PODCAST · arts
The Repertoire Podcast
by Justin Khanna
Your Repertoire is the most valuable asset in your career. It's the collection of skills, stories, experiences, and lessons you've had to hard-earn in this hospitality industry. What if you could ask some of the best professionals in the world how they built their Repertoire? In this podcast, you can look forward to expert-led interviews by Chef Justin Khanna, breakdowns of news and stories that are impacting the industry, and the occasional bonus episode that might include a tactic or strategy that drastically improves your life. Subscribe for weekly episodes of The Repertoire Podcast.
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Food Media Needs More Actual Chefs
In this clip, Ray breaks down the need for more chefs in food media, says goodbye to kitchens, shares a crazy update on Cyclospora, and addresses the issue of cheesemongers going away.Interested in Chef Tech Stack?Learn more here.Want 1-on-1 Coaching with Repertoire?Apply here.Links: Food Media Needs More People Who've Actually Worked in ItThere Are No Dead Ends in the Food Industry (Reddit)Cyclospora Update 1 (New York Times)Cyclospora Update 2 (Food Safety News)Cyclospora Update 3 (CBC News)Cyclospora Update 4 (Barron's)Cheesemonger Jobs Article (New York Times)💌 The Repertoire Newsletterhttps://www.joinrepertoire.com/newsletter🎙 Share the Podcasthttps://geni.us/repertoirepodcast📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/joinrepertoire🎙️ Enjoying the podcast?
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238
Michelin’s Changed and Chefs are Confused
Interested in Chef Tech Stack?Learn more here.Want 1-on-1 Coaching with Repertoire?Apply here.Missed last week's episode?Catch up here.7shifts Restaurant Employee ReportWatch the webinar.📚 Show NotesChef Bertrand Grébaut / SeptimeAction Bronson x Septime (Fck That's Delicious*)Mario Carbone "Michelin Is Lying" Clip (Go-To Food Podcast)DoorDash / SevenRooms "Channel Connect" (Hngry by Matt Newberg)Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit DismissedShake Shack Kiosk StrategyBorrowing Against Cheese💌 The Repertoire Newsletterhttps://www.joinrepertoire.com/newsletter🎙 Share the Podcasthttps://geni.us/repertoirepodcast📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/joinrepertoire🎙️ Enjoying the podcast?This week on The Repertoire Report, Justin Khanna and Ray Delucci dig into a heavy but wide-ranging week — from remembering Septime's Chef Bertrand Grébaut, to the viral "Michelin is lying to you" conspiracy, the data-backed case that the Bay Area has overtaken New York in fine dining, a Reddit deep-dive on beating the burnout/passion rut, a dismissed ultra-processed food lawsuit, DoorDash's Trojan-horse reservations play with SevenRooms, Shake Shack's kiosk-driven margin story, and how Italy's oldest dairy is borrowing against aging cheese.Whether you're a chef, cook, operator, or hospitality professional, this episode blends industry news, restaurant operations, and career insight.__Disclaimer: We earn commission income with qualifying purchases made through Amazon's Affiliate program and other affiliate links in this description.🙏 Thank you for listeningWe open on the sad passing of Chef Bertrand Grébaut of Septime and his forward-thinking focus on team well-being, then break down why the "Michelin is just an algorithm" clip caught fire — and where the funding, anonymity, and multiple-visit arguments actually land. We use the Michelin Guide as a barometer for our "Ascending SF, Descending NYC" thesis, tackle a Line Cook Reddit post about losing your passion mid-apprenticeship, follow up on the dismissed ultra-processed food lawsuit, and unpack DoorDash's reservations strategy, Shake Shack's operations-over-product playbook, and cheese as collateral.If you're trying to better understand the business and craft of restaurants, this episode is for you.
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Restaurant Workers Are Freaking Out Over AI Cameras
Ray breaks down one of the most unsettling trends emerging in hospitality: AI surveillance in restaurant kitchens. As more operators experiment with AI-powered cameras to monitor employees, they discuss where the line is between improving operations and invading worker privacy.He also reacts to Reddit discussions on financial stability as a line cook, the challenges of being a people-pleaser in restaurant leadership, and whether today's hospitality careers are becoming more sustainable. Finally, he discusses why Wendy's has unexpectedly become a meme stock.#restaurants #chefs #restaurantindustry #artificialintelligence #ai #hospitality #linecookThis video contains copyrighted material used under the principles of fair use as defined in Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act. The content is used for purposes including commentary, criticism, education, news reporting, and analysis. All clips are used in a transformative manner with original commentary and discussion.Links:Kitchen Surveillance (Reddit Thread 1)Kitchen Surveillance (Reddit Thread 2)Coffee Shop AI PostLine Cook Wage Discussion (Reddit)Being a People-Pleaser in Restaurants (Reddit)Wendy's Meme Stock TrendRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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236
The Noma Story Just Got Even Stranger
Justin and Ray break down René Redzepi's latest return to the spotlight and why the Noma story continues to raise more questions than answers. They discuss Jason White's response, whether the industry's conversation around accountability has actually evolved, and what this latest chapter means for restaurant culture.They also cover Seattle's Walrus and Carpenter labor dispute, discuss why Michelin stars belong to restaurants—not chefs—and examine what happened after Sèzanne lost all three of its Michelin stars following a chef departure. Finally, they wrap up with a recommendation for one of Ray's favorite recent fantasy reads, The Tainted Cup.Links: Jason White's PostRené Redzepi's PostThe Walrus and Carpenter StoryEmelina (Michelin)Sèzanne Loses Michelin StarsThe Tainted CupRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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235
René Redzepi Is Back. But Has Anything Really Changed?
In this solo episode of The Repertoire Report, Ray Delucci breaks down the latest hospitality industry headlines, starting with Noma’s planned reopening in Copenhagen and René Redzepi’s return as creative director amid renewed scrutiny around kitchen culture and alleged abuse. Ray reflects on what accountability actually looks like in fine dining, why the industry continues to wrestle with the “genius chef” myth, and whether diners truly care about the working conditions behind world-class meals.The episode also dives into Wonder’s viral automated “infinite bowl” machine and the larger tension between food tech, automation, and the human element of cooking. Ray then covers Pizza Hut’s $2.7 billion sale, the pressure delivery apps have placed on legacy chains, fast food bankruptcy concerns tied to GLP-1 medications, and how rising gas prices may be cutting into restaurant spending.Links:Rene Redzepi ReturnsRedzepi Grub Street ArticleSlop Bowl VideoPizza Hut SoldProf G Fast Food IssuesGas Prices & RestaurantsRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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234
Tom Colicchio Is Closing Craft After 25 Years — A Warning for Restaurants?
Want to learn more about Chef Tech Stack?Fill out this form to learn more.n this episode of the Repertoire Report, Justin Khanna and Ray Delucci dig into the latest restaurant industry news: Tom Colicchio closing Craft after 25 years in New York City, rising restaurant costs, changing diner behavior, and what these shifts mean for chefs, operators, and hospitality professionals. They also break down new openings from major names in food, including Kabawa, The Lion’s Den from Chef Michael White, and The Merchant Room from Gavin Kaysen.The conversation also explores Michelin expansion, the pressure of operating in major dining markets, whether restaurants can still make ambitious hospitality work financially, and a petition pushing back on the Culinary Institute of America’s use of AI. If you care about fine dining, restaurant openings, chef culture, food media, hospitality careers, or the business of restaurants, this episode is packed with analysis, context, and honest industry perspective.Links:Craft Closing AnnouncementCraft Closing NY Times PieceKabawaPunk NoirLion's DenThe Merchant RoomVAT PetitionPost Modern Times Donation PagePost Modern Times NY Times Write-UpCIA AI AnnouncementRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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233
Will AI Change How Chefs Create New Dishes?
In this Repertoire Report episode, Justin Khanna and Ray Delucci break down the latest hospitality industry news, culinary trends, and restaurant insights for chefs, cooks, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals. Topics include Epicure’s massive 4.1 million recipe dataset, AI in recipe development, flavor modeling, culinary creativity, and what artificial intelligence can — and can’t — understand about real-world cooking, seasonality, and kitchen judgment.The conversation also explores who really deserves credit for a Michelin star, the risks of “fake it till you make it” in restaurant hiring, career growth for line cooks, worker-owned restaurant models like Pigdin Cooperative, and the rise of in-person hospitality events from brands like DNNR. If you’re interested in chef career development, restaurant ownership, Michelin Guide culture, AI food tech, kitchen leadership, and the future of the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with practical analysis and honest industry perspective.Epicure AI RecipesJosef Chen X Epicure PostARXIV Paper Findingsdrewthefoodguy's Michelin Instagram PostSeattle Times Pidgin Co-OpDNNR Platform X PostPea-Peeling RobotFake It Till You Make It (Reddit Thread)Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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232
This Restaurant Chain Just Quit the U.S. — Here’s Why
n this episode, Ray breaks down why the Australian-based restaurant chain Guzman y Gomez left and why this was a positive for the company. He also gives advice on determining whether you are the problem in the kitchen or the kitchen itself. He then discusses Starbucks canceling its AI-inventory tool, the rise in grocery inflation, the stunning new GLP-1 restaurant report, and a unique discount being offered by Giordano's.#burritos #glp1 #restaurants #reddit Want to learn more about Chef Tech Stack? Fill out the following form to learn moreLinks: Guzman y Gomez Leaves US MarketDo I Suck in the Kitchen? (Reddit Thread)Starbucks Ends AI Inventory CountingGrocery Inflation Is RisingNational Restaurant Association GLP-1 ReportGiordano's Unique DiscountRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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231
Michelin Is Coming to Australia — Everything Is About to Change
This week on The Repertoire Report, Justin Khanna and Ray Delucci break down a packed week of hospitality industry news, restaurant operations, and chef career insights.We cover Michelin’s upcoming arrival in South Australia, what it means for the country’s existing hatted restaurant system, and why global recognition still matters for chefs and restaurants. Then we get into the practical side of service with a deep dive on ticket rail management, expediting, mise en place, and how cooks can keep their board organized during a rush.We also discuss Clover Reserve and the next wave of restaurant tech, rising beef prices through the lens of hot dogs and consumer value perception, Beyond Meat’s pivot into protein beverages, the economic challenges facing Portuguese restaurants in the U.S., and why Norbert Niederkofler’s “Cook the Mountain” philosophy deserves more attention.If you’re a chef, cook, operator, hospitality professional, or someone trying to better understand the business and craft of restaurants, this episode is for you.Want to learn more about Chef Tech Stack? Fill out the following form to learn moreLinks: Australia Michelin GuideKitchen Rail AdviceBloomberg Hot Dog ArticleBeyond Protein DrinkPortuguese Restaurant StrugglesJames Beard NominationsCook The MountainClover ReserveRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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230
Everyone in Restaurants Is Saying the Same Thing Right Now
