Josh Brolin, renowned actor and author of 'From Under the Truck,' shares captivating stories from his diverse life, including his early days as a 14-year-old chef. He reflects on the strong ties between food and family, illustrating how cooking is a medium for love and memory. The conversation dives into his colorful upbringing in Paso Robles and humorous kitchen anecdotes that connect acting with culinary experiences. Brolin also fondly recalls the nostalgic flavors of banoffee, intertwining his culinary journey with personal emotions.

Join an engaging discussion about the cherished Sunday roast tradition in Britain, where family bonds are strengthened over delicious meals. Discover the secrets of mastering roast beef and chicken, along with tips for creating a rich, flavorful gravy from the drippings. Explore unique recipes, including an Italian pork dish cooked in milk, and hear heartwarming cooking stories that bring family recipes to life. It's a delightful dive into the culinary art that keeps family connections alive!

Sienna Miller, an acclaimed actress and fashion designer, shares her culinary passion and family traditions. She recounts nostalgic memories of cooking, revealing her favorite recipe for pizza bianca with artichokes and teleggio. The conversation highlights the bittersweet nature of fame, discussing media intrusion and its psychological impacts. Sienna reflects on the comfort food provides during tough times and the importance of relationships in navigating personal challenges. Her stories blend humor and resilience, showing a deep connection between food and identity.

Join Sian Wyn Owen and Joseph Trivelli, executive chefs at The River Cafe, as they share their festive culinary wisdom. They dive into the joys of holiday cooking, from dry-brining turkey to creating a mouthwatering goose with brandy and tomatoes. Expect insights into unique Christmas traditions, the delightful chaos of past holiday feasts, and the nostalgia of cherished family recipes. The chefs also highlight the importance of emotional gifts and family connections in celebrating the season.

Ian McKellen, the celebrated British actor known for his iconic roles in Shakespeare and 'Lord of the Rings,' shares fascinating insights from his life. He reflects on nostalgic wartime memories intertwined with food and family, emphasizing the impact of simple meals on identity. McKellen discusses his early acting experiences at Cambridge and the complexities of navigating personal relationships. He also reminisces about culinary adventures while filming in New Zealand, showcasing how food and friendship flourished on set.

Saoirse Ronan and Greta Gerwig dive into the art of learning with a focus on confidence and self-acceptance. They reflect on the importance of celebrating small victories and confronting fears while stepping out of comfort zones. The conversation highlights how cooking parallels creativity, linking recipes to scripts and showcasing how culinary skills can enhance artistic expression. Emphasizing a positive mindset, they explore the journey of mastering new skills, advocating for embracing imperfections along the way.

Saoirse Ronan, an award-winning actress known for her roles in 'Atonement' and 'Lady Bird', joins director Greta Gerwig for a heartwarming conversation. They explore the connection between cooking and cultural identity, sharing nostalgic stories from their Irish heritage. Saoirse reveals her favorite family recipes and the emotional significance of meals. The duo reflects on indulgent past eating habits, friendship dynamics, and the impact of comfort food. Their banter adds a delightful touch, making it a feast for both the mind and soul.

Adam Gopnick, an acclaimed writer and longtime contributor to The New Yorker, dives deep into the culinary world, recalling his experiences with Julia Child's influence on American cooking. He shares heartfelt stories of friendship, food, and culture, emphasizing how shared meals shape our lives. Gopnick discusses the artistry of chefs who balance creativity with customer satisfaction and reflects on how food unites us during challenging times, highlighting its role in cultural exchange.

When Michael McCarty walks into The River Cafe, he immediately fills the room with his warmth and kindness. Restaurants are, of course, what he knows best. He and his wife Kim opened Michael’s in Santa Monica in 1979, bringing Californian cuisine to the world; artichokes, asparagus, tomatoes and peaches, grown in the sun and eaten under the sun. Ten years later, California came to New York when they introduced Michael’s to midtown Manhattan.  Today, they are with me in London, bringing their warmth and kindness to Table 4.    Ruthie's Table 4, made in partnership with Me+EmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Rose and I opened the River Café in 1987, we were credited for bringing open kitchens, farm-sourced ingredients, and women chefs, to restaurants. We would always say ‘Alice Waters did it first. Chef, author, food activist, founder of Chez Panisse and Edible Schoolyard, Alice is a culinary icon and a hero.  She is also my close friend. Today, we are here to talk about our restaurants, our families, the world we live in and wonderful memories.    Ruthie's Table 4, made in partnership with Me+EmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.