The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Discover a Seattle restaurant that transforms global street food into a communal dining experience. It shares stories of culinary journeys, including a Vietnamese refugee's adaptation through food. Hear about a remarkable career shift from biomedical sciences to embracing culinary traditions. The restaurant thrives on cultural exchange, allowing diners to influence the menu, and highlights the vital role of street food in fostering community ties. This vibrant eatery encourages a deeper appreciation for diverse culinary heritages.

Join Pati Jinich, a vibrant chef, author, and TV host, as she dives into the vast cultural tapestry of the Pan-American Highway. She shares her fascinating journey from political analyst to culinary explorer, highlighting how food shapes identity across diverse cultures. Pati reflects on her adventures in Alberta, exploring its culinary connections to Texas while revealing influences from Ukrainian immigrants. Tune in for captivating stories about unexpected places and the deeper meanings behind the cuisines that tie us together.

Allegra Rosenberg, Atlas Obscura’s community editor, shares the fascinating world of polar explorers who delivered humor and camaraderie through writing. They created niche newspapers like the South Polar Times to stay entertained during grueling expeditions. Allegra discusses the innovative printing techniques used in extreme conditions and how these publications offered a glimpse into their social lives. The engaging tales of creativity and resilience highlight the power of imagination in the face of isolation.

Discover the fascinating world of Limburger cheese, a uniquely stinky delight that divides opinions. Explore its colorful history, from European roots to its current status in Monroe, Wisconsin. Uncover quirky rivalries sparked by its notorious smell and personal anecdotes from passionate aficionados. Dive into the cheese's cultural impact, from media references to humorous tales, all while celebrating the artisanal legacy of the last American Limburger producer.

Dive into heartfelt reflections as listeners share where they would spend their last day before the world ends. From peaceful moments sailing on Lake Ontario to cherished childhood homes, these stories evoke nostalgia and emotional connections. Nature's beauty shines through a transformative sunrise experience, while amusing neighborhood tales invite listeners to celebrate quirky house decorations and inspiring gardens. Join in the fun and consider sharing your own stories about the places and people that matter most!

Discover a quirky musical road in Lancaster, California, where grooves create the thrilling finale of the William Tell Overture. Learn how a Honda Civic commercial sparked the musical road phenomenon, blending engineering and artistry. The journey traces its origins back to Denmark, highlighting creative collaborations that enable tires to transform tarmac into tunes. Hear personal stories and community memories as the hosts reflect on the challenges of preserving this unique auditory experience against the elements.

Eliot Stein, a journalist and author of Custodians of Wonder, dives into the fascinating tradition of cigar readers in Cuba. He reveals how these performers blend storytelling with the labor of cigar-making, once a powerful force against censorship and a symbol of worker unity. Stein discusses evolving cultural narratives and the historical importance of this practice in fostering resilience during tough times. Ultimately, he expresses hope for the revival of Cuba's vibrant storytelling traditions, highlighting their lasting impact on society.

Dive into the intriguing tale of a jewel-encrusted edition of the Rubaiyat that sank with the Titanic! Discover how Persian mathematician Omar Khayyam seamlessly blended math and poetry 800 years ago. The podcast explores his profound themes of life's transience and leisure, igniting a Victorian fascination. Unpack the historical significance of Khayyam's works and the lasting impact of his poetry, urging us to appreciate life's simple pleasures. This journey through literary history is both enlightening and entertaining!

In this captivating discussion, Allegra Rosenberg, a Community editor and Antarctica enthusiast, dives into the world of Ivan the Terra Bus, a beloved icon at McMurdo Station. Allegra shares how her fascination with Antarctica ignited during lockdown, leading to her research on Ivan's unique history and features. The conversation highlights Ivan's symbolism of belonging in the community, the nostalgia surrounding its retirement, and even a whimsical song that celebrates the vibrant summer culture in Antarctica.

This captivating discussion highlights the groundbreaking Bob Damron Address Books, which provided crucial resources for gay travelers since the 1970s. It explores Damron's efforts to document LGBTQ-friendly spaces and his influential role in navigating mid-20th century queer nightlife. Listeners learn about a project that aims to map historical gay spaces, uncovering lost locations and reshaping gay history. The importance of these guides is examined, showcasing their role in fostering community before the Stonewall riots and their relevance in today's LGBTQ landscape.