Kitchen Chat Podcast Archives - Kitchen Chat

Chef Robert Gadsby and Noe

Welcome, dear foodie friends, to my charming hometown of Barrington, Illinois. I’m your host, Margaret McSweeney, and it is such a joy to welcome you to a very special episode of Kitchen Chat as we celebrate a culinary destination that is truly elevating the spirit of our community. . I am so honored to feature the visionary Chef and Owner of the new Progressive American restaurant Noe, Robert Gadsby. Many thanks to Quintessential Barrington for introducing me to Chef Robert and Noe. Impressive, innovative, and intentional are the words that best describe Chef Gadsby’s cuisine, and today we explore the profound emotional authenticity, seasonality, and excellence that elevate every dish he creates. Take a look at our video chat here: Although Chef Robert Gadsby has worked with some of the most iconic chefs around the world, his mother and the family’s Victory Garden in England had a major influence on his appreciation of fresh produce and food preparation. The above photo features Chef Robert’s mother, grandfather and sister in the family’s Victory Garden in England. At the heart of Noe’s mission is a Four Pillars philosophy—Seasonality, Sustainability, Technique, and Community—which serves as a sacred reminder that Progressive American cuisine is a rigorous commitment to both the land and the craft. In this episode, we go behind the scenes to discover how Noe defines the new American palate through a sophisticated global lens. Their culinary identity is masterfully forged by French sophistication, Italian freshness of product—aligned perfectly with the seasonality of the Victory Gardens—and the unwavering Japanese discipline of execution. Most of all, it is defined by a distinct American ingenuity that transforms these influences into something entirely original. Join us as we explore how this soulful intentionality brings a world-class perspective to our Barrington landscape. Savor the day! The post Chef Robert Gadsby and Noe appeared first on Kitchen Chat.

The Peninsula London – A Delicious Destination

Join Kitchen Chat host Margaret McSweeney as she steps into a sanctuary of bespoke British elegance in the heart of London’s most prestigious neighborhood: The Peninsula London in Belgravia. On this week’s special London Tour ’25 episode with a Taste of Luxury, History and Hospitality, Margaret explores the perfect synergy between architectural grandeur and culinary artistry at The Peninsula London. Superbly situated alongside Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, the hotel masterfully blends classic British design with the Peninsula’s signature Asian grace. Margaret has a fascinating and delightful conversation with Executive Chef Saravanan Palanipandichamy, exploring how he and his world-class team translate the hotel’s philosophy of impeccable, cross-cultural service onto the plate and home to the two-Michelin-starred Brooklands by Claude Bosi. Check out our Peninsula video here: Delicious highlights include: Margaret’s Afternoon Tea in The Lobby with May Wong and Claire Myers-Lamptey, founder of Great British Tea Party. The Beef Wellington Experience in The Lobby, which brought back special memories for Margaret. Dinner at Canton Blue, which is the top Cantonese restaurant in London. Dinner at Brooklands by Claude Bosi, the two Michelin starred rooftop restaurant on the 8th floor of The Peninsula London. The Tasting Menu is outstanding. Here is a photo of an amuse bouche which was served. It was an honor to meet Chef Claude Bosi at Brooklands. The Peninsula London is indeed a delicious destination. Savor the Day! The post The Peninsula London – A Delicious Destination appeared first on Kitchen Chat.

Drew Nieporent: One of America’s Most Respected and Celebrated Restaurateurs

Get ready for what we’re calling the most exciting and anticipated Kitchen Chat episode of the year! Host Margaret McSweeney traveled straight to the heart of the culinary world in New York City to sit down with a true legend: celebrated restaurateur Drew Nieporent, the founder and inspiration behind the Myriad Restaurant Group. The reason for this dynamic, can’t-miss conversation is the release of his insightful and candid new memoir, “I’m Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches“ written with Jamie Feldmar. Here is a look at our video chat: This episode, like the book, is an intimate, compelling look at one of the world’s most impactful hosts and multi-talented men in the hospitality industry. From establishing iconic eateries to shaping the entire modern dining landscape through the preservation of the legacy hospitality style, Nieporent’s influence is unparalleled. Join Margaret as she invites Drew to share the stories behind the man—a titan of service, a visionary entrepreneur, and, as you’ll quickly discover, a genuine genius who is one of the kindest people in the industry. (Photo below is when Margaret met Drew in 2015 at the International Association of Culinary Professionals celebration of Chef Jacques Pepin’s 80th birthday). Drew shares behind-the-scenes stories about how Robert De Niro became a great friend and business partner in launching Nobu. (Photo provided by Drew Nierporent). Margaret had the honor of meeting Chef Nobu in Miami Beach. As Ruth Reichl says, “If you go out to eat, you need this book.” Here is a link to the must read “I’m Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches” by Drew Nieporent. Savor the day! The post Drew Nieporent: One of America’s Most Respected and Celebrated Restaurateurs appeared first on Kitchen Chat.

Encore: Biscuit Time! Holiday Baking with Carla Hall

It’s time for a holiday kitchen confession… I grew up in the South, yet somehow never learned how to make biscuits! Thankfully, my dear friend Chef Carla Hall—along with the wonderful Chadwick Boyd—brought Biscuit Time to this special encore edition of Kitchen Chat. We rolled up our sleeves at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, where Chef Jaime Laurita joined us for a fun, flour-dusted biscuit lesson. One bite of a warm, fresh biscuit instantly transported me back to my childhood and the flavors my father used to make with such love. This is an episode to cherish. With Carla, Jaime and Chadwick as your biscuit buddies, you’ll learn exactly how to create tender, perfect biscuits every single time. The post Encore: Biscuit Time! Holiday Baking with Carla Hall appeared first on Kitchen Chat.

The Bottomless Cup: A Memoir of Secrets, Restaurants and Forgiveness by Kevin Boehm

Congratulations to Kevin Boehm on the launch of his compelling book The Bottomless Cup: A Memoir of Secrets, Restaurants and Forgiveness. Margaret McSweeney and Kevin Boehm first met in 2016 at The James Beard Awards in Chicago after their first Kitchen Chat. Kevin is the co-owner and co-founder of the highly acclaimed and award winning Boka Restaurant Group which he started with Rob Katz. In 2019, Kevin and Rob were the recipients of Outstanding Restaurateur at the James Beard Awards. Here’s our Kitchen Chat video with Kevin: At the 2018 James Beard Awards Red Carpet with Rob Katz, Kevin Boehm and Chef Jaime Laurita In this Kitchen Chat, Kevin shares the highs and lows of his personal life along with key components of success in his professional life. He also discusses the importance of mental health. You will be inspired by his story and strength. Here is the link to buy his new book which launches November 4, 2025. Savor the day! The post The Bottomless Cup: A Memoir of Secrets, Restaurants and Forgiveness by Kevin Boehm appeared first on Kitchen Chat.