This Is TASTE

Akira Akuto, a Los Angeles chef known for his acclaimed sandwich and pastry counter Konbi, candidly discusses the harsh realities of the restaurant industry. He reveals the disconnect between public perceptions and the everyday struggles of culinary professionals. Akira highlights the emotional toll of closures, challenges with labor and regulations, and the importance of supporting local spots. He also shares his passion for a unique Japanese citrus fruit and offers insights into navigating the vibrant LA food scene.

Aya Faour, a professional olive oil taster and cofounder of Olive Odyssey, discusses her collective's mission to support Palestinian farmers and promote sustainable practices. She delves into the cultural significance of olive trees and the resilience of farmers amidst political challenges. The conversation includes insights on the craft of olive oil production, including pressing methods and taste evaluation. Aya also highlights community-driven culinary collaborations that blend food and products, empowering Palestinian food sovereignty through innovative partnerships.

Titus Ruscitti, an influential food blogger, has been chronicling the Chicago food scene through his blog Chi BBQ King for over a decade. He shares tales of Chicago's diverse culinary offerings, from tavern pizza to barbecue. The conversation dives into regional dishes and the impact of shows like 'The Bear' on local food culture. Ruscitti also reminisces about Midwest dining adventures and his deep passion for documenting culinary traditions across Illinois and beyond, making it a delightful exploration of flavors.

Jim Meehan, a legendary barman and pioneer of the modern cocktail movement, shares captivating insights from his illustrious career. He reflects on the emotional bonds formed in the bar community and the pivotal role of mentorship. Jim discusses the balance and storytelling behind cocktails, emphasizing craftsmanship. He introduces a new handbook aimed at enriching drink-making knowledge and explores the intersection of artistry and mixology. The conversation is filled with humor, including Jim's culinary favorites, like his love for mangoes and chocolate cake.

Sam Sifton, a veteran at the New York Times and founding editor of New York Times Cooking, dives deep into the world of food media and restaurant reviewing. He shares his journey from critic to passionate diner, spotlighting cherished eateries in vibrant neighborhoods. The conversation reflects on nostalgia tied to Italian-American cuisine, memorable restaurant experiences, and the evolution of the NYT Cooking app. Sifton also reveals humorous insights on culinary preferences, including a delightful debate on the best sandwiches.

DeVonn Francis is a Brooklyn-based chef known for his vibrant Caribbean culinary events, while Arielle Johnson is a flavor scientist advising top chefs. They discuss the true essence of hospitality and how shared meals create lasting memories. Topics include the underrated flavors of kohlrabi greens, crafting culturally inspired snacks, and the intricate art of dinner parties. Arielle delves into the science of flavor, emphasizing the interplay of food, chemistry, and personal experience, making culinary journeys absolutely enriching and delicious.

Los Angeles-based chef Chloe Walsh and photographer Eyal Yassky-Weiss discuss culinary backgrounds, dream cafes, managing health conditions through diet, coffee cultures in Vietnam and Ethiopia, and curated travel guides in an engaging and diverse conversation.

Cake Zine is an independent print magazine exploring society through sweets, cofounded by Tanya Bush and TASTE contributing editor and the show's co-host Aliza Abarbanel. Their fifth issue, Candy Land, explores candy’s connections to the natural and unnatural world. On the show, Aliza and Tanya unpack how they made the issue and the many cultural connotations of candy. Also on the show, Amy Rose Spiegel reads a piece from the latest issue.Do you enjoy This Is TASTE? Drop us a review on Apple, or star us on Spotify. We’d love to hear from you.MORE FROM CAKE ZINE Candy Land [official] This Is TASTE 329: Cake Zine’s Tough Cookie [TASTE] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kareem Rahma is a comedian and media host based in New York City. He’s the mind behind several popular online series, like Subway Takes and Keep the Meter Running, where he provides an insider look into the hot takes and taxi driver dining destinations that power the city. It’s so fun to have him on the show to talk about his new show The Last Stop, his media POV, and his past as a teenage delinquent McDonald’s employee. Also on the show, Aliza and Matt discuss what they are loving in the world of produce. What's great at the farmer's market, Row 7's exciting garleek, and how it all works into recent cooking projects.Do you enjoy This Is TASTE? Drop us a review on Apple, or star us on Spotify. We’d love to hear from you.MORE FROM KAREEM RAHMA How a Subway Talk Show Won Over the Internet (and Olivia Wilde) [GQ] The Empath: How Kareem Rahma Took Over Your Feed [Brooklyn Magazine] Baby Boomers have ruined the world..it's time for REVENGE! [YouTube] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

René Redzepi talks about his show Omnivore, the future of Noma, and the wonders of coffee. Topics in the podcast include the history of tuna, the misunderstood banana, and the success of Noma. They also discuss key lime pie collaborations, dining experiences at Korean and European restaurants, and exploring diverse magazines at a physical retail space.