Delicious City Philly

Delicious City Philly

By: Eli Kulp

Language: en

Categories: Arts, Food, Comedy

Delicious City Philly is the top-rated food and restaurant podcast in the Philadelphia area. Our show is 3 hungry people - Eli Kulp, Marisa Magnatta and Dave Wez - all with different palates, but one thing in common: we LOVE the taste of Philly, and there's a lot to love in this city of ours. We explore outside of the city limits, too, from down the Jersey shore to Pennsylvania Dutch country and everywhere in between. Every other Monday you'll get the latest food news, our Best Bites, and the scoop on area restaurants and bars. Plus, we sit down with...

Episodes

Ep. 143: Breaking: Vernick's Italian Era Has Begun...In Fishtown
Dec 15, 2025

Greg Vernick is in the studio with a major exclusive: Amelia, his new Italian restaurant, is coming to Fishtown. Years in the making, Chef tells us all the details - plus his Philly-rooted culinary journey, what makes Fishtown such a special neighborhood, and how he builds an all-star team. Eli, Marisa and Dave also run down where to score the best pasta sauces, salads, and chocolate chip cookies in the city.

We've also got updates on The Tasties, Philly's biggest night in food, happening on February 1st at Live Casino and Hotel. Listen for the list of...

Duration: 01:10:26
Ep. 142: And The Nominees Are: The Tasties 2026 List Revealed
Dec 08, 2025

The Tasties are back with even more nominees, because there's so much to celebrate in the Philly food scene! Eli, Marisa and Dave tell us who's up for Chef of the Year, Best New Restaurant, Craft Cocktail Excellence, the Icon Award and more. Get tickets at DeliciousCityPodcast.com, walk the red carpet on February 1st, enjoy the best bites in the city, and be with us LIVE to see who takes home the Golden Pig. Plus: follow @deliciouscitypodcast on Instagram for updates on how you can nominate the best in the biz in a few special categories.

00:00 Nominee...

Duration: 00:39:56
Ep. 141: Seeing Stars: Michelin Reactions and Made in Philly Wine (the good kind)
Dec 01, 2025

Michelin stars have officially been awarded in Philadelphia, and Delicious City has a lot of thoughts… Congrats to everyone who was recognized! Eli, Marisa and Dave share highlights from the ceremony, and name the chefs who they think were overlooked this year. Plus, Sydney Adams and Tom Caruso of Pray Tell Wines bring their playful and classy sips to the studio and let us in on their winemaking process, and what's making their blends resonate here in Philly. 

00:00 Marisa is back! 04:29 Pray Tell Wines 12:25 Fishtown vs. Kensington 34:03 Best Bites from New Restaurants 46:58 Michelin Hot Takes: Celebrations, Snubs and mor...

Duration: 01:02:15
Ep. 140: Rumblefish with Chef Chaz Brown
Nov 24, 2025

"Teach a man to fish, and he'll learn how to fish fry." Chef Chaz Brown has a tasty way to fight invasive species and help the environment: eat the fish! He tells Eli and Dave where we can devour his Fish Fry platters and shrimp hoagies at his new concept, Rumblefish. (sneak peek on Sunday, November 30 at Amy's Pastelillos) The gang also cover the conclusion of the Google scam review drama, the perfect takeaway container and crisping method for French fries, and where to go the week of Thanksgiving in and around Philly. (As a bonus, go back and...

Duration: 00:58:43
Ep. 139: Michelin Star Predictions and a Hot Spot at Longwood Gardens
Nov 17, 2025

This week we'll finally find out which restaurants in Philadelphia get a Michelin Star. Eli and Dave make their predictions on which spots and chefs will receive the honor. Then they welcome George Murkowicz of 1906 in Longwood Gardens, who brings some amazing osetra caviar from Caviar XS and make-your-own Wagyu hand rolls to spoil the cohosts. Chef George talks about acclimating to Philadelphia, the fresh ingredients he uses in his dishes at the Garden, and everyone shouts out their Best Bite of the week. 

Get your 2026 Tasties tickets HERE! You do not want to miss Philadelphia's Biggest Nig...

Duration: 00:55:40
Ep. 138: Cakes for a Cause with Darnel's Cakes
Nov 10, 2025

Darnel's Cakes is a Philadelphia bake shop powered by a mission: to raise awareness about the HIV/AIDS epidemic and support local organizations who are working to fight the virus, disease, and stigmas attached. Chef Kyle Cuffie-Scott tells Delicious City how the cafe was born from tragedy after the loss of his cousin Darnel gave him a new purpose. Then, the gang dives into the sweet stuff, literally, and learns that the shop is more than cakes - they've got breakfast and lunch covered too. 

Did you save your seat for The Tasties yet? Get your tickets n...

