This Is TASTE

Jason Stewart, DJ and co-host of How Long Gone, joins restaurant critic Tejal Rao for a flavorful discussion. They delve into Stewart's recent dining experiences in LA and NYC, from innovative chefs to beloved local spots. Rao shares insights about the legacy of Pasadena's Panda Inn and its iconic dishes like orange chicken. The duo also reflects on the evolution of food media, the interconnectedness of dining and culture, and the charming nostalgia tied to personal food memories. Humor and heartfelt anecdotes make for an engaging conversation.

Jesse Shevchek and Shilpa Skokovic, hosts of the BA Bake Club podcast, bring their culinary expertise to the table. They discuss winter cooking optimism, tackling listener queries on homemade broth and frozen vegetables. Listeners discover innovative recipes using frozen veggies, tips for maximizing flavor, and essential techniques for herb storage. The duo also shares practical advice for turning pantry staples into comforting meals, along with insights on using cooking oils and the wonders of the Instant Pot.

In this discussion, Dana Cowin, the former editor-in-chief of Food & Wine and founder of Progressive Hedonist, reflects on her influential role in food media. She shares insights on the magazine's shift to digital and the rise of chefs as cultural icons. Dana reminisces about the Best New Chefs program and its impact on the culinary landscape, celebrating emerging talent and community in food. The conversation also touches on nostalgic dining experiences and the vibrant food scene in New York, from delicious local eateries to artisanal treats.

Kristina Cho, an award-winning cookbook author known for her books like 'Mooncakes and Milk Bread,' shares her journey from architecture to the culinary world. She dives into her rich family history and how it shapes her creative recipes. Eleanor Wilkinson, author of 'One Pot, One Portion,' discusses innovative cooking strategies for individuals. Together, they explore cultural identity through food, blending Midwestern flavors with Cantonese techniques, and the joys of cooking for one while minimizing waste.

Tyler Zielinski, a London-based drinks professional and author of "Tiny Cocktails," dives into the fascinating world of miniature cocktails that pack a punch. He shares insights on the rising trend of low ABV drinks and the transformative nature of dive bars into chic cocktail spots. Tyler also uncovers the significance of presentation for social media enthusiasts. Plus, he offers practical tips for crafting tiny cocktails at home, all while balancing taste and health in the evolving cocktail culture.

Jeremy Robinson-Leon, founder of Moonburger, shares his journey in revolutionizing fast food with high-quality, plant-based options. He discusses partnering with culinary talent to create a signature patty and the strategic decision to introduce beef to expand the customer base. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of opening locations in competitive markets. Alongside this, the hosts explore notable culinary experiences, like essential cookbooks and standout meals, such as aburi sushi at Minami.

In this adventure-filled discussion, Aliza Abarbanel, a culinary aficionado, is joined by her talented girlfriend Shirley Chan, a cinematographer. They share their unforgettable culinary journey through Taiwan and Thailand, highlighting delightful dishes from Tainan’s beef soup to Bangkok’s brothy noodles. Listeners can enjoy their shrimp fishing escapades filled with laughter and camaraderie. They even visit Minimal, the world's first Michelin-starred ice cream shop, showcasing a unique fusion of food and culture in both countries!

Kiera Wright-Ruiz, a food writer in Tokyo and author of 'My (Half) Latinx Kitchen', discusses blending her Ecuadorian and Korean heritage through cooking, exploring culinary solutions and comfort food connections in a new culture. Anna Hezel, co-founder of Best Food Blog and former co-host here, shares memorable moments from food blogging and the power of authentic storytelling. The duo also reflects on the evolution of food aesthetics, playful culinary games, and their upcoming exciting projects that celebrate food culture.

Join award-winning writer Caroline Eden, a specialist in food and travel, as she shares insights from her new memoir, Cold Kitchen. Discover the culinary treasures of the Baltics and Central Asia, from the overlooked flavors of Latvia to the rich traditions of Georgia. Eden recounts her cozy kitchen tales that evoke memories of her journeys, and reflects on the importance of choosing unique, family-run accommodations. The conversation also touches on literary heritage in Lviv and the complexities of cultural storytelling amid contemporary challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Eric Kim, a New York Times columnist and author of the bestselling cookbook 'Korean American,' shares his insights into food and culture. He dives into the fascinating world of Chicago-style deep dish pizza, unraveling its rich history, and contrasts it with Korean dishes like jajangmyeon. Eric also reveals his creative process behind developing simple, impactful recipes that connect culinary traditions. Additionally, the conversation touches on innovative culinary projects and nostalgic flavors that evoke joy and comfort.