The Repertoire Podcast

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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. 👨‍🍳🎧

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.

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.

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)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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—

Links: Eater: https://www.eater.com/food-culture/893018/jose-andres-chef-humanitariancomic-book-hero Food Dive 1: https://www.fooddive.com/news/us-ice-cream-makers-commit-to-artificial-dye-phase-out-by-2028/753065/ Food Dive 2: https://www.fooddive.com/news/tariffs-meat-drive-inflation-conagra-cfo-says/752918/ Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-09/chocolate-makers-burned-again-as-shortages-hit-cocoa-powder?srnd=phx-industries-consumer Axios: https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2025/07/15/korean-food-popularity-sf-ca 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—

Links: QSR: https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/why-back-of-house-clarity-for-restaurants-is-key-to-navigating-an-uncertain-economy/ Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-07/starbucks-menu-news-chain-wants-to-get-rid-of-canola-oil-in-its-food?srnd=phx-industries-consumer Red Lobster: https://www.campaignlive.com/article/popular-ceo-viral-seafood-boils-story-behind-red-lobsters-biz-comeback/1923541 Food Dive: https://www.fooddive.com/news/walmart-case-ready-beef-facility-supply-chain-opening/752325/ Fashion: https://thefashionography.com/fashion/why-fashion-brands-are-suddenly-hungry-for-food-ventures/ Belmond: https://www.belmond.com/trains/europe/uk/britannic-explorer 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—

Links: Nissin: https://www.fooddive.com/news/ramen-maker-nissin-launches-brand-to-attract-glp-1-users-health-conscious/751390/ Alinea: https://chicago.eater.com/closings/159756/fire-restaurant-closing-fulton-market-chicago-grant-achatz-alinea-group Food Navigator: https://www.foodnavigator.com/Article/2025/07/01/glp-1s-food-industry-response/ Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-30/starbucks-beefs-up-hiring-process-in-search-for-best-baristas?srnd=phx-industries-consumer National Restaurant Association: https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/restaurant-economic-insights/restaurant-performance-index/ Wingstop: https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/is-wingstop-on-the-verge-of-another-sales-tear/ Florida's New Law: https://www.tallahassee.com/story/entertainment/restaurants/2025/06/30/tallahassee-restaurants-feel-impact-of-no-shows-support-new-law/84322780007/ 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—

inks: JBS: https://www.fooddive.com/news/jbs-sec-approves-listing-nyse-meat-beef/746270/ World's 50 Best: https://www.theworlds50best.com/ Daniel Patterson: https://www.instagram.com/chefdanielpatterson/?hl=en Reservation Charges: https://people.com/restaurant-charges-diners-with-more-or-fewer-people-than-their-reservation-11754617 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—

National Restaurant Association: https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/restaurant-economic-insights/restaurant-performance-index/ Axios: https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/04/14/michelin-guide-dc-star-restaurants-virginia-declines Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-10/whole-foods-supplier-hack-leaves-empty-shelves-stalls-forklifts?srnd=phx-industries Food Dive: https://www.fooddive.com/news/how-nerds-gummy-clusters-became-the-candy-aisles-biggest-hit/748865/ NRN: https://www.nrn.com/expert-opinions/using-ai-to-write-help-wanted-posts-that-actually-work 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—

In this episode, Justin breaks down his time at the MAD7 Symposium. What is MAD7? It is the seventh edition of the MAD Symposium, a gathering that brings together hundreds of chefs, sommeliers, servers, bartenders, baristas, bakers, producers, and writers together beneath a big red circus tent in Copenhagen for two days of ideas, inspiration, and connection. Link to MAD's newsletter: https://www.digest.madfeed.co/Justin's Instagram: @justinkhanna Follow The Repertoire Podcast on Instagram: @joinrepertoire — What's next? 👇 Share the Podcast Get Total Station Domination Take the 5-Day-Kitchen-Productivity Challenge Get on my Email Newsletter Support the show for $19 a month via the Repertoire Pro Community for Industry Professionals My latest upload on YouTube Rate the show on Spotify Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Get in touch with Justin Tweet at Justin Follow along on Instagram Sign up for one-on-one Coaching with Justin Browse the gear used to create this 💌Send me mail: Justin Khanna 5920 MLK Jr. Way S Unit 18272 Seattle, WA 98118 USA —

National Restaurant Association Reporting: https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/restaurant-economic-insights/analysis-commentary/restaurants-projected-to-add-490k-seasonal-jobs-this-summer/ Klarna: https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/restaurant-economic-insights/analysis-commentary/restaurants-projected-to-add-490k-seasonal-jobs-this-summer/ Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2025-05-27/higher-food-prices-from-tariffs-has-restaurants-asking-sysco-for-help NBC New York: https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/mcdonalds-is-closing-its-cosmcs-restaurants/6277501/ Food Dive 1: https://www.fooddive.com/news/kraft-heinz-confirms-3-billion-investment-manufacturing-factory-mac-cheese-ketchup-tariffs-trump/748790/ Food Dive 2: https://www.fooddive.com/news/snap-congress-proposed-cuts-fmi-nga/748701/ Eater: https://www.eater.com/2025/5/22/24435230/food-stamps-cuts-snap-economic-policy-trump-farm-bill 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—

Links: Airbnb: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1mglv2d455o NRA Reporting: https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/restaurant-economic-insights/analysis-commentary/elevated-costs-continue-to-pressure-restaurant-profitability/ NRA Career Website: https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/restaurant-economic-insights/analysis-commentary/new-association-website-spotlights-restaurant-jobs-and-career-paths/ Michelin Guide: https://guide.michelin.com/us/en CIA Investment: https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Hotel-News/One-Only-resort-coming-to-New-York-Hudson-Valley CIA Investment: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/culinary-institute-of-america-thimus-and-alamance-foods-team-up-for-groundbreaking-research-study-302456637.html Food Dive: https://www.fooddive.com/news/food-ingredients-reformulation-rfk-artificial-dyes/748274/ No Kid Hungry SNAP: https://www.nokidhungry.org/blog/five-facts-how-snap-helps-kids Direct link to tell Congress to save SNAP Benefits: https://secure.nokidhungry.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=522&s_src=advo&s_subsrc=1I000DD2551WHFXAAD0&_gl=1%2A1b73dn1%2A_gcl_au%2AMjM5Mjg3Mjk3LjE3NDc2OTM0MDM. 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—

Wegman's Next Door: https://www.wegmansnextdoor.com/rochester-new-york/events/ McDonald's Hiring: https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/12/business/mcdonalds-hiring-announcement Menu Prices Rising: https://www.nrn.com/restaurant-finance/menu-prices-increased-in-april-for-the-third-month-in-a-row Third Spaces: https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/restaurants-embrace-the-return-of-the-third-place Fast Casual Success: https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/why-fast-casual-keeps-winning/ Follow us on Tik Tok and Instagram! 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—