flavors unknown podcast

By: Emmanuel Laroche - Show Host
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  • Summary

  • We take you behind the scenes of trending kitchens and bars. A podcast for kitchen and bar professionals, foodies and wannabe foodies.
    © 2018 flavors unkown
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Art Food & Wine
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Episodes
  • 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
  • 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

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