Episodes

  • Exploring The Charleston Food Scene with StarChefs Rising Stars

    Exploring The Charleston Food Scene with StarChefs Rising Stars
    Jan 14 2025
    Today’s episode is a special one! I’m joined by five exceptional chefs shaping the Charleston Food Scene:Chef Shuai Wang of King BBQ, blending Chinese barbecue traditions with Southern flavors.Chef Shaun Brian Sells of CudaCo., elevating sustainable seafood with creative coastal cuisine.Pastry Chef Annie Coleman of Flora and Fauna, combining artistry and innovation in desserts and baked goods.Chef Alec Gropman of Bodega, redefining breakfast sandwiches with a fusion of New York roots and Charleston charm.Chef Nathan Hedlund of Da Toscano Porchetta Shop, showcasing the bold, comforting flavors of Tuscan street food.This engaging panel interview was recorded during the StarChefs Rising Stars event in Charleston, South Carolina.Together, we explore the unique influence of Charleston’s low-country cuisine and how these chefs are transforming it with their creativity and vision. You’ll hear insights into their commitment to local sourcing, the challenges of sustainability, and how they’re weaving global influences into the fabric of Charleston’s food culture. Whether you’re a culinary professional or a passionate foodie, this episode is packed with inspiration and stories from some of Charleston’s finest culinary minds. What you'll learn from this panel discussion about the Charleston Food Scene Meet today’s Five Charleston Chefs and learn about their restaurants (2:21)Perspectives on the evolving Charleston food scene (3:53)Changes to Charleston’s culinary landscape over the years (5:16)The camaraderie and collaboration among Charleston chefs (6:26)The unique contributions of Gullah Geechee food culture (10:23)Preserving the ideals of low-country cooking (12:47)Introducing new and innovative cuisines to Charleston diners (13:34)Educating diners through storytelling and food culture (15:26)How Bodega thrived during the pandemic (17:17)The vision behind Flora & Fauna and its unique offerings (19:13)Exploring the French influence in Southern cuisine (20:07)The art of Southern biscuits and how they stand apart (20:54)Caribbean influences at CudaCo. and their impact on the menu (21:53)Sustainability as a cornerstone of the modern culinary industry (25:27)The importance of nostalgia in creating memorable dishes (28:06)Leveraging the Grow Food List for local inspiration (30:45)Innovation and collaboration in the kitchen (34:41)Seasonality and adapting to Charleston’s warm climate (38:49)The challenges and rewards of supporting local sourcing (41:41)Defining the key elements of a truly great dish (42:49)Must-try foods for tourists visiting Charleston and discovering the Charleston Food Scene (46:45)Tips for ensuring you’re eating authentic local seafood (51:00)Infusing Charleston traditions into global culinary concepts (54:12)Foraging in the low-country landscape (54:50)The intersection of technology and food (57:12)Problem-solving in the kitchen: refining and perfecting dishes (1:01:14)Addressing challenges in back-of-house operations (1:04:20)Exciting trends shaping Charleston’s kitchens today (1:07:48)The growing trend of chef-branded merchandise in Charleston (1:11:25) I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry.Get the book here! Links to other episodes with other panel discussion with chefs Don't miss out on the chance to hear from talented chefs from across the country.Panel Discussion BostonPanel Discussion LAPanel Discussion PhiladelphiaPanel Discussion AustinPanel Discussion Providenc...
