave to dive deep into the world of ramen. They explore its fascinating history, tracing its journey from a humble noodle to a global culinary icon. The conversation touches on cooking techniques, with insights on making shio tare, and the cultural significance of ramen in Japan versus the U.S. Personal anecdotes and culinary reflections make it a delicious discussion, perfect for anyone interested in the art of home cooking and the evolution of this beloved dish.

Paul Carmichael, Chef of Kabawa and Bar Kabawa, previously won accolades as Chef of the Year at Momofuku Seiōbo. He shares his culinary journey and dives into the richness of Caribbean cuisine, dispelling myths and celebrating its diverse heritage. The conversation explores the creative process behind opening his restaurants, the joy of communal dining experiences, and the emotional connections that food can foster. Carmichael also provides insights on pairing drinks with Caribbean dishes and expresses his optimism for the cuisine's bright future.

Dave and Chris are joined by fan favorite, the Snackmaster, Noelle, to discuss the cult classic 1985 Japanese film 'Tampopo.' They discuss the most iconic scenes, most realistic culinary moments, and what has aged like wine versus what has aged like milk from the movie, among many other categories. The trio digs deep into one of the greatest Major Food Porn films of all time—and there's a lot to say. Make a bowl of ramen, watch the movie, and join us for the first Food Scenes Only! You can stream 'Tampopo' on HBO Max: https://www.max.com/movies/tampopo/601a9aca-8a12-4678-be5d-9079867d29f1  Or The Criterion Collection: https://www.criterionchannel.com/tampopo. Send in your questions to askdave@majordomomedia.com. Subscribe to the show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedavechangshow. Subscribe to Recipe Club on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recipeclubofficial. Submit your favorite food moments in your favorite movies to majorfoodporn.com. Join our community Discord on majordomo.com. Hosts: Dave Chang and Chris Ying Guest: Noelle Cornelio Video/Audio Producer: Felipe Guilhermino Majordomo Media Producers: Kelsey Rearden and David Meyer Editor: Stefano Sanchez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

L.A. Taco's editor-in-chief, Javier Cabral, stops by the Spotify studio to teach Dave and Chris how to eat a carnitas taco the traditional Michoacán way. The trio then talks taco culture in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and beyond, as well as how Mexico rules supreme when it comes to tacos. They finish by discussing L.A. Taco's big Taco Madness event. On this subject, there is plenty to taco-bout! Hosts: Dave Chang and Chris YingGuest: Javier CabralVideo/Audio Producer: Felipe GuilherminoMajordomo Media Producers: Kelsey Rearden and David MeyerEditor: Stefano Sanchez Visit L.A. Taco here: https://lataco.com/Learn more about this year's Taco Madness here: https://lataco.com/tacos-at-madness-2025Check out this year's winner of Taco Madness here: https://lataco.com/taco-madness-2025Read about the taco stand that Dave, Chris, and Javier eat from in the episode here: https://lataco.com/carnitas-queen-los-angelesCheck out the article on magic mushrooms that Javier mentioned in the episode here: https://lataco.com/where-to-find-psychedelic-mushrooms-in-l-a Send in your questions to askdave@majordomomedia.comSubscribe to the show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedavechangshowSubscribe to Recipe Club on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recipeclubofficialSubmit your favorite food moments in your favorite movies to majorfoodporn.comJoin our community Discord on majordomo.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Will Guidara, the author of ‘Unreasonable Hospitality’ and former partner at Eleven Madison Park, shares his insights on transforming the hospitality experience. He discusses the influence of Danny Meyer’s approach and emphasizes the significance of empathy and intentionality in service. Guidara explores how ‘unreasonable hospitality’ can elevate guest experiences and the challenges faced by the industry post-COVID. He also touches on personal anecdotes about life changes in New York and the evolving nature of culinary passion.

Dave and Chris talk about knowing when a dish is ready to be put on the menu. Chris then interviews Ben Shewry of Attica in Melbourne, Australia, and they talk about their years of friendship, kitchen culture, and Ben's obsessive pursuit of perfection. Dave and Chris finish the episode with a gauntlet being thrown and a future challenge promised. Host: Dave Chang and Chris Ying Guests: Ben Shewry Video/Audio Producer: Felipe Guilhermino Majordomo Media Producers: Kelsey Rearden and David Meyer Editor: Stefano Sanchez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dave and Chris introduce their guest today, Aisha Ibrahim, and discuss her importance in today's culinary world. They are then joined by Aisha to talk about her storied career with some of the most important modern culinary figures, her transition from the basketball court to the kitchen, and being crazy and competitive enough to work in food. They finish with two Ask Daves. Host: Dave Chang and Chris Ying Guests: Aisha Ibrahim Video/Audio Producer: Felipe Guilhermino Majordomo Media Producers: Kelsey Rearden and David Meyer Editor: Stefano Sanchez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dave sits down with Anajak Thai owner/chef Justin Pichetrungsi and sommelier Ian Krupp to deep-dive into wine. In a conversation that flows as freely as its subject, the trio talk wine from a variety of angles: how to order it in a restaurant, the job of a sommelier, Majordomo-ing wine, and how to bring wine literacy back. Join for the education and fun, stay for the actual sabrage of a wine bottle—on a podcast. Host: Dave Chang Guests: Justin Pichetrungsi and Ian Krupp Video/Audio Producer: Felipe Guilhermino Majordomo Media Producers: Kelsey Rearden and David Meyer Editor: Stefano Sanchez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dave and Chris start by musing on chopsticks and salad, as well as accidentally parroting someone's accent back at them. They then take on the hot topic of seed oils with expert Dr. Selina Wang. Dave and Chris finish with a MOIF on froyo, the ice cream cone, and mean children playing online chess.Hosts: Dave Chang and Chris YingGuest: Dr. Selina WangVideo/Audio Producer: Felipe GuilherminoMajordomo Media Producers: Kelsey Rearden and David MeyerEditor: Stefano Sanchez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices