Forager and Chef Lorenzo Tavani Dishes on Nature's Bounty

How to Forage Safely

Chef Lorenzo Tavani, whose culinary journey took him from culinary school to an apprenticeship at Lindey’s in German Village. Lorenzo is passionate about the intersection of food, nutrition, and the origins of our ingredients, leading him to explore the wild world of foraging.

Join us as Lorenzo shares tips on safe foraging, delves into the vast and fascinating realm of mushrooms—including a nod to the largest living organism, the fungal mass, and a chat about the intriguing world of psilocybin mushrooms.

Columbus, Ohio Foraging Class followed by a Dinner Party

Don’t miss out on hearing about his unique foraging class followed by a dinner party. This interactive and educational experience promises to deepen your connection with nature and the community, all while having fun. Lorenzo also opens up about the entrepreneurial journey, highlighting both its challenges and rewards.

He wraps up with some practical advice on cooking for oneself, emphasizing the immense benefits despite the effort required. With simple strategies like meal prepping, Lorenzo shows how you can make cooking more manageable, saving time and money while boosting your health.

Psilocybin Mushrooms

Feast or pass on the magic mushrooms?

30% off your Yellowbird Foodshed order!

Use code 614feast to get 30% off your Yellowbird Foodshed order! Working with over 100 food growers and producers from Ohio, our community of eaters has CAST THEIR VOTE with their fork. Each product that we eat has been sustainably raised, harvested, transported, and consumed.

Our members are constantly striving to create solutions to help restore one of the planets most fundamental, yet most corrupted system...FOOD.

By asking ourselves and our customers, “Who Grew Your Food?”, we are partnering with both food growers and consumers, to create a sustainable model that DEcentralizes our current food system through 2 ways of purchasing.

Brick House Blue

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Next Level Chef and Seasoning Innovator Monika Arora

Columbus, Ohio chef, author, and tv personality, Monika Arora’s culinary journey is as rich as her spice blends.

Growing up in a family restaurant in upstate New York, Monika's roots in food run deep. From launching a beloved spice line and authoring cookbooks, to her appearance on Next Level Chef, Monika's story is feast worthy!

Monika talks about her arranged marriage – with a first meeting at TGI Friday’s for lunch. She shares the ups and downs of starting a frozen food line. The frozen food line ended up not working out, due to various challenges like accommodating various dietary needs, this failure paved the way for her successful spice blends. These blends, are easy to use and bursting with flavor, are Monika's secret to turning simple dishes into culinary delights – just add 2 tablespoons!

Personalized Cooking Classes in Columbus, Ohio

Her venture into teaching cooking classes further showcases her passion for making great cooking accessible to all.

Next Level Chef on Fox

Monika also recounts her adrenaline-fueled experience on Next Level Chef. As a home chef on the show, she not only faced her fears but also literally set the kitchen on fire, making her episode unmissable. The challenge of cooking in a new environment, especially under the watchful eyes of TV cameras, was a hurdle she navigated with grace.

Beyond the kitchen, Monika has graced Good Day Columbus, Dayton, and Cleveland with her cooking prowess. Her two books, one a heartfelt tribute to her mother, emphasize the importance of connecting with the elders in our lives.

Join us as Monika Arora brings her culinary world to ours, sharing stories that remind us of the power of food to bring people together, challenge our fears, and celebrate our stories.

Brick House Blue

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Khanh Le on 614 feast podcast

Khanh Le's Lan Viet: A Taste of Vietnam in the Heart of Columbus

The History of Lan Viet in Columbus, Ohio

As a Columbus-based marketer, foodie, and podcaster, I recently had the pleasure of diving into the flavors of Vietnam with Khanh Le, the owner of Lan Viet. Khanh unfolds the story of traditional Vietnamese cuisine and its evolving presence in the Midwest.

Khanh reminisced about his childhood meals – a simple yet comforting combination of white rice, boiled vegetables, and meat, all brought to life with a dash of fish sauce. When his mother took the reins of Lan Viet in the 90s, she skillfully tweaked the menu to suit the Midwest palate, striking a balance between authenticity and local tastes.

Chopped Cheese Banh Mi

The rich tapestry of Vietnamese food, highlighting the regional variations that make this cuisine so diverse. Khanh's excitement was palpable as he talked about Lan Viet's latest venture – a ghost kitchen whipping up a fusion delight, the Banh Mi Chopped Cheese. Additionally, he gave us a sneak peek into 'Common Rice', a new rice bowl concept set to debut at the Grandview market.

Khanh shared his personal shift from late-night munchies – often involving instant ramen with cheese – to healthier eating habits, a change spurred by his new role as a father. He loves local gems like Tensuke Market and Tacos D Kache, noting Tacos D Kache's incredible gordita and his role in introducing them to the Grandview market.

Lan Viet's menu stars: Pho and Banh Mi

Lan Viet's menu stars, Pho and Banh Mi, especially the Hanoi style steak pho with its rich, decadent broth, have been a hit. Khanh also opened up about past setbacks, including a failed restaurant venture in 2016. He described this experience as a valuable learning curve, his "real tuition," shaping his resilient approach to business and life.

In a surprising twist, Khanh revealed his hatred for ketchup and, more controversially, his opinion that Columbus, Ohio pizza is overrated. Our conversation also journeyed through his memorable meals in Vietnam, Los Angeles, and Texas, and our shared admiration for the late Anthony Bourdain.

Brick House Blue

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Wayne Lewis: Insights from MasterChef S13 and Beyond

Wayne Lewis, a standout semifinalist from MasterChef Season 13.

Wayne's cooking repertoire is as diverse as it is impressive – guess you could say he is a … MasterChef.

In this episode, Wayne takes us behind the scenes of MasterChef, sharing his on-air experiences, the critical role of technique and process, and his memorable "yes" from Gordon Ramsay. Although he didn't clinch the title, earning his apron was a significant victory in itself.

We also tackle listener questions: Is Wayne planning to open a restaurant? What's his secret to staying fit? Is he single (spoiler alert: he’s married).

The growth of 614 Magazine

The growth of 614 Magazine and their affordable culinary spin-off, Stock and Barrel, aimed at food enthusiasts and we cover Restaurant Week. Plus, their exclusive 614 beer crafted by Wolf's Ridge Brewing.

Our conversation gets juicy as we explore the art of BBQ – from smoke rings and wood types to dry rubs and the intricate nuances of barbecue mastery. Wayne is all about the authentic, from-scratch experience, whether it's hunting deer or roasting his own coffee.

Wayne's website: 60minutechef.com

Visit Wayne's website, 60minutechef.com, for genuinely quick meal ideas. He shares pro tips for home chefs, emphasizing the importance of practice and seasoning – yes, more salt might just be the key!

Tune in for a mouth-watering episode that blends cooking expertise, personal anecdotes, and practical advice for food lovers everywhere.

Brick House Blue

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Cupcakes by Lindsey and Rose Dough Donuts

Sweet Secrets Revealed: Columbus's Dessert Experts Talk Baking Dramas and Local Foodie Favorites!

Join me for a delightful episode featuring Katie Passo of Rose Dough Donuts and Lindsey, a gourmet cupcake connoisseur. Columbus, Ohio’s exquisite desserts with Katie, who crafts Brioche, Old Fashioneds, and Crullers her business name is inspired by her great-grandmother Rose. Lindsey is a master of artisan cupcakes and cookies. From their kitchen stories in Columbus, OH, to their journey as artisan bakers, we explore the sweet and savory side of their lives. Listen in as we discuss their largest orders, customer challenges, Columbus's best pizza, favorite burger styles, and many more tantalizing topics. It's a truly sweet chat with two of the city's finest dessert experts!

Rose Dough Donuts

Follow her for more: Instagram.