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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • Alexander Smalls on African Cuisine and Culture

    Alexander Smalls on African Cuisine and Culture
    Dec 31 2024
    In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with the extraordinary Alexander Smalls—Harlem-based chef, opera singer, storyteller, and James Beard Award-winning author. Alexander recently released his latest book, The Contemporary African Kitchen, a celebration of African culinary traditions and the chefs shaping its future.Recorded in the intimate setting of Alexander’s Harlem apartment, we explore the photo-lined hallway that pays homage to his South Carolina roots. Our conversation is a deep dive into the intersection of music, food, and identity, with Alexander sharing how his Gullah Geechee upbringing shaped his approach to bringing the vibrant, often-overlooked flavors of Africa to fine dining tables around the world.From his early days performing opera to becoming a culinary ambassador of the African diaspora, Alexander Smalls reflects on the personal stories, cultural connections, and bold ideas that drive his work. What you'll learn from Alexander Smalls Misconceptions about African cuisine – 3:45What makes African food unique – 4:49The overlooked respect for African cuisine – 6:09Writing The Contemporary African Kitchen with his Ghanaian co-author – 8:14Resistance from other African chefs – 11:33Connecting regional flavors and ingredients – 13:21Colonialism’s influence on food – 17:15Music, family, and food in his South Carolina home – 18:42The role of Alexander Smalls uncle and Gullah Geechee roots – 19:40Standing out in his Southern community – 20:50Visiting West Africa and connecting with his grandfather’s spirit – 23:40Learning the art of entertaining – 24:48Championing African food’s rightful place in fine dining – 25:46Elevating African dishes through French techniques – 27:36African cuisine vs. Southern soul food – 28:39Filling the gap for upscale African restaurants – 30:27Alexander Smalls unexpected opera talent as a child – 32:44Helping integrate the school system – 35:10Why Alexander Smalls left music professionally – 36:25World travels through music – 37:55Honoring Negro spirituals through a passion project – 40:11Launching his restaurant vision – 42:40Training in European kitchens – 44:00His best-selling plate from the early days – 45:15The “shoebox lunch” tribute – 47:40Creating America’s first black-owned Best New Restaurant – 49:00African origins of a popular dish – 49:57Reflections on Menton’s concept – 52:22A pandemic project and a surprising Dubai connection – 53:22Telling his childhood story through food – 56:02Harlem’s vibrant food scene – 58:02His guilty pleasure food – 1:00:35Dishes Alexander Smalls cooks for friends – 1:01:54The pie that reminds him of childhood – 1:02:32His ‘what if’ career path – 1:03:25 I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry.Get the book here! Overview of My Conversation with Alexander Smalls The truth about African cuisine – misconceptions, uniqueness, and the lasting impact of colonialism.The art of storytelling through food – how Alexander’s childhood, music career, and global travels shape his approach to cooking.Voices of Africa – the collaborative process behind The Contemporary African Kitchen and the surprising resistance he encountered from chefs along the way.Cultural connections – the links between West Africa and his family, and how visiting the region grounded his culinary path.From music to food – why Alexander transitioned from opera to the kitchen, and how both art forms influence his creativity.
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Chef Dave Beran: Innovation at Pasjoli and Seline

    Chef Dave Beran: Innovation at Pasjoli and Seline
    Dec 17 2024
    In this episode of Flavors Unknown, we’re thrilled to welcome Chef Dave Beran, a culinary visionary whose remarkable journey spans some of the most iconic restaurants in Chicago and Los Angeles. From his early days at MK, Tru, and the trailblazing Alinea, to creating the critically acclaimed Pasjoli and his newest venture, Seline, Chef Dave Beran has continually redefined what it means to innovate in the kitchen.Join us as Chef Dave Beran shares the highs and lows of his career, including the lessons learned from working with culinary legends and stepping into the spotlight as a restaurateur. We’ll explore his philosophy of food, his unique approach to storytelling through cuisine, and how his restaurants in Santa Monica are shaping the future of fine dining. Plus, you’ll hear a sweet behind-the-scenes moment as Chef Dave seamlessly balances being a chef, entrepreneur, and father during our recording. What you'll learn from Chef Dave