Recent Episodes

 

Dwight Furrow, the author of American Foodie: Taste, Art, and the Cultural Revolution, talks about the philosophy of food. We discuss everything the impact of everything from automobile to Alice Waters to the Slow Food movement have shaped the way Americans think about food.
 
 
 
 

 

Inbal Baum, the Founder of Delicious Israel, joins us to talk about where foodies should eat when they travel to her country.

• Shakshouka is a popular dish in Israel
• Israeli Breakfast is a distinct and important meal
• The modern cherry tomato has roots in Israel
• Tel Aviv and Jerusalem top the list of cities you should visit
• Beach season runs from April to October
• Rosh Hashana is a great time to visit Israel
• When you visit Tel Aviv, go to the Carmel Market, the Levinsky Market
• Try the date syrup, Silan

 

 

Food for Thought

• Q: After pita bread, what is the most common food used to “wipe” humus?
• A: Raw onion.

 
 

Out of the Frying Pan

• Favorite Spot for Outdoor Dining: Milgo & Milbar
• Favorite Place to Buy Spices: Cafe Arma in Levinsky Market
• Herbs to Try: Za’atar and Hawaij (in Yemenite Coffee)
• Favorite Winery: Sphera
• Favorite Place for Dessert: The Malabia
• Favorite Food Experience for Kids: Max Brenner
• Chef to Watch: Eyal Shani
• Dish to Try at Different Places: Shakshouka and sabich

Bennet Jacobstein, author of The Joy of Ballpark Food: From Hot Dogs to Haute Cuisine, talks to us about what foodies can find at different baseball stadiums around the country.

• Hot dogs and sausages are not the same thing.
• The quality of ballpark food was elevated in the 90s as new stadiums were built and food television shows took off.
• Stadiums have highlighted regional foods.
• Gordon Biersch‘s founder Dan Gordon introduced garlic fries at Candlestick Park in 1994.
• The song “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” was written in 1908.
• The Yankees replaced Cracker Jacks at one point, but brought it back after a public outcry.
• 

  San Francisco Giant Gordon Biersch Garlic Fries

  Veggie Happy spearheaded the movement to get veggie dogs sold at ballpark stadiums.

• Andrew Zimmern has a stand in the Minnesota ballpark.
• Rocky Mountain Oysters are bull testicles.
• “The Big Six” are the food companies that service the major ballparks.
• As you go from ballpark to ballpark, try the hot dogs at each to see how they’re done differently.
• Proceeds from Bennett’s book go to Second Harvest Food Bank.

 

Food for Thought

• Q: In what year were Cracker Jacks first served at a baseball game?
• A: 1896 in Atlantic City.

 

Out of the Frying Pan

Here’s what Bennet recommends you try at each ballpark:

• Yankees Stadium in New York City: Chicken and Waffles.
• Fenway Park in Boston: Lobster Roll and a cuban sandwich.
• Wrigley Field in Chicago: Chicago-style hot dog with Vienna beef.
• Turner Field in Atlanta: Boiled peanuts.
• Marlins Park in Miami: Cuban dishes.
• Safeco Field in Seattle: The Ivar’s hot dog (with fish) and cream cheese hot dog.
• Nationals Park in Washington D.C.: A cauliflower hot dog and presidential cupcakes.
• 

  Chicago White Sox Chicago-Style Hot Dog

  Busch Stadium in St. Louis: The BBQ.

• Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles: Tommy Lasorda Spumoni ice cream.
• AT&T Park in San Francisco: Crab salad, lamb sausages, and Gordon Biersch garlic fries.

Try a Food Tour

Top 5 Lists

The Latin Quarter encompasses much of the 5th arrondissment (district) of Paris, with the Sorbonne University as its center. Back in medieval times, the slope on which the Sorbonne stands was covered with schools to which students from all over Europe came to study. The common language that they spoke was Latin, hence the name Latin Quarter. Today, the hill is still covered with schools, ranging from elementary to university. But one doesn’t have to be a student to enjoy the vibrant night life that spills out onto narrow streets on weekends. There are a number of fine neighborhood restaurants in the quarter whose mid-range (€€) and higher (€€€) prices are probably too steep for students to frequent, but travelers to Paris who have an adequate budget will find any of the five that I list a great place to begin their French dining experience.
 
 

1. Le Resto

Le Resto has been one of my favorites for many years. It stands on a side street around the corner from the lively rue du Pot de Fer. A handsome façade with curtainless windows trimmed in grey and a grey awning trimmed in burgundy welcome diners. The interior boasts bare-stone walls, exposed ceiling beams, a hardwood floor, and table tops made out of riddling boards covered with clear glass. The overall effect is rustic and reposing—as if one were dining at a country inn. I recently went there for lunch and ordered Pasta sotto de cavatappi au poulet et tomate ancienne. Three generous portions of tender, sliced chicken breast were served in on a bed of pasta that had been tossed in melted Parmesan. Slices of green, orange, and red tomatoes added color and flavor to the dish. It was a delicious, satisfying meal.
 

$$
8, rue de Tournefort, Paris
http://www.lerestoparis.fr/

 
 

2. Le Pré Verre

I have dined at Le Pré Verre many times over the years. I especially like the two-course, 14.50€ lunchtime menu that includes a glass of wine and an espresso. In the evening, a three-course menu (without beverages) runs 30€. The specialty of the house is Cochon de lait fondant aux épices douces et choux croquants. You get a wide-brimmed, shallow bowl containing a bed of lightly cooked cabbage upon which rest two slices of tender, milk-fed pork, all in a broth of light cream, white wine, and juices from the piglet. Flavored with cinnamon and star anise, this dish is exquisite.
 

$$
8, rue Thénard, Paris
http://www.lepreverre.com/

 

RELATED: Where to Eat in France.

 
 

3. Aux Verres de Contact

Aux Verres de Contact stands at the corner of boulevard Saint-Germain and rue de Bièvre. Its curtainless, sparkling-clean, tall and wide windows offer a view of its smart interior to passersby. Step inside to see a handsome zinc bar as you pass though to the main dining room. There, grey wallboards and room dividers trimmed in cherry; wallpaper displaying stylized glasses of wine; reddish-orange and bare-stone walls; and polished dark tables provide reposing atmosphere. The night that I dined there, popular music played over the sound system, including a song by the Temptations. For the main course, I chose Joue de bœuf façon pot au feu. The waitress asked me if I liked os à moelle, and I responded positively. When she returned, she presented me with a generous portion of stewed beef cheek, a cut of beef bone containing marrow (the os à moelle), and chunks of cabbage, carrot, small potatoes, leek, and turnips. This was a wonderful dish perfect for a chilly winter’s evening. I enjoyed it immensely and you will, too!
 

$$$
52, boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris
http://www.auxverresdecontact.com/

 

4. Le Buisson Ardent

A cheery red façade makes this bistrot stand out among the commercial establishments along the south side of rue Jussieu. Inside, the walls display painted murals on a forest-green background. The cherry-red and burgundy benches lining the periphery of the front dining room are comfortable, and the lacquered wooden tables lend elegance to the place. This restaurant was once a coaching inn. Its 1925 décor has been preserved. My choice for the main course was Noix de gigot d’agneau rôti à basse température, crème de pois chiches au cumin et polenta aux raisins secs. The boneless cut of tender leg of lamb was served rosé (pink), just as I had ordered, and was accompanied by a lovely cream of chick pea sauce. Alongside rested a large dollop of fluffy polenta (which was surprisingly light) studded with yellow raisins. The combination was simply delicious.
 

$$$
25, rue Jussieu, Paris
http://www.lebuissonardent.fr/

 
 

5. Le Reminet

A royal purple façade sets the tone for the fine dining experience that you will enjoy when you enter this small restaurant. Tables are set with tall candles and roses; gilt-framed mirrors hang on the walls; and spotless glassware stands on white tablecloths—diners will appreciate all of this and good service and great food, too! My main-course choice was called Filet de canette en croûte de lard et noisette, choux rouge croquant au vinaigre de Xérès et patate douce rôtie aux épices. I received a filet of duckling breast covered by a crust of breadcrumbs and bacon bits resting on a bed of cooked, crunchy, shredded red cabbage. The duck breast was tender, but nonetheless somewhat chewy (I had ordered it “rosé”). The red cabbage added color and texture to the dish and was quite flavorful on its own. Alongside lay a delicious wedge of roasted sweet potato cut lengthwise. Superb!
 

$$$
3, rue des Grands Degrés, Paris
http://www.lereminet.com/

 

RELATED: The Art of French Eating.

 

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About Tom Reeves

Confirmed Francophile Tom Reeves is the co-founder of Discover Paris! and the author of two books: Paris Insights – An Anthology and Dining Out in Paris: What You Need to Know before You Get to the City of Light.

 

So when this friend of mine, Sam, flew down to India for the first time, all that occupied his mind was Indian cuisine. The moment he stepped out of the customs, he ducked my arm and took me straight to the Star Bucks at Terminal 3.
 
Why?
 
He was curious to know if the native Latte tasted any different in India.
 
Duh! His obsessiveness with food not only surprised me but also filled me with a sense of pride. We Indians love feeding our guests. ‘Pet-Pooja’ (literal translation – stomach worship) is a daily ritual and we lovingly make anyone and everyone a part of it; therefore, when someone is so looking forward to grabbing a bite, how can an Indian commit the sin of saying a ‘’NO’’?
 
Being a typical Indian I was tempted to treat my friend to the indigenous delicacies my country had to offer. I casually asked him what he wanted to eat, expecting usual answers like Paani Puri, Chole Bhature and Chaat. But what followed left me amazed. Sam had done his homework well, and so much so that his eating wish-list included weirdest food items, some of which I hadn’t even heard of.
 
Even though I couldn’t treat Sam to his wish-list, I was thankful to him for this latest discovery of mine. And here I am, sharing the same with you. Listed below are five unusual food items found only in India (thank you, Sam).
 
 

1. Chaprah

Of the various stews and chuttnies found in India, this one is probably the weirdest. Chaprah is a significant part of every meal for the tribe of Chattisgarh. It gives their food that unique tangy tinge. But only if you knew what it’s made of. Red ants and their eggs! To prepare this chutney, red ants are dried and mixed with relevant salts and spices. This is followed by ample grinding and Chaprah is ready! Eat it with any meal (at your own discretion).
 

RELATED: Top 5 Best Desserts in India

 
 

2. Forbidden Rice

(This one I definitely knew of). Popularly known as the Black Rice or Purple Rice, this variety of the staple is particularly popular in North East India (Manipur) and has wondrous health benefits. This unusual type of rice is black-coloured during harvesting, but turns purple after cooking. May be that’s why people call them Magic Rice! You can find this food preparation in other parts of the country as well, namely Kerala and North Bengal. It tastes best when served with a refreshing glass of coconut milk.
 

RELATED: Check Out These Best Dishes From Southern India

 
 

3. Baby Shark Curry

Those who have been to Goa must be familiar with the sight of baby shark in the waters there. But did you know, the same baby shark is the main ingredient of a star dish of the Goan cuisine? I am talking about the Baby Shark Curry. Sautéed in a mix of delectable sauces, this dish, just like all things unique, comes at a cost. The price of the dish reflects all the hard work the fishermen put in catching the fish, and all the sweat that the chefs loose in bringing out its lingering flavours.
 
 

4. Frog Legs

(I couldn’t even think about this one!) This is definitely unusual. The Lepchas community of Sikkim count Frog Legs amongst their favourite delicacies, and they have just the right reasons to do so. This dish has ample medicinal qualities and is known to cure several stomach related ailments. So if you are an experimental foodie, you can give this rare dish a try.
 

RELATED: What’s the One Dish You Can’t Miss While in India?

 
 

5. Eri Polu

If frog isn’t your thing, how about trying a silkworm? You read it right! Eri Polu is basically eri silkworm pupa, a famous food ingredient in Assam. Once the silkworm reaches the pupa stage of its life cycle, the silk is extracted by boiling the cocoon, while the leftover silkworm is prepared with Khorisa (grated bamboo shoot). The final dish has a strong aroma and literally melts in your mouth.
 

 

 

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About Khyati Sehgal

Khyati Sehgal is a writer by passion and profession, who has writing about varied topics (Food, Fashion, Lifestyle, and Travel) for over four years. Besides writing, she does writing! She has authored a book which is currently under publication review. You can reach out to her on Twitter (@Sehgal_K).

 

Columbus and coffee go together like chocolate and peanut butter in our state’s favorite candy, the buckeye. The capital city has a great selection when it comes to coffee shops, these five are my favorites.
 