Duration: 00:57:52
Ep. 137: The Bread Room with Christina McKeough
Nov 03, 2025

Nothing beats freshly baked bread: it's comfort, warmth, and a vessel for everything from chocolate to cheeses. Chef Christina McKeough is with Delicious City to talk about Philly's newest bakery, the Bread Room. By day they offer their signature breads and pastries, and by night they teach the techniques that have made their bakery one of the most anticipated openings of the season. Plus: Best Bites, The Dish, and tickets for The Tasties go on sale this week! 

00:00 Dave's ticket rant 06:33 Christina McKeough from The Bread Room 31:02 Best Bites: BBQ, custard pie and mackerel 43:56 Tasties Tix On Sale! 46:36 T...

Duration: 00:52:40
Ep. 136: The Tasties Tix + Sake, Soup, and Soul Food on Broad
Oct 27, 2025

Eli, Marisa and Dave hit up a ton of new spots in and around Philly over the past few weeks, and in this episode, they'll tell you which ones should be at the top of your list. Then they welcome the newest Delicious City partner, Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley. He's a newcomer to Broad Street, but a seasoned connoisseur of soul food, and he brings a taste of his menu to the studios (along with a few strong drinks!).

And drumroll, please… The Tasties are BACK! Early bird tickets for Philly's biggest night in food go on...

Duration: 00:52:37
Ep. 135: Saif Manna's Secret Cookie Ingredients
Oct 20, 2025

Ever had sumac in a cookie? Manna Bakery is popping up all over Philadelphia with Chef Saif Manna's beautiful and tasty treats. He joins Eli, Marisa and Dave in studio to reveal some of the more creative ingredients that go into his baked goods. He tells the story of his culinary journey tracing back to cooking with his grandma as a child, to launching Philly's first Levantine inspired baking pop-up and creating unique bites for special collabs with the city's most sought-after chefs. 

Make sure you're following on Instagram for a special announcement this week about The T...

Duration: 01:01:17
Ep. 134: Feeding Time TV Goes To Italy
Oct 13, 2025

Ciao! Dave's back from an epic adventure across Europe, and he came back with mouthwatering stories from wine tours and mortadella in Italy to top-tier tapas in the Canary Islands. Meanwhile, Philly's been serving up its own buzz with award-winning chefs and restaurants making national headlines. The gang recaps all of it, plus plenty of pop-ups and hidden gem openings in all corners of the city. 

01:28 Hit 'em with the "Konichiwa" 04:00 Dave's Trip to Italy and Spain 21:07 Philly Chefs Get National Recognition 23:18 Whatcha Been Eatin': Melon, full moons and Pac-Man 47:58 The Dish: Events and Pop-Ups in Philly 50:09 The S...

Duration: 00:57:31
Ep. 133: Happy Birthday to Us! 4 Years of Delicious City
Oct 06, 2025

Four freakin' years of Delicious City Philly! Eli's got a bunch of birthday surprises for Marisa and Dave, each one of them more mouthwatering than the last. Along the way we learn about juice box sake and the "rules" of omakase, east coast vs. west coast beer, and seasonal cake flavors that'll blow your mind. Indulge with us and see the celebration on Instagram: @deliciouscitypodcast. And thank YOU, Philly, for sharing this podcast with us all these years! 

00:00 Catching up after a quick podcast break 05:29 Kevin Yanaga, The Sushi Whisperer from Yanaga Kappo Izakaya 15:00 Dave's omakase rant 33:55 A t...

Duration: 01:08:04
Ep. 132: Go Birds! Where To Watch Football In Philly
Sep 22, 2025

The Philadelphia Eagles are 3-0. Red October is almost here. So where do you go to watch the games? Eli, Marisa and Dave name their favorite places to watch Philly sports (and get some good bites in the process), with a few that you might not expect as go-to spots. Plus, a ton of new restaurants to check out (aside from Borromini).

00:00 New cocktail trend: SnackTails 06:01 Bars and Restaurants to Watch Philly Sports 22:27 Whatcha Been Eatin': Kimchi spaghetti, anyone? 39:39 The Sauce: Philly's first women's sports bar and a cheesesteak rivalry 

And of course, we could not do t...

Duration: 00:53:54
Ep. 131: Alex Tellez Talks Mexican Roots and Hispanic Heritage Month
Sep 15, 2025

If you haven't been to Sor Ynez yet, your Taco Tuesday is about to get a major upgrade. In studio with Delicious City today is Alex Tellez, their executive chef, and he tells the crew about his journey from Mexico City to New Hope to Philadelphia, where he's adding vibrant flavor to the Fishtown/Kensington culinary community. They also talk about ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in our city, making your own hot sauce, and how to assemble a Mexican brunch dish.

00:00 New Herr's chip flavor 04:31 Chef Alex Tellez of Sor Ynez 09:49 Creating hot sauce and spices 18:47...