Beran How Chef Dave Beran’s quirky family food memories shaped his love for cooking (3:49)The surprising influence of cigarettes on dishes at Alinea (4:54)Chef Dave Beran’s teenage path into the back of the house (6:42)The industry event that brought Chef Dave Beran to Chicago (7:54)Why he chose experience over culinary school (9:20)Chef Dave Beran on hiring challenges and why longevity matters over pedigree (11:25, 13:04)Insights from Chef Dave Beran’s time at Alinea (15:10)The challenges Chef Dave Beran faced after leaving a legendary restaurant (16:35)How anonymity unlocked new creativity for Chef Dave Beran (17:55)Chef Dave Beran’s creative evolution after moving to Los Angeles (19:42)The inspiration and philosophy behind Seline, his latest Santa Monica restaurant (23:20)Chef Dave Beran’s French culinary roots and how he modernizes classic concepts (24:33, 26:03)How Chef Dave Beran’s menu designs provide a sense of time and place (22:09)The whimsical design and flavors that make Seline stand out (28:46, 30:32, 32:17)Chef Dave Beran’s take on originality in a social media-driven world (36:15)Lessons from closing Dialogue and growing through challenges (42:28, 44:28)Chef Dave Beran’s top spots to eat in Santa Monica (45:46)His guilty pleasure sweet and biggest kitchen pet peeve (46:44, 47:30)Chef Dave Beran’s favorite ingredients and the chef he dreams of collaborating with (49:01, 50:18)The worst advice Chef Dave Beran has heard in the culinary world (51:30) Why Listen to Chef Dave Beran on Flavors Unknown Chef Dave Beran’s name is synonymous with innovation, creativity, and pushing boundaries in the culinary world. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, French cuisine, or simply love stories of perseverance and growth, this episode offers an intimate look into Chef Dave Beran’s world.Be sure to listen, subscribe, and share this episode to discover the untold stories behind Chef Dave Beran’s incredible career. Visit flavorsunknown.com for more episodes featuring culinary legends like Chef Dave Beran. I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry.Get the book here! Links to other episodes with the chefs from Los Angeles Don't miss out on the chance to hear from these talented chefs and gain insight into the world of culinary techniques. Check out the links below for more conversations with chefs from Los Angeles.Interview with Nancy SilvertonInside Los Angeles Food Scene: A Panel DiscussionInterview with Chef Suzanne GoinConversation with Chef Elizabeth Fal...
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    55 mins
  • Chef Andrew Black Talks Perle Mesta and Grey Sweater

    Chef Andrew Black Talks Perle Mesta and Grey Sweater
    Dec 3 2024
    In this episode of Flavors Unknown, host Emmanuel Laroche dives deep into the world of Chef Andrew Black, a James Beard Award-winning chef whose restaurants are redefining Oklahoma City’s culinary landscape. With three acclaimed establishments—Grey Sweater, Black Walnut, and the newly launched Perle Mesta—Chef Black combines his Jamaican and Indian heritage with a philosophy of storytelling and boundless creativity in every dish. What you'll learn from Chef Andrew Black A Taste of Roots: Discover how the smells and flavors of Chef Andrew Black’s Jamaican upbringing (3:15) and the traditional Hindi dishes cooked by his grandmother (4:58) planted the seeds of his culinary passion. Cultural Fusion: Learn how his family’s rich cultural background shaped his perspective on food and inspired his unique style of blending Caribbean and Indian influences (5:35). Back to the Beginning: Chef Andrew Black shares the pivotal moment he knew cooking would be his life’s work (8:24) and the mentorship that guided him early in his career (10:29). A Global Palette: Follow Chef Black’s culinary journey across the world and how those experiences led him to Oklahoma City (12:12), a place he now calls home (14:25). Crafting Culinary Concepts: Go behind the scenes of his restaurant creations, from the avant-garde tasting menus at Grey Sweater (19:55) to the elegance and nostalgia of Perle Mesta (21:25). Food as Storytelling: Hear Chef Andrew Black’s philosophy on using menus to tell a story (27:01), and how he designs dishes that stand alone yet harmonize with the bigger picture. The Art of Fine Dining: Chef Andrew Black reflects on the evolution of fine dining (37:56) and the biggest lessons he’s learned along the way (39:11). Featured Moments: Why Chef Andrew Black doesn’t source ingredients locally and how he curates his menus (25:44). His favorite iconic dish from Grey Sweater (23:59). A food tour through Oklahoma City’s vibrant culinary scene (34:46). Chef Black’s cravings and how they influence his creations (36:01). What it takes to work in his restaurants and