Andrew Food For Thought

In this episode, Brendon and I enjoy the atmosphere at Noosh while exploring the topic of comfort food. Brendon describes what the term "comfort food" means to him, and gives examples of his favorite comfort foods. He also explains his strategy for making good meals throughout the work-week in a busy city like San Francisco.

Justin Kim grew up in a small city in Korea and has lived in the US since he was 15. He says he can find most of the foods he grew up with in the Bay Area, however, he did not have the same experience when he lived in Kansas and Indiana. In this episode, Justin and I talk about his transition to the US, we discuss the food from his home region, and we review a Korean restaurant in SF called Cocobang.

Syd Aslami grew up eating Afghan food, and always seeks out the best Afghan restaurants. After living in the Bay Area for several years, he says De Afghanan takes the cake as the best Afghan restaurant in San Francisco. In this episode, Syd and I discuss Afghan cuisine, the Polk Gulch neighborhood, and his hometown of Bloomington, Indiana.

Alvin Hsieh was borned and raised in San Francisco. Growing up, he learned the phrase "If you leave your house and you can't find food, you're not in San Francisco." In today's episode, Alvin and I dine at Original Joe's - an Italian restaurant that was founded in 1937. Alvin gives an overview of the food scene in SF and recommends some of his favorite spots. He also explains how the city has changed over the years, and predicts what food trends will continue in the future.

Michel and I dive into the food and culture of Oakland at Luka's Taproom. Michel explains why Tuesday's are the best night at Luka's and why Luka's is one of the many reasons he's loved calling Oakland home for the last six years. He also explains why everyone should check out "First Friday's" in Oakland to get the full neighborhood experience.

MJ and I enjoy Filipino food at a restaurant called Likha in the Bay Area. MJ describes how the history of the Philippines has shaped the food culture, and what some of his favorite seafood is in the Phillipines. He also explains why Anthony Bourdain called Filipino food the "next big thing," and discusses why he is proud to be an immigrant. 

Matt Litwiller discusses the food of Chicago, including deep dish pizza, Italian beef, and Chicago style hot dogs. He explains why Sarkis is his favorite restaurant in the Chicago area and provides a candid take on NY vs Chicago pizza.

Diego and I enjoy Panuchos at Taqueria Los Mayas - a Yucatán inspired restaurant in the Richmond district of San Francisco. Diego explains why he likes this restaurant and talks about the food in his home city of Guadalajara.

Viraj discusses Indian food, including the food in his home city Mumbai. He also recommends three dishes to order at an Indian restaurant, and examines the difference between Indian food in the US and Indian food back in his home country.

Nathan and I discuss Italian food in the North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, as well as what Nathan looks for in a restaurant beyond the food they serve.