Duration: 00:58:51
Ep. 130: Our First Ever Hoagie Throwdown Was Insane
Sep 10, 2025

Eli, Marisa and Dave were so pumped after the first ever Hoagie Throwdown that they couldn't wait for the next studio recording and jumped on a call to recap the madness. From hot pink hoagies to bread beatdowns (literally) it was a wild day.

While this episode's sound quality might not be, that's because we weren't able to get into the studio fast enough and we wanted to get this recorded and published ASAP. If you were there, I'm sure you'll love reminiscing with us, and if you weren't, well, there's always next year!

The...

Duration: 00:39:18
Ep. 129: Hoagie Throwdown Week and the Founder of Honeygrow
Sep 01, 2025

Hope you're enjoying this beautiful holiday weekend in Philly with lots of good eats! This week, Eli and Dave welcome Justin Rosenberg to Delicious City. He's the CEO of Honeygrow, and you know how much we love our stir fry - and locally sourced meals - on this podcast. We learn how Justin searched high and low for the perfect noodle, how the menu was created to be tasty and sustainable, and get the scoop on the JT Realmuto collab that's coming soon.

03:29 Hoagie Throwdown is Sunday 9/7: Get tickets at DeliciousCityPodcast.com 09:44 Justin Rosenberg of Honeygrow 21:30 Dumpster diving f...

Duration: 01:02:23
Ep. 128: Deli Dreams, Crispy Chicken, and a Throwdown for the Ages
Aug 25, 2025

This episode is stacked with Best Bites, and even though we ran into a technical glitch when recording this episode, but it's not stopping us from running down our favorite Philly eats in delicious detail. Eli and Dave welcome Justine from Vincent Giordano Corporation Deli Products to the studio - they're feeding the beast that is Hoagie Throwdown, and you better get your tickets before they're gone at DeliciousCityPodcast.com! Plus she gives us an inside look at working with hoagie heavyweights like Wawa and Jersey Mike's.

00:00 Viral video of a car hitting a restaurant 04:11 Justine Giordano talks...

Duration: 00:56:45
Ep. 127: Tweezers, Pig Ears and Cupcakes: Top 20 Food Trends
Aug 18, 2025

Nick Murphy of Breakdown Media is usually behind the camera recording Delicious City, but for this episode, he's at the mic to talk with Eli and Marisa about everything they've eaten in August so far. They also reveal more Hoagie Throwdown competitors (tickets for 9/7 are on sale now), run down a list of the top 20 food trends of the past 20 years, and Nick has fond memories (and a few regrets) from his Olive Garden days.

06:28 Hoagie Throwdown competitors revealed

12:30 In It To Win It: VIP Tickets for Hoagie Throwdown

16:21 Eater's Biggest Food Trends o...

Duration: 01:00:31
Ep. 126: Best and Worst Pizza with Viraj Thomas of Char
Aug 11, 2025

What's the difference between good and great pizza? After making pizza in his garage, at pop-ups, and now in Kensington at Char, Viraj Thomas has a pretty good idea. We talk about perfect crusts, overrated pizzas, and how to cut through social media hype to deliver a truly great slice. Plus: Best Bites, and more Hoagie Throwdown vendors revealed! Get tickets for Sunday 9/7 at DeliciousCityPodcast.com.

04:16 Viraj tells us how he took his pizza from garage to brick-and-mortar

14:41 Most overrated pizzas and social media hype 

25:27 Hoagie Throwdown: all the delicious details!

33:45 B...

Duration: 00:50:29
Ep. 125: Is The Bear Cooked?
Aug 04, 2025

Spoiler alert! We're breaking down what we loved and what annoyed us in Season 4 of The Bear. Will Carmy ever finish a sentence? Will Computer get his own spin-off? And which Philly restaurant reminds us of The Bear the most? Drop your thoughts on Instagram: @deliciouscitypodcast. Plus: spicy ice cream, a Provenance pop-up, and the best places to try in Atlantic City.

00:00 Tomato talk because things are getting serious out there 06:38 The Bear Season 4 Recap 31:29 Hoagie Throwdown Details: Vendors and wrestlers revealed 44:38 Whatcha Been Eatin': Everything we're trying this summer 01:03:39 The Sauce: Philly restaurant expansions and more

...

Duration: 01:12:07
Ep. 124: Hoagie Throwdown, a Sandwich and Pro Wrestling Fest with Wooder Ice
Jul 28, 2025

Get ready, Philly - this is the main event you've been hungry for! Hoagie Throwdown, presented by Delicious City Podcast, is where the city's best sandwich chefs will go head-to-head for hoagie glory. On Sunday September 7th at Other Half Brewing in Fishtown, the winner of the championship belt will be chosen by YOU. And while the cold cuts are flying, pro wrestlers will throw down in the ring just feet away. Jay Vereen from Wooder Ice is in studio with Eli, Marisa and Dave to roll out this one-of-a-kind event. Early bird tickets are on sale now. 

00:00 P...

Duration: 01:04:59
Ep. 123: Connor Barwin Talks Eagles Chefs, Favorite Sushi, and the Philly Specials
Jul 21, 2025

GO BIRDS! Connor Barwin, member of the 2025 Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles, gives us all the details on this weekend's Make The World Better concerts at FDR Park. Get tickets and learn more about the foundation at MTWBconcert.com. As a coach and former player he has unique insights both on and off the field: Connor also breaks down Eagles cafeteria culture and the chefs that fuel the players, and names his favorite restaurants in Philly (plus a few he can't wait to try!). 

04:02 Connor Barwin In Studio 30:23 Whatcha Been Eatin', from Fishtown all the way to Atlantic C...

Duration: 01:04:44
Ep. 122: Dog Days of Summer with Nic Macri
Jul 14, 2025

Love hot dogs? So does Royal Tavern, and they're bringing back the Dog Days of Summer for a second year after a wildly successful first run. Eli, Marisa and Dave get their glizzy on with creative toppings, hot dog trivia, Best Bites and more with Chef Nick Macri. Plus: Marisa gets a hotel room tattoo, and Dave takes us on an epic pizza tour.

00:00 Tornadoes and tattoos 07:28 Burgers, dogs and desserts with Nic Macri 30:16 Hot Dog Pop Quiz 38:38 New season of The Bear 41:29 Best Bites: Pizza, banh mi and lobster ravioli 57:46 The Dish: Summer collabs we're excited for  Duration: 01:07:37
Ep. 121: Dave's Labubu Moment, Cigar Bars, and Shots from our Glory Days
Jul 07, 2025

Dave Wez is back in the studio with us and he's got a lot to fill us in on with Whatcha Been Eatin'! We also dive into famous food scenes in movies (tell us your favorites on Instagram: @deliciouscitypodcast), we find out what shots of booze we all ordered too many of in our 20s (and still order to this day when we're feeling irresponsible) and we get the details on some exciting restaurant openings on the horizon from Philly's most popular chefs. Have a snack nearby and hit play - you've got a lot of eating to do.  Duration: 00:51:16

Ep. 120: Phila and Rachel Lorn of Mawn: Beard Awards, Best Bites and More
Jul 02, 2025

When they're not busy running their James Beard award-winning restaurant Mawn, where do Phila and Rachel Lorn eat and drink in Philly, and what will they choose as their Best Bite? We find out that and more on today's episode of Delicious City. Mawn has quickly become one of the most popular spots in the city, and they're preparing to open another in East Passyunk, so of course we got as many details as we could on the menu, opening date and more. Plus: a Philadelphian's hot take on the Chicago food scene, and a ton of dinner events...

Duration: 01:03:38
Ep. 119: Shore Eats, Speakeasies and Dining Al Fresco
Jun 23, 2025

Stay hydrated AND satiated during this week's heat wave! Eli has a ton of recommendations for you to eat at, from Thai to Mexican and all cuisines in between. Marisa has a lot of shore shout-outs, and the gang take a trip down memory lane with their teenage music tastes and a Full House analysis. Sara discovers a new speakeasy behind a vending machine in Northern Liberties. Plus, In It To Win It is back! Get the secret word to win a $100 gift card to The Mulberry, thanks to our partners at Center City District. 

(00:00) Beach Boys a...

Duration: 00:53:04
Ep. 118: Trinidadian Doubles with Chef Chaz Brown
Jun 16, 2025

Chef Chaz Brown joins Eli and Marisa in the studio - bearing gifts of rice and rum! - to talk about how his Trinidadian roots and fine dining background came together to form The Oxtail Exchange. Currently a pop-up, Chaz shares his vision for its future, including a documentary that tells the powerful story behind it. Plus: this week's Best Bites, and… are bugs having a moment in the food world?

(02:57) What's up with Trenton's slogan?

(05:16) Chaz Brown  talks about his backstory and how he got to where he is today

(18:56) Chaz talks abo...

Duration: 01:08:32
Ep. 117: Lots to Love in Center City
Jun 09, 2025

Wednesday is the new Friday! Center City District's SIPS program just kicked off its 21st season, with 94 restaurants participating this summer. It's the perfect time to try a new-to-you spot or revisit an old favorite. Our friend Giavana Suraci Pruiti from CCD is here with tips on her faves, plus info on a new lunch special across Center City and the return of Open Streets.

00:00 Table shapes at restaurants 05:30 Giavana tells us what's new on the SIPS list this year 34:17 Best Bites: the greatest strawberry dish of Eli's life, Gia's vegetarian picks, and Marisa tries something new at...

