Episodes

  • Inside MW Restaurant with Wade & Michelle Ueoka

    Inside MW Restaurant with Wade & Michelle Ueoka
    May 6 2025
    Today on Flavors Unknown, we head to Honolulu to meet the culinary duo behind one of Hawaii’s most celebrated dining destinations: Chef Wade Ueoka and Pastry Chef Michelle Karr-Ueoka of MW Restaurant. Their menu is a vibrant tapestry of Hawaii’s multicultural influences, showcasing local farmers, sustainable practices, and authentic island flavors.In this episode, Wade and Michelle share the stories behind their journey—from humble beginnings to culinary excellence—and dive into how Hawaii’s regional cuisine pioneers shaped their vision. We explore the challenges of sourcing ingredients on an island, their partnership with Hawaiian Airlines, and how they keep innovation alive while staying rooted in tradition.Whether you’re passionate about local sourcing, the future of regional cuisine, or the behind-the-scenes realities of running a restaurant in paradise, this conversation offers a deep, flavorful insight into life and food in Hawaii. What you'll learn from Chefs Wade and Michelle Ueoka Building a Culinary Partnership: How Wade and Michelle balance marriage and kitchen life (3:17)Switching Gears: Michelle’s journey from savory to pastry arts (5:57)Food Memories: Wade shares the dishes that shaped his childhood (7:56)Finding Their Calling: When they each realized cooking was more than a hobby (10:03)Cultural Roots: Michelle’s multicultural upbringing and its influence on her cuisine (11:06)A Culinary Career Begins: Michelle’s entry into professional kitchens (12:38)Culinary School Insights: Lessons learned along the way (15:16)Breaking into the French Laundry: How Michelle landed one of the world’s most prestigious stages (16:11)The Legacy of Hawaiian Regional Cuisine: Reflecting on the pioneers (18:44)Mentorship Under Alan Wong: Lessons from a legend (19:54)Blending Cultures on the Plate: Wong’s influence on their food philosophy (21:04)Thanksgiving, Hawaiian-Style: A look into island holiday traditions (21:45)Comparing Culinary Worlds: Alan Wong’s kitchens vs. The French Laundry (23:06)Inside MW Restaurant: A taste of their signature approach (24:10)Sustainability on the Islands: The challenges and rewards of local sourcing (24:43)Signature Dishes: Spotlighting MW Restaurant’s standout savory plates (28:03)Dessert Innovation: Michelle’s creations rooted in island flavors (32:03)Cuisine in Evolution: How Hawaii’s food scene is changing (35:33)The Battle to Keep Talent: Challenges of retaining young chefs (37:07)Taking to the Skies: Creating in-flight meals for Hawaiian Airlines (39:35)A Culinary Tour of Honolulu: Favorite local spots to eat (42:19)Guilty Pleasures: Wade and Michelle’s favorite indulgences (44:16)Alternate Lives: What they’d be doing if they weren’t chefs (44:48)Advice for Aspiring Cooks: Wisdom from two industry veterans (46:18)What It Takes to Open a Restaurant: Candid thoughts on entrepreneurship (47:37) 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 Hawaii 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 Hawaii.Conversation with Chef Roy YamaguchiInterview with chef Chef Chris KajiokaInterview with chef Sheldon SimeonConversation with Chef Vikram GargConversation with Chef Mourad Lahlou Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the epis...
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    53 mins
  • NYC Chef Panel on Bold Flavors and Reinvention

    NYC Chef Panel on Bold Flavors and Reinvention
    Apr 22 2025
    Recorded live at Phoenix Palace during NYC StarChefs Rising Stars. Sponsored by Symrise.In this special episode of Flavors Unknown, we head to New York City for a dynamic roundtable with four of the most exciting names in the city's food and beverage scene:Chef Zhan Chen – Executive Chef at Phoenix Palace, redefining Cantonese dining in Chinatown.Chef Neel Kajale – Chef de Cuisine at Dhamaka, championing bold Indian regional cuisine at Essex Market.Chef Luis Herrera – The talent behind Ensenada, bringing coastal Mexican flavors to Brooklyn and Miami.Richie Millwater – Mixologist and Bar Manager at Clemente Bar, upstairs at Eleven Madison Park, where nostalgic classics meet boundary-pushing cocktails.Together, they unpack the evolution of New York’s dining and drinking scene post-pandemic—from the craving for authenticity and simplicity to the new generation’s reimagining of luxury, balance, and creativity behind the pass and the bar. What you'll learn from this panel discussion 3:17 – The moment that shook the hospitality industry4:49 – Why many are stepping away from fine dining5:49 – The tension between upscale indulgence and underground gems7:50 – The power and precision of honoring regional cuisines8:26 – Turning up the spice in Indian food9:15 – Why you won’t find butter chicken on the Dhamaka menu10:38 – The rise of hyper-local, hyper-specific food storytelling13:40 – Storytelling as a vital ingredient on the plate14:02 – How chefs adapt concepts for new cities and diners19:30 – Why Miles Davis still echoes at Eleven Madison Park20:03 – Reinventing classics: where cocktail culture meets innovation20:21 – How kitchens are inspiring the bar—from scraps to sips22:16 – Cooking from memory: Neel’s creative muse23:01 – Nose-to-tail, root-to-stem: India’s culinary ethos26:39 – How NYC flavors mirror its cultural kaleidoscope27:38 – The many faces (and uses) of soy28:58 – Creativity through constraint: turning limitations into art30:34 – The grind and beauty of cooking everything from scratch32:22 – Culinary cross-pollination: when food inspires drinks33:25 – Ferments, funk, and flavor layering behind the bar36:00 – The world’s most popular spirit no one’s talking about37:11 – What’s missing from most bars today37:36 – The unlikely inspiration found in Chinese supermarkets39:32 – Signature flavors from Ensenada, Dhamaka, Phoenix Palace & Clemente44:20 – How these chefs seek balance in a demanding industry46:23 – Understanding Gen Z’s view on hospitality work50:32 – New vs. old school restaurant criticism55:18 – Pork, plant-based pivots, and evolving food trends 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 Don't miss out on the chance to hear from these talented chefs and gain insight into the world of culinary techniques.Panel Discussion CharlestonPanel Discussion BostonPanel Discussion LAPanel Discussion PhiladelphiaPanel Discussion AustinPanel Discussion Providence, RIPanel Discussion Portland, ORPanel Discussion New York 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
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Pig Beach BBQ: Inside Chef Matt Abdoo’s Journey

    Pig Beach BBQ: Inside Chef Matt Abdoo’s Journey
    Apr 8 2025
    Today on Flavors Unknown, I’m joined by Chef Matt Abdoo, co-founder of the wildly popular Pig Beach BBQ. Known for its award-winning approach to regional American barbecue, Pig Beach blends the soul of Southern smoke with chef-driven technique—and Matt is the creative fire behind it all.But before the smoke, there were stars—Michelin stars. Matt's culinary path began at Del Posto, where he worked as Chef de Cuisine, mastering the art of fine dining. In this episode, we explore his journey from cream and cannoli to brisket and smoke rings, and how his Italian-Lebanese roots shaped his passion for inclusive, community-driven cuisine.We get into the misconceptions of barbecue, the emotional storytelling behind his cookbook, and how barbecue—like love—is meant to be shared. Plus, you'll get his take on the best BBQ side dishes, guilty pleasures, and his favorite eats in West Palm Beach.If you’ve ever wondered what happens when high technique meets humble tradition, this episode is for you. What you'll learn from Chef Matt Abdoo The multicultural flavors of his childhood2:51 – Matt Abdoo's Italian-Lebanese upbringing4:17 – Friday night dinners with his Lebanese grandma5:02 – His Italian grandmother’s legendary raguBecoming a chef8:09 – Realizing he wanted to cook for a living10:35 – His first restaurant job11:01 – Dreams of cream and cannoli from the dishpit13:33 – Culinary school and a hands-on externshipFrom fine dining to flame-kissed BBQ15:08 – Why he left fine dining for barbecue17:18 – Doubts about launching a new concept18:53 – What sets Pig Beach BBQ apart21:14 – Sauce or no sauce?22:25 – When the BBQ haters come out23:44 – How menus differ by locationThe craft and culture of BBQ25:38 – Writing The Pig Beach BBQ Cookbook27:58 – The biggest BBQ crime you can commit28:30 – The right way to manage smoke29:54 – Using regional wood for flavorBeyond the pit31:25 – Where to eat in West Palm Beach32:41 – Matt Abdoo's guilty pleasure foods33:19 – His eating habits at home34:10 – Dream collaborators34:46 – The best BBQ side dishes36:34 – His ultimate life lesson 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 Chef Matt Abdoo Instagram Facebook Social media Pig Beach BBQ Instagram Facebook Links mentioned in this episode Pig Beach BBQ
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    39 mins
  • From SFO to the Hawaii: Mourad’s Next Chapter

    From SFO to the Hawaii: Mourad’s Next Chapter
    Mar 25 2025
    In this in-person episode recorded on location in Honolulu, I sit down with Chef Mourad Lahlou, the visionary behind Aziza, Mourad, Leila, and Miro Kaimuki. Known for pioneering modern Moroccan cuisine and earning Michelin stars along the way, Chef Mourad opens up about his personal and professional evolution—from self-taught beginnings in the U.S. to reimagining Moroccan flavors in Hawaii.We talk about his bold move from San Francisco to Honolulu, his collaboration with renowned chef Chris Kajioka, and how local ingredients and a slower pace of life are influencing this new chapter. Chef Mourad shares his thoughts on tradition, creativity, nostalgia, and the power of family-style dining to connect people across cultures. What you'll learn from Chef Mourad Lahlou 3:39 – Shifting focus from San Francisco to Hawaii4:05 – What inspired the move to Honolulu6:19 – Closing Mourad and letting go of Michelin7:15 – The cultural roots of Leila8:37 – How Aziza has evolved over the years9:16 – Cooking with a sense of place10:10 – Serving food in a more “honest” way10:36 – Moroccan tradition meets Hawaiian ingredients11:47 – A chef’s brief dance with molecular gastronomy13:00 – Public support for Aziza through its many lives13:52 – How his palate—and judgment—has matured15:28 – His creative process for crafting new dishes16:24 – The role of nostalgia in Moroccan cooking17:40 – Couscous: More than a side dish20:08 – The journey of a self-taught chef23:02 – The woman behind the name Aziza23:27 – The birth of Mourad27:11 – Common misconceptions about Moroccan cuisine28:24 – What most Moroccan restaurants get wrong30:08 – Battling regulations over the tagine31:41 – Dishes he's most excited about at Leila33:13 – Why sharing food matters more than ever33:40 – His two favorite dishes on the Leila menu34:43 – Ingredient sourcing: SF vs. Honolulu36:19 – The magic of collaborating with Chris Kajioka41:42 – Culinary fusion at Miro Kaimuki44:08 – Menu staples and seasonal creativity45:29 – The irony of fine dining chefs doing soulful food49:31 – His favorite food spots around Honolulu50:35 – Guilty pleasures: Cheese and simple comforts53:07 – The emotional meaning of cooking at home57:31 – The biggest lesson he’s learned in his journey59:09 – Dream culinary collaborators1:03:50 – The worst advice young cooks hear 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 Hawaii 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 HawaiiConversation with Chef Roy YamaguchiInterview with chef Chef Chris KajiokaInterview with chef Sheldon SimeonConversation with Chef Vikram Garg 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 Mourad Lahlou Instagram Facebook Social media Restaurant Aziza Instagram Facebook Social media
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Dirt Candy’s Amanda Cohen: Breaking Culinary Norms

    Dirt Candy’s Amanda Cohen: Breaking Culinary Norms
    Mar 11 2025
    In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Amanda Cohen, the creative force behind Dirt Candy, one of the most innovative vegetable-forward restaurants in New York City.Amanda has spent her career redefining what plant-based fine dining looks like—turning vegetables into culinary masterpieces while challenging industry norms. From eliminating tipping at her restaurant to debunking the biggest myths about vegetarian cuisine, she’s proving that great food doesn’t need meat to be bold, exciting, and luxurious.In our conversation, Amanda shares her journey into the culinary world, the philosophy behind her groundbreaking restaurant, and why she believes the future of food is still being written—one vegetable at a time. What you'll learn from this panel discussion Chef Amanda Cohen Her path to becoming a chef – How Amanda Cohen found her way into the culinary world (3:03)Why she chose to focus on vegetables – The philosophy behind her plant-based approach (3:27)Judgment in and outside of the industry – How she deals with skepticism about vegetarian fine dining (5:01)Bucking the bacon craze – Why Amanda Cohen rejected the ‘everything needs bacon’ trend (6:15)How the industry has changed – Progress in plant-based cuisine and what still needs to shift (7:13)The philosophy behind Dirt Candy – Her vision for redefining the way we think about vegetables (9:50)Building a seasonal menu – The creative process behind designing Dirt Candy’s dishes (10:42)Cooking with vegetables vs. meat – The unique challenges and rewards of a plant-based menu (12:27)The secret to the restaurant’s creativity – How Dirt Candy constantly pushes boundaries (14:05)Why we’re still discovering new possibilities with vegetables – The untapped potential of plant-based cuisine (14:49)Misconceptions about vegetarian cuisine – The biggest myths she’s encountered (17:21)Making vegetables the star of the plate – Techniques to elevate plant-based dining (18:39)A creative celery dish she’s proud of – One of her most inventive dishes (20:14)Sourcing vegetables in New York City – How she finds top-quality produce (22:00)The inspiration behind the Dirt Candy Cookbook – Why she chose a graphic novel format for her book (24:08)Advice she’d give to her younger self – What she wishes she knew earlier in her career (27:20)Her favorite food spots in NYC – Where she loves to eat (29:46)Her guilty pleasure food – The unexpected indulgence she can’t resist (30:51)Common mistakes chefs make – Lessons from years in the kitchen (31:07)The go-to meal she makes for friends at home – What she cooks when she’s off duty (32:06)Her best advice for people in the industry – Tips for young chefs and restaurateurs (33:04)The people she loves cooking with most – Who inspires Amanda Cohen in the kitchen (33:57)Why she doesn’t believe the customer is always right – Her take on hospitality and service (34:55) 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 about vegetarian cooking Don't miss out on the chance to hear from these talented chefs and gain insight into the world of vegetarian cooking. Conversation with Richard Landau from Vedge in PhiladelphiaInterview with Chef Jean-Marie Josselin in KauaiConversation with Farmer Lee Jones Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode)
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    37 mins
  • How Chef Rivera is Redefining Sushi at Bakku in Puerto Rico

    How Chef Rivera is Redefining Sushi at Bakku in Puerto Rico
    Feb 25 2025
    In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Joerick Rivera, the culinary mind behind Bakku, a Japanese crudo bar in Rincón, Puerto Rico, and Palmonte, where he explores Puerto Rican flavors with a modern twist. Despite initially resisting the idea of becoming a chef, Rivera has established himself as a pioneer, bringing Japanese precision to a town best known for its laid-back surf culture. We dive into his unexpected journey from reluctant cook to restaurant owner, how he navigated skepticism to make Bakku a success, and his process for balancing Japanese technique with Puerto Rican influences. Chef Rivera shares his approach to dish creation, the importance of supplier relationships, and why he refuses to take reservations at Bakku. Plus, we get into the most underrated Puerto Rican dishes, pet peeves in the kitchen, and what he eats when no one's watching. What you'll learn from Chef Joe Rivera at Bakku Childhood Food Memories – The flavors that shaped Joe Rivera early years (3:55) A Reluctant Start – Why he initially didn’t want to become a chef (5:29) A Bold Culinary Gamble – Opening Bakku, a Japanese-inspired restaurant in a surf town (6:53) Training with Chef John Okura – Lessons learned in Florida (7:44) Community Reception – How locals embraced Bakku despite early doubts (8:43) Building During a Crisis – Running a restaurant through a pandemic (10:20) The Inspiration Behind Bakku’s Menu – From concept to execution (11:13) Hurricane Maria’s Impact – How it changed his perspective (12:34) Signature Dishes at Bakku– The story behind his octopus carpaccio (14:37) Why No Reservations? – The philosophy behind Bakku’s approach (20:04) Creativity in the Kitchen – His research-driven process for developing new dishes (22:13) A Culinary Guide to Puerto Rico – His recommendations for must-try spots (27:59) Guilty Pleasure Food & Pet Peeves – What surprises him about home cooking (30:47, 34:25) The Most Underrated Puerto Rican Dishes – And why they deserve more love (32:08) 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 in Puerto Rico 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 link below for more conversations with Chef Mario Pagán. Conversation with Chef Mario Pagán 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 Joe Rivera Instagram Social media Bakku Instagram Facebook Links mentioned in this episode Restaurant Bakku
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    39 mins
  • Chef JJ Johnson: The Power of Rice and Culinary Heritage

    Chef JJ Johnson: The Power of Rice and Culinary Heritage
    Feb 11 2025
    On today’s episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef JJ Johnson, the James Beard Award-winning chef and founder of FIELDTRIP, a fast-casual concept with four locations across New York. Known for his deep appreciation of the African diaspora’s culinary traditions, Chef JJ Johnson has built a brand around rice as a universal connector, sustainability, and bold, unapologetic flavors. In this conversation, we explore his unique multicultural background, how his Puerto Rican and Barbadian heritage shaped his cooking, and why mentorship and hard work have been key pillars in his career. He also shares the moment he realized rice was more than just an ingredient—it was a cultural story waiting to be told. We also get into the behind-the-scenes of running a fast-casual restaurant, how the industry has shifted post-pandemic, and the overlooked ingredients that deserve a spot in every kitchen. Whether you’re a home cook, a chef, or just a lover of great food, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and inspiration. What you'll learn from Chef JJ Johnson What sparked Chef JJ Johsnon fascination with African food (3:01) Discovering the “mother grain” of all rice varieties (3:33) The idea behind FIELDTRIP and its mission (4:43) Navigating the challenges of fast-casual dining during and after the pandemic (5:00) What’s on the menu at his rice-inspired restaurants (5:44) "FIELDTRIP 2.0"—new dish concepts in the works (9:00) The most disrespected ingredient in America (you’ll be surprised!) (9:33) Rice and its historical complexity in different cultures (10:00) Why sourcing local, regenerative rice matters over bleached, enriched varieties (10:33) Growing up in the Poconos and early food influences (16:42) How his grandmother’s kitchen shaped his love for food (17:17) Chef JJ Johnson multicultural heritage and how it influences his flavors (19:05) Childhood memories of Caribbean cookouts and family gatherings (20:00) The commercial that sparked his culinary calling (22:09) Early mentors who guided his career in the kitchen (23:39) The problem with social media comparisons and the myth of instant success (25:21) Why the road to success is a long one (and what it takes to get there) (27:51) How cultural backgrounds are shaping modern food trends (29:03) Why restaurants are embracing regional and cultural cuisines like never before (30:00) His ultimate guilty pleasure food (you won’t expect this one!) (33:24) An underrated ingredient that works for both sweet and savory dishes (34:01) An underrated West African dish everyone should try (35:00) The top three mistakes home cooks make in the kitchen (and how to fix them) (36:26) A life lesson from his father that applies far beyond the kitchen (36:48) 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 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 from NYC. Conversation with Alexander Smalls Interview with chef Danny Garcia Conversations with chef Trigg Brown Interview with pastry chef Françoois Payard Conversation with Erik Ramirez Interview with pastry chef Erin Kanagy-Loux Conversation with chef Dan Kluger Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode) Chef Sheldon Simeon
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    40 mins
  • Inside the Mind of Puerto Rican Chef Mario Pagán

    Inside the Mind of Puerto Rican Chef Mario Pagán
    Jan 28 2025
    In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Mario Pagán at his restaurant La Central in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Chef Pagán is a visionary in Puerto Rican cuisine, blending French techniques with bold, local flavors in what he calls the "Nueva Mesa Boricua" philosophy. With a restaurant portfolio that includes Mario Pagán, La Central, and Raya by Mario Pagán in Puerto Rico, along with Chayote in Winter Park, Florida, his culinary influence is far-reaching.Chef Pagán shares his deep respect for food, tradition, and his team, as well as his belief in letting Puerto Rican dishes evolve while preserving their cultural heritage. From his late-night bursts of creativity to his admiration for the women in his life who inspired his love of cooking, Mario offers a heartfelt and insightful look into his world.You’ll also hear about his experiences transitioning from architecture to culinary arts, his take on the global standing of Puerto Rican cuisine, and his mission to highlight the island’s rich culinary diversity. What you'll learn from Chef Mario Pagán Nueva Mesa Boricua Defined (3:24)The history and variations of mofongo across the Caribbean (4:26)Local reactions to modernizing traditional dishes (6:01)Balancing tradition and evolution in Puerto Rican food (7:17)Breaking stereotypes about Puerto Rican cuisine (8:09)Tips on experiencing Puerto Rico's culinary diversity (13:07)Insights into Mario Pagán’s restaurant empire (14:05)How he adapts Puerto Rican flavors for American diners (17:58)Early culinary inspirations and memories (20:11)The role of sofrito in Puerto Rican cooking (22:34)Switching career paths from architecture to cooking (24:30)His time at Johnson & Wales Culinary School (27:02)Connection to the legacy of Chayote restaurant (30:28)Mentorship under the legendary Alfredo Ayala (31:37)Respecting food and fostering teamwork (33:19)Creative breakthroughs at 4 a.m. (35:15)Alternative paths Mario Pagán might have taken (38:14)How architecture influences his approach to food (39:14)Collaborating with local purveyors post-hurricane (42:11)Navigating challenges in local sourcing after hurricanes (44:34)Mario’s vision for Puerto Rican cuisine on a global scale (45:09)Where to find the best Puerto Rican specialties (47:20)His guilty pleasure foods (49:12)Kitchen pet peeves (49:45)The most essential ingredient in Puerto Rican cooking (50:20)Dream collaborations in the culinary world (54:39)The importance of family and strong employee relationships (58:39) 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! Notable Quotes from Chef Mario Pagán “You need to be humble. Your ego can kill you in this business. Respecting food, not letting your ego drive you, and keeping your feet on the ground is really important.”“If I don’t create, I’m dead.”“I breathe it, live it, and love it. Every day I walk into my restaurants, it’s a privilege.”“Food is art. The similarities between food and architecture—layering, balancing, structure, color—are striking.”“I owe everything to the women in my life—my grandmothers, my aunts, my mom. For us in Puerto Rico, being in the kitchen is about creating memories together.”“We are as warm as our food.”“Money kills. First, you need to love yourself, love your food, and then the people will come.”“Mofongo... it’s a fight between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, but Puerto Rico does it better. Of course,
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    57 mins
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