Cupcakes by Lindsey

Follow her for more: Instagram.

Brick House Blue

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Creole 2 Geaux: From Food Truck to Brick-and-Mortar

Columbus's culinary landscape has a vibrant heartbeat, and at its core, pulsating with rich flavors, is Creole 2 Geaux. The brainchild of Janvier and Sharif, two avid foodies who turned their passion into a burgeoning local empire, Creole 2 Geaux is more than just a dining spot—it's a story of homage, heritage, and the hearty warmth of Southern hospitality.

A Foodie Dream Takes Wheels

It all started back in 2016, with a simple observation: Columbus's streets were lacking the zest and soul of Creole and Cajun cuisine. With a food truck and a dream, Janvier and Sharif set out to fill this gap, bringing a taste of New Orleans to the Midwest. Fast forward through sweat, laughter, and countless servings of gumbo, and you find Creole 2 Geaux expanding from a hidden gem on wheels to two robust brick-and-mortar locations—one nestled in the bustling East Market 212 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH and the other adding spice to the Nationwide Arena Area 401 N Front St, Columbus, OH.

Challenges and Successes: The Brick-and-Mortar Journey

The road from a food truck to a permanent address wasn't paved with just beignets and po' boys. It took dedication, adaptation, and a commitment to maintaining the essence of their beloved Creole cooking. The result? Two locations each with its unique flavor. The East Market offers a quick bite for those on the go, while the Nationwide spot serves up not just speed to rival Chipotle's quick service but a full experience—complete with art, murals, and a full bar that pours as much personality as it does spirits.

A Tribute to Family and Tradition

The opening of the East Market location wasn't just a business milestone—it was a personal tribute. The date marked a homage to Janvier's late brother, intertwining family memory with the fabric of their growing legacy. This sense of family and tradition goes even deeper with Janvier's connection to the legendary Leah Chase, the Queen of Creole Cuisine herself, and Janvier's great-great-aunt. From the Disney character Princess Tiana to the civil rights movement, Leah Chase's impact danced through history—and now through Creole 2 Geaux's very essence.

Adjusting the Heat: Catering to the Columbus Palate

Janvier and Sharif have masterfully tailored their recipes to the Columbus palate—toning down the heat without compromising on the flavors that dance in your mouth with every bite. Yet, for those craving that fiery kick, the Nationwide location boasts a hot sauce bar. From house-made concoctions to local and national favorites, it's a shrine to the spicy spirit of New Orleans.

The Creole 2 Geaux Experience: Fast, Flavorful, and Full of Heart

Whether it's gumbo season or not, Creole 2 Geaux stands as a testament to Janvier and Sharif's vision: to serve up Southern comfort with efficiency, without losing an ounce of the soul that makes their food resonate with so many. As you step into either location, you're wrapped in more than just the tantalizing aromas of Creole cooking—you're enveloped in the rich tapestry of their family history, the vibrant vibes of New Orleans, and a community bond that only a place full of passion can forge.

So, Columbus, whether you're in for a "quick bite" or a leisurely sip surrounded by art and culture, Creole 2 Geaux is your go-to. It's a place where every dish is steeped in history, and every visit feels like coming home.

Stay Connected

And for those of you following my journey, stay tuned to my podcast, where I continue to explore stories like Janvier and Sharif's—tales of passion, cuisine, and community that define and shape our world. Join me on 614 feast podcast, follow my latest adventures on social media, and get a taste of my business ventures where every project is another ingredient in the recipe of life.

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Best cheesesteak in Columbus, Ohio

Marlow's Cheesesteaks Columbus, Ohio - 614 Feast Podcast

Welcome to another savory episode of the 614 feast podcast where we dive into the flavorful world of Marlow's Cheesesteaks, a culinary gem that transcends the ordinary by transforming a water ice business into a beloved cheesesteak restaurant in Gahanna.

From their humble water ice beginnings at Eastland and Tuttle malls to establishing a vibrant restaurant in Gahanna, Marlow's stands out with an irresistible feast for the senses, combining robust flavors, superior quality, and affordability. The space itself has local charm, featuring an eye-catching mural featuring Philadelphia legends by a Columbus artist, enhancing the dining experience with its creative ambiance.

Pat’s vs Geno’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks

In Columbus, we're debunking the myth of single-city dominance when it comes to cheesesteaks. Echoing the friendly rivalry of Pat’s versus Geno’s in Philadelphia, Marlow's enters the local arena, inviting comparisons with Hoagie City and Wario’s, among others. Central to their success is the authentic Philly touch - an homage to the distinctive bread and crucial ingredients in crafting the perfect cheesesteak.

Marlow's innovative spirit was on full display during their three-month stint at Budd Dairy Food Hall, a program reserved for aspiring restaurateurs without the resources for their own establishment. Their journey mirrors Columbus’s culinary diversity, as reflected in their TOP THREE COLUMBUS, OHIO restaurant picks: Lola and Giuseppes, Hoyo’s, and Los Guachos.

Reading Terminal Market vs. North Market Downtown

Our discussion takes a comparative twist with a Reading Terminal versus North Market debate and a quest to find the best ramen in Columbus. Still, at its core, Marlow's narrative is one of family and community. Their hours of operation underscore a commitment to their son with autism, emphasizing that family values permeate every aspect of their business. This dedication extends to empowering experiences through their collaboration with I Am Boundless, an initiative supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.

Our conversation takes a nostalgic turn, exploring food representations in media, including memorable cheesesteak and water ice scenes from "Creed" and surprising revelations from the "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" reboot. Join us in this flavorful expedition into Marlow's Cheesesteaks, where every bite tells a story of passion, family, and a relentless pursuit of culinary excellence.

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

A Magical Feast with Magician Michael Kent

Penn & Teller: Fool Us

In this enchanting episode of the 614 feast podcast, we're spicing up our regular foodie fare with a dash of magic, courtesy of the spellbinding Magician Michael Kent. Our tasty talk starts with the cozy corners of the Starliner Diner in Hilliard, stirring the cauldron of food debates with a slice of polarizing pizza from Dicarlo’s.

Whisked through a tale of mesmerizing feats, we delve into Michael’s magical performance on Penn & Teller: Fool Us. Our taste buds are in for a treat as Michael unveils his magical act, a potpourri of delightful tricks entwining the ordinary with the extraordinary; a banana, lemon, potato, chicken, egg, and a Slim Jim, each playing their whimsical part in his magical narrative. The Slim Jim holds a special place in Michael’s heart (and act!), owing to its perfect size and the laughs it evokes every night on stage.

The NYC style pizza in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Amidst the aroma of magic and food, Michael reminisces about his favorite food portrayal on screen – the iconic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) pizza, embodying the classic NYC slice. Pizza nostalgia as he recalls the iconic Domino's box product placement in the movie, intertwined with a school field trip to Domino's, baking a hearty pizza of childhood memories.

Sushi in Tokyo, Pizza in Naples, Buffalo Wild Wings in USA…

Yet, the tale of Michael’s culinary escapade has a humble beginning. A cautious eater, he didn’t have a taco until he was in college. However, as the world unfolded through his tours, so did his palate, morphing into a canvas of flavors he now explores with gusto. From sushi in Tokyo to the authentic taste of Neapolitan pizza in Naples, or a Buffalo Wild Wings in anytown USA, every bite tells a story. The narrative takes a mythical turn as we unravel the sacrificial origins of pork pozole, leading us to a quirky tidbit about the Pringles inventor who found his final resting place in a Pringles can.

Join us in this magical culinary journey with Michael Kent, as we unravel the tales of food, magic, and the endless wonders they brew together. With every trick and treat, we discover that the world of food, much like magic, holds a promise of the unexpected, waiting to be unveiled one bite, one spell, at a time. For more Michael listen to his podcast and go see him perform live

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough!