Chef Aaron Franklin: (S10/Ep.21)

For our season finale, we’re thrilled to welcome Aaron Franklin, owner of Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas, often hailed as the best barbecue spot on the planet. The self-taught barbecue expert shares his journey from humble beginnings—cooking just two briskets a day—to becoming the first pitmaster to win a James Beard Award and serving over […]

Chef Dominique Ansel: (S10/Ep.20)

Dominique Ansel is the pastry mastermind who was named the World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2017 by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, and is widely celebrated for his creation of the Cronut®. Dominique shares his journey from a small-town in France to revolutionizing the pastry world in New York City and beyond. We learn […]

Chef Eric Adjepong: (S10/Ep.19)

Eric Adjepong is a father, chef, author, and Food Network host celebrated for bringing West African cuisine to the mainstream culinary conversation. From his memorable appearances on Top Chef to his collaboration with Crate & Barrel and his work with the PepsiCo Foods Culinary Advisory Board, Eric shares insights into his creative journey. He discusses […]

Beyond the Drink: Sebastian Tollius (S10/Ep.18)

For our Beyond the Drink season finale, we sit down with Sebastian Tollius, a globally renowned beverage director known for crafting exceptional hospitality and cocktail experiences. From his work at Eleven Madison Park and Clemente Bar in New York City, Sebastian shares his innovative approach to his beverage programs. He discusses the artistry of pairing […]

Chef Gregory Gourdet: (S10/Ep.17)

Gregory Gourdet is an award-winning chef, writer, restaurateur, best-selling author, and television personality. He shares his journey- from pre-med at NYU to studying wildlife biology at University of Montana- and how it led him to Portland, a place where he found sobriety and community. Gregory shares the philosophy behind his acclaimed Portland restaurant, kann, where […]

Beyond the Drink: Simon Ford of Fords Gin (S10/Ep.16)

Kappy sits down for an inspiring conversation with Simon Ford, co-founder of Fords Gin and a celebrated figure in the world of spirits and cocktails. As a returning guest, Simon reflects on his journey in gin-making, emphasizing the deeper values Fords Gin brings to the hospitality community. He shares how Fords is more than just […]

BONUS Episode: (S10/Ep.15)

In this special episode, host Andrew “Kappy” Kaplan moderates an inspiring panel from the Social Innovation Summit, bringing together three influential voices dedicated to creating positive change through food and sustainability. This thought-provoking discussion explores the intersections of food justice, innovation, and community empowerment. Enjoy this bonus episode as we go Beyond the Plate… LIVE […]

Beyond the Drink: Marc Rose & Med Abrous (S10/Ep.14)

Marc Rose and Med Abrous are NYC natives who have made a significant impact on Los Angeles’ nightlife and dining scenes. They have breathed new life into iconic spots like The Spare Room at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, Genghis Cohen, and the classic La Dolce Vita in Beverly Hills. We explore their creative process, attention […]

Drew Nieporent: (S10/Ep.13)

Drew Nieporent is one of the most accomplished and influential restaurateurs of our time. He is the founder of Myriad Restaurant Group and co-founder of Nobu Restaurants with actor and producer Robert De Niro. In this episode, we dive deep into Drew’s philosophy on hospitality, his reflections on business principles, and his personal challenges, including […]

Beyond the Drink: Steve Schneider (S10/Ep.12)

Steve Schneider has more than 20 years of bar experience in New York, Singapore, Shanghai and Panama City, earning a reputation as one of the most respected and inspiring bartenders in the industry. He is known for his time at Employees Only when it earned “The World’s Best Cocktail Bar” Award at Tales of the […]