Episode 223: Lior Lev Sercarz (author, A Middle Eastern Pantry)

Lior Lev Sercarz has made quite a name for himself as the man behind La Boîte, which sells more than 80 original spice blends plus their signature biscuits. A former chef who grew up in Israel, lived and worked in France, and then moved to New York City, Lior shares his story in this episode. But what really occasioned this interview at this moment in time was the publication of Lior's new book A Middle Eastern Pantry: Essential Ingredients for Classic and Contemporary Recipes--his fourth book, and a real departure from his three prior, spice-focused publications.This episode is brought to you in part by meez, the recipe operating system for culinary professionals. Try out their free basic version today.Andrew’s next book The Dish: The Lives and Labor Behind One Plate of Food is now available for preorder! Please consider purchasing your copy/copies in advance and help the book have a great lift-off.Andrew Talks to Chefs is a fully independent podcast and no longer affiliated with our former host network; please visit and bookmark our official website for all show updates, blog posts, personal and virtual appearances, and related news. THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:Andrew is a writer by trade. If you'd like to support him, there's no better way than by purchasing his most recent book, The Dish: The Lives and Labor Behind One Plate of Food (October 2023), about all the key people (in the restaurant, on farms, in delivery trucks, etc.) whose stories and work come together in a single restaurant dish.We'd love if you followed us on Instagram. Please also follow Andrew's real-time journal of the travel, research, writing, and production of/for his next book The Opening (working title), which will track four restaurants in different parts of the U.S. from inception to launch.For Andrew's writing, dining, and personal adventures, follow along at his personal feed.Thank you for listening—please don't hesitate to reach out with any feedback and/or suggestions!