In this episode, Ray breaks down why restaurants feel "slower" and the data backing it up. He also shares how caring for your staff and avoiding turnover is a crucial financial decision. He then gives updates on some QSR/Fast-Casual restaurants, shares with creators how to help those with limited food options, and discusses a looming protein powder shortage. Links: Slow Restaurant Discussion (Reddit)National Restaurant Association Employee Retention DataRestaurant Performance IndexShake Shack SinksTexas Roadhouse ImprovesSweetgreen Declines“Recession Meals” ContentProtein Powder ShortageRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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229
The Internet Is Wrong About Restaurant Pricing
In this episode, Ray and Justin react to the debate over Repertoire accounts, restaurant pricing, and the reality that restaurants face of losing profitability. They then give advice to a CIA grad who regrets attending culinary school, discuss hotels to gain better career leverage, and share some culinary tech updates. #chefs #culinaryschool #cooking #restaurant Links: Reddit Culinary School WarningNod Mag Chef Hotel ArticleColette AIOwner (Restaurant Software)OpenTable PostRestaurant Trends 2026 (NRN)Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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228
Why This City Rejected the Michelin Guide
In this episode, Ray breaks down why a city might say no to the Michelin Guide and how that decision affects the broader food scene. He also weighs in on the restaurant pricing convo that led the NY Times and Eli Sussman to go viral, the current dishwasher crisis, and the DOJ's investigation into agricultural price gouging.Links: Buffalo Rejects Michelin GuideEli Sussman ResponseThe NY Times Chicken ArticleWSJ Dishwasher CrisisDOJ Pricing LawsuitRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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227
Why Chefs Can Benefit From Personal Brands in 2026
In this episode, Justin breaks down how Chefs are talking directly to audiences and why this is so valuable. He also covers some Michelin news, answers a fan question on food safety, covers Magnus Nilsson's new venture, and analyzes the number of Michelin-starred chefs who attended culinary school. Ray shares a dire warning by Jose Andres and also gives a restaurant industry update. Links: Christian Puglisi’s YouTubeDan Kennedy’s SubstackJosé Andrés’ WarningJosé Andrés & Eric Ripert ChatChef’s Pencil DataMagnus Nilsson’s New VentureRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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226
Namrata Hegde on Noma, Staging & Why Kitchen Culture Is Still Broken
In this episode, Ray interviews Namrata Hegde on her time staging at Noma, misconceptions over "staging culture," and the reality of traveling to another country to work at the best restaurant in the world, for free. We then discuss the problems still facing kitchen culture, and why it feels like restaurants are so far behind when it comes to employee welfare. 'Link: Namrata Hegde’s SubstackRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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225
Is Culinary School Worth It in 2026? The Truth No One Tells You
In this episode, Ray breaks down whether culinary school is worth it in 2026 and why or why not it is a good fit for you. He also breaks down a crazy restaurant lawsuit, the Doritos pricing error, an Expo West recap, and how food companies are regressing on pesticide commitments. Culinary School Reddit DiscussionEver LawsuitDorito PricingExpo West RecapPesticide RollbacksRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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224
The French Laundry Lawsuit Isn’t Just About One Restaurant
In this episode, Ray and Justin break down the French Laundry lawsuit and how the issue presented affects all restaurants. Justin shares BILT's new hospitality focus and how it could help restaurants. The two also cover Sysco's acquisition of Restaurant Depot, Unilever's acquisition of McCormick, and the new app for cooks, Line Cook.Links:French Laundry Wage Theft LawsuitBILT HospitalitySysco Buys Restaurant DepotIssues With Sysco's PurchaseUnilever and McCormick CombineLine Cook AppRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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223
Should Fine Dining Exist? My Take After the Debate
In this episode, Ray reacts to a viral Substack post asking, "What if we just got rid of fine dining?" and to the reactions to it. He also discusses policy demands from the National Restaurant Association, how less alcohol consumption is hurting restaurants, and how Rao's gained success as a CPG sauce brand. Links: Khushbu Shah's Original Substack ArticleMax Shapiro's Substack ResponseNY Times Alcohol ArticleNational Restaurant Association Policy DemandsRao's Success (Food Dive)Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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222
Influencers Are Ruining Restaurants… Chefs Are Finally Fighting Back
In this episode, Justin and Ray break down how influencers are impacting restaurants and the closure of 'Iris', the famous floating restaurant. They then react to René Redzepi stepping down from Noma, and the fallout from this. Finally, they discuss Heston Blumenthal's closure, Travis Kalanick's food venture, and the Anthropic AI industry report.Links: Influencers Ruining RestaurantsIris ClosesIris Instagram Post (Tatler)René PostNoma Workplace Transparency SitePaul Kaufmann PostNY Times Noma ReportingHeston Blumenthal Steps AwayAtoms (Travis Kalanick)Anthropic ReportRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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221
Why the “Genius Chef” Model Doesn’t Work
In this episode, Ray explains why the "genius chef" model hurts restaurants and causes burnout. He also covers potential Costco tariff refunds, some new seafood environmental designations, and gives advice to a chef. Links:Costco Tariff RefundsMonterey Bay Seafood WatchReddit AdviceRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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220
Noma’s Response to the Allegations Is a Disaster
In this episode, Justin and Ray react to Noma's response to the allegations of creating a physically violent, intimidating, and degrading workplace. They also explain why this response represents a broader issue in the food industry and what they believe will happen next.EDITING NOTE: Incorrect facts in the opening F1 monologue have been edited out, Ayrton Senna was a Brazilian driver who unfortunately passedLinks: Our first episode on the Noma situationNY Times articleJason Ignacio White's IGRené Redzepi IGNoma IGRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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219
Why Diners Are Tired Of The "Restaurant Monologue"
In this episode, Justin breaks down why the "Restaurant Monologue" is wearing down customers, and what to do instead. They also discuss if you can trust Michelin, give advice on kitchen "lifers", and react to The Infatuation's Eleven Madison Park Review.#chefs #restaurant #michelinguide #elevenmadisonparkAudio Note: Ray's Audio had some connection issues, and gets better around minute 28.This video contains copyrighted material used under the principles of fair use as defined in Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act. The content is used for purposes such as commentary, criticism, education, and analysis. All clips are used in a transformative manner, with original commentary and insights added to provide new meaning and context.Credit to The Infatuation for the reaction videoRetire The Restaurant MonologueReddit AdviceCan You Trust Michelin?Vicinity CaliforniaLielle LAEMP ReviewZen and Art of Motorcycle MaintenanceRepertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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218
Roundup at the Supreme Court: The Immunity Fight That Could Reshape the Food Industry
In this episode, Ray breaks down the Presidential Glyphosate Executive Order, and how it could impact a crucial Supreme Court ruling. He also discusses the impact a blizzard can have on restaurants, growing GLP-1 use, Domino's unlikely success, and further clarifies why he left fine dining. Links: Bayer Cites Trump Executive OrderWhat To Know About GlyphosateWashington Post Roundup CoverageExecutive Order FilingNY Times Blizzard CoverageGrubStreet Blizzard CoverageGLP-1 Eligibility ExpandsDomino's WinningEnjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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217
The Noma Abuse Scandal of 2026
In this video, Justin and Ray break down the Noma Abuse Scandal of 2026. They share the allegations, explain why these problems persist in the food industry, and discuss what can be done about them. #noma #chefs #foodindustry #linecook #michelin #worlds50best Links: Jason Ignacio White (microbes_vibes) InstagramJustin’s Andrea Correa (YouTube)Noma Abuse Story 1 (World’s 50 Best)Noma Abuse Story 2 (The Independent)Noma Abuse Story 3 (The Times)Enjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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216
McDonald’s Lowered Their Prices… And Customers Came Back
In this video, Ray breaks down the success McDonald's saw after lowering its prices and the rise in Bourdain trading card prices over the past few months. He also gives advice to a chef on Reddit and covers other breaking news in the food industry. #chef #restaurant #food #cooking #mcdonalds Links: McDonald’s Wins on Prices (Bloomberg)McDonald’s Value Victory LapChef Reddit AdviceBachan’s Sold (Marzetti deal)Wendy’s Closing Stores (Bloomberg)National Restaurant Association 2026 OutlookEnjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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215
The Biggest Restaurant Openings of 2026 (From a Chef’s Perspective)
In this episode, Justin and Ray break down the biggest restaurant openings of 2026. They also discuss the pricing-to-value issue that is affecting restaurants, some breaking news in the food industry, and answer a comment left by you all in the community!Links:Most Exciting Restaurant Openings 2026 (Bloomberg)Wine Spectator New Restaurants 2026Toronto Restaurant Closures (Toronto Life)America’s Culinary Cup (CBS)Miso ‘Flippy’ Bot (QSRweb)PepsiCo Cost Reductions (Bloomberg)Impossible Foods CEO Steps DownEnjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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214
The Value Crisis Hitting Restaurants
In this episode, Ray breaks down the McKinsey food industry report and what you need to know for 2026. He also covers the ROI for Michelin coming to a city, how Gen Z is ditching "Diet" soda, how smaller food brands are winning, and more. #chefs #restaurant #linecook #foodindustry Links:McKinsey Restaurant Report (2026)Dining Out Issues (Food & Wine)ROI on MICHELIN (Colorado)Gen Z Ditches “Diet” Soda (Bloomberg)Small Brands Stand Out in GrocerySF Chronicle Chef StoryEnjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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213
What Noma’s $1,500 Pop-Up Tells Us About Fine Dining in 2026
In this episode, Justin and Ray break down the $1,500 per person Noma pop-up coming to LA, and why it actually makes sense. They also discuss feeding your staff during a shift, the rise of the Co-Chef trend, and Square's new "Neighborhoods" feature. #noma #la #chef #chefreactsThis video contains copyrighted material used under the principles of fair use as defined in Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act. The content is used for purposes such as commentary, criticism, education, and analysis. All clips are used in a transformative manner, with original commentary and insights added to provide new meaning and context.Credit to Detroit 75 Kitchen for the reaction videoLinks: Noma’s LA Pop-UpThe Rise of the Co-ChefSquare “Neighborhoods” Restaurant ToolLet Your Staff Eat for Free (YouTube)Enjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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212
The Momofuku Model: How Restaurants Really Make Money in CPG
