In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Fabio Trabocchi, the Michelin-starred Italian chef and visionary restaurateur behind a growing empire of acclaimed restaurants including Fiola, Fiola Mare, Del Mar, Sfoglina, and Seta su Ilma. We dive into Fabio’s culinary roots in Italy’s Le Marche region, his early training under the legendary Gualtiero Marchesi, and how French techniques and global travel shaped his approach to modern Italian cuisine. You’ll hear why hospitality always ...
Jul 15, 2025•49 min•Season 7Ep. 191
Today on Flavors Unknown , I’m sitting down with four incredible voices from the Miami food scene: Chef Karla Hoyos from Tacotomia Chef Ivan Barros from Magie Wine Garden Chef Carmen Ibarra from Atomica Mixologist Valentino Longo from ViceVersa In this episode, you’ll hear how these Miami culinary leaders are shaping the city’s vibrant food and drink culture. We dive into how cultural heritage influences their creativity, the power of nostalgia, and why Miami has grown far beyond its party-town ...
Jul 01, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Season 7Ep. 191
Today, I’m talking to Chef Fany Gerson. She is a cookbook author, James Beard nominee, and the owner of Fan Fan Doughnuts and La Newyorkina. You’ll hear about her culinary journey, from her childhood memories in Mexico City to her innovative in New York hotspots. She talks about the unique fusion of French techniques with Mexican flavors, and the importance of using high-quality ingredients. She also reflects on the importance of travel, learning from mistakes, and the significance of community ...
Jun 17, 2025•55 min•Season 7Ep. 190
In this episode of Flavors Unknown , I sit down with Chef Lisa Dahl , one of the most influential figures in Arizona’s culinary landscape. A self-taught chef and resilient entrepreneur, Lisa shares how an unimaginable personal tragedy led her from San Francisco to Sedona—and eventually into the kitchen, where she built a restaurant empire from the ground up. She is the creative force behind a collection of beloved Sedona dining destinations: 🌟 Dahl & Di Luca 🔥 Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill...
Jun 03, 2025•1 hr 30 min•Season 7Ep. 189
In this episode of Flavors Unknown , I sit down with Chef Tony Nguyen, the Executive Chef behind the acclaimed Crustacean Restaurant in Beverly Hills—an upscale destination redefining Modern Asian cuisine with elegance and innovation. Born and raised in St. Louis to a Vietnamese family, Chef Tony shares how his upbringing, rich with cultural heritage and culinary storytelling, laid the foundation for his creative vision. We explore his earliest food memories, the influence of French technique on...
May 20, 2025•44 min•Season 7Ep. 188
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 re...
May 06, 2025•53 min•Season 7Ep. 187
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 En...
Apr 22, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Season 7Ep. 186
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 ...
Apr 08, 2025•39 min•Season 7Ep. 185
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 Chr...
Mar 25, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Season 7Ep. 184
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 ...
Mar 11, 2025•37 min•Season 7Ep. 183
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...
Feb 25, 2025•39 min•Season 7Ep. 182
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 heri...
Feb 11, 2025•40 min•Season 7Ep. 181
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 re...
Jan 28, 2025•57 min•Season 7Ep. 180
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 Charles...
Jan 14, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Season 7Ep. 180
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 dee...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 6 min
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 le...
Dec 17, 2024•55 min•Season 7Ep. 177
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: Discove...
Dec 03, 2024•45 min•Season 7Ep. 176
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 U...
Nov 19, 2024•44 min•Season 7Ep. 175
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-f...
Nov 05, 2024•1 hr•Season 7Ep. 174
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 u...
Oct 22, 2024•42 min•Season 7Ep. 173
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-America...
Oct 08, 2024•41 min•Season 7Ep. 172
In this episode of Flavors Unknown, we sit down with Chef Shota Nakajima, the culinary force behind Seattle's acclaimed restaurant Taku and a finalist on Top Chef Season 18. Shota Nakajima shares how his family cultivated his passion for food and hospitality from a young age, and how his career has evolved from his early days in Japan to becoming a well-known figure in the U.S. culinary scene. We dive deep into his experiences training under a Michelin-starred chef, his reflections on the Top Ch...
Sep 24, 2024•51 min•Season 7Ep. 171
In this episode, I’m joined by Chef James Passafaro, co-owner of the revolutionary app Opsi.io, which is changing the way restaurants manage their operations. Opsi.io is a cloud-based tool that streamlines recipe management, food costing, inventory, and more—eliminating the need for old-school binders and paperwork.James shares his incredible journey from working alongside some of the most renowned chefs in the industry to becoming a tech entrepreneur, spearheading a game-changing solution for k...
Sep 10, 2024•47 min•Season 6Ep. 170
In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Corey Siegel, the North American Corporate Executive Chef and Director of Culinary Development at Electrolux Professional. Based in Charlotte, NC, Corey is a culinary innovator who has left a remarkable imprint on the industry. Known for his unique blend of culinary mastery and passion for music, Corey shares the influences that shaped his culinary style, his experiences in prestigious culinary competitions, and how music plays a pivotal r...
Aug 27, 2024•51 min•Season 6Ep. 169
In this episode of the Flavors Unknown podcast, we bring you an exclusive panel discussion from StarChefs Boston's Rising Stars, sponsored by Symrise NA. Join me as I sit down with some of Boston's most innovative culinary minds: Chef Will Gilson of Puritan & Co., Pastry Chef Monica Glass, co-founder of Verveine Cafe & Bakery, Bartender James Sutter of Birds of Paradise, Chef Laurence Louie of Rubato HK Cafe, and Chef Matthew Bullock of Southern Pines Diner Car. Together, these culinary ...
Aug 13, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Season 6Ep. 168
Today, we delve into the fascinating journey of Chef Norman Van Aken, considered one of the founders of New American Cuisine. A true culinary legend, Van Aken is a pioneer who expertly blends old-world techniques with new-world flavors, coining the term “fusion.” With numerous books, his own Netflix series, and a legacy of inspiring and mentoring many of today's culinary leaders, Van Aken’s story is one you won't want to miss.In this episode, you'll discover how Chef Norman Van Aken's Florida up...
Jul 30, 2024•48 min•Season 6Ep. 167
Today, I’m excited to talk to Arnold Myint, the talented Chef at The International Market in Nashville. Known for his vibrant personality on Top Chef, Arnold is redefining Thai cuisine by blending modern techniques with traditional Thai flavors. In 2024, he was a semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef Southeast, highlighting his exceptional culinary skills.In this episode, you’ll discover how Arnold connects his Thai roots to his southern home, honoring his family throu...
Jul 16, 2024•41 min•Season 6Ep. 166
In this episode of Flavors Unknown, we sit down with Chef Alex Yoon, the culinary visionary behind Little Fish, a 16-seat seafood BYOB gem nestled in the Queen Village neighborhood of Philadelphia. Known for its intimate setting and creative seafood dishes, Little Fish has been a local favorite since the 90s. Chef Yoon shares his journey of taking over this beloved establishment, balancing its storied legacy with his own culinary innovations. We delve into his Korean roots, his path into the cul...
Jul 02, 2024•52 min•Season 6Ep. 165
Join us today from JWU as we delve into the transformative world of culinary education with Dean Jason Evans of Johnson & Wales University, Providence, RI. With a unique blend of economics and a visionary approach to food sustainability, Dean Evans is steering JWU towards a future where culinary education intertwines seamlessly with health and nutrition education. In this episode, discover how JWU is reshaping the culinary landscape to forge connections between food, the economy, and health....
Jun 18, 2024•52 min•Season 6Ep. 164
Join us for a special episode of our podcast featuring a dynamic panel discussion that took place during the StarChefs Rising Stars event in Los Angeles. Today, we dive into the heart of the LA food scene with some of its most innovative culinary leaders: Chef Sandra Cordero at Xuntos, Pastry Chef Sherry Yard, Mixologist Ramsey Musk at Accomplice Bar, Chef Matt Schaler at Birdie G's, and Chef Diego Argoti at Poltergeist at Button Mash.In this episode, you'll explore the diverse cultural backgrou...
Jun 04, 2024•Season 6Ep. 163
