The Restaurant Guys

This is a Vintage episode from 2006Why This Episode MattersLong before craft beer became mainstream, Garrett Oliver was arguing that beer belonged at the fine dining tableThis 2006 conversation captures the early days of American craft brewing before the explosion of brewery culture and IPA dominanceGarrett explains why beer may pair with food better than wine — then challenges Francis to prove him wrongThe episode explores brewing philosophy, Belgian traditions, and the business pressures of growthIncludes a fascinating snapshot of how small Brooklyn Brewery still was in 2006 — despite already becoming influentialThe BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott discuss Frank Bruni’s four-star review of Jean-Georges in The New York Times and what happens when great chefs expand into restaurant empires. The conversation explores restaurant identity, and whether excellence can survive scale.The ConversationGarrett Oliver, brewmaster of Brooklyn Brewery and author of The Brewmaster’s Table, joins The Restaurant Guys for a spirited conversation about the early days of American craft beer, brewing philosophy, beer aging, Belgian traditions, and pairing beer with food. Things get competitive when Oliver argues beer pairs better with food than wine — prompting Francis to challenge him to a live beer-versus-wine showdown at Stage Left. BioGarrett Oliver is the brewmaster of Brooklyn Brewery and one of the most influential figures in American craft beer. He is the author of The Brewmaster’s Table: Discovering the Pleasures of Real Beer with Real Food and editor of The Oxford Companion to Beer. Oliver has received numerous honors for his contributions to brewing and beverage culture, including a James Beard Award.InfoBrooklyn Brewery https://brooklynbrewery.com/Garrett Oliver http://www.garrettoliver.net/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

About This EpisodeRecorded in person at the New Jersey Wine & Food Festival at Crystal Springs Resort, this special episode features conversations with chefs, restaurateurs, producers and hospitality leaders shaping New Jersey’s food scene.Featured GuestsMike Carino & Mike Cosenza — Mike’s Pasta & Sandwich Shop Florian Wehrli — Crystal Springs Resort Jacques Torres — Jacques Torres ChocolateJeff Galen — Fossil FarmsOlivier Muller — FaubourgBryan Gregg — Blue MorelWhy This Episode MattersThis festival episode explores sourcing, craftsmanship, sustainability and hospitality through conversations with some of New Jersey’s leading culinary voices.Topics include:artisan food productionindependent restaurants vs. corporate food systemsresponsible sourcing and farmingluxury dining and consumer habitscollaboration in New Jersey’s restaurant communitythe importance of story, trust and hospitalityBiosMike Carino & Mike CosenzaOwners of Mike’s Pasta & Sandwich Shop in Nutley, NJ, known for artisan pasta and supplying restaurants throughout the state.https://www.instagram.com/mikespastashoppe/Florian WehrliExecutive Chef overseeing Crystal Springs Resort’s culinary operations, including Restaurant Latour.https://www.crystalgolfresort.com/Jacques TorresWorld-renowned pastry chef, chocolatier, and founder of Jacques Torres Chocolate.https://mrchocolate.com/ Jeff GalenExecutive Sous Chef at Fossil Farms, specializing in sustainable and exotic proteins.https://www.fossilfarms.com/Olivier MullerChef-owner of Faubourg in Montclair and Weehawken, NJ.https://www.faubourgnj.com/Bryan GreggExecutive Chef of Blue Morel at Westin Governor Morris Hotelhttps://www.bluemorel.com/Time Stamps0:00 — Welcome0:35 — Mike Carino & Mike Cosenza13:10 — Florian Wehrli & Jacques Torres36:40 — Jeff Galen42:30 — Olivier Muller52:00 — Bryan GreggDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2007.Why This Episode MattersBefore celebrity chefs became mainstream brands, chefs like Morou Ouattara and Gavin Kaysen were navigating what television exposure actually meant for serious working chefs.Morou Ouattara discusses bringing West African flavors into contemporary American cuisine years before global pantry ingredients became common.Gavin Kaysen reflects on competing as a young chef on The Next Iron Chef and how it shaped his career.The conversation becomes an unexpectedly thoughtful discussion about  chef identity, and the reality behind “celebrity chef” culture.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show discussing the absurdity and honesty of chef awards and Anthony Bourdain’s irreverent influence on food culture. They explore the economics of Michelin-starred restaurants and why greatness may not be worth it.The ConversationsChef Morou Ouattara joins The Restaurant Guys to discuss appearing on The Next Iron Chef while already running a respected restaurant. He explains why competing against accomplished chefs felt entirely different from traditional reality television, and why staying true to his culinary identity mattered more than trying to satisfy judges. Morou also shares how his restaurant, Farrah Olivia, blended American cuisine with West African spices and flavors that television competition formats often couldn’t properly showcase.Later, Gavin Kaysen discusses competing as one of the youngest chefs on the show, the camaraderie among contestants, and the strange reality of being edited for national television. The conversation expands into restaurant culture, chef professionalism, and Kaysen’s then-upcoming move to New York to lead Café Boulud.Timestamps00:00 — The Golden Clog Awards, Anthony Bourdain, and Michelin-star economics06:45 — Morou Ouattara joins; competing on The Next Iron Chef10:00 — Reality Cooking Shows vs. Kitchen Life11:45 — Incorporating West African spices at Farrah Olivia15:45 — Gavin Kaysen joins; Camaraderie behind the scenes of The Next Iron Chef24:00 — Reality TV editing and food television culture27:00 — San Diego’s evolving restaurant scene30:30 — Gavin Kaysen's move to Café Boulud in New YorkBioMorou Ouattara is an Ivory Coast-born chef known for blending West African flavors with contemporary American cuisine at Farrah Olivia in Alexandria, Virginia. He previously led the kitchens at Red Sage and Signatures by Karam.Gavin Kaysen was named one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs and later became one of America’s most acclaimed chefs and restaurateurs. At the time of this interview, he was preparing to take over as executive chef of Café Boulud.InfoMorou OuattDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersWhat actually makes a great wine pairingHow younger diners are changing wine culture and what that means for restaurantsWhere real wine value exists right now (hint: not where everyone’s looking)Why hospitality, not knowledge, is still the key to selling wineThe evolving role of sommeliers in a less formal, more competitive dining worldThe BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show swapping stories about “elevating” takeout by adding better ingredients, dialing in details, and chasing that last 10% that turns good into spectacular.The ConversationJune Rodil, Master Sommelier and partner in Goodnight Hospitality, shares her path from serving at Olive Garden to shaping some of the most thoughtful wine programs in the country. She breaks down how wine pairing really works not as rules, but as taste memory, experience, and constant adjustment.The conversation explores the shifting role of wine in dining, from everyday staple to luxury competitor, and the challenge of connecting with a younger, less wine-focused guest. June emphasizes that great service, not intimidation or hierarchy, is what brings people into wine, and that curiosity, accessibility, and value matter more than ever.They also dig into where smart wine buyers should be looking today, from South Africa to overlooked Old World regions, and why finding one great, under-the-radar bottle can define a program more than a massive list.Timestamps00:00 – The quest to elevate every bite06:00 – June Rodil’s path: from server to Master Sommelier10:45 – Understanding wine pairing synergy12:00 – How great pairings are actually built (and tested)21:00 – Who is ordering wine in the dining room?26:00 – How to appeal to guests and sell wine today/presenting cork33:00 – Where the real value is in wine right now38:00 – Final takeaway: “Just drink more.”BioJune Rodil is a Master Sommelier (2015) and partner at Goodnight Hospitality in Houston, where she oversees award-winning wine programs and hospitality operations. She is widely recognized for her leadership in modern wine service and mentorship within the industry.InfoGoodnight Hospitality Group https://www.goodnighthospitality.com/Southern Smoke Festival https://southernsmoke.org/festival/ssf-2026/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2010Why This Episode MattersWhy most Pinot Grigio on the market tastes the same—and how to spot the real thingThe difference between DOC vs IGT wines (and why it actually matters in your glass)How geography—especially Trentino-Alto Adige—shapes flavor more than marketing ever willA candid look at wine pricing: what’s quality vs what’s brandingThe BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open with stories from interviewing restaurant staff highlighting a simple truth: honesty matters more than experience, especially in hospitality.The ConversationGiovanni Barone of Barone Fini joins the show to break down the misunderstood world of Pinot Grigio. He explains how Italy’s regional identity, not the country itself, defines wine, and why Trentino-Alto Adige produces fresher, more food-friendly expressions due to extreme temperature swings and alpine conditions.The discussion pulls back the curtain on the wine business: from bulk wine labeled as premium bottles to the outsized role of branding in pricing. Giovanni makes the case for purity and restraint in winemaking, contrasting it with more manipulated styles found elsewhere.Along the way, the conversation becomes a broader philosophy of food and drink: great wine isn’t about flash—it’s about flavor, place, and how it works at the table.Timestamps00:00 – Interview horror stories & hiring philosophy08:45 – Introducing Giovanni Barone & Barone Fini10:30 – What “DOC” actually means (and why you should care)14:00 – The realities of the wine business in Italy20:30 – Italian wine rules, climate, geography, and flavor27:00 – Why Pinot Grigio works with food (even rich dishes)32:00 – Pricing, branding, and the truth about expensive Pinot Grigio37:00 – DOC vs IGT explained simply41:00 – Purity in wine vs mass-market productionBioGiovanni Barone is part of the Barone Fini family, a historic winemaking estate in Italy’s Trentino-Alto Adige region. His family’s winemaking roots date back to the late 15th century, and he has helped bring their Pinot Grigio to international markets while advocating for traditional, terroir-driven wines.InfoBarone Fini Wines https://www.baronefiniwines.com/The Restaurant Guys at La Petraia https://www.restaurantguyspodcast.com/2390435/episodes/16144212-la-petraia-the-guys-go-to-italyDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersElizabeth McCall, Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve, joins the show to talk bourbon, innovation, and what makes Woodford Reserve distinct in a crowded whiskey world.She explains how barrel toasting, proprietary yeast, fermentation, pot still distillation, and texture shape the Woodford Reserve house style.The conversation explores the current state of the whiskey market, including slowing demand, oversupply, tariffs, and why Woodford Reserve continues to grow.McCall discusses what a master distiller actually does — from liquid innovation to protecting the integrity of core products.The episode also looks at women in whiskey, changing bourbon drinkers, and how Woodford Reserve balances heritage, accessibility, and luxury.