Duration: 00:59:58
Ep. 116: Beach Breakfast, Ice Cream Etiquette and Stadium Charcuterie
Jun 02, 2025

There's a ton of places Delicious City has been eating from the city to the shore, so get ready to pin all these recs. Plus, we recap the tailgate that kicked off the summer season down at the ballpark. Thank you to everyone who partied with us, and thanks to our food parters for feeding us that day! Follow @deliciouscitypodcast on Instagram for another big event announcement coming soon…

00:00 Delicious City baseball cards and our custom design 04:53 Tailgate Recap: Go Phils! 13:34 Ice cream sample etiquette and waffle cones 31:45 Whatcha Been Eatin': Sara brings her own dinner to the Me...

Duration: 01:01:59
Ep. 115: BBQ Breakdown with Daniel Grobman
May 23, 2025

With the Delicious City Tailgate Party just a few days away, Daniel Grobman is here to tell us about the meats he's bringing to Lot G this Tuesday. He's spicing things up at this event, just for us, with the help of Chef "Reuby" Reuben Asaram. A one-time-only collab! Back at Mike's BBQ, he's serving the tried and true recipes that keep barbecue lovers coming back for more. Daniel also explains how he got involved with Mike's BBQ in the first place, his background in BBQ competitions, and what it's been like to take over a beloved Philly brand...

Duration: 00:56:00
Ep. 114: Behind the Bar with Paul MacDonald
May 19, 2025

The Michelin Guide is coming to Philadelphia, and we have *opinions*! Eli, Marisa and Dave predict how this will shift the landscape of our city's dining scene. Joining them this episode is Paul MacDonald. His cocktail creations can be found at The Lovers Bar at Friday Saturday Sunday, which is nominated for Outstanding Bar at this year's James Beard Awards.

00:00 First time you needed to step up your game 06:21 Get your fill of BBQ and booze at our tailgate party on 5/27! Advance tix only (no day-of sales) at DeliciousCityPodcast.com 07:30 Paul MacDonald of Friday Saturday Sunday and the...

Duration: 00:59:17
Ep 113: Step Up Your Tailgate Game with 4th & Jawn
May 12, 2025

When this podcast throws a party, we go all out. On May 27th, we're hosting a tailgate that's all Philly food and drinks, and we called in the tailgate pros to level up: 4th & Jawn. Gayle Saunders tells us all about his intense prep during football season (Go Birds!), what's in store for baseball season, things that every tailgate should have, and the wild stories that come from passionate Philly sports fans. (Not to mention what's in store for the Delicious City Tailgate Party on 5/27)

02:07 The battle of long lines in South Philly 09:00 Gayle Saunders from 4th and J...

Duration: 01:00:16
Ep. 112: Nan Soto, The Wagyu Sommelier
May 05, 2025

Did you know that Wagyu tastes so good because the cattle are so relaxed? Some cows even listen to classical music! It's true, and everything you need to know about Wagyu beef, you'll hear on this episode of Delicious City. Nan Sato, founder of Wagyu Sommelier, brings her extensive knowledge of Japanese farming techniques, cuts, and preparation methods of authentic Wagyu meats to Philly and beyond. 

Reminder to buy your Delicious City Tailgate tickets here

00:00 Uncrustables and sugary snacks 08:45 Nan Soto, Wagyu Somm, on the beauty of Japanese beef 23:32 Dave's Wagyu cocktail creation 36:23 We're giving away a...

Duration: 01:03:02
Ep. 111: The Newlywed Game with Rebecca Foxman & Dave
Apr 28, 2025

Delicious City welcomes a guest co-host for this episode: Rebecca Foxman, aka Mrs. Feeding Time TV. As Dave's wife she has a front row seat to all of his eating adventures, and she's got plenty of her own to share with us, too. She's the creator of Fox and Son Fair Foods, a must-visit in Reading Terminal Market, and you can find her all over the Philly food scene collaborating, educating, and of course, cooking. 

04:24 Delicious City Tailgate on May 27th: Get tickets now 07:18 Becca tells us how Fox and Son came to be and what's on the h...

Duration: 00:55:24
Ep. 110: Farah Stacy Is All Around Philly
Apr 21, 2025

Visit Philly content strategist Farah Stacy is our guest co-host this week, and she brought South Philly Ice to share, because 'tis the season! As the ambassador of our city's most spectacular events, she has a unique perspective on what makes Philly special, and wants to share it with both longtime Philadelphians and first-time visitors. She shares her favorite spots to eat and drink, lists the Philly-est pregnancy cravings she's had while expecting, and names the cocktail she absolutely cannot wait to indulge in once her baby arrives this summer. 

05:48 Tailgate tickets are on sale now! Check Instagram f...

Duration: 01:16:33
Ep. 109: Spring's Hottest Restaurant Openings with Michael Klein
Apr 14, 2025

Michael Klein's columns in the Inquirer and weekly newsletter are required reading here in the Delicious City studios. He's all-knowing, all-seeing, and all-eating. The veteran food and restaurant reporter returns to the podcast to let you in on all the spots that are opening this spring and summer, including some picks for the suburbanites and Jersey folks.

04:00 Michael Klein, food writer for the Philadelphia Inquirer, is in studio   14:37 Eli believes 2025 is the year of "the outsiders" coming to Philly 20:07 Spring restaurant openings in and around Philadelphia 26:44 Micheal names the best suburb for dining out 44:10 Whatcha Been Eatin': Marisa's O...

Duration: 00:55:23
Ep. 108 Jessica Boyington Declares the Best Happy Hour in Philly
Apr 07, 2025

Announcements galore in this episode! We recap the Beard Award finalists who will represent Philly at the ceremony this year, we announce the first-ever Delicious City Tailgate (Go Phils!), and we have an update on Merch Madness, which is down to the final round. We do it all with our friend Jessica Boyington in studio with us, and she shares her current favorite spots to eat, drink and celebrate life. 

00:00 Not wearing Spanx is the BEST 03:40 Merch Madness update, White Lotus and stolen hoodies 10:27 Jessica Boyington combines her love of food and storytelling in her TV career, and l...

Duration: 01:09:26
Ep. 107: Spring Training and Stylish Bites
Mar 31, 2025

Eli, Marisa and Dave have been all over the place lately, and in this episode of Delicious City they give us tips from their recent trips to New York and Florida, recapping all the excellent bites along the way. Of course they also have a ton of spots for you to pin here in Philly, plus a bunch of restaurant openings to put on your calendar, cookie chat with Levain Bakery, AND a chance to win tickets to next week's Chef Radio Live event with MANNA!

00:00 Go-to comfort foods for stress eating 06:21 Win tickets to Chef Radio LIVE...

Duration: 01:02:53
Ep. 106: Merch Madness Round 1 and Fish Talk with Fishtown Seafood
Mar 24, 2025

The tournament has officially begun! Delicious City's Merch Madness is underway, so submit your Round 1 picks now at DeliciousCityPodcast.com. Eli, Marisa and Dave unbox the big prize bundle and run down the bracket match-ups. They're joined by Bryan Szeliga from Fishtown Seafood, who puts freshness and flavor above all else at his three retail locations. Plus, Best Bites and lots of events to keep you full until our next episode.

00:00 Marisa witnessed the ultimate cheesesteak violation 07:14 Merch Madness Unboxing and Round 1 Match-Ups! Vote for your chance to win an insane Philly merch bundle 14:25 Bryan Szeliga talks freshwater...

Duration: 01:06:30
Ep. 105: Merch Madness Announcement and Annoying Influencer Quirks
Mar 17, 2025

Time for a wardrobe refresh! Merch Madness is back, and this bracket-style throw down will determine the master of foodie merch in Philadelphia. The winner will be determined through three rounds of voting by YOU, the Delicious City family. Go to DeliciousCityPodcast.com to cast your vote. Who says you can't wear your food??

00:00 Infomercials, George Foreman Grills, and Eli's story about the Oxyclean guy 08:32 Merch Madness Bracket Announcement - Round 1 starts today! 13:09 Annoying Things Foodie Influencers Do 32:43 Whatcha Been Eatin': Duck pasta, birthday cake, and suckling pig 38:18 The Sauce: Chef news and restaurant updates from all over...

Duration: 00:42:50
Ep. 104: Philly Steps Up Its Bread Game with Nish Patel
Mar 10, 2025

What sets an amazing cheesesteak apart from the rest? A roll done right! Nish Patel of Del Rossi's tells Delicious City how he transitioned from franchise owner to carving out his spot in the city's cheesesteak and pie scene. We also dive into the importance of "not getting too comfortable" as a business owner, and we find out why Nish's steaks get the approval of Chef Eli, who is typically critical of Philly's signature sandwich. 

00:00 Tribute to Rich Colli 07:31 Nish Patel of Del Rossi's: cheesesteaks, pizzas, and all the work that goes into baking bread in-house 34:23 Merch Madness R...

Duration: 01:17:08
Ep. 103: Dave's Soda Taste Test Challenge
Mar 04, 2025

Dave has a hidden talent: he can identify any Coca-Cola product by sipping it blind. But can he do it under pressure? We set up a soda challenge to put him to the test. And now that we're into March, keep an eye on Instagram for the return of Merch Madness: @deliciouscitypodcast

00:00 Eagles parade afterglow 10:06 Dave's Soda Challenge: can he name all 7 sodas?? 17:00 Chip, dip and fast food burger chat 23:34 Whatcha Been Eatin': Dave's New Jersey discovery, Marisa's brunch pick, and Eli tries a new dish from a recent fave 42:48 The Sauce: Chef and restaurant news updates in...

Duration: 01:01:37
Ep. 102: The Perfect Oyster with Sweet Amalia
Feb 24, 2025

Oysters are one of our favorite snacks here at Delicious City, and you can find some of the best tasting mollusks in the world right in New Jersey. We talk with Merch Madness and Tasties winners Sweet Amalia about all things oysters, from farming to shucking to serving. We've also got a big contest announcement and a big list of Best Bites and pop-up dinners to get you through the rest of February.

00:00 Eagles Championship Parade Recap 05:46 Lisa Calvo and Melissa McGrath from Sweet Amalia talk about growing oysters on the farm near Cape May 11:25 Variables in nature...

Duration: 00:59:08
Ep. 101: The 50 Best Restaurants in Philadelphia, plus Tasties Best Bites
Feb 18, 2025

Eli, Marisa and Dave continue their 100-episode celebration with more highlights from the Tasties, including their Best Bites from the event, and there were a ton of savory and sweet eats to choose from. Plus: the debate over the best restaurants in the city has been reignited thanks to Philly Mag's annual list, but this time, we have an inside look at the process from Dave. 

We're still on a high from The Tasties, and we want to hear what you loved the most!

Email deliciouscitypodcast@gmail.com or take our survey and let us k...

Duration: 01:10:06
Ep. 100: Relive The Tasties, Philly's Most Delicious Party
Feb 10, 2025

One hundred episodes of Delicious City, a recap of The Tasties, AND a Super Bowl win?! What a week for Philadelphia! Blow the whistle!! 

Seriously, though, we couldn't have reached this 100-episode milestone without YOU, our loyal and hungry listeners. Thank you, thank you, thank you for listening to this podcast. Keep tagging us in your favorite spots on Instagram @delicouscitypodcast and tell your foodie friends to subscribe so we can grow the Delicious City family. 

Now, on to the recap of Philly's first-ever chef and restaurant awards:

08:05 Eli tries his first Kandy Ka...

Duration: 01:02:06
Ep. 99: Why We Love Hoagies with Liberty Kitchen
Jan 27, 2025

Happy Victory Monday and GO BIRDS!! Today we talk to "The Deli Boys," the tag team champions of hoagies: Matt Buddha and Beau Neidhardt of Liberty Kitchen. They give us the story behind their viral Kale Caesar hoagie and how they had to think fast to keep up with the sudden hype. We talk about Philly's obsession with hoagies and why you DO NOT call it a "sub", sandwich engineering (yes, it's a thing) and how they ended up on the Drew Barrymore Show. 

On February 2nd at Live! Casino, join us at The Tasties for an u...

Duration: 01:23:20
Ep. 98: New Year, New Feasts, and New Restaurants in Philly for 2025
Jan 20, 2025

GO BIRDS!! January is typically quiet for restaurants, but that hasn't stopped Eli, Marisa and Dave from scouring Philadelphia for the best possible eats. Plus: we're putting the final touches on the Tasties ceremony - it's coming up fast, so follow @deliciouscitypodcast on Instagram and get to know the nominees. Want to win tickets to the SOLD OUT ceremony on February 2nd? Cast your vote for People's Choice at DeliciousCityPodcast.com to enter. 

(00:00) A trip down memory lane as the gang reminisces about their, let's just say, questionable fashion choice (07:58) Whatcha Been Eatin': Dave's New Years Eve bang-bang, E...

Duration: 00:59:39
Ep. 97: Where Is Philly's Best Meatball? Alicia Vitarelli Tells All
Jan 14, 2025

Rolling into 2025 with a BANG! Today we're joined by the Philly Food Scene's Biggest TV Supporter, Alicia Vitarelli. After 15 years on the air on 6ABC and living all over the city, she shares her favorite spots - old and new! The weekly magazine show "FYI Philly" she hosts will fellow 6ABC'ers has changed the business trajectory for countless restaurants. Hear how in today's episode. 

(00:00) Toffee, toffee, toffee & nostalgic sandwiches.  (14:20) Alicia Vitarelli's long history with the Vetri restaurants  (29:50) The perfect Jewish Deli (34:30) What makes Levain Bakery so special.  (41:20) Best Bites (52:10) The Tasties Updates, the list of sponsors is growing whic...

Duration: 01:12:25
Bonus Episode! Chocolate Talk With G Love with Christopher Curtin of Eclat
Jan 07, 2025

Happy New Year! We're taking a short holiday break here at Delicious City, but we'll be back next week with brand new episodes and eats. In the meantime, here's a present for you: a bonus episode featuring Philly's own G Love, frontman of G Love And The Special Sauce, along with Christopher Curtin, chef and owner of Eclat Chocolate.

The two collaborated on a chocolate bar that's not only a delectable treat, but a service to our community: proceeds from the bar benefit Project Home. G Love and Christopher talk about what the project means to them...

Duration: 00:30:10
Ep. 96: Food Trends That Should Die in 2025
Dec 30, 2024

Happy Eating to everyone (except Dallas fans)! It's the final Delicious City episode of 2024, so of course we're going to look back on the last 12 months of mouth-watering food pics in our collective camera roll and decide what our favorite bites of the year were. We also reveal another round of nominees for The Tasties but this time, it's the People's Choice, which means YOU will decide who takes home the Golden Pig on February 2nd. Vote now at DeliciousCityPodcast.com! 

(01:47) Dave has a surprise for us: a big bag of his favorite treats! (07:16) Announcing the People's Choice T...

Duration: 00:48:35
Ep. 95: Pastries, Pizza and Porchetta with Kelsey Bush and Sara May
Dec 23, 2024

At Delicious City, we love our pastries. We also love our wine. Bloomsday Cafe offers the best of these worlds without the fuss: just great tasting treats and great company. Kelsey Bush and Sara May stop in (with goodies!) to tell us how their female-led restaurant on 2nd Street has blossomed. Plus: lots of New Years Eve dinners and parties to choose from, so start making your plans now! 

(00:00) Million dollar bananas and other weird performance art (05:51) Kelsey and Sara tell Eli and Dave how nostalgia informed the aesthetic of Bloomday and also their new bakery Loretta's, from t...

Duration: 01:10:17
Ep. 94: Philly History with a Twist with Founding Footsteps
Dec 16, 2024

We all know that Philadelphia is the birthplace of America, but our city is steeped in so much history that there's stories even longtime locals may not know. That's where Founding Footsteps comes in. Founder and tour guide Tim McAleer drops in to Delicious City with Philly facts and his favorite food spots. 

(00:00) Are we ready for the holidays yet? (05:08) Tim tells us why Founding Footsteps is known for guiding "Philadelphia Tours With Good Storytelling And Bad Jokes" (14:18) The importance of small businesses and what makes them special (27:55) Tim runs down the different tours they offer: BYOB, comedy-infused, d...

Duration: 00:57:43
Ep. 93: Philly's Freshest Crab & The Tastiest People's Choice Awards
Dec 09, 2024

Ever heard of Crabsgiving? Now you have, and after you hear Dave describe some of the best crab he's ever had, you're going to make it an annual tradition. Plus: Best Bites, a cheesy prize, and we're turning the Tasties over to YOU to vote for your favorite dishes in the city.

(00:00) A mouth-numbing snack to start the podcast 

(04:55) The Tasties: People's Choice Categories! We announce 5 categories now open for nominations. Head to deliciouscitypodcast.com to submit your picks and get your tickets for the party on February 2nd 

(17:36) In It To Win It...

Duration: 00:40:44
Ep. 92: Pizza, Baklava and More Tasties Nominees
Dec 02, 2024

In this episode of Delicious City, the crew scrolls through their camera rolls for Whatcha Been Eatin' and come up with a ton of recommendations for you. They cover Eli's favorite lettuce, Marisa's saga of losing her card at the Eagles game, and Dave's new favorite steak shop that just opened in Reading Terminal Market. Plus, an unveiling of nominees for the Tasties!

(00:00) Marisa makes the case for NOT participating in dry January (03:30) Whatcha Been Eatin': from pizza to scallops to baklava, there's lots to eat in the city right now, plus a few spots in the suburbs (23:12...

Duration: 00:45:51
Ep. 91: Tasties Nominees and Award Winning Cheese
Nov 26, 2024

Happy Thanksgiving! We're thankful for you, our Delicious City fam. Today we're recapping the list of nominees (so far!) for The Tasties, which are happening on February 2nd at Live! Casino and Hotel in Philadelphia. Plus, a friend of the show stops by with some fragrant, creamy treats.

(00:00) Marisa asks: Is Rittenhouse now the Mecca of caviar?

(06:12) The Tasties! We run down the categories that have been announced so far by our Philly friends on Instagram (follow @deliciouscitypodcast to keep up with the rollout), plus why each of these nominees is deserving of a Golden...

Duration: 01:18:04
Ep 90: It's Turkey Time with Delicious City
Nov 18, 2024

While we roll out the nominees for The Tasties on Instagram this week (follow @deliciouscitypodcast to be the first to know), we're in the studio getting ready for one of the biggest foodie holidays of the year: Thanksgiving. Plus, we run down all the great spots we've been eating and drinking as Philly embraces