the hiring principles he values (37:13, 42:49). The chef he dreams of collaborating with and the advice he believes aspiring chefs should ignore (39:56, 41:18). I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry. Get the book here! Links to other episodes with the chefs discussing Cultural Impact of Food Don't miss out on the chance to hear from these talented chefs or culinary experts who discuss the cultural significance of food and its role in identity, much like how Chef Black integrates Jamaican and Indian influences. Conversation with Chef Arnold Myint Conversation with Chef Norman Van Aken Interview with Chef Brad Kilgore Interview with Chef Shota Nakajima Panel Discussion SXSW - Immigrant Flavors Reshape America Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode) Chef Sheldon Simeon Chef Andy Doubrava Chef Chris Kajioka Chef Suzanne Goin Social media Chef Andrew Black Instagram Facebook Social media Grey Sweater restaurant Instagram Facebook Social media Perle Mesta restaurant Instagram Facebook Links mentioned in this episode
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    45 mins
  • Dinara Kasko: Redefining Pastry with 3D Art

    Dinara Kasko: Redefining Pastry with 3D Art
    Nov 19 2024
    In this episode of Flavors Unknown, host Emmanuel Laroche sits down with Dinara Kasko, the Ukrainian pastry artist who’s revolutionized the world of baking. Combining her architectural background with a passion for pastry, Dinara creates breathtaking edible sculptures using cutting-edge 3D printing techniques. Her unique approach has earned her international acclaim, inspiring bakers and artists alike. Dinara shares her incredible journey—from her memories of traditional desserts growing up in Ukraine to her rise to fame as a 3D pastry pioneer. She opens up about how the war in Ukraine forced her to relocate with her family while continuing to innovate and grow her business. You’ll hear how she finds inspiration, manages her creative process, and uses technology like AI to bring her edible designs to life. What you'll learn from Baker Dinara Kasko Memories of Home: Dinara Kasko reflects on her childhood in Ukraine and the influence of her mom’s cooking. (3:11) Traditional Desserts: Discover the classic sweets that shaped Dinara’s early love for baking. (4:54) Before Pastry: Her career path as an architect and designer before diving into the world of baking. (10:34) First Dessert: The story of the first dessert Dinara Kasko ever made. (7:57) The Transition to Pastry: How she turned baking into a full-time career. (8:54) A Quick Rise to Fame: When Dinara’s innovative work captured global attention. (11:03) Architectural Inspiration: How she merges her design expertise with pastry. (12:42) Her 3D Designs: Behind the scenes of her famous molds and intricate creations. (14:53) Sharing Creativity: How Dinara inspires others through her work. (17:17) Creating Unique Molds: The process of turning inspiration into tangible designs. (18:29) AI in Pastry: How technology is expanding her creative possibilities. (20:06) Workload Management: Balancing creativity with running a business. (22:43) The Impact of War: The challenges of maintaining a business amid conflict. (24:27) Leaving Ukraine: Dinara Kasko's decision to relocate for her family’s safety. (27:13) For the Kids: How her children influence her decisions and creativity. (28:22) Advice for Bakers: Dinara’s tips for those looking to follow in her footsteps. (30:15) Gaining Popularity: Her thoughts on building a brand in the pastry world. (31:09) Current Projects: What Dinara is working on next. (32:10) Where to Shop: Find Dinara’s molds and designs online. (34:44) Rental Challenges: The difficulties of securing space for her work. (35:47) Guilty Pleasures: What makes any food irresistible for Dinara. (37:03) Favorite Ingredients: Her two go-to items in the kitchen. (38:34) Pumpkin Spice Thoughts: Her take on the seasonal craze. (39:37) Do What You Love: Dinara’s advice on pursuing passion and creativity. (41:03) I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry. Get the book here! Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode) Chef Sheldon Simeon Chef Andy Doubrava Chef Chris Kajioka Chef Suzanne Goin Social media Baker Dinara Kasko Instagram Social media Dinara Moulds Instagram Links mentioned in this episode Dinara Kasko Moulds SUBSCRIBE TO THE ‘FLAVORS UNKNOWN’ NEWSLETTER
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    44 mins
  • Nancy Silverton: Culinary Icon on Cooking and Travel

    Nancy Silverton: Culinary Icon on Cooking and Travel
    Nov 5 2024
