102. Bagels: Ed Levine & Melanie Frost of Ess-A-Bagel episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 16, 2025 · 1H 7M

102. Bagels: Ed Levine & Melanie Frost of Ess-A-Bagel

from Ingredient Insiders: Where Chefs Talk · host The Chefs' Warehouse

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse sit down with Ed Levine, celebrated food writer, founder of Serious Eats, and host of the podcast Special Sauce.Ed shares his expert take on the best bagel spots in NYC, weighs in on the ever-controversial California bagel scene, and talks about the rising love for bialys. From the perfect crust-to-chew ratio to what really matters when judging a bagel, Ed’s insights are as delicious as they are opinionated.In the second half of the episode, John and Andrea are joined by Melanie Frost of Ess-A-Bagel, one of New York City’s most iconic bagel institutions. They explore the brand’s deep roots in NYC food culture, how it has grown and evolved while staying true to its signature recipe, and what’s next for this beloved bagel destination.A must-listen for bagel obsessives and culinary culture lovers alike.Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!Follow @seriouseatered @essabagel @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshopIn partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jun 16, 2025

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102. Bagels: Ed Levine & Melanie Frost of Ess-A-Bagel

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