In this episode, Ray breaks down how restaurants are using CPG-branded foods to totally transform their brand. He also discusses the Wegmans surveillance controversy, how TikTok is used in food R&D, how Portillo's loyalty program is boosting sales, and why you should not leave the food industry.#restaurant #chef #portillos #careeradvice #momofuku #davidchang Links: Wegmans Issue (Grubstreet)Wegmans Issue (Gothamist)Wegmans Issue (Grocery Dive)Rise of Restaurant CPG (Bloomberg)TikTok Food R&DPortillo’s Loyalty ProgramReddit Thread (Kitchen Confidential)Enjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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211
Is Automation Here For Restaurants? Justin and Ray React
In this episode, Justin and Ray react to Wonder and its goal of creating automated kitchens. They also break down the new food pyramid and how this affects school lunches, and give advice to a chef looking to break out on their own early in their career. Justin offers questions you should ask yourself in 2026 to ensure you have a productive and efficient year in your career.Questions: Individual Contributor- What am I doing the “default” or “previous” way, and what upgrades or changes would help me?- How can I measure my progress in a way that leads to improvement- Timer, pedometer, calculating ratios (ie, units/minute)- How do I perceive and respond to feedback?Manager-How can I work for my team to support them in their tasks?- When encountered with a problem, obstacle or issue, what’s the skill gap that can explain (and prevent) this?- Where do I land on the “helpful” pyramid?Entrepreneur- What is the audience screaming at the screen for you to do?- Do I need more resources vs resourcefulness?- What created vs drained energy this year? - You can’t compete with the person who’s having fun - Self awareness has taught me the answer is often times already in youLinks:Wonder Robotic KitchensCan School Lunches Ditch Ultra-Processed Foods?Reddit Advice (Line Cooks)Enjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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210
The Real Cost of Bringing Michelin to Your City
In this episode, Ray discusses how the City of Buffalo is contemplating paying the Michelin Guide for recognition, and what it could mean for the city. He also covers how Sweetgreen could bounce back in 2026, the worrying trend of surveillance pricing, DoorDash integrating with ChatGPT, and much more. Links:Buffalo Getting MICHELIN Guide?Smaller Slop Bowls (Bloomberg)DoorDash + ChatGPT PartnershipShoppers Spending More on Grocery in 2026Instacart Surveillance PricingJim Beam Halts ProductionEnjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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209
If You Work in Restaurants, You Need to Hear This (2026 Predictions)
Justin and Ray spend 90 minutes discussing their predictions for the food industry in 2026. They go over the realistic outcomes they believe will happen in the next year, and make some wild predictions based on their reporting over the past year.#restaurant #linecook #foodindustry #2026 Links:DoorDash AI App (Zesty)Want us to do a workshop? Email us: [email protected] you come across something you ended up having to search for, send us a message to help make these Show Notes better!_____________________Enjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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208
2025 in Review: Why Restaurants Took a Beating
In this episode, Justin and Ray discuss 2025 in the food industry. They discuss how fast-casual concepts failed, prevailing consumer trends in dining out, and lessons learned for restaurant operators. They also look at CPG lessons, the death of food influencers, and much more. #restaurant #restaurantindustry #costofliving #business #finance MICHELIN Guide SouthwestAndrew Yeung X PostYUM! Brands Food Trends ReportRestaurant Innovators 2025 (7shifts)US Private Label Sales to $280B (Supermarket Perimeter)NYT 2025 Trends RecapJames Beard Restaurant Industry Report 2025NRA Late 2025 Economic OutlookEnjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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207
MICHELIN’s New “Grapes” Award Explained (2025)
In this episode, Justin breaks down Michelin's new Grapes designation and what it means for the wine industry. He also shares a Bloomberg review of EMP that is surprisingly critical, as well as the rise of private dinner clubs in 2026. Ray shares what makes a four-star restaurant, in the New York Times Critics' own words. He also discusses how pizzas are getting smaller and more expensive, and the groundbreaking lawsuit by California against food companies over ultra-processed food. #michelin #wine Links: Michelin Grapes DistinctionNY Times Four-Star BreakdownBloomberg on EMPSmaller Pizza, Fewer ToppingsPrivate Dining Clubs on the RiseChef2NiteCalifornia Lawsuit (Ultra-Processed Foods)Enjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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206
Why New Tariffs Might Literally Stop Italian Pasta from Entering the U.S.
In this episode, Ray breaks down the risk Italian pasta faces due to tariffs and how implementing this policy could literally halt pasta exports from Italy. He covers Chipotle's new Thanksgiving strategy, AI-slop Thanksgiving recipes, and how restaurants are winning diners over to grocery this holiday. He also discusses the disgusting story about a Campbell's Soup VP, the odd case of a dine-and-dash influencer, the closure of a Tyson Beef Plant, and some important GLP-1 data.Links:Pasta Apocalypse (NYT)Pasta Tariffs (Grub Street)Chipotle Thanksgiving StrategyThanksgiving AI “Slop”Thanksgiving Restaurant SalesCampbell’s Soup VP LawsuitDine-And-Dash Influencer (NYT)Tyson Plant ClosureGLP-1 2030 User PredictionEnjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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205
Why You Can’t Afford Restaurants in 2025
Eating out feels unaffordable—and the data backs it up. In this episode, Justin and Ray unpack why menu prices keep rising, why value perception has flipped for fast-casual, and what the future may hold. We also explore Picnic, a workplace lunch app that could shift weekday demand, and the Seattle Times' recent review of Canlis.#affordableproducts #costofliving #savingmoney #restaurant 0:00 Intro1:55 Restaurant Affordability Crisis23:29 The Chipotle/Sweetgreen Issue34:15 Michelin Coverage Response51:46 Picnic1:00:40 Canlis Seattle Times Poor Review1:11:49 Josh Henderson Eater ArticleWhat we cover:📈 Pricing trends & the RPI🧾 Fast-casual value perception (Sweetgreen)💸 Why Americans say dining out is “too expensive”🍽️ The Canlis review and price expectations⚠️ Operator lessons from rise-and-fall stories🥪 How Picnic could change weekday lunch patternsMost Americans Priced Out Of Dining OutHow Restaurant Prices Keep Getting More ExpensiveFast-Casual Pricing Problem (Sweetgreen)Restaurant Performance Index (Sept 2025 PDF)Restaurant Menu Pricing Data (Restaurant.org)Seattle Times Canlis ReviewHow To Build, Then Lose, A Restaurant EmpirePicnic (Workplace Lunch App)Enjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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204
About Michelin's November Announcements
Announcement from Michelin____________________Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌→The Repertoire Newsletter🎙→Share the Podcast📸→Instagram__Disclaimer: We earn commission income through qualifying purchases made via Amazon’s Affiliate program
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203
The "Meta" of Michelin
In this episode, Justin and Ray react to Alinea losing its third star and what this means for the Michelin Guide in 2025. Justin then breaks down how Michelin's "meta" has changed and how restaurant owners should be looking at the Guide.Ray breaks down the claim that "Dining Out Is Dead" and discusses the beef price-fixing accusations by the DOJ against major beef companies. Justin then shares an article he read regarding food critics and how they could change (for better or worse).Links: Grant Achatz Instagram PostMichelin Guide Ceremony AnnouncementDeath of Dining Out (YouTube)Beef Price Fixing – Trump DOJ Case (AP)The Man in the Arena Problem (Substack)Enjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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202
Can You Own a Sandwich? What the Uncrustables Case Means for CPG & Chefs
In this episode, we dive into the Uncrustables lawsuit against Trader Joe’s and what it signals for the future of food product development, intellectual property, and the battle between CPG giants and private labels. As Smucker’s defends its iconic crustless sandwich, we explore how legal strategies are becoming a new line of defense in a fiercely competitive grocery landscape.We also cover the biggest food and beverage headlines shaking the industry this week:📉 Chipotle’s sales decline among low-income and Gen Z consumers🍗 KFC's shift away from bone-in chicken — is the fried chicken era changing?🥫 Heinz consumer sentiment hits decade lows ahead of a major corporate split🧠 Gen Z’s anti-algorithm movement and how it's reshaping digital food discovery🚨 The evolving SNAP shutdown fallout, with DoorDash, Feeding America, and ABC News sharing critical updates🥑 Whole Foods' 2026 food trend predictions — what's next in natural foods?💼 Whether you're in food tech, brand strategy, or retail operations, this episode unpacks the legal and market shifts shaping tomorrow’s menus and grocery aisles.👇 Explore the full stories below:Uncrustables Lawsuit (Reuters)Uncrustables & Private Label (Food Dive)Chipotle Sales SlumpHeinz Sentiment Drop (Bloomberg)KFC Ditches BonesAnti-Algorithm MovementWhole Foods 2026 TrendsDoorDash Waives Fees (SNAP Shutdown)Feeding America (Shutdown Impact)ABC: How to Help Food BanksEnjoying the episode? Keep up with Repertoire:💌 Subscribe to the Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes.Affiliate Disclosure:We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode.Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
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201
This Tech Outage Broke the Restaurant Industry
In this episode, Ray breaks down the recent AWS outage and the devastating impact it had on restaurants. He discusses the Trump administration's proposal on beef imports from Argentina and the fight over Prop 12 in the upcoming farm bill. Ray also covers Nestle's announcement of 16k job cuts, the rally in Beyond Meat's stock, and a new cookbook utilizing recipes from gravestones. AWS Outage Disrupts Restaurants (NRN)Houston Restaurant Loses 25% of Business (Chron)Reddit AWS Outage Response (Toast)Argentina Beef Policy (AP)Prop 12 Policy Fight (Civileats)Joel Salatin Congressional StatementNestlé Cuts 16K JobsBeyond Meat Meme Stock SurgeGravestone Recipe Cookbook (Rosie Grant)Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌→The Repertoire Newsletter: https://www.joinrepertoire.com/newsletter🎙→Share the Podcast: https://geni.us/repertoirepodcast📸→Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinrepertoire__Disclaimer: We earn commission income through qualifying purchases made via Amazon’s Affiliate program and other affiliate links in this description.🙏Thank you for listening.
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200
Restaurants Tasting the Same? Not Always, Here’s Why
In this episode, Ray and Justin dive into the recent viral video by More Perfect Union, discussing how Sysco has become the largest food distributor in the country, and how this may affect the similarity of flavors amongst restaurants. Their answers may surprise you, especially when it comes to Sysco's perceived reach. Justin shares about social media users wanting more in-person experience and the decline of online usage from younger generations, Silo closing, EMP's reintroduction of meat, an interesting graphic on consumer goods, and more. Ray discusses the massive drop in Beyond Meat shares and the battle brewing between Logan Paul and Lionel Messi over their hydration beverage brands.Links:Restaurants All Taste the Same (More Perfect Union)Greg Isenberg on Internet DirectionSam Parr’s AI AdviceBeyond Meat Plummets After Debt Swap2x2 Product Ranking (Connor Fowler)Logan Paul vs. Lionel Messi Lawsuit (Prime Hydration)Tom Sietsema on Food Reviews (Washingtonian)Menu Photo AI7shifts Restaurant Tech Video7shifts Digital Prep List Report + QuizEnjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌→The Repertoire Newsletter: https://www.joinrepertoire.com/newsletter🎙→Share the Podcast: https://geni.us/repertoirepodcast📸→Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinrepertoire__Disclaimer: We earn commission income through qualifying purchases made via Amazon’s Affiliate program and other affiliate links in this description.🙏Thank you for listening.
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199
Tyson Settles Record Price-Fixing Laswuit
In this weekly report: Tyson Foods has settled a record-breaking lawsuit, in which it was accused of conspiring with other pork producers to fix prices. The government shutdown may have effects on the food industry, EJ Lagasse gets 3 stars in the NY Times, and Amazon is creating its own grocery brand for low-cost consumers.Ray breaks down the recent Restaurant Performance Index, and shares some lessons he found from a chef with 30 years of experience in r/KitchenConfidential. 0:00 Intro0:34 Tyson Price Fixing06:54 7Shifts Ad07:34 Government Shutdown12:40 EJ Lagasse NY Times Review19:08 Amazon’s New Grocery Brand21:08 Restaurant Performance Index24:30 Ramblings of an Old Chef7shifts Restaurant Tech Video7shifts Digital Prep List Report + QuizLinks:Tyson Price Fixing SettlementGovernment Shutdown & Food IndustryEJ Lagasse Revives Emeril’s (NYT Review)Amazon's New Grocery BrandRestaurant Performance IndexRamblings Of An Old Chef (Reddit)
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198
The Chef's Table Collab You Need to Know About
In this episode, Justin breaks down the recent collaboration between Airbnb and Chef's Table and how utilizing Airbnb events could be a major win for chefs. He also discusses the Food & Wine awards, the impact of LLMs on restaurant recommendations, a new book he's interested in, and more. Ray discusses the coming matcha shortage, some consumer data from the National Restaurant Association, and a key restaurant that is opening next month.7shifts Restaurant Tech Video7shifts Digital Prep List Report + QuizLinks: Airbnb Chef’s Table ExperiencesMatcha ShortageFood & Wine – Best New Chefs ListEater – Most Influential RestaurantsHigh-Earner DinersNew Rules of Dining Out (Book)Slob Bowls (YouTube)Flynn McGarry Opens CoveEnjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌→The Repertoire Newsletter: https://www.joinrepertoire.com/newsletter🎙→Share the Podcast: https://geni.us/repertoirepodcast📸→Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinrepertoire__Disclaimer: We earn commission income through qualifying purchases made via Amazon’s Affiliate program and other affiliate links in this description.🙏Thank you for listening.
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197
How Sushi Became A Commodity
In this episode, Ray breaks down a New York Times Article, sharing how sushi has become a dietary commodity. He discusses Starbucks' massive layoff announcement, the cut to a USDA hunger report, why Americans are not eating breakfast, and offers advice to a Reddit user leaving the restaurant industry. 7shifts Restaurant Tech Video7shifts Digital Prep List Report + QuizLinks: Sushi as Commodity (NYT)Starbucks LayoffsUSDA Cancels Food Insecurity ReportSkipping Breakfast in AmericaReddit Advice (Kitchen Closure)Intro 00:00Sushi 00:287shifts 10:46Starbucks Layoffs 11:26USDA 15:42Breakfast 22:13Leaving Restaurants 26:10Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌→The Repertoire Newsletter: https://www.joinrepertoire.com/newsletter🎙→Share the Podcast: https://geni.us/repertoirepodcast📸→Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinrepertoire__Disclaimer: We earn commission income through qualifying purchases made via Amazon’s Affiliate program and other affiliate links in this description.🙏Thank you for listening.
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196
How Ozempic is Reshaping and Changing the Way We Eat
In this episode, Ray breaks down how close to 10% of Americans are using Ozempic, and how this is affecting restaurants. He also breaks down the real reason behind Tesla creating a diner, and how the Pumpkin Spice Latte crushed expectations for Starbucks. He discusses the reporting mistakes made by Beyond Meat, breaks down how restaurants performed in July, examines a major food company breakup, and shares his thoughts on a new beverage trend. (Photo in thumbnail: Ye Fan for The New York Times)Links:Ozempic (NYT)Radio Iowa (Ozempic impact)Fast Company (Culina AI Chef)Tesla Diner (NYT)Starbucks (Pumpkin Spice)Beyond Meat Bankruptcy RumorRestaurant Performance IndexKraft Heinz SplitDirty Soda TrendIf you come across something you ended up having to search for, send us a message to help make these Show Notes better!_____________________Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌 → The Repertoire Newsletter🎙 → Share the Podcast📸 → Instagram__Disclaimer: We earn commission income through qualifying purchases made via Amazon’s Affiliate program and other affiliate links in this description.🙏Thank you for listening.
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195
The Truth About $100K Chef Salaries in 2025
In this episode, Justin breaks down how Chefs are now making $100,000 more than ever before and why this trend is a major positive for the industry. He also shares reporting from the LA Times on a new restaurant transitioning from fine dining to casual, a restaurant closure in Washington, D.C., and a Business Insider piece on a Michelin-starred restaurant managing finances during this challenging time.Ray shares about a restaurant in Mexico City that charges customers only what they can afford, and how this is inspiring others in the industry to follow suit. He also shares about a new Netflix cooking competition that is taking place at The Culinary Institute of America, the trend of brand collabs, and how a variety of cabbage is taking over the London food scene.Links:$100K ChefLA Times (Pasjoli)Reverie ClosingMasal y MaizFood CollabsCIA Show (Netflix)Cabbage (NYT)If you come across something you ended up having to search for, send us a message to help make these Show Notes better!_____________________Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌 → The Repertoire Newsletter🎙 → Share the Podcast📸 → Instagram__Disclaimer: We earn commission income through qualifying purchases made via Amazon’s Affiliate program and other affiliate links in this description.🙏Thank you for listening.
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194
The "Foraging Chef" Trend is Ruining Food
In this episode, Ray discusses an article by Chef Nick Curtin of Alouette. He discusses Chef's view on how foraging has impacted the food system of Denmark, and what we can take away from this impact. Ray then discusses how the Federal Takeover of D.C. has destroyed restaurant reservations. He then looks at how fast casual restaurants are not doing well, how honey is taking over consumer diets, and why AI displacements mean more workers in the food industry. (Cover photo from Eater article)Timestamps:0:00 Intro 0:45 Foraging Ruining Restaurants 14:07 DC Restaurants 20:29 Minimal Catch Up 22:13 Fast Casual Dining 28:36 Honey Consumption 30:38 AI Displacement _____________________Links: Foraging TrendDC Restaurants 1DC Restaurants 2Fast FoodHoneyAI ChipotleIf you come across something you ended up having to search for, send us a message to help make these Show Notes better!_____________________Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌 → The Repertoire Newsletter🎙 → Share the Podcast📸 → Instagram
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193
Why Eleven Madison Park's Vegan Menu Is Changing
Eleven Madison Park has decided that meat is back on the menu. Ray and Justin break down why they made this decision, the response from the food world to it, and much more. They also discuss how a Michelin-rated ice cream shop in Taiwan is a litmus test for the upcoming Michelin Guide release, the horrible story of a restaurant being stripped of its Michelin Stars due to the chef being arrested on an alleged assault charge, and much more.Eleven Madison ParkMichelin Ice CreamChef ArrestedBeyond Meat LayoffsBeyond Meat Q2 ReportRestaurant Performance IndexStressed Shopper ArticleIf you come across something you ended up having to search for, send us a message to help make these Show Notes better!_____________________Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌 → The Repertoire Newsletter🎙 → Share the Podcast📸 → Instagram💌 → The Repertoire Newsletter🎙 → Share the Podcast📸 → Instagram
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192
The (Attempted) Cancelling of Joshua Weissman
Joshua Weissman is facing a mountain of criticism for alleged poor behavior, plagiarism, and more. Justin and Ray break down the reporting on Joshua Weissman and warn of the lessons learned in the pattern of alleged behavior that has been reported on by one of YouTube's largest food content creators.Ray breaks down Uber's new AI investment, the latest news on beef and poultry pricing, and how agentic AI is being utilized by Walmart. He also examines some industry trends observed at the Fancy Foods Show. Justin breaks down the Wall Street Journal piece on how hotel rooms are getting smaller and how hotel brands are rethinking their approach to hospitality. (Images in YouTube video sourced from Rosenthal reporting.)Links: YouTube LinksWSJ HotelsOther ResourcesJoshua WeissmanWalmart AIUber Eats AIBeef PricesAmazon GroceryFancy FoodsIf you come across something you ended up having to search for, send us a message to help make these Show Notes better!_____________________Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌 → The Repertoire Newsletter🎙 → Share the Podcast📸 → Instagram💌 → The Repertoire Newsletter🎙 → Share the Podcast📸 → Instagram
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191
Discussing The Passing Of Anne Burrell
In this episode of the Repertoire Report, Ray starts by discussing the tragic passing of Anne Burrell, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness in the food industry. He shares personal experiences with mental health struggles in the restaurant industry and stresses the significance of checking in on each other. The second part of the episode addresses the current financial crisis at Johnson and Wales University, analyzing an article that criticizes the school's administration and program offerings. Ray and Justin provide their perspectives on the future of culinary education and the steps needed to ensure its sustainability. The episode concludes with a call to action for mental health support and a discussion on the importance of culinary schools in offering comprehensive education beyond basic cooking skills.Links: If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help:988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Call or text 988 for free and confidential support.International Hotlines – Global list of crisis and suicide prevention hotlines.The Burnt Chef Project – Mental health resources tailored for hospitality professionals.Humans of the Kitchen – Peer stories and mental health support for the culinary community.Anne Burrell – Cause of Death (NY Times)The Rise and Fall of Johnson & Wales University (James G. Martin Center)Enjoy the pod? Get more from Repertoire:💌 → The Repertoire Newsletter🎙 → Share the Podcast📸 → InstagramDisclaimer: We earn commission income with qualifying purchases made through Amazon’s Affiliate program and other affiliate links in this description.🙏Thank you for listening
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190
Repertoire Report: How YouTube Changes The Way Chefs Learn To Be Chefs
Links: Higher Starting Costs: https://www.foodandwine.com/restaurant-opening-costs-increase-post-pandemic-11776163YouTube: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-21/how-youtube-is-shaping-a-new-generation-of-chefsTravis Kalanick on All In, Discussing Lab Robotics: https://youtu.be/KypnjJSKi4o?si=toidvBcjlt3QF1wpPipedream: https://x.com/thegarrettscott/status/1944801083177505235Nuance In The Gloom: https://x.com/a_food_maniac/status/1947466050485760128 Justin's Instagram: @justinkhannaFollow The Repertoire Podcast on Instagram: @joinrepertoire—What's next? 👇Share the PodcastGet Total Station DominationTake the 5-Day-Kitchen-Productivity ChallengeGet on my Email NewsletterSupport the show for $19 a month via the Repertoire Pro Community for Industry ProfessionalsMy latest upload on YouTubeRate the show on SpotifyLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet in touch with JustinTweet at JustinFollow along on InstagramSign up for one-on-one Coaching with JustinBrowse the gear used to create this💌Send me mail:Justin Khanna5920 MLK Jr. Way SUnit 18272Seattle, WA 98118 USA—
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Your Repertoire is the most valuable asset in your career. It's the collection of skills, stories, experiences, and lessons you've had to hard-earn in this hospitality industry. What if you could ask some of the best professionals in the world how they built their Repertoire? In this podcast, you can look forward to expert-led interviews by Chef Justin Khanna, breakdowns of news and stories that are impacting the industry, and the occasional bonus episode that might include a tactic or strategy that drastically improves your life. Subscribe for weekly episodes of The Repertoire Podcast.
HOSTED BY
Justin Khanna
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