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show with a conversation about people who are drawn to hospitality, but may or may not be built for restaurant life.The ConversationElizabeth McCall joins to talk about her role as Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve and the craft behind one of America’s most recognizable bourbons. She explains why Woodford’s flavor profile is built around balance and consistency not just branding or bottle design.The conversation moves from special releases to the essential work of maintaining quality, protecting core products, and developing future innovations. Elizabeth also discusses the broader whiskey market, why Woodford Reserve remains strong during a challenging period, and what it means to be a woman leading one of bourbon’s major brands.Timestamps00:00 — Mark and Francis on restaurant life and the people who wish they could work in hospitality10:30 — Elizabeth McCall joins, Woodford Reserve: a bourbon success story16:19 —  What creates Woodford’s signature style25:00 — What a Master Distiller actually does30:00 — Woodford Reserve Baccarat story35:15 — Experimental releases, and chasing a coffee note in bourbon37:15 — The whiskey slowdown and why Woodford is still growing44:40 — McCall's career and being a woman in whiskey46:30 — Women whiskey drinkers, buying power, and changing bourbon culture57:15 — The story of jockey Frank HayesBioElizabeth McCall is the Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve. She joined Brown-Forman in 2009, worked closely with longtime Master Distiller Chris Morris, and was appointed Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve in 2023.Elizabeth leads liquid innovation and helps protect the flavor integrity of Woodford Reserve’s core products while developing future innovations.InfoWoodford Reserve https://www.woodfordreserve.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2008.Why This Episode MattersStephanie Izard joins the show just after winning Top Chef Season 4, while the moment is still fresh and the career shift is just beginning.She gives a candid look at how Top Chef compares to real restaurant life: the parts that felt authentic and the parts that felt more like high-pressure catering.The conversation captures Izard before her later restaurant empire, as she talks about searching for the right space for her next restaurant in Chicago.There’s a strong discussion of kitchen leadershipIt also preserves an early moment in the public conversation around women in professional kitchens, with Izard reflecting on becoming the first female Top Chef winner.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show reflecting on Francis’s first trip to The Cheesecake Factory, using it as a springboard for a funny but pointed conversation about chain restaurants, fake food, seasonality, and what happens when restaurants pretend convenience is quality.The ConversationFresh off her Top Chef win, Stephanie Izard talks about the surreal aftermath of the finale, what the show did and did not capture about real chef life, and how she handled the pressure of leading in competition. She reflects on cooking with Eric Ripert as her sous chef, the heartbreak of ingredient mishaps, and the realities of being judged on national television. Izard also shares her thoughts on kitchen culture, respectful leadership, women in the industry, and her plans to open her next restaurant in Chicago.Timestamps00:00 – Francis reviews his first Cheesecake Factory experience09:00 – Stephanie Izard joins the show after winning Top Chef11:00 – Is Top Chef like restaurant life? Eric Ripert as sous chef15:00 – Career momentum, and opening a new restaurant in Chicago18:00 – Kitchen culture, leadership, and female representation in the culinary world24:00 – How real is reality TV?25:30 – Judging the judges, Tom, Gail, Padma and keeping a secret31:50 – History of Top Chef guests on The Restaurant GuysBioStephanie Izard is a Chicago chef and the winner of Top Chef Season 4, becoming the first woman to win the Bravo competition. At the time of this interview, she had recently closed the restaurant Scylla in Chicago and was planning her next venture.InfoStephanie Izard https://stephanieizard.com/Top Chef https://www.bravotv.com/top-chefDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersMichael Cecchi-Azzolina offers a front-of-house counterpart to the classic back-of-house memoir: a sharp, funny, often brutal look at how great New York City dining rooms really worked.The episode captures a vanished New York restaurant culture in which the maître d’ controlled access and the rhythm of the room long before reservation platforms flattened the experience.It explores how restaurants became the center of nightlife in 1980s New York, and how the city’s economic, social, and cultural shifts shaped the dining room.Beneath the wild stories is a real argument about hospitality: the loss of personality, judgment, and human discretion The conversation also doesn’t romanticize the era. It reckons with the excess, the cruelty, and the devastation of the AIDS crisis inside restaurant culture.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show debating whether seedless produce justifies  gene-edited fruits and vegetables. The ConversationMichael Cecchi-Azzolina, longtime front-of-house fixture at iconic New York restaurants including The River Café and Raoul’s, joins Mark Pascal and Francis Schott to talk about his memoir Your Table Is Ready and the restaurant world he came up in. He shares stories from an era when the maître d’ ran the dining room through charm, discretion, and a certain kind of power—and what he did when that wasn’t enough. Along the way, Michael reflects on what’s changed in hospitality, what’s been lost, and how he’s keeping that spirit alive. Timestamps00:00 – Opening banter: gene editing and unintended consequences07:00 – Michael Cecchi-Azzolina, Your Table Is Ready, 1980s NYC Nightlife14:00 – Running the door at The River Café and the power of the maître d’ 19:00 – Reservations, VIPs, bribery, and table politics before the internet23:00 – Mob stories, dining-room pressure, and front-of-house survival30:00 – Sundays in Brooklyn33:00 – The power of the maître d’ and why they disappeared38:00 – Restaurant excess, cocaine culture, and the AIDS crisis45:00 – NYC Restaurants today52:00 – The Guys share stories about celebrity guests at their restaurant in the 1990s BioMichael Cecchi-Azzolina is a veteran New York maître d’ and restaurateur who has worked at iconic dining rooms including The River Café, Raoul’s, and Minetta Tavern. He is the author of Your Table Is Ready, a memoir of front-of-house life in New York City restaurants.InfoBook: Your Table Is Ready Restaurant: Cecchi’s https://www.cecchis.nyc/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2005.Why This Episode MattersDr. Paul Rozin brings psychology into the dining room, explaining how culture shapes appetite, portion size, pleasure, and food anxiety.The episode gets at a question that still feels painfully current: why do Americans obsess over food and health, yet often get less pleasure and worse outcomes from eating?Paul’s comparisons between American and French attitudes toward chocolate, cream, portions, and mealtime turn food culture into something concrete and memorable.Mark Pascal and Francis Schott push the conversation beyond nutrition into hospitality, and the cost of convenience.It’s a smart conversation about food culture, health, enjoyment, and the way a society teaches people to eat.The BanterMark and Francis open with a spirited riff on okra, bone marrow, dry-aged steak, texture, and the common practice to sacrifice flavor for convenience.The ConversationDr. Paul Rozin, Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, joins Mark Pascal and Francis Schott for a fascinating look at how different cultures think about food, pleasure, and health. He contrasts American habits of guilt, abundance, customization, and speed with the French emphasis on smaller portions, attention, ritual, and enjoyment. The result is a conversation about why some cultures spend more time eating, derive more pleasure from food, and often wind up healthier anyway. Mark and Francis extend that argument into restaurant life, fad diets, convenience culture, and the American habit of trying to solve food problems without changing the way we live.Timestamps00:00 – Okra, bone marrow, and why texture can make or break a food03:35 – Dry-aged steak, marrow, and the flavor of meat cooked on the bone08:20 – Why people sacrifice flavor for convenience11:00 – France, daily shopping, and why the meal is the point of the day14:00 – Smaller portions, less snacking, and why the French eat less16:20 – Pleasure, attention, and the difference between savoring food and inhaling it19:00 – Heavy cream, chocolate, guilt, celebration, and cross-cultural food associations23:00 – Customization, and what processed food teaches people to like28:15 – “We’re doing it wrong”: the Guys on fad diets, whole foods, and American food anxietyBioPaul Rozin is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania and a leading scholar on the psychological, cultural, and biological determinants of food choice. He has studied how different societies think about food, pleasure, disgust, and health.Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersRobby Younes explains how Crystal Springs Resort and the New Jersey Wine & Food Festival helped New Jersey recognized as a serious food-and-wine destination.Mark Pascal and Francis Schott connect the conversation to a bigger restaurant truth: in a tougher market, people are choosing fewer but better experiences and rewarding restaurants that feel human, memorable, and genuinely hospitable.Robby’s rise from frontline hospitality work to running a major resort makes this a strong conversation about leadership, mentorship, and restaurant careers as a path upward.It’s also a smart New Jersey episode: a conversation about regional pride, and building something ambitious outside New York City’s shadow.The ConversationRobby Younes, COO of Crystal Springs Resort, joins Mark and Francis to talk about building the New Jersey Wine & Food Festival into a serious showcase for the state’s chefs, restaurants, and wine culture. Along the way, he discusses developing Crystal Springs into a broader hospitality destination, building one of the country’s standout wine programs, and creating an event designed to prove that New Jersey can provide a food-and-wine experience on a national level. The conversation also becomes a thoughtful look at leadership, and the limitless potential of the hospitality business.Timestamps00:00 – The Guys on restaurant polarization, hospitality, and why mediocre restaurants are losing ground04:25 – What restaurants need to survive now10:50 – Robby Younes and the vision behind the New Jersey Wine & Food Festival 16:00 – Crystal Springs, building a destination resort around food and wine20:00 – Reason for the festival: showcase New Jersey's culinary talent26:20 – Robby’s path from busboy to leading Crystal Springs Resort30:40 – The incident that pushed Robby to learn the wine business34:30 – Why restaurants still offer opportunities for learning and growthBioRobby Younes is the COO of Crystal Springs Resort in New Jersey, where he helped expand the property’s food, wine, and hospitality programs and played a central role in creating the New Jersey Wine & Food Festival. He has built a reputation for elevating hospitality experiences while championing New Jersey’s culinary talent.InfoNew Jersey Wine & Food Festival at Crystal Springs Resort May 1-3, 2026 https://njwinefoodfest.com/Restaurant Guys podcast live May 2, 2026Crystal Springs Resort https://www.crystalgolfresort.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a preview of a full subscriber episode from 2006.Why This Episode MattersTom Colicchio was already one of the most respected chefs in America, but this conversation catches him at a fascinating moment: building restaurants, debuting Top Chef, and defining what modern American dining could be.The episode gets at a bigger question than television: what makes a real chef leader, and why talent without professionalism is not enough in a kitchen.Tom explains the thinking behind Craft’s ingredient-first approach, which still feels relevant now that simple, product-driven cooking has become restaurant gospel.The conversation also draws a sharp contrast between hospitality that feels like home and culinary experimentation for its own sake, with Gramercy Tavern standing as the model of warmth, rigor, and ease.Long before restaurant culture calcified into brand language and chef celebrity machinery, this episode shows what thoughtful restaurant leadership sounded like in real time.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open with one of their classic wide-ranging tangents: better pork, bad agribusiness, accidental TGI Fridays horror, and a spirited defense of foie gras that could only come from two restaurateurs with strong opinions and no interest in sanding them down.The ConversationTom Colicchio joins the show on the day Craftsteak is opening in New York, and the discussion moves easily between Top Chef, restaurant culture, and the philosophy behind his restaurants. He talks about why Top Chef worked when other reality-food television did not, what makes someone worth following in a kitchen, and how mentoring differs from judging.He also explains the original idea behind Craft: ingredient-focused cooking served in a way that encourages diners to build their own experience at the table. From there, the conversation turns to home cooking, hospitality, experimental cuisine, and why Gramercy Tavern succeeds by doing everything well and making it feel like home.Timestamps00:00 – Better pork, “enhanced” meat, and why flavor got bred out04:15 – TGI Fridays finger-in-the-burger story and the foie gras ban08:15 – Tom Colicchio joins the show; Why & how Top Chef worked and what made it different from other reality food TV16:00 – What chef leadership should look like19:45 – The philosophy behind Craft and ingredient-first cooking23:30 – Tom and Mark had a common employer28:00 – Why Gramercy Tavern feels like home and what great hospitality really isBioTom Colicchio is the chef, restaurateur, and co-founder of Craft and Craftsteak, and a founding force behind Gramercy Tavern. He is also the recipient of multiple James Beard Awards and is the head judge on Bravo’s Top Chef.InfoTom Colicchio https://www.tomcolicchio.com/Gramercy Tavern, Craft, CraftsteakTop ChefDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersPaul Clarke explains why Imbibe has lasted 20 years by staying consumer-focused, independent, and credible.It’s also a great look at how cocktail culture changed over two decades, from teaching people the basics of a proper sour to telling deeper stories about the people and ideas shaping what we drink now.Mark Pascal and Francis Schott connect that editorial philosophy to hospitality itself: lead with quality, tell the truth, and earn trust over time.Along the way, the episode covers Negroni Week, the Imbibe 75, independent publishing, cocktail storytelling, and why bitterness eventually wins people over.The BanterMark and Francis open with a riff on awards-season humility, noting that in restaurant life, humility usually comes from service failures and hard-earned recovery—though they’re not above enjoying a medal when one comes their way.The ConversationPaul Clarke, executive editor of Imbibe Magazine, talks about building a drinks publication that serves both curious consumers and serious professionals without losing clarity, rigor, or pleasure. He explains how the magazine explores “liquid culture,” with attention to the people, places, and ideas behind what ends up in the glass.The discussion also traces the rise of modern cocktail culture through the lens of the Negroni and its many descendants, while highlighting Imbibe’s role in shaping conversation through projects like Negroni Week and the Imbibe 75. It’s a smart, funny exchange about editorial standards, independence, and why good drinks writing should be as engaging as the drinks themselves.Timestamps00:00 – Banter: what “humbling” really means in the restaurant business05:00 – Why Imbibe works: consumer-first, not trade-first11:00 – Trust, credibility, and the line between editorial and advertising16:00 – 20 years of cocktail culture: from basics to “liquid culture”20:00 – Good writing is a big factor in Imbibe’s success24:15 – How independence key to Imbibe’s survival28:00 – How Negroni Week began and why it became global34:00 – The resurgence of the Boulavardier40:00 – The Imbibe 75 and the people changing how the world drinksBioPaul Clarke is the executive editor of Imbibe Magazine, an independent drinks publication celebrating 20 years in 2026. He is also the author of The Cocktail Chronicles and host of the award-winning Radio Imbibe podcast.InfoImbibe Magazine https://imbibemagazine.com/Radio Imbibe https://radio-imbibe.simplecast.com/Steven Witherly on The Restaurant Guys Podcast Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2007Why This Episode MattersThough this is a vintage episode, many of the producers and traditions discussed here remain part of the American artisan cheese conversation today.American artisan cheese was growing fast, and this conversation captures the moment when local cheese in the U.S. stopped being a curiosity and became a movement.Jeff Roberts explains how better-informed consumers helped create demand for small producers, regional specialties, and more thoughtful food buying.The episode highlights New Jersey makers proving that great American cheese is not limited to Vermont or California.This conversation connects flavor, farming, craftsmanship, and local economies in a way that still feels highly relevant.Anyone interested in cheese, local food, food culture, or where American food got more interesting will find plenty here.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open with a run through food trivia from Gourmet magazine, including America’s limited eaters, the national devotion to ketchup, and the little problem of people eating more “low-fat” junk because the label told them to feel virtuous.The ConversationJeff Roberts joins the show to discuss The Atlas of American Artisan Cheese and the dramatic expansion of American cheese makers over the previous decade. He explains how consumer taste changed the market and why artisan cheese matters not only for flavor, but for farming, community, and regional identity.The conversation moves through Vermont, Cabot, and the broader American cheese landscape before landing in New Jersey, where Roberts praises producers and fresh mozzarella traditions that most people would never think to place in a national cheese conversation. The episode also explores early goat-cheese pioneers, the stories behind small producers, and the idea that every food choice has consequences far beyond the table.Timestamps00:00 – Food trivia, ketchup loyalty, and the “low-fat” trap06:00 – Jeff Roberts on the boom in American artisan cheese09:00 – How consumers changed the cheese market13:00 – New Jersey cheese makers, Fiore’s, Vito’s, Bobolink, and Valley Shepherd20:00 – Why artisan cheese is really a story about people and place23:00 – Douglas Newbold and the early days of American goat cheese28:00 – Seasonal cheese, pungent cheddar, and tasting with courageBioJeff Roberts is the author of The Atlas of American Artisan Cheese. He helped establish the Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese at the University of Vermont, served as national director of Slow Food USA, and co-chaired Artisan Cheeses of America.InfoThe Atlas of American Artisan Cheese by Jeffrey P. RobertsBobolink Dairy Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersDoug Frost connects wine education, grape growing, climate pressure, and wine culture mythmaking in one conversation.This episode makes a smart, practical case for hybrid grapes as part of wine’s future, not just a regional curiosity.The discussion cuts through vague “natural wine” posturing and asks a better question: is the wine actually good?Mark Pascal and Francis Schott keep the wine-geek material accessible without dumbing it down.Doug’s work at Echo Lands brings the conversation from what’s in the glass to what has to happen in the vineyard.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open with a detour into ferries, bar cars, and the enduring appeal of any transportation where somebody else is driving and a drink might be available.The ConversationDoug Frost joins the show for a wide-ranging discussion about hybrid grapes, climate pressure, and why regions outside the usual wine power centers may have more to teach the wine world than they get credit for. He explains how growers in places like the Midwest, New Jersey, and Europe are rethinking what counts as a serious wine grape as farming realities change.The conversation then pivots into a lively critique of bad “natural wine” logic. Doug, Mark, and Francis are not arguing against low-intervention winemaking; they are arguing against excusing obvious flaws because the category sounds virtuous. In the final stretch, Frost talks about Echo Lands in Walla Walla, where regenerative farming and land stewardship are part of building a winery meant to last.Timestamps00:00 – Opening setup: Doug Frost and why this episode goes a little into the weeds00:45 – Banter: ferries, commuting by boat, and the romance of transit with a drink04:25 – Doug Frost joins; What it means to be both a Master Sommelier and a Master of Wine07:30 – Hybrid grapes, mildew, climate pressure, and the future of wine growing17:00 – Which hybrid grapes and producers are worth seeking out28:20 – Doug Frost on natural wine, flaws, and why unstable wine is still flawed wine40:00 – Echo Lands, Walla Walla, and building a winery around regenerative farming51:36 – Red wine tipBioDoug Frost is one of the few people in the world to hold both the Master Sommelier and Master of Wine titles. He is an author, educator, founder of Beverage Alcohol Resource (B.A.R.), and a founding partner of Echo Lands Winery in Walla Walla, Washington.InfoEcholands Winery https://www.echolandswinery.com/Recommended wine varietals: Vignoles, Vidal BlancRecommended wineries: Stone Hill, Les Bourgeois Vineyards, Holyfield, BourgmontEpisode on regenerative farming with Peter Byck Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2008Why This Episode MattersEating “responsibly” has only gotten more confusing. This conversation shows how to navigate it without obsessingWhat terms like organic and local actually mean (and why they’re often misleading)How Whole Foods Market built trust by doing the homework for consumersWhy better farming and sourcing often lead to better taste The real fight behind food standards and why consumers still need to pay attentionThe BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show taking aim at convenience culture, from pre-stuffed bagels to “vitamin-enhanced” soda, and question how far we’ve drifted from real food.The ConversationMargaret Wittenberg, longtime leader at Whole Foods and a key voice in the organic movement, explains how the company evaluates what makes food “good” from clean ingredients to sustainability and sourcing.The discussion dives into the growing complexity of food labeling, the role of trust in retail, and how Whole Foods balances education with curation for busy consumers. Wittenberg also unpacks the tension between industrial food systems and responsible production, arguing that quality, ethics, and flavor ultimately align more than most people think.Timestamps0:00 – Opening Banter: convenience culture and “handheld breakfast” absurdity6:45 – Margaret Wittenberg joins; the mission behind Whole Foods9:00 – What words like local and organic actually mean12:40 – Trust vs. transparency: how Whole Foods draws the line15:00 – Sustainable seafood and why it’s so complicated20:00 – The fight to protect organic standards25:30 – New Good Food and making better choices without overthinking31:00 – Francis on fresh peanut butter, dark chocolate, and small indulgences Guest BioMargaret Wittenberg is a longtime leader at Whole Foods Market, where she served as Vice President of Communications and Quality Standards. A former member of the USDA National Organic Standards Board, she has been widely recognized as a key voice in shaping modern organic and sustainable food practices.InfoMargaret's bookNew Good Food: Essential Ingredients for Cooking and Eating WellDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

 Why This Episode MattersLisa Laird Dunn shares the story of America’s oldest distilling family and how Laird’s helped shape the history of Applejack in the United States.This conversation connects cocktails, New Jersey history, and the survival of a multi-generation family business through Prohibition, downturns, and the modern cocktail revival.Mark and Francis get deep into what makes a Jack Rose great, why ingredients matter, and how Applejack found its way back into serious cocktail culture.One of the most compelling parts of the episode is Lisa’s account of how her family bought the company back and preserved the legacy for future generations.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show with an unexpectedly passionate tasting and review of Girl Scout cookies before turning to a far more adult subject: Applejack, cocktails, and New Jersey history.The ConversationLisa Laird Dunn, ninth-generation owner of Laird & Company, joins the show to talk about the Jack Rose, the history of Applejack, and her family’s place in the story of American spirits. Along the way, she explains how the category rose, fell, and returned with the cocktail renaissance, and why products like Laird’s Bonded and Applejack 86 each have a distinct place behind the bar. The conversation becomes especially moving when Lisa shares how her family risked everything to buy the company back and keep it family owned.Timestamps0:00 – Banter: Girl Scout cookies, Tagalongs vs. Thin Mints, and a call for listener opinions6:20 – Lisa Laird Dunn joins: The Jack Rose: origin stories, cocktail lore, and why this drink matters13:40 – The dark years for Applejack, turning off the stills, and the return of classic cocktails20:10 – The cocktail revival, distributor resistance, and how demand came roaring back24:20 – The products and how their use has evolved over time34:00 – Lisa’s family buys the company back: risk, legacy, and carrying Laird’s into the 10th generation44:00 – What is means to “jack” a spirit50:00 – How Laird’s survived Prohibition53:30 – How Catherine Lombardi got booze for her wedding.Guest BioLisa Laird Dunn is the ninth-generation owner of Laird & Company, America’s oldest distilling family and the makers of Laird’s Applejack. She has helped preserve and grow one of New Jersey’s most historic spirits brands while carrying its legacy into the 10th generation.InfoLaird & Companyhttps://www.lairdandcompany.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2007Why This Episode MattersIf you’ve ever wondered why some salmon, oysters, or tomatoes taste better than others, this episode gets into the reasons.Jon Rowley explains how better fish handling changed the reputation of Copper River salmon.He breaks down why oysters pair well with only certain wines and how American oyster culture faded and returned.The conversation also explores compost, soil health, and its impact on flavorThe big idea here is simple: great flavor starts long before food reaches the plate.The BanterMark and Francis open with a conversation about the rise of “under the radar” bars and restaurants in Manhattan: places with no sign, no published number, or a deliberate effort to avoid becoming the next overcrowded hotspot. They talk through the difference between true neighborhood-style discretion and exclusivity used as marketing, with stops at Milk & Honey, Pegu Club, and the Waverly Inn.The ConversationJon Rowley joins the show with the kind of résumé that makes food people pay attention. A former commercial fisherman, Rowley helped develop the fresh market for Copper River salmon. He explains how fish are handled dramatically improves flavor and texture.The conversation then shifts to oysters, where Rowley discusses the Pacific Coast Oyster Wine Competition, finding wines to flatter oysters, and how American oyster culture disappeared and then slowly returned. He also talks about the role oysters play in healthier waterways.In the final segment, Rowley turns from sea to soil. He talks compost, organic matter, and why healthier soil leads to more flavorful produce. It is a wide-ranging conversation, but the theme is consistent: better food comes from understanding the systems behind it.Time Stamps0:00 – Banter: the appeal and limits of “under the radar” bars and restaurants8:25 – Jon Rowley joins: fisherman, oyster expert, and advocate for better flavor9:40 – How Copper River salmon went from canned commodity to prized fresh fish12:20 – The ideal fish-handling process16:00 – Oysters and wine: what actually works and why19:40 – The return of oyster culture in America22:20 – Clean water matters for oysters and for their ecosystems 25:15 – Mulling over compost: why soil health changes the flavor of produceGuest BioJon Rowley was a food consultant known for elevating the way chefs and consumers think about flavor. He helped establish the fresh market for Copper River salmon, championed oysters culture on the West Coast by founding Pacific Coast Oyster Wine Competition, and promoted soil health as pathway to better tasting food.InfoJon’s obituaryDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersA defining New York restaurant story about how Blue Ribbon helped reshape late-night dining in downtown ManhattanA look at hospitality that lasts through warmth, consistency, personality, and a refusal to chase trendsA strong listen for restaurant people interested in staff culture, regulars, restaurant identity, and long-term successReal industry history from chef hangout culture to a driven modelPlenty of memorable stories including old New York, Blue Ribbon Sushi, long-term employees, and the failed concept that came before itThe BanterMark and Francis open with Francis describing a solo night in New York that included a flamenco performance Mark would not enjoy and a stop for cigars at the Carnegie Club, a place completely comfortable being exactly what it is.The ConversationEric and Bruce Bromberg, the brothers behind Blue Ribbon, join the show to talk about building one of downtown New York’s most influential restaurants. They discuss the Paris brasserie model that inspired Blue Ribbon, how the restaurant became a late-night home for chefs and restaurant people, and why hospitality mattered more than exclusivity.They also share the story of the failed concept that preceded Blue Ribbon, the dramatic rebuild that led to its opening, and the values that shaped the restaurant from the beginning. Along the way, they talk about legendary staff members, the role of oysters in Blue Ribbon’s identity, the opening of Blue Ribbon Sushi, and the long view required to build restaurants that endure.Time Stamps0:00 – Opening banter: Francis’s solo night out, flamenco, and the Carnegie Club6:10 – Eric and Bruce Bromberg join the show. How Blue Ribbon changed late-night dining in New York15:00 – Blue Ribbon’s style of hospitality20:45 – Alonzo, oysters, and the front-of-room identity of Blue Ribbon29:50– The Crystal Room, tearing it apart, and rebuilding as Blue Ribbon39:43 – Blue Ribbon Sushi, key people and rethinking Japanese restaurant hospitality51:30 – Building legacy establishments, designing a menu you love, and creating restaurants that last58:59 – The Guys’ mob storyGuest BioEric and Bruce Bromberg are the brothers behind Blue Ribbon Restaurants, the hospitality group that began with Blue Ribbon Brasserie in SoHo in 1992. Over the years, they expanded the brand into multiple concepts, including Blue Ribbon Sushi and Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken, while building a reputation for strong hospitality, late-night dining, and restaurant culture built to last.InfoBlue Ribbon Restaurants https://www.blueribbonrestaurants.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2005Why This Episode MattersMaster Sommelier Roger Dagorn joins Mark Pascal and Francis Schott for a thoughtful conversation about how wine service was evolving in America in the mid-2000s.The episode explores what a great sommelier actually does: guide, educate, and make guests feel comfortable rather than intimidated.Roger talks about the growing professionalism of the restaurant and wine worlds, the increasing knowledge of American diners, and the importance of clear communication at the table.The conversation also covers sake in fine dining, how to talk about wine budget in a restaurant, how scores affect guests’ choices, and why cheese courses matter.The ConversationRoger Dagorn, then the wine director, maître d’, and Master Sommelier at Chanterelle, joins The Guys to discuss the changing role of wine in American dining. He reflects on how restaurant work became a more respected profession, how education helped grow a new generation of wine professionals, and why New York became one of the world’s great wine markets. The conversation moves through sake service, talking to a sommelier about budget, balancing scores and real dining experience, and the role of a well-run cheese course in a serious restaurant.Time Stamps1:00 – Roger Dagorn joins; Chanterelle, Master Sommelier status, and the growing professionalism of hospitality3:10 – New York is one of the world’s great wine markets8:35 – How Chanterelle became an early adopter of sake pairings in fine dining11:35 – How diners can talk to a sommelier about budget more comfortably16:00 – Great bottles at different price points and what matters at the table21:15 – Chanterelle’s cheese course and the return of serious cheese serviceGuest BioRoger Dagorn is a Master Sommelier, longtime wine director, and maître d’ known for his work at Chanterelle in Manhattan. One of the early Master Sommeliers in the United States, he built a reputation for exceptional wine knowledge, generous hospitality, and a warm, unpretentious approach to service.InfoAbout Roger https://www.wineandspiritsmagazine.com/free-reads/great-wine-mentors-roger-dagornCourt of Master Sommeliers of Americashttps://www.mastersommeliers.org/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersEamon Rockey has worked at the highest levels of restaurant service, cocktail culture, beverage education, and spirits production, giving him a rare view across the industry.The conversation looks at how fine-dining standards, bar technique, and product development intersect in the real world.Mark, Francis, and Eamon dig into the difference between useful innovation and performative cocktail prep.The episode also explores what happens when hospitality people move into sales and brand-building.The Banter Mark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show with stories: one that makes carrying bitters in your bowling bag seem entirely reasonable, and a highly sophisticated scam that nearly got $1,500.The Conversation Eamon Rockey talks about his path from Eleven Madison Park to Betony, where he helped build one of New York’s standout fine-dining rooms and developed the clarified milk punch that influenced cocktail world. Rockey reflects on restaurant service, beverage instruction, and the evolution of Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur.Time Stamps0:00 – Opening banter: a failed cocktail and a near-miss scam8:40 – Eamon Rockey joins12:30 – Betony: origin, success and closing18:30 – Clarified milk punch and Rockey’s role in bringing it back24:00 – Cocktail culture: when technique stops helping the drink32:00 – Teaching at ICE36:40 – Different types of sales and skills required46:45 – Rockey’s Milk Punch to Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur & where to find it54:00 –  Mark and Francis discuss teaching at ICE in March 2020 Guest Bio Eamon Rockey is a hospitality professional, beverage educator, and spirits entrepreneur whose career includes roles at Eleven Madison Park and Betony. He launched Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur, a spirits brand rooted in his long-standing work with clarified milk punch.Info Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur rockeysliquer.comHow to Make Milk Punch https://youtu.be/BwlwFNyMqo0?si=zA33suspiHmapn7SDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2007.Why This Episode MattersBaking isn’t magic; it’s chemistry. Gail explains ingredient function so you can so you can bake with intention rather than habitLearn how to substitute intelligently (yogurt for buttermilk, butter vs lard, etc.) without sabotaging structure The episode is packed with practical fundamentals: tools, pantry essentials, pie crust fat choices, and why ice cream flavors must be stronger before freezing.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open with a recap of a “Duckathlon” with other restaurants— assessing steak, cheese, birds, and brandy. They then pivot hard into food-label transparency and why consumers should be allowed to know what’s been done to their food.The ConversationGail Sokol joins to explain why baking differs from cooking and what you need to  know.  She breaks down how acid-base reactions relate to texture and how her book teaches technique. They also get into real-world home baking: what tools matter, what belongs in your pantry, why lard makes flaky crust, and how to make ice cream that doesn’t taste flat once frozen. (Caution: May require sampling.)Timestamps0:00 – “Duckathlon” recap: IDing steak, cheese & mystery birds4:40 – FDA labeling debate: transparency vs “choice” rhetoric9:30 – Gail Sokol joins: baking is science, leavening explained17:10 – Why her book teaches methods: visuals, steps, and understanding ingredient roles20:40 – Home baker essentials: mixer, bowls, spatulas, & whisks 24:00 – Pie crust: butter vs lard; why blends work29:40 – Ice cream fundamentals: pre-chilling, flavor “punch,” serving temperatureGuest BioGail Sokol is an award-winning professional baker and college-level baking instructor. She’s the author of About Professional Baking: The Essentials, a fundamentals-first baking guide focused on methods, ingredient function, and technique.Show InfoAbout Professional BakingBy Gail SokolGail’s site https://chefgailsokol.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersWhat happens after a reality cooking show and how to convert exposure into growthScaling a wholesale bakery: space, equipment and financingWhy wholesale can be a sustainable alternative to retail Every entrepreneur underestimates two things: money and time.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show reflecting on why service still defines the dining experience. They also debate whether good wine tastes the same when enjoyed at the sink while doing dishes as it does at the table.The ConversationDanielle Sepsy, founder of The Hungry Gnome and known as the Scone Queen, shares how she leveraged a reality cooking competition into meaningful wholesale expansion. The conversation explores scaling a wholesale bakery, building long-term retail partnerships, and the discipline required to move from local success to broader commercial reach. Danielle also discusses her new cookbook, where she reveals the secret recipes behind The Hungry Gnome’s signature baked goods, and how the book, along with her social media account, can support both brand growth and customer connection.Timestamps0:00 – Opening Banter: Service, Hospitality & the River Palm Terrace6:15 – Why Wine Tastes Better at a Restaurant10:00 – Danielle Sepsy Joins: The Hungry Gnome & “Scone Queen”14:45 – Post-Show Growth: 5000% Spike & Expansion17:03 – Why Wholesale Works: Volume, Sanity & Sustainability27:35 – The Cookbook: Revealing the Recipes34:00 – Wrap Up: Capital, Delays & Opening a BusinessGuest BioDanielle Sepsy is the founder and chef behind The Hungry Gnome, a wholesale bakery known for its scones and specialty baked goods served in cafés throughout the New York area. She was crowned the “Scone Queen” on The Big Brunch, earning national attention and accelerating the growth of her business. Danielle is also the author of The Scone Queen Bakes, where she shares the recipes behind her most requested creations.Show InfoThe Scone Queen Bakes: 100 Recipes for Scones, Muffins, Cookies, and Cakes from the Founder of The Hungry Gnome: A CookbookBy Danielle SepsyDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Vintage episode (2006)Why This Episode MattersThe Guys dissect classic “wine gaffes” and the social survival tactics that follow.Susan Ridley explains why Hendry’s vineyard site matters: cool maritime influence, rocky soils and foothill elevation A look at vineyard thinking from a grower-driven perspective, where farming stress, decades of experience, and selectivity shape the wine.Wine dinners are the best “real-world” wine education: food changes everything.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open with wine-party etiquette wars. How to prevent your “special bottle” from being shelved like an unwanted candle and why perfume at tastings should be a misdemeanor.The ConversationSusan Ridley (Brookside Ranch) joins to tell the accidental origin story of becoming George Hendry’s partner—starting with dinner at the neighbor’s house and ending with a serious winery built on one vineyard, no purchased fruit. The Guys dig into what makes Hendry’s site in Napa’s cooler corner so distinctive, why vineyard stress and rocky soils can produce better wine, and how wine dinners teach pairing in a way tastings never can. Along the way: vineyard tours with a pith-helmeted nuclear physicist, Napa seasonality, legendary blackberry jam, and the screw cap vs. cork debate.Timestamps0:00 – Welcome + Natalie MacLean’s “Grapes of Gaffe” 2:15 – Having your host ignore your bottle, too much perfume and “off” bottles9:00 – Guest Introduction: Susan Ridley, Brookside Ranch and Hendry Wines12:50 – Hendry vineyard location, elevation, and rocky soils15:45 – George Hendry, farmer and nuclear physicist 20:40 – Wine dinners and lessons they teach23:13 – Brookside Ranch B&B + Napa seasonality29:00 – Screw caps vs. cork closures discussionGuest BioSusan Ridley was a partner in Hendry Wines in Napa Valley and proprietor of Brookside Ranch, a historic bed-and-breakfast neighboring the Hendry estate. She worked closely with grower-winemaker George Hendry on communicating the winery’s vineyard-first philosophy and focus on estate fruit. Susan passed away in 2025.InfoHendry Wines https://www.hendrywines.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersWhy food that reflects place matters more than Michelin prestige.How Xtreme Foodies connects global travelers with local culinary experts.Why tasting-menu fine dining is starting to feel formulaic—and what’s replacing it.From Texas barbecue to Neapolitan pizza, a conversation about food, identity, and memory.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show debating shepherd’s pie, Irish–Mexican culinary mashups, and a tequila origin story that sounds questionable… until the first sip.The ConversationJeffrey Merrihue, founder of Xtreme Foodies, joins the Guys to explore why regional food tells a deeper story than luxury dining. From the evolution of barbecue and pizza to overtourism in Japan and the fatigue of modern tasting menus, the conversation challenges how—and why—we travel to eat.Timestamps0:00 – The Banter: Shepherd’s pie and Irish–Mexican mashups6:04 – The Conversation: Jeffrey Merrihue and Xtreme Foodies12:00 – Fine dining and the loss of place21:15 – Texas barbecue: heritage vs Michelin craft30:35 – Pizza regionalism: Naples and New York37:55 – Overtourism and Japan41:05 – L’Ami Louis and the limits of prestige47:05 – Wrap UpGuest BioJeffrey Merrihue is the founder of Xtreme Foodies, a global culinary community connecting travelers with local food experts in more than 200 cities. A longtime writer and world traveler, he focuses on food that reflects regional identity rather than globalized luxury dining.Guest InfoXtreme Foodies https://www.xtremefoodies.com/The World’s Tastiest Chicken https://xtremefoodies.substack.com?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=webDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2006.This is just a teaser from a bonus episode for our subscribers. If you'd like to become a Restaurant Guys' Regular and listen to the entire episode and other commercial-free episodes, subscribe at https://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.comWhy This Episode MattersThe episode examines how food, sexuality, and culture have always been intertwinedIt reframes restaurants not just as places to eat, but as stages where intimacy, power, and identity play out.The conversation challenges assumptions about aphrodisiacs, gendered foods, and the social rituals that shape how we dine.The episode challenges listeners to rethink how memory, status, and convenience foods quietly shape our relationships and our restaurant habits.The BanterA story about a proposal gone painfully wrong sets the tone as Mark Pascal and Francis Schott explore the unpredictable theater of romance in restaurants. From first dates to long-married couples who’ve forgotten how to talk, they reflect on what they've learned about human connection from a lifetime in the dining room.The ConversationAuthor and food historian Bunny Crumpacker talks about The Sex Life of Food: When Body and Soul Meet to Eat, a wide-ranging exploration of how food symbolism, cultural taboos, and dining rituals intersect with sexuality and identity. The discussion moves from aphrodisiac myths and gendered foods to class signals, fast food culture, and the emotional meaning behind what and how we eat. Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to The Restaurant Guys01:50 – Banter: Romance, proposals, and restaurant observations08:35 – Bunny Crumpacker on the purpose of her book15:02 – Aphrodisiacs, an-aphrodesiacs and food symbolism17:43 – Class, culture, and how food defines us23:06 – Convenience foods, restaurant meals and home cooking32:22 – Wrap-up and final thoughtsBioBunny Crumpacker is a columnist, food historian, and the author of 7 books including The Sex Life of Food: When Body and Soul Meet to Eat, a cultural exploration of the relationship between eating, identity, and intimacy.InfoBunny’s book: The Sex Life of Food: When Body and Soul Meet to EatDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why You Should ListenWhat “closing time” really means — and why restaurants, and their staff, should honor what they promiseAn inside peak at Valentine’s Day operations, ticket flow, and why larger tables can ease pressure on the kitchenThe Guys react to mass spectrometry and a look at tequila additivesEgg price spikes, labeling myths, yolk color tricks, and a smart baking tip when extra-large eggs cost lessThe BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott kick things off with post–Valentine’s Day reflections and the realities of running a dining room during peak nights. The Guys pull back the curtain on expediting, ticket management, and the small operational decisions diners rarely see. They share how shifting celebrations beyond February 14th can ease pressure on both restaurants and relationships.The ConversationThe Guys dive into a wide-ranging Inside Track discussion sparked by the @MassSpecEverything channel, exploring mass spectrometry and spirits—from alleged additives in tequila to why common hand-rub tests don’t reveal everything. The talk moves to Coca-Cola lore, including what *really makes Mexican Coke special.Eggs take center stage as they unpack price spikes linked to bird flu, pasture-raised labeling, feed-driven nutritional differences, and how yolk color can be manipulated. They share a practical tip for bakers: extra-large eggs sometimes cost less than large, but be sure to adjust your recipe!Finally, Mark and Francis debate what a restaurant’s posted closing time should actually mean and that clear communication and consistent standards define the guest experience long after the meal ends.Time Stamps0:00 – The Banter: Valentine’s Day Reflections6:03 – Tequila Meets the Mass Spectrometer9:53 – Coca-Cola: Regional Differences & Taste Myths12:50 – Eggs: Scandal, Prices, Labels & Bargains23:06 – What “Closing Time” Means to the Restaurant28:02 – What “Closing Time” Means to the DinerInfoMass Spec Everythinghttps://linktr.ee/mymassspecworldYou Don’t Want Dessert, Do You?by Frank Lanzkron-TamarazoDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2005.Why You Should ListenAn early, still-relevant look at sustainable seafoodWhat “dirty fishing” and bycatch really meanPractical advice for diners and restaurateursA snapshot of the 2005 Endangered Species Act debateThe BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott react to a “health study” revealing that water is still king. The Guys spiral into soda culture, marketing myths, and one of the strangest beverage ideas of the era: nicotine beer.The ConversationBeth Lowell of Oceana joins The Restaurant Guys to ask the big question: can we keep eating fish the way we do now? She breaks down bycatch, sea turtles, and the hidden cost of industrial fishing — and explains how simple gear changes can reduce harm without shutting fishermen down. The Guys bring a restaurateur’s perspective to overfishing, mercury contamination, and the future of seafood.The Inside TrackThe Guys argue for common-sense conservation: not less seafood — smarter sourcing so there’s still fish worth serving years from now.Time Stamps3:00 Water vs. soda6:00 Nicotine beer8:00 Beth Lowell joins9:20 Bycatch explained18:09 How Oceana helps25:41 What fish to eat or avoid28:28 Endangered Species Act (2005)34:05 Wrap-upGuest BioBeth Lowell is an Ocean Wildlife Advocate with Oceana, an international organization focused on science-based ocean conservation and sustainable fishing practices.From the ShowOceana – oceana.orgMonterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch guides –  seafoodwatch.orgDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why You Should ListenFrom television and advertising to building Asheville’s restaurant sceneHow fine dining, farm-to-table thinking, and wine culture shaped a food townThe 2008 crisis and a pivot to neighborhood Italian that lastedWhat Hurricane Helene revealed about restaurants as community lifelinesThe BanterRestaurateurs Mark Pascal and Francis Schott set the table with stories starting with Mark’s Uber Eats account taking a hit when his kids order Papa John’s. The banter detours into “taste credit scores,” childhood jobs, and practical tips on chopping onions without the tears.The ConversationEric Scheffer, a defining voice in Asheville’s food scene, shares how he left Los Angeles for a then-sleepy mountain town with few restaurants, buying a modest space and transforming it into The Savoy—white tablecloths, a serious wine program, and a dining scene energized by transplants and early farm-to-table momentum. The Guys explore what made Asheville fertile ground prior to the 2008 financial crisis and Eric’s pivot toward affordable, nostalgic Italian-American comfort that resonated deeply, along the way touching on Cindy Lauper, a makeover for a bank loan, and why collaboration beats competition.The Inside TrackHurricane Helene becomes the proof point: restaurant people feed people. Eric describes coordinating water, reopening kitchens, helping operators get online, and leaning on relationships to mobilize quickly. The Guys connect this to their core belief that independent restaurants aren’t food dispensaries; they’re community infrastructure.Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to The Restaurant Guys 02:00 – Uber Eats scandal & childhood hustles 08:00 – Introducing Eric Scheffer: from Brooklyn and LA to Asheville 17:45 – Cindy Lauper and fitting in North Carolina 20:25 – Hurricane Helene: restaurants feeding the community 32:21 – Wrap-up and the Guys’ take on “B markets”Guest BioEric Scheffer is a restaurateur and hospitality leader based in Asheville, North Carolina. Originally from Brooklyn, he left a career in television and advertising to build The Savoy into a nationally recognized fine-dining destination with a serious wine program. After the 2008 financial crisis, he shifted toward neighborhood-driven concepts and became a founding force behind the Asheville Independent Restaurant Association.Infohttps://www.thescheffergroup.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2005.Why This Episode MattersHow globalization began reshaping wine style, taste, and production in the early 2000sWhy market pressure and critical consensus can lead to homogenized winesThe tension between wines made for place versus wines made for approvalWhat is lost when tradition and restraint give way to international samenessA timeless argument for authenticity, terroir, and consumer responsibilityThe BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show reflecting on recent dining experiences and a private screening of Mondo Vino as a lens into the changing wine world.The ConversationNeal Rosenthal, one of America’s most influential wine importers, joins Mark and Francis to examine the impact of globalization on the wine industry. The conversation explores how powerful markets and critics shape production decisions, often at the expense of regional character. Rosenthal celebrates wines that express place, and challenges consumers to protect them.Timestamps02:13 – Mondo Vino and the globalization debate11:01 – Globalization’s impact on wine style14:00 – Consumer responsibility in the wine market15:44 – The homogenization of wine21:22 – Sustainable agriculture and authenticity28:40 – Ageability and identifying quality wines35:54 – Wrap-upBioNeal Rosenthal is an American wine importer and founder of Neal Rosenthal Selections, known for championing small, family-run producers and wines that express terroir.InfoNeal's company www.rosenthalwinemerchant.com/Mondovino (2004) on Tubihttps://tubitv.com/movies/506270/mondovino?start=true&tracking=google-feed&utm_source=google-feedDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Why This Episode MattersBartenders are central to hospitality cultureIndustry legacy plays a critical role in preserving bar professionalism Non-alcoholic cocktails require intention, balance, and structureThe future of the bar depends on respecting craft while adapting to changeThe BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show riffing on old-school hospitality, handwritten reservation books, and whether pencil-and-paper elegance can survive the modern restaurant world.The ConversationRyan Foley shares his perspective on bartending as a profession shaped by history, mentorship, and responsibility. The discussion traces the legacy of his father, Ray Foley, founder of the Bartender Hall of Fame, and examines how Bartender Magazine has long served as an advocate for bartenders and bar culture. Together, they explore how foundational skills intersect with the modern craft cocktail movement—and why non-alcoholic cocktails deserve the same respect as their spirited counterparts.Timestamps00:00 – Talk of analog reservation taking becoming trendy9:50 – Ryan Foley joins /Bartender Magazine and bartender advocacy22:30 – The Bartender Hall of Fame35:36 – How bartending skills and expectations have evolved42:38 – Ryan’s book Non-Alcoholic Drinks for Dummies53:24 – Non-alcoholic cocktails and building drinks with intention1:00:00 – Wrap Up 80s DrinksBioRyan Foley is a hospitality industry publisher whose family owns Bartender Magazine and Bartender.com, continuing a legacy of advocacy for bartenders, bar culture, and the craft behind the bar.InfoWebsite: https://www.bartender.comFor the Fuzzy Navel and Cold Brew Martini recipes, email [email protected] DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage episode from 2011.Episode DescriptionMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show with reflections on family vacations and the waning of independent restaurants where distinctive dishes are still made in-house.They are joined by Gabrielle Hamilton, chef and longtime owner of Prune in New York City, for a candid conversation about her memoir Blood, Bones & Butter and the experiences that shaped her life in food. Gabrielle reflects on her upbringing, her restless teenage years traveling and cooking, and the path that ultimately led her to the kitchen.The discussion explores the pressure of culinary fame and wealth, and why authenticity and independence have always mattered more to Gabrielle than attention. Insightful, opinionated, and timeless, this episode captures a chef—and an industry—at a pivotal moment.Timestamps00:00 – Opening banter: travel, family, and restaurant culture09:18 – Gabrielle joins the conversation17:08 – Early life, travel, and formative experiences27:57 – Prune: food, philosophy, and hospitality33:10 – Iron Chef, fame, and closing thoughtsGuest BioGabrielle Hamilton is the chef and longtime owner of Prune, the influential New York City restaurant. She is the author of the bestselling memoir Blood, Bones & Butter, which chronicles her life, travels, and uncompromising relationship with food.Guest InformationBook: Blood, Bones & ButterDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott return to the restaurant floor with stories about hospitality as a lifelong condition—why you never stop working the room, why saying “goodnight” at lunch still feels natural, and how unusual guests and moments are part of the job. The Guys share a truly unsettling encounter with a guest who can’t eat meat and reflect on why restaurant life is a magnet for stories you can’t make up.The ConversationThe Guys sit down with Noah Rothbaum, spirits writer and author of The Whiskey Bible, to talk about how whiskey’s real history has been buried under decades of marketing and myth. Noah explains his goal of writing a book that welcomes casual drinkers while still rewarding experts—and why deep research often reveals stories far better than the legends.They explore how whiskey nearly vanished in the 1970s, how the modern revival took shape, and why understanding the backstory makes every drink more meaningful.The Inside TrackThis episode covers the turning points that shaped today’s whiskey world, including:Booker Noe and Elmer T. Lee’s role in creating small batch and single barrel bourbonWhy barrel differences were once hidden—and are now celebratedHow regional whiskey styles actually differWhy adding water or ice is part of the tradition, not a weaknessProhibition’s long shadow BioNoah Rothbaum is the author of The Whiskey Bible, editor-at-large for Bartender Magazine, spirits editor for Men’s Journal, founding editor-in-chief of Liquor.com, a fellow of the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits, and a Kentucky Colonel. His work has earned awards from the James Beard Foundation, Tales of the Cocktail, and the American Library Association.InfoNoah's bookThe Whiskey Bible: A Complete Guide to the World's Greatest SpiritDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Episode Description This is a Vintage Selection from 2005. Chef, author, and Saveur editor Melissa Hamilton joins the Restaurant Guys to talk about community feasts, food culture, and the role shared meals play in bringing people together. The conversation centers on the joy of cooking for one another.The BanterMark and Francis reflect on restaurant culture in the mid-2000s, touching on critics, clever reviews, and the era of the snooty maître d’—setting the stage for a broader discussion about how food and restaurants were experienced at the time.The ConversationThe Guys welcome Melissa Hamilton, chef turned food writer and editor at Saveur. Melissa discusses community feasts, collaborative cooking, and how shared meals shaped restaurant culture and food writing in the early 2000s. The conversation explores food as a social act, the importance of gathering around the table, and how publications like Saveur supported these ideas.The Inside TrackThe Guys share why Melissa’s restaurant has long been one of their favorites and how her work bridges the restaurant world and food writing.Guest BioMelissa Hamilton is a chef, author, and food writer who served as an editor at Saveur magazine. With experience in both kitchens and publishing, she brought a thoughtful, community-focused perspective to food storytelling in the early 2000s.Timestamps00:00 – Episode Start 03:30 – Restaurant Reviews in the Mid-2000s 08:40 – Melissa Hamilton Joins the Conversation 12:40 – What’s Great about Saveur Magazine15:15 – Community Feasts and Dinner Parties 22:00 – Cohesive Articles and Themes in Saveur35:00 – Wrap Up with an Amusing Ad InfoRuth Reichl episode of The Restaurant Guyshttps://www.restaurantguyspodcast.com/2390435/episodes/17591435-ruth-reichl-critic-in-disguise-vDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Episode DescriptionMark Pascal and Francis Schott share stories from recent travels through Ireland and Austria on this travel food podcast, exploring wine, history, and memorable restaurant experiences along the way. From pub culture and historic cities to standout meals abroad, the episode ends with a cautionary tale from a marina restaurant in Florida—and what it reveals about hospitality.The ConversationFrancis recounts his journey through Ireland and Austria, including visits with family and friends in Belfast, Dublin, and Vienna. He shares observations on pub culture, regional dining, wine, and historic landmarks, along with practical travel tips for Austria. The discussion highlights how context, culture, and the small details intersect when you travel well.The Inside TrackMark shares a cautionary tale from a marina restaurant in West Palm Beach, underscoring why location alone doesn’t guarantee good hospitality. The episode closes with lessons on service, expectations, and what truly makes a restaurant worth returning to.Timestamps00:00 – Vacations in January03:30 – Ireland: Homey Pubs to Luxury Hotels7:40 – Ireland: Historic Sites While Traveling16:10 – Austria: The Place and People21:35 – Austria: Wine and Dining Recommendations32:40 – A cautionary tale from West Palm BeachInfoIrelandMrs. O’s Bar at the Merchant Hotelhttps://www.themerchanthotel.com/AustriaHotel Topazz & Laméehttps://www.hoteltopazzlamee.com/Vinothekhttps://www.vinothek1.at/Heunisch & Erbenwww.heunisch.atDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage Selection from 2005Episode DescriptionMary Ann Esposito, pioneering host of PBS’s Ciao Italia, the longest running cooking show, joins the Restaurant Guys to discuss authentic Italian cooking before it was trendy. The conversation explores traditional Italian cuisine, regional cooking, food television, and how Italian food in America drifted from its roots.The BanterThe Restaurant Guys open with a candid—and humorous—discussion of dieting culture in America, demonized foods, and what happens after a few months of eating sausage and whipped cream. The ConversationThe Guys welcome Mary Ann Esposito, the host of PBS’s Ciao Italia and one of the earliest voices of authentic Italian cooking on American television. Mary Ann reflects on teaching traditional Italian cuisine, the foundations of regional cooking, and how Italian-American food evolved away from its origins. She also shares practical insights on bringing authenticity back into everyday cooking—without turning weeknight dinner into a chore.The Inside TrackMark and Francis reconnect with Mary Ann, recalling a memorable visit at their New Brunswick, NJ restaurant in 2005. They revisit her long-running culinary tours to Italy—and discover she’s still hosting them in 2026—proving that some food traditions don’t just endure, they keep evolving.Timestamps01:12 – What’s Wrong with a Pasta Dinner? 02:07 – Bad Diet Trends and Misunderstood Italian Food 06:35 – Mary Ann Esposito and Family Recipes 12:15 – The Cuisine of Sicily and Regional Italian Cooking 20:00 – The Quest for the Perfect Cannoli 24:30 – Preserving Authentic Italian Cuisine 29:30 – Finding Time to Cook Well at Home 32:00 – Leaving a Legacy in FoodBioMary Ann Esposito is the longtime host of PBS’s Ciao Italia and a leading voice in Italian cooking in America. An award-winning author and teacher, she has spent decades sharing traditional Italian cuisine and shaping how home cooks understand regional Italian food.InfoMary Ann’s recipes, tours and other infohttps://www.ciaoitalia.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

From kitchens around the world to cocktail media, why it’s time to talk about cooking with boozeThe ConversationIn this episode of The Restaurant Guys Podcast, hosts Mark Pascal and Francis Schott head to Brooklyn to record at the new studio of Tim McKirdy.Tim McKirdy shares his unconventional career path, from cooking in kitchens in London and Buenos Aires to becoming an influential writer in drinks journalism at VinePair, where he hosted the popular Cocktail College podcast. The conversation dives into Tim’s newest project, Sauced, a podcast he co-hosts with Sother Teague, dedicated to cooking with booze and and building cocktails that are designed for the dinner table, not just the bar.Along the way, the Guys dig into shifting restaurant culture, the evolution of kitchen environment and why food goes with drink and drink goes with food. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, practical insights, and plenty of New York City restaurant and bar recommendations from people who live this stuff daily.If you care about food media, modern mixology, or the intersection of kitchens and cocktails, this episode is a must-listen.BioTim McKirdy is a former chef turned drinks journalist and podcast host. After cooking professionally in London and Buenos Aires, he joined VinePair, where he hosted the popular Cocktail College podcast and was managing editor. He now co-hosts Sauced with Sother Teague, exploring cooking with booze & drinking with food.InfoSauced Podcast https://sauced.supercast.com/The Restaurant Guys on Cocktail Collegehttps://vinepair.com/cocktail-college/episode-200-special/Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & recording in Brooklyn02:30 – Tim McKirdy’s early cooking career abroad25:20 – From chef to VinePair and Cocktail College41:48 – Launching Sauced: cooking with alcohol explained52:56 – NYC restaurant & bar recommendationsDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage Selection from 2005Ever wonder how great restaurant wine lists actually come together — and why some completely miss the mark?The BanterThe Guys tell stories of their “glamorous” lives being restaurateurs that (surprisingly) involves more plumbers than they ever expected. The ConversationIn this episode, The Restaurant Guys are joined by Chris Goodhart, wine buyer for Keith McNally’s restaurants in New York City, to talk about what really goes into building a wine program that serves both adventurous drinkers and everyday guests.Chris shares stories from the floor, how he balances budgets with taste, and the quiet pressures behind the scenes when a bottle selection can make or break a dining experience.The guys also dig into a fascinating moment in time: the impending smoking ban, how it changed drinking culture, and what restaurants had to rethink overnight — from bar traffic to wine styles that suddenly tasted different without smoke in the room.The Inside TrackThe Guys catch up with friend Chris Goodhardt and have a thoughtful, practical, and full of the kind of perspective you only get from people who live inside restaurants.Timestamps00:00 — Setting the stage: running restaurants in 200509:18 — What’s it like to run a wine program15:00 — Building wine lists for various venues20:00 — Chris’ opinion of The Michelin Guide in NYC26:20 — How to take the pretentiousness out of the wine experience32:40 — Corks and Screw Tops 35:27 — How Smoking Bans Change the Way People DrinkBioChris Goodhart is a veteran New York City wine buyer, working for Keith McNally’s restaurant group, known for building thoughtful, guest-friendly wine programs that balance discovery, value, and hospitality.Info Keith McNally’s Balthazar, etc.https://balthazarny.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

California whiskey isn’t just a trend — it’s challenging bourbon’s throne.First, The Guys talk about recent dining experiences including being escorted into a bar, and too much salt. Then, The Restaurant Guys meet up in-person with Jeff Duckhorn, Head Distiller at Redwood Empire, to talk about why West Coast whiskey tastes different, ages differently, and is suddenly showing up on serious back bars.Jeff breaks down how climate impacts the barrel, why blending is a true craft, and what separates marketing myths from reality.  They taste through several Redwood Empire expressions — talking flavor, structure, and where American whiskey is headed next.If you love whiskey, restaurants, or hearing masters talk shop… pour yourself a dram and enjoy.Timestamps00:00 – Welcome & IntroductionMeet your hosts Mark and Francis, and get a preview of today’s guest, Jeff Duckhorn from Redwood Empire Whiskey.01:57 – Restaurant Talk: Salt, Service, and Industry InsightsThe hosts share stories about recent restaurant experiences, the importance of salt in food, and challenges with the right amount of attention.13:46 – Whiskey Deep Dive with Jeff DuckhornJeff joins the show to discuss why California is a great place for whiskey and what makes Redwood Empire unique.21:19 – Blending, Transparency, and the Art of WhiskeyA look at the blending process, sourcing, and why transparency matters in the modern whiskey world.30:53 – Tasting & Technicals: Bottled in Bond, Rye, and MoreThe team tastes through several whiskeys, explains “bottled in bond,” and explores unique mash bills and flavors.49:41 – Reflections, Stories & ClosingJeff’s journey from accountant to distiller, industry stories, and a final toast.BioJeff Duckhorn is the Master Distiller at Redwood Empire Whiskey in California, where he oversees blending and production across the brand’s growing lineup. At Redwood Empire, he’s helped develop a style that leans into California’s unique conditions while still honoring classic American whiskey traditions.InfoRedwood Empire Whiskeyhttps://redwoodempirewhiskey.com/Events at Stage Left (like the one with Jeff) Sign up for our emailhttps://www.stageleft.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage Selection from 2007The BanterThe Guys discuss food psychology. When it comes to the containers used for fruit juice to M&Ms, size matters.The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys talk with Eric Asimov, wine and spirits writer for the New York Times, about rye whiskey. He details its history, resurgence and highlights some of the excellent choices on the market at the time. You won’t believe the 2007 prices! They also bring awareness to counterfeit wines and how some places are selling more old Bordeaux than was ever made. The Inside TrackThe Guys and Eric talk of a great use for rye–in cocktails.“Rye is a whiskey with a very different sensation from a smooth sweet-ish bourbon. It's much more jangly and it comes alive in your mouth. If you've had Szechuan peppercorns in a Chinese dish, and you get that dancing feeling on the tongue, that's precisely what you get with rye,” Eric Asimov on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2007InfoEric Asimovhttps://www.nytimes.com/by/eric-asimovDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

Vintage episode (2005)The BanterThe Guys talk about the new concept (in 2005) of podcasting and answer some listener questions about sweet corn and sweet looks. The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys are joined by Charlie Palmer shortly after he opened Dry Creek Kitchen in Healdsburg, CA. They talk risk, vision, sourcing relationships, and why Healdsburg was worth betting on long before it became a national dining hotspot. Charlie shares his take on how to keep soul in a restaurant built for travelers and locals.The Inside TrackThe Guys have been admirers of Charlie for years. (Francis even got to be a wine angel for him in Vegas!) They talk about the lengths they all go for their guests to get them the best possible experience. “The only hope that I have is that the diner understands that. Because I think sometimes a lot is taken for granted. But if the diner is educated as to how far we go to get things that are really good for them. It’s amazing!” Charlie Palmer on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2005InfoCharlie Palmerhttps://www.charliepalmer.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys talk about fine dining at the Arctic Circle.  They discuss delicacies like reindeer and seal, and highlight the restaurant's enormous wine list! Naturally their conversation includes their comedic banter (and a comparison of Mark to a tiny reindeer) in this special Christmas episode.InfoJeffrey Merrihue’s articlehttps://open.substack.com/pub/xtremefoodies/p/huset-a-gourmet-miracle-within-the?r=dvua6&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=webHuset Restauranthttps://www.huset.com/New Brunswick New Year’s Evehttps://www.newbrunswicknewyearseve.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is one of the two shows recorded on location at the Food & Wine Classic - Charleston 2025. Maneet ChauhanThe Restaurant Guys welcome ball of fire Maneet Chauhan, accomplished chef, restaurateur and two-time winner of Tournament of Champions. They discuss the beauty of street food and the myth of authentic Indian cuisine. Hear what she has to say when people complain she doesn’t make dishes like their grandmom. Carrie MoreyCarrie Morey of Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit joins The Guys biscuits in hand. She tells the story of her shop and some tips on how to make a great biscuit that the Guys say is the best they’ve ever had!Robert F. MossRobert F. Moss is a restaurant critic, author and Contributing Barbecue Editor for Southern Living magazine, the latter is a title that makes The Guys envious. Robert delves into the regional variations and history of barbecue. He talks about the responsibility of a restaurant reviewer along with some tweaks he would like to make to Michelin Guide of the South.  InfoManeethttps://www.maneetchauhan.com/Callie’s Hot Little Biscuitshttps://calliesbiscuits.com/Robert’s sitehttps://robertfmoss.com/Robert’s Substackhttps://substack.com/@robertfmossRobert’s article about the Michelin Guide in Southern Livinghttps://www.southernliving.com/michelin-south-the-whole-story-11844636Restaurant Guys show from Big Apple BBQhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2390435/episodes/17439027Champagne mentionedAce of SpadesDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is one of the two shows recorded on location at the Food & Wine Classic - Charleston 2025. Our GuestsIvy OdomThe Restaurant Guys catch up with Ivy Odom, Senior Lifestyle Editor at Southern Living Magazine, at the Food & Wine Classic - Charleston. They talk about bourbon, recipes, bacon fat, and how those support her passion for Southern cooking and hospitality. James LondonJames London of Charleston’s Chubby Fish and Seahorse stops by for a chat. Chubby Fish received a mention in the Michelin Guide and spot on The All-Time Eater 38. James describes the democratic method for procuring a table at Chubby Fish and the distinctive service once you are seated. With an eye to the future, James outfitted his new bar Seahorse with the hope we can still get cocktails there in 20 years. Hunter LewisHunter Lewis, editor-in-chief of Food & Wine magazine, shares his perspective on the evolving culinary landscape, the importance of in-person events, and the blend of digital growth to facilitate storytelling. He offers the best hedge against AI domination: human interaction.InfoIvy’s bookhttps://www.ivyodom.com/cookbookIvy @ Southern Livinghttps://www.southernliving.com/author/ivy-odomJames’ placehttps://www.chubbyfishcharleston.com/Hunter @ Food & Winehttps://www.foodandwine.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage Episode from 2006The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys discuss the much-anticipated arrival of the Michelin Guide in New York City, marking the first time the prestigious guide has reviewed restaurants in the United States. They delve into the significance of Michelin stars  and the impact of receiving Michelin stars on restaurants in terms of recognition and business. They highlight some of the newly starred restaurants in New York, such as Per Se, Jean-Georges, and Le Bernardin, and comment on notable inclusions and exclusions. Then, inexplicably, they move on to allergies and fruitcake. The Inside TrackThe Guys talk about fruitcake manufacturers petitioning the FDA to reduce a serving of fruit cake from 4.4 oz to 1.5 oz to keep the calories per serving low.“And so what I would like to say to these fruitcake manufacturers as a result of this petition, we're saying on the air that fruitcake is not only bad, it's bad for you,” Francis Schott on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2006InfoThe 2025 Michelin Guide NYChttps://guide.michelin.com/us/en/new-york-state/new-york/restaurants?sort=distanceDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

The BanterThe Guys answer a listener’s question about one of their favorite topics: Martinis!The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys travel to Charleston, SC to meet up with chef Orlando Pagán at his newly Michelin-starred restaurant Wild Common. They cover tasting menus, health challenges and, for some reason, Dungeons and Dragons. The Inside TrackThe Guys get real with Orlando about taking care of yourself and taking care of those around you.“I preach the same thing to my staff. Ttake care of yourself, take care of your body  because if you take care of your body, then your mind is clear, then you're a better cook, you're a better husband, you're better friend, you know what it might be. And then we all win,” Orlando Pagán on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2025BioChef Orlando Pagán is the chef behind Charleston’s Wild Common, where his inventive, globally inspired tasting menus earned the restaurant a Michelin star. Trained at Johnson & Wales and seasoned in Michelin-level kitchens from Miami to San Francisco, he blends fine-dining precision with the flavors of his Puerto Rican heritage. After rising to Executive Chef at McCrady’s Tavern, he took the helm at Wild Common, where his creativity — and resilience in the face of MS — define his cooking and leadership. InfoWhere do you get a great martini? [email protected] Commonhttps://www.wildcommoncharleston.com/Orlando mentioned Dr. Wahlshttps://terrywahls.com/about/Michelin Guide to the American Southhttps://guide.michelin.com/en/article/michelin-guide-ceremony/all-the-stars-in-the-michelin-guide-to-the-american-southDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

The BanterThe Guys talk about making vinegar and why you have to take care of your mother. The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys welcome writer Rowan Jacobsen to discuss the fifth taste: umami. What is umami? Where does it come from? What pairs well with it? And what does breastmilk have to do with it? Get the skinny from Rowan. The Inside TrackThe Guys happily get the inside track on the health benefits of chocolate. Rowan has made quite an impression on chocolate lovers in his book Chocolate Unwrapped.“Women who I've never seen before walk up to me and say, ‘I think of you every time I eat a piece of chocolate. It's changed my life.’People love that book because it gives them license to do exactly what they want to do anyway,” Rowan Jacobsen on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2006BioRowan Jacobsen is a journalist and author who writes about food, nature and the environment for Harper’s, Scientific American, Smithsonian, The New York Times, and others. He has received awards from the James Beard Foundation and the Society of American Travel Writers. He is the author of nine books, including A Geography of Oysters, Fruitless Fall, and Truffle Hound, which have been named to Best Book of the Year lists by the Washington Post.He is a Nova Media Fellow, researching the science of sun exposure. His new book, In Defense of Sunlight: The Surprising Science of Sun Exposure, will be published on the Summer Solstice, 2026.InfoRowan’s sitehttps://www.rowanjacobsen.com/Has an article in artofeating.comHis bookChocolate UnwrappedPaul Wolfert’s vinegar recipehttps://www.claycoyote.com/816-2/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

The BanterThe Guys talk about actors being waiters and whether that is a good thing.The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys catch up with bar owner and author Neal Bodenheimer. They wax sentimental about their glory days behind the bar, discuss clinging to standards and talk about the trajectory of New Orleans. At some point Mark commits Francis to a whole big thing! The Inside TrackThe Guys, who only briefly met Neal prior to the podcast, were taken by  his commendation.“What an honor to be on with you guys, and thank you so much for what you've done to make my career possible. Because if it's not for you guys doing what you do, there's no way I could have done what I do,” Neal Bodenheimer on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2025BioNeal Bodenheimer is the award-winning New Orleans bartender, bar owner, and hospitality leader best known for founding Cure, the cocktail bar that helped kick off the city’s modern drinks renaissance. A native New Orleanian, he returned home after years in the industry to open CureCo, the group behind Cure, Cane & Table, and other acclaimed projects that blend serious craft with the city’s unmistakable soul.While his bars have won praise and awards, Neal is also a guiding force behind the global cocktail community, serving as a longtime leader of the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, where he helped shape education, philanthropy, and industry standards worldwide.InfoNeal’s bookCure: New Orleans Drinks and How to Mix ’Em from the Award-Winning BarBy Neal Bodenheimer,  Emily TimberlakeCure NOLAhttps://www.curenola.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage Selection from 2005The BanterThe Guys give you the behind the scenes of the first few days of the opening of their second restaurant Catherine Lombardi and why they have to keep a fork handy.The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys speak with Heritage Foods founder Todd Wickstrom about his company’s mission to support family farms by providing high quality products to consumers. He values genetic diversity, transparency and traceability in the food supply. The Guys declare that formula delicious!The Inside TrackThe Guys use Heritage products both personally and in the restaurant. As Todd explains, the way to save some endangered breeds of livestock is to raise them for food.  “What we're trying to really promote, what we are in the end is we are really a conservation movement. We call it conservation by consumption.,” Todd Wickstrom on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2005BioTodd Wickstrom is the co-founder of Heritage Foods USA, a pioneering force in reviving rare, pasture-raised livestock breeds and championing small family farms. A longtime advocate for sustainable agriculture, Todd helped build a national distribution network that connects chefs, home cooks, and producers dedicated to responsible, nose-to-tail eating. His leadership has shaped the modern heritage meat movement, bringing transparency, biodiversity, and farm-to-table ethics to the forefront of American food culture.He has worked for several of the most respected Specialty Food companies in America, including his role as the Managing Partner of Zingerman’s Deli, and as the Chief Operating Officer of Rishi Tea.InfoHeritage Foodshttps://heritagefoods.com/The Meatrixhttps://www.themeatrix.com/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

The BanterThe Guys talk about early days of restaurant-ing and how taking reservations over the phone led to scammers as well as long-time patrons. (Francis may even cry.)The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys welcome an icon in their field: Drew Nieporent! Drew has been behind some of the most acclaimed restaurants world-wide. Listen to his experiences and stories from his decades as a restaurateur and a pioneer in hospitality. The Inside TrackThe Guys have followed Drew’s career and methods since they became restaurateurs. Whether it’s dealing with unruly guests and bartenders on the take or nuturing steadfast regulars and devoted employees, they’ve seen it all! The Guys loved the book and feel it reflects the attitude of Drew and his career.Francis: Your book is full of really amazing stories and what I like about you is, and it comes through clearly in your book, there's a lot of insight and there's a little bit of f- you. That's really part of your personality that comes through and I really like it. Drew: That's true.-Drew Nieporent on The Restaurant Guys PodcastBioDrew Nieporent is one of America’s most influential restaurateurs, the force behind Myriad Restaurant Group and the visionary who helped shape New York’s dining scene for more than three decades. Known for creating iconic destinations like Tribeca Grill, Nobu, Corton and Montrachet, he’s partnered with culinary legends and Hollywood heavyweights while championing hospitality at the highest level. His restaurants have earned Michelin stars, James Beard Awards, and global acclaim. In fall 2025 he released a memoir I'm Not Trying To Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches.InfoDrew’s bookI'm Not Trying To Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches.By Drew NieporentDale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]

This is a Vintage Selection from 2005The BanterThe Guys tell of an unnecessary battle: it’s curtains!The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys welcome wine and restaurant critic Peter Schleimer from his home in Austria. They talk about grape-loving birds, where to get authentic Austrian food and some wine recommendations that are still good advice today. The Inside ScoopThe Guys have spent time eating and drinking  with Peter both in the U.S. and in Austria. They ask him about the rise in popularity of Austrian wines at the time.“The main reason is that we just have extremely interesting varieties. We have stuff other countries don't have and that's the secret. We have great varieties that are first of all, unique and second of all, interesting,  too. It doesn't help if they're only unique and they and the wines suck,” Peter Schleimer on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2005BioPeter Schleimer worked in the Austrian wine industry, specifically at the Austrian Wine Marketing Board and the Austrian Wine Academy, and as an editor for the Austrian trade journal Vinaria, he was appointed its editor-in-chief in 2006. Peter was also editor-in-chief of the biannual magazine Vinaria Gourmet from 2006 to 2011. Since 2025, Peter Schleimer has run a restaurant in Mödling called Genussatelier Mödling with Doris Bracher. He also operates a wine business focused on international markets and cultivates his own wine on a small scale in the Thermenregion.InfoWine recsSchloss Gobelsburghttps://www.gobelsburg.at/en/*We have some at Stage Left Wine Shop!https://www.stageleftwineshop.com/wines/Schloss-Gobelsburg-Riesling-1er-Cru-OTW-Heiligenstein-2020-w4844439u9Weingut Glatzer https://www.weingutglatzer.at/en/Heidi Shröck & Sonhttps://www.heidischroeckundsoehne.com/en/Dale DeGroff Yanquiza Pisco Party @ Stage Left Steak, New Brunswick, NJTickets at https://www.stageleft.com/event/pisco-party-with-dale-degroff/ Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The [email protected]