    In today’s episode of Flavors Unknown, I’m delighted to sit down with the iconic Nancy Silverton—Los Angeles-based chef, award-winning baker, restaurateur, and celebrated author. Known for co-founding Pizzeria Mozza, Osteria Mozza, Mozza2Go, and Chi Spacca, Silverton is a James Beard Foundation Award winner for Outstanding Chef, an honor she received in 2014 for her remarkable contributions to the culinary world.Join us as Nancy reflects on what ignited her passion for the kitchen, her love-at-first-sight experience with cooking, and how she shaped her career path by learning from strong female mentors in California kitchens. We also explore how her yearly retreats to her home in a medieval village in Umbria, Italy, have profoundly influenced her style—both culinary and personal. What you'll learn from Chef Nancy Silverton Discovering her Umbrian sanctuary (3:26) – Nancy shares why her heart returns to Italy every year and the role her charming Italian village plays in her life.Savoring Umbrian produce (7:58) – The vibrant, local ingredients from nearby farms that inspire her dishes.Cooking for family (10:15) – How her grandchildren’s simple tastes bring joy and keep her connected to family.Embracing tradition in Italy (11:50) – Insights into community ovens and her first (and hilarious) pizza party attempt (13:04).The essence of travel (17:29) – The two things about travel that continue to inspire her approach to cooking and life.New culinary adventures (20:00) – What she’s discovered about the flavors of Marseille and how it informs her cooking style.Finding her culinary calling (21:57) – How a college crush inspired her first steps into the world of cooking.A California culinary exception (24:57) – Why California kitchens gave her a rare experience in a traditionally male-dominated field.Career-defining milestones (27:14) – From Campanile’s inception to her “bread-ucation,” Nancy discusses the challenges and pivotal moments that defined her career.Italian roots meet California innovation (32:24) – The story of “Cal-Ital” and how she reimagines classic Italian salads in her unique style.Travel and transformation (36:48) – How travel, especially in Italy, continues to shape her culinary expression.Her latest book, The Cookie That Changed My Life (42:37) – Inspiration behind the book, the “life-changing” cookie, and reflections on her writing journey.The connection between fashion and food (49:15) – Nancy’s take on how her clothing style is as integral to her identity as her food, along with a look inside her “clothes pantry” (50:48).A culinary tour through LA (52:21) – Her favorite spots in Los Angeles, and a taste of her guilty food obsession (54:13).Future aspirations (55:18) – Nancy’s dream collaborations, culinary lessons, and the two food destinations she still wants to explore.Key Takeaway:Chef Nancy Silverton embodies passion, resilience, and innovation. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and travel, shaping not only her flavors but her life philosophy. I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry.Get the book here! Links to other episodes with chefs from Los Angeles Don't miss out on the chance to hear from these talented chefs and gain insight into the world of culinary techniques. Check out the links below for more conversations with chefs from Los Angeles.Conversation with Chef Elizabeth FalknerInside Los Angeles Food Scene: A Panel DiscussionConve...
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    1 hr
  • Top Chef Winner Danny Garcia on Leadership and Legacy

    Top Chef Winner Danny Garcia on Leadership and Legacy
    Oct 22 2024
    Today on Flavors Unknown, I’m sitting down with Chef Danny Garcia, the Top Chef Season 21 winner and Executive Chef at Saga Hospitality Group. Chef Danny is preparing to launch Time and Tide, a highly anticipated seafood restaurant opening in Manhattan in late 2024. In this episode, we explore his culinary journey—from his early days at Johnson & Wales to his experience at world-renowned kitchens like The French Laundry and his long-standing collaboration with the late Chef James Kent.Join us as we dive into his thoughts on mentorship, collaboration, and leadership in the kitchen, and how his Dominican and Puerto Rican roots have shaped his bold and innovative cooking style. Chef Danny also shares stories about his carefree attitude on Top Chef, his favorite upcoming dishes, and how he’s honoring Chef Kent's legacy through his new restaurant. What you'll learn from Chef Danny Garcia ChefDanny Garcia’s earliest taste memory– 3:46How a unique opportunity in high school set his path– 4:53Attending Johnson & Wales and the value of culinary education– 5:37Staging versus culinary school: Which is better?– 7:21What can’t be learned on the job?