 

1. Winans Fine Chocolates & Coffees

I love Winans Fine Chocolates and Coffees – it’s hands down my favorite coffee shop! Winans is based where it started in my hometown of Piqua, Ohio, where Winans coffee is still roasted and the chocolates are made in the candy kitchen! There are two Winans coffee shops in Columbus, one in German Village and another in Dublin. In addition to having delicious coffee and espresso, Winans also sells delectable chocolates and other treats. I highly recommend Wetzels (chocolate covered pretzels), the salted caramel, peanut butter delight, and the Bavarian mint, all in dark chocolate! Winans also makes amazing brittle. My favorite brittle is the coconut brittle, but be warned, it’s addictive!
 

$
German Village, 897 S 3rd Street, Columbus, OH
(614) 445-6464
http://www.winanscandies.com/

 

 
 

2. Luck Bros’ Coffee House

Luck Bros’ Coffee House is a hidden gem in Grandview Heights! It’s a little off the beaten path, away from Grandview Avenue where several great restaurants and shops reside, Luck Bros’ can be found in a little shopping area along 1st Avenue, across from Pierce Field. The coffee house is a very open and well lit, with indoor and outdoor seating – in the back you can see coffee being roasted and sampled! Luck Bros’ is open every day of the week so you can get your caffeine fix. In addition to coffee, Luck Bros’ sells tea, other beverages and a few different coffee house baked goods (including donuts, bagels and an in-house made breakfast bake). They also sell coffee mugs and supplies for brewing your own cup of joe at home.
 

$
1101 W 1st Ave, Columbus, OH
(614) 299-9330
http://www.luckbroscoffeehouse.com/

 

 

RELATED: Where to Eat in Columbus, Ohio.

 
 

3. Pistacia Vera

Pistacia Vera serves Cafe Brioso coffee, tea and delicious pastries, macarons and other treats! Many of their desserts are gluten-free or nut-free, a few of them are both! My favorite dessert is the cassis truffle torte – it’s amazing! Smooth layers of chocolate mousse flavored with earl grey tea, flourless chocolate cake and a cassis buttercream and glaze. The macarons are perfect – light and airy with a wonderful chewy texture. The cafe is very open and bright, but still cozy. It’s the perfect spot to read, work or sit by the window and people watch during warmer weather.
 

$
541 S 3rd Street, Columbus, OH

http://www.pistaciavera.com/

 

 
 

4. Mission Coffee Co.

Mission Coffee is a small coffee shop in the Short North. Located in a former garage (the windows in the big garage door let in a lot of natural light!), the coffee shop has a cool yet cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Mission opened its doors in 2011 by coffee enthusiasts Jonathan Starr and Jared Williamson. The coffee shop has a very laid-back vibe, there are cafe tables and chairs, comfy couches or you can grab a seat at the bar. The focus at Mission is on coffee, though you can also order tea and a few different pastries. There are several different ways to order your coffee at Mission, the equipment used is on display right by the counter where you order. Try a latte – Mission has fantastic espresso!
 

$
11 Price Avenue, Columbus, OH
(614) 300-0648
http://missioncoffeeco.com/

 

 
 

5. Stauf’s Coffee Roasters

Stauf’s Coffee Roasters is a micro coffee roaster in Grandview Heights. Stauf’s roasts coffee for Cup O’ Joe, MoJoe Lounge and their own coffee shop located on Grandview Avenue. The coffee shop has a lot of indoor and outdoor seating and is a great place to stop in for a cup of coffee while studying or meeting friends. You can even see Stauf’s roaster in the coffee shop! In addition to serving coffee, hot chocolate and tea, they also carry a variety of baked goods and some soups, salads and sandwiches. You can also pick up some freshly roasted coffee beans, or loose leaf tea. Stauf’s carries coffee and tea brewing tools like French presses, pour over coffee makers, coffee grinders and t-sac teabags for loose leaf tea. A number of items with the Stauf’s logo are also available, like t-shirts, coffee mugs and canisters.
 

$
1277 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH
(614)486-4861
http://www.staufs.com/

 

 

RELATED: 5 Reasons the Columbus Food Truck Festival is Awesome.

 
 

 

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About Courtney Denning

Courtney has been blogging about Ohio eats, entertainment and culture for the past year. She’s a cat person who loves to write, bake gluten-free treats and spend time outside hiking and taking nature photos.