This Is TASTE

David Lebovitz, a celebrated cookbook author and former pastry chef at Chez Panisse, dives into his life in Paris and the updated edition of his iconic book, Ready for Dessert. He shares insights on the vibrant French pastry culture versus the American bakery scene, highlighting the accessibility of boulangeries in France. David reflects on evolving recipes, including a revamped chocolate chip cookie technique, and discusses his favorite Paris bakeries. He also delves into the creative process behind his book, blending culinary passion with captivating storytelling.

Ruby Tandoh, a trailblazing writer and former Great British Bake Off finalist, dives into the complexities of modern food culture. She discusses how social constructs shape our tastes, highlighting the rise of bubble tea in the UK, influenced by social media. Ruby also critiques the impact of wellness trends on our culinary landscape, drawing parallels with historical beverages. Reflecting on the transformation of food media, she shares insights on the democratization of food careers and the evolution of restaurant influencers. A captivating look at food's cultural significance!

Fardad Khayami, the dynamic chef-owner of Muse in Santa Monica, shares his inspiring journey from pop-up dinners at USC to opening his restaurant before turning 25. He discusses the challenges posed by January fires and how he creatively supported his community. Chef Eric Valdez of Naks in NYC adds his insights through rapid-fire food questions, sharing his love for Filipino cuisine and favorite dishes. Together, they explore the vibrant restaurant scenes in LA and NYC, revealing how passion and resilience shape culinary success.

Jake Cohen, a renowned cookbook author known for his engaging recipes, shares insights from his book, Dinner Party Animal. He discusses his innovative party planning techniques and the importance of community during gatherings. Griffin Owens and Basil Beshkov, co-founders of YUZUCO, dive into the unique flavor profile of yuzu, highlighting their journey to introduce this Japanese citrus into the culinary scene. They explore sourcing challenges and eco-friendly practices while showcasing yuzu’s versatility in both drinks and desserts.

Join Pulitzer-finalist Ed Park, known for his exploration of Korean-American themes, and author Jason Diamond, who delves into Chicago's Jewish food culture. Ed shares his roots in Buffalo, detailing how Korean dining has evolved and inspires his writing. He highlights vibrant NYC spots and food’s role in his short-story collection, An Oral History of Atlantis. Jason discusses his novel, Kaplan's Plot, revealing rich food scenes tied to Jewish heritage, like the classic Chicago hot dog and delis, while blending myth and modern-day culinary experiences.

Bettina Makalintal, a senior reporter at Eater specializing in cookbook coverage, joins to share insights from Eater’s fall cookbook preview. They explore exciting new titles like Hedy McKinnon’s 'Linger' and Alison Roman’s pantry-forward book. Bettina discusses the rise of entertaining-focused cookbooks and the need for more narrative-driven works. Aliza and Matt also highlight fresh restaurant gems in NYC and the Hudson Valley, making it a feast for food lovers.

Aaron Crowder, the chef-partner at Cervos and Eel Bar in NYC, shares insights into his Florida roots and culinary inspirations. He discusses the joys and challenges of casual dining while celebrating Basque influences at Eel Bar. Gilberto Cetina of Holbox in LA brings his Yucatan flavors to the conversation, sharing the best tacos in town and his favorite kitchen gadgets. They bond over childhood food memories and the art of food preparation, revealing how personal journeys shape their culinary identities.

Melissa King is a chef, entrepreneur, television personality, activist, model, tastemaker, and author of the incredible new cookbook Cook Like a King. She is the winner of Bravo’s Top Chef: All-Stars L.A. and holds more challenge wins than any other competitor in the history of Top Chef. As mentioned previously on the show, I love Cook Like a King. It really speaks to me, and Melissa shares about what inspired the recipes as well as why she is 100% okay with not working in restaurants.  Also on the show, Aliza and Matt go over some of their favorite chef and restaurant cookbooks from this busy fall season. These include: Soju Party, Russ & Daughters: 100 Years of Appetizing,The Pasta Book, Six Seasons of Pasta, House of Nanking: Family Recipes from San Francisco's Favorite Chinese Restaurant, Family Thai, Franco Pepe: Pizza Chef, Le Bistrot Paul Bert: French Comfort Food from the Parisian Restaurant.  Subscribe to This Is TASTE: ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joseph Hernandez, Associate Director of Drinks and Lifestyle at Bon Appétit and Epicurious, dives into the creation of the coveted Best New Restaurants list for 2025. He shares insights on culinary hotspots in cities like Pittsburgh and Honolulu, discussing the artistry of tasting menus and the significance of local ingredients. The conversation also explores the rich narratives behind diverse cuisines, from underrepresented Hmong dishes to innovative fusions. Plus, be sure to catch their take on favorite fall baking cookbooks, catering to every palate!

Evan Funke is a Los Angeles chef and roller of pastas, starring on Netflix and in the dining rooms of Felix Trattoria, Mother Wolf, Funke, and other restaurants in his expanding empire. It was such a pleasure sitting down with Evan in Los Angeles to talk about his wild ride of a career, the good word on the restaurant Funke in Beverly Hills, and how he collaborates closely with his staff to make sure the pasta is always right.  We also get an update on his long-held pasta machine sentiment. Evan is honest here, and he reveals the many complexities of running multiple restaurants.  At the top of the show, it’s the Resy Hit List, where we speak with a Resy editor to hear about what is exciting them in the world of restaurants. It’s part of a new recurring segment where Resy’s editors, writers and partner chefs will share compelling stories and discuss the latest in food and dining culture. On today’s show, we catch up with Deanna Ting. Deanna is the New York editor at Resy, and we talk about new openings, special events, and what’s exciting her on the scene. This includes an Italian restaurant renaissance and wine bars opening in unique spaces. Deanna also answers this simple question: Which steakhouse should I book in New York? A few of the restaurants mentioned on the episode: Borgo ICavallini  Lei Bridges  Odre Atoboy Dynamo Room The views expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers – not Resy – and do not constitute professional business advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices