The Pittsburgh Dish

013 A Table Set for Connection with Raquel Holiday

(01:05) Picture yourself tucking into the heart and soul of Pittsburgh's culinary scene with Raquel Holiday of Fork Ya PGH, whose Instagram fame is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to her influence on food lovers everywhere. As we chat, Raquel unfolds the map of her journey from a dance show aficionado to a food blogger extraordinaire, showing us the potent blend of passion and plates that has created a vibrant community and real-life connections. We muse over our inaugural foodie meet-up, wax poetic about the local eateries that deserve our love, and celebrate the friendships whipped up from a shared zeal for zest and flavor.

(05:07) Gathering around the table of discussion, we turn our focus to the Yelp Elite Squad, a haven for discerning diners to share their reviews without the pressure of influencer fame.. Our conversation is peppered with insights on how these online communities, including food bloggers and fan groups, serve as a catalyst for polishing social skills, creating invaluable connections, and of course, savoring the collective joy of culinary discovery.

(18:31) We dish on social media as a marketing platform amid dissenting views. Raquel shares her perspective, decisions, and personal benefits, along with the tactics to make it a success for small businesses having a go at content creator collaborations.

(30:55) Later in the show, we reflecting back on a prior guest's quest for the best fried chicken, and challenge our wine expert for a pairing, revealing a bubbly recommendation. Finally, our listener recipe of the week provides a seasonal delight via natures gifts with a unique violet jelly. We invite you to pull up a chair to this feast of conversation that promises to leave your appetite for foodie tales thoroughly satisfied.

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April 28th, 2024 4:00pm

012 Artie's Hot Sauce: A Tale of Beats to Bottled Heat

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(00:59) In this fiery episode of The Pittsburgh Dish, we sit down with the Spice King himself, Arthur Pitt, and learn about his unexpected journey from music, to cannabis private equity, to the hot sauce hustle. Artie dishes out the spicy beginnings of Artie's Hot Sauce, which started as a simple kitchen 'brain exercise' and has now blossomed into a full-blown passion project.

(20:27) Every entrepreneur has a story, and Artie's is a melody of twists and turns, from music mogul to hot sauce artisan. We reminisce about the lessons learned and connections made throughout his dynamic career path, that ultimately led to his current symphony of spice.

(34:46) As the summer sun beckons, we check in with the co-founder of Pittsburgh Foodies, Ashley Cesaratto, who gives her top recommendation for a daytime dining experience. It's a unique tuna melt that steals the show for her.

(36:55) And for those listeners looking to get their grill on, Eric P's grilled naan recipe will surely impress at your next backyard bash. Pull up a chair and enjoy!

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April 21st, 2024 4:00pm

011 Beth Kurtz Taylor's Bakery Journey and Pittsburgh's Edible Heritage

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(01:10) Embarking on a career change is no small feat, but for Beth Kurtz Taylor, the pivot from child development to the realm of pastries and sourdough is a journey marked by resilience and an unwavering passion for food. Join us as Beth, the spirited co-owner of Pittsburgh's newest delight, Third Space Bakery, cooks up tales of her transformative path through a passion for food and the people behind it.

(10:52) Beth shares her lens of cherished local establishments like Pitaland, Enrico Biscotti, and Stamoolis, uncovering the connections that flavor our local food scene and preserve the legacies that have served our palates for generations. We also share how a unique cookbook club out of Chatham University, knitted together a community of shared culinary adventures.

(34:46) We also explore the ultimate steak location for a special night on the town, and share a retro dish studded with family history in our recipe of the week. Pull a chair up, and get ready to dig in!

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April 14th, 2024 4:00pm

010 Culinary Bonds and Community with Shayla Penn

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(00:58) Shayla Penn of Burgh Eats and Treats! graces our podcast with tales that extend beyond the plate, spotlighting the undeniable truth that food is the golden thread in the fabric of our communities.

(14:28) This episode isn't just a tasting menu; it's a celebration of places and faces that define our culinary landscape. You'll hear about the 'Burgh Eats and Treats!' Facebook Group's dramatic influence on local eateries like Gabriella's, where the perfect fish shout-out can make all the difference. And as palates expand, so do our connections, with Shayla's story underscoring how a shared meal can turn strangers into family.

(31:30) As we plate up the final course, we'll talk about the art of pairing the perfect wine with succulent dishes, specifically lamb chops. Catherine brings her expertise to the table, discussing the harmony found in a bottle of Bordeaux blend.

(37:42) To sweeten the send-off, Jeff's peach bread recipe promises to turn your kitchen into the most beloved bakery on the block. So, ready your forks and tune in for an episode that's as rich and satisfying as the perfect bite.

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April 7th, 2024 2:00pm

009 Guiding Local Food to Grocery Aisles with Paul Abbott

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Paul Abbott from Giant Eagle Market District joins our table, and he's not coming empty-handed. He's here to unpack the journey of local food producers, from crafting their unique flavors right through to the moment their products hit the shelves. From the delight of tasting Pittsburgh's own Leona's Ice Cream Sandwiches or savoring La Familia's pasta sauce, knowing you're supporting the heartbeat of our food community. Our conversation with Paul reveals the dedication behind Market District's role in partnering with these culinary gems and how the relationships enrich our local food culture.

Get ready to pull back the curtain on what it takes for a product to go from concept to consumer. Through stories like a local salsa brand's rise to fame, we highlight the intertwined paths of personal dedication and community support that mark the success of Pittsburgh's food artisans. Learn how feedback and relationships are crucial in navigating the retail landscape, and discover the surprising ways that store leaders and team members scout for potential products that might just be the next big thing on your dinner table.

Finally, because we believe the soul of Pittsburgh is best experienced through many voices, food enthusiast Raquel Holiday and listener Eric P share notable food favorites – from comforting White Spaghetti with Breadcrumbs to the delectable mix of Mexican cuisine and frozen custard. Pull up a chair and prepare to indulge in the stories and tastes that define our vibrant culinary scene.

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March 31st, 2024 2:00pm

008 Wheeling in Warmth and Flavor with Chef Janet Loughran

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When Chef Janet Loughran wheels her way into our hearts, she's not just pulling along a red wagon filled with culinary delights; she's carting a lifetime of poignant stories and robust flavors. Her journey from distributing home-cooked comforts during the throes of a pandemic to becoming the private chef every Pittsburgher would want—it's a testament to genuine passion and a hearty wedding soup.

Transitioning from a clerical assistant to a culinary artist is no easy feat, but with a pinch of courage and a cup of determination, Janet found her true calling amidst the sizzle and chop of the kitchen. The journey has been as flavorful as it has challenging, from navigating the dynamics of team collaboration in a high-pressure culinary environment to becoming the food and beverage director at a local golf course, and now serving as your friendly kitchen fact finder on her Instagram, @Chef.Life.Hacks!

Later in the show... Looking for some soul in your food. We spotlight the soulful A&E Eatz where every dish promises a story as rich and satisfying as the flavors on your plate. Plus we share a halushki recipe, where the noodles never mush out , and plenty of butter is the key. All this week!

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March 24th, 2024 1:00pm

007 Dishing Up Humor and Resilience with Desarae Legros

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When Desarae Legros steps into the kitchen, it's not just about the sizzle of the pan but the laughter that fills the room. She joins us this episode, spicing up our conversation with her journey to cookbook author and TikTok culinary sensation, blending cooking prowess with a hefty dose of humor. We unwrap the pages of her life, with candid tales of resilience and tradition, seasoned with the realities of dealing with disability, loss, and the pressures of social media.

The heat turns up as we navigate Desarae's love of molecular gastronomy, culinary competitions, as well as the heartwarming narrative behind a family burger recipe that's much more than a sum of its ingredients.

Closing the lid on our gastronomic journey, we reflect on authenticity and connection beyond the screen. Desiree's commitment to uplifting small businesses and championing community initiatives, like Lasagna Love's mission to feed the hungry, fuels a conversation on the power of food to unite and heal. Her plans for a new barbecue-themed cookbook promise not just to fire up the grill but also to kindle a spirit of giving.

Later, we serve up a recommendation for tacos at one of Pittsburgh's neighborhood gems, and revisit the classic Strawberry Jell-O® Pretzel Salad recipe, ensuring that our listeners leave with their appetites—both for food and life—fully whetted.

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March 17th, 2024 10:00am

006 Uniting Foodies and Flavorful Tales with Ashley Cesaratto

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Imagine biting into the perfect slice of pizza, but instead of just savoring the flavors, you spark a social media idea that unites food lovers citywide. That's exactly what happened to Ashley Cesaratto, co-founder of the Pittsburgh Foodies Facebook group, who joins us for a mouthwatering discussion about the city's culinary landscape. As we trace Ashley's path from music to influential foodie, we uncover the secrets behind managing an online community and the power of personal connections in recommending the best eateries and cooking advice.

Ashley shares her experience stepping into the media spotlight, from a serendipitous Instagram comment to tasting the local limelight on "Talk Pittsburgh," we explore the prep and passion that goes into a few minutes of screen time. Ashley's tales from her guest spots on podcasts, like "Lunchtime in Rome," serve up a delicious blend of personal narrative and culinary delight. Finally, we get personal with holiday food memories and reinventions of the traditional feast. We chat about Ashley's family recipes and how a simple dish can become a treasure trove of nostalgia.

Love a good wine suggestion? We also discuss which Italian vintages are the perfect companions to beloved pasta dishes, and then share a completely new take on lasagna for our recipe of the week. Whether you're a cooking enthusiast looking to perfect your meatball game or a baking aficionado curious about pavlova, this episode has the ingredients for a delightful culinary adventure. So, buckle up your apron and join us for a taste of Pittsburgh and beyond, right here at the table of shared stories and savory delights.

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March 10th, 2024 11:00am

005 Sweet Inspirations with Hannah Olsen, Macaron Maven

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Embark on a culinary adventure with a master of macarons, Hannah Olsen of Aycho Melange, as we unravel these delicate French cookies that are taking Pittsburgh by storm. Hannah clarifies the 'macaron vs. macaroon' conundrum and shares the story behind her bakery's unique name. Her passion for these sophisticated yet approachable treats is contagious, and you'll find yourself craving more than just a bite of her signature sandwich cookies that are a far cry from the typical store-bought varieties.

With a mix of humor and wisdom, Hannah walks us through her entrepreneurial journey, from a monthly skill-building challenge to the creation of a flourishing pastry business. It's a tale of innovation, personal growth, and the joy of embracing new crafts that will inspire you to consider where your own curiosities might lead.

And for those dreaming of their own food venture, don't miss the insights on transitioning from a home kitchen to a professional one, and the exciting development of Batches Bakehouse – a potential game-changer for small-scale food creators. Celebrate the power of community support that bolsters local businesses like Aycho Melange.

As we wrap up, join us on a delicious detour through other foodie finds in Mt Oliver with Brown Bear Bread Company and a cherished family recipe of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls that add a sprinkle of local flavor and a dollop of culinary heritage to our city's diverse culinary delights.

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March 3rd, 2024 10:00am

004 Biting into the Burgh: A Feast with Alex Eats Too Much

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Sink your teeth into the delectable journey of Alex Goodstein, the culinary connoisseur behind Alex Eats Too Much. From casual beginnings to a thriving social media presence, Alex recounts the pivotal nudge from friends that propelled his foray into the flavorful realm of Instagram and web-based food exploration. We savor the stories of personal connections and industry growth that are as satisfying as the dishes they inspire.

Alex, with a following nearing 16,000, serves up a menu of memories and milestones, from Chinatown Inn's nostalgic Americanized Chinese cuisine to the dynamic ebb and flow of new spots launching the city's dining scene. It's a conversation peppered with tales of family dining, kosher butchery, and the unexpected ways an adventurous palate can lead to a life steeped in diverse flavors and experiences.

As we toast to Pittsburgh's brewery scene, Alex pours over his love for stouts and the synergy of whiskey cocktails with a good meal, and his aspirations to promote nearby tourism through his influential platform. We stir into the mix a candid discussion on the delicate art of pacing social media content, as Alex emphasizes the balance between enticement and saturation in the digital space. Join us for a serving of insights, laughter, and the unfiltered passion of a food lover who's truly bitten off more than he can chew – and loving every minute of it.

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February 25th, 2024 10:00am

003 Sizzling Stories of Heritage and Flavor with Tara Jones

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When Tara Jones joined culinary forces with her mom The Diabetic Pastry Chef, she didn't just expand a family business—she launched a new flavor revolution in Pittsburgh. On this week's episode of The Pittsburgh Dish, we're taking a culinary voyage that traces Tara's delicious Peri Peri Chicken back to her Portuguese roots. As the mastermind behind Tara Peri Chicken, she shares her journey from culinary expert to a tastemaker of the local food scene, and how her family's past intertwines with every spicy, savory bite.

Imagine capturing the essence of your grandmother's kitchen, and adding a zesty twist—that's exactly what our local gourmet did with her Pastéis de Nata & crème brûlée custard tartlets. Throughout the show, Tara shares stories of exploration with culinary creativity, and the life-affirming power of returning to one's roots through food. Her personal tale is a comforting reminder of how recipes, like family memories, are passed down and cherished through generations.

Plus, we're dishing out local love with a shout-out to St Clair Social, a neighborhood gem that's got our taste buds humming. And one listener shares a recipe that has staying power, beyond a first marriage. Stay tuned as we connect the dots between identity, ancestry, and the universal language of food—with a few recipes to boot.

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February 18th, 2024 9:00am

002 Tossing Up Triumphs in the Pizza World with Nick Bogacz

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From humble beginnings as a delivery driver, Nick Bogacz has risen to create a pizza empire that's the talk of the town. Join us as we sit down with the Caliente Pizza and Draft House founder and learn how he kneaded dedication, innovation, and a family-like team environment into a successful recipe for his business. We'll also uncover how international pizza competitions have served as a proving ground for Caliente's mouthwatering creations.

In this episode, we slice into Caliente's evolution of crafting pan pizzas to mastering an array of other styles without losing the essence of their original recipe. We'll share insights from pizza expos that ignite inspiration for innovation and discuss the pivotal role of creating long-term careers within the company. These elements have not only shaped Caliente's journey but also intertwined the dreams and goals of the entire team.

Nick shares his nostalgic trip through pizza memories that have defined family gatherings and marked the beginning of Caliente's journey, leading to their strategic growth into major sporting venues and mouth-watering plans to bring their jarred sauces and hot honey to supermarket shelves.

Plus, we're dishing out an ‘under the radar’ restaurant recommendation with foodie connoisseur Ashley Cesaratto and a comforting white chicken chili recipe from our listener Sherri, that's sure to add some warmth to your kitchen. Get ready to be served a slice of life and entrepreneurial wisdom and more on this weeks show

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February 11th, 2024 7:00am

001 Savoring the City with Ana Eats Pittsburgh

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When the irresistible allure of Pittsburgh's cuisine beckons, who better to guide us than the vibrant Instagram star Ana Anthony of Ana.Eats.Pgh. This week, she sits down with us to share the inside scoop on the city's food scene, her journey to 100K+ followers, and the power of her platform in celebrating the unsung heroes behind local eateries. From the cozy charm of Dagny's Eatery to the enchanting Pusadee's Garden, Ana's stories are a love letter to the flavors that define her hometown. With a behind-the-scenes look at her content creation process, she unveils the dedication required to keep Pittsburgh's dining gems in the spotlight.

Ana recounts heartfelt stories of food & family, the influence of her parents and chef brother, and how these experiences have carved her fervent support for local businesses. The episode also captures the thrilling leap into local media, where Ana's appearances on television amplify her mission to champion Pittsburgh's culinary talents. Through it all, the enduring spirit of her late father stands as a beacon of inspiration, driving her forward in this delicious pursuit.

With future dreams of meeting culinary giants, grabbing pizza in New York City, and a longing to take her tastebuds on a European escapade, her ambitions are likely to lead her to Ana.Eats.World status. She invites her followers on Instagram @ana.eats.pgh to join her on this adventure, where every bite is a story and every meal a new chapter. And just before the final goodbye, Ana promises more savory tales and tips for fellow food enthusiasts eager for their next bite.

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February 4th, 2024 6:00am

000 Introducing The Pittsburgh Dish

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Welcome to The Pittsburgh Dish, Pittsburgh's newest regional food show. Join us each week for profile interviews, recommendations, and recipes. We aim to inspire our listeners to connect with their local food scene and learn more about the unique flavors that shape our city. Thanks for checking out The Pittsburgh Dish!

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