– 9:34How the workforce in kitchens has changed– 10:22Balancing work-life balance for his team– 11:35The rise of fast-casual dining and its motivations– 13:08How restaurants must meet diverse dining needs– 16:42His time at The French Laundry– 18:17Collaborating and creating with the late Chef James Kent– 20:54Honoring James Kent’s legacy through Time and Tide– 26:28Storytelling through food: A dish to expect at Time and Tide– 28:15The diversity of his team and food inspirations– 29:42ChefDanny’s favorite dish on the new menu– 30:51His carefree attitude onTop Chefand lessons learned– 32:23Advice for young chefs entering the industry– 34:37His guilty pleasure food– 37:18Kitchen pet peeves– 37:59A lesson ChefDannylives by– 38:42His dream culinary collaborations– 39:09 I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry.Get the book here! Links to other episodes with the chefs in New York City Don't miss out on the chance to hear from these talented chefs and gain insight into the world of culinary techniques. Check out the links below for more conversations with Chefs in NYC.Conversations with chef Trigg BrownInterview with pastry chef Françoois PayardConversation with Erik RamirezInterview with pastry chef Erin Kanagy-LouxConversation with chef Dan Kluger Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode) Chef Sheldon Simeon Chef Andy Doubrava Chef Erik Ramirez Chef Jacques Pepin Social media Chef Danny Garcia Instagram Social media Time & Tide Instagram Links mentioned in this episode Time & TideKent Hospitality Group
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    42 mins
  • Robbie Felice Talks Wafu Italian and His NJ Restaurants

    Robbie Felice Talks Wafu Italian and His NJ Restaurants
    Oct 8 2024
    In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Robbie Felice, the New Jersey-based culinary innovator and co-founder of several renowned restaurants, including the exclusive pop-up pasta RAMEN,Viaggio Ristorante, Osteria Crescendo, and Fatto con Amore. A James Beard Rising Star Chef semifinalist, Chef Felice is known for his inventive approach to Wafu Italian cuisine—a fusion of Japanese and Italian traditions—that’s turning heads in the culinary world. We dive into his Italian-American upbringing, his culinary philosophy, and how his approach to food emphasizes love, nostalgia, and customer satisfaction over strict adherence to tradition. Chef Felices hares insights into his creative process, his leadership style, and how he’s managed to successfully launch multiple restaurant concepts while continuing to innovate in the kitchen. If you're a fan of bold culinary experimentation, this episode is not to be missed! What you'll learn from Chef Robbie Felice Robbie Felice earliest childhood memories in Jersey 3:00 Eating habits as a kid 4:08 How Robbie Felice felt about his dad’s restaurant food 4:46 The evolution of “Italian food” in his mind 5:27 Authenticity versus pure enjoyment of food 9:29 Menu items you’ll see at Bar Mutz 10:23 His most important taste tester 11:17 His decision to get into the industry 12:44 Experiencing college life at CIA 14:28 Turning his culinary goals into reality 15:32 How Viaggio was born 17:20 The food behind of Robbie Felice's restaurant concepts 19:34 Explaining Italian-American food to Italians 20:14 Putting a more Italian twist on fried calamari 21:11 Making sandwiches with love 22:46 His favorite sandwiches 23:28 The concept of Bar Mutz 24:45 His popular Japanese-Italian hybrid dish 25:07 Discovering Wafu-Italian 26:03 How he knows when he’s nailed a dish at Pasta Ramen 26:54 Dishes at his Japanese Italian restaurant 27:25 Robbie Felice's creative process 28:48 The umami-packed crispy tomato wontons 29:57 His biggest regret in his culinary experience 31:38 Advice to his younger self 32:11 How he felt when his James Beard award was announced 32:34 A food tour through New Jersey 33:54 His simple guilty pleasure food 36:35 Favorite secret ingredients in the kitchen 36:58 The chef he’d like to collaborate with 37:34 His biggest advice for aspiring chefs 38:08 Losing the fear of being wrong 39:17 I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry. Get the book here! Links to other episodes with other chefs from New Jersey Don't miss out on the chance to hear from these talented chefs and gain insight into the world of culinary techniques. Check out the links below for more conversations with chefs from NJ. Interview with Chef Leia Gaccione Conversation with Chef Sam Freund from White Birch Conversation with Chef Ehren Ryan from Common Lot Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode) Chef Sheldon Simeon Chef Andy Doubrava Chef Chris Kajioka Chef Jacques Pepin Social media Chef Robbie Felice Instagram Facebook Social media pasta Ramen Instagram Facebook Social media Viaggio Ristorante Instagram Facebook Links mentioned in this episode Chef Robbie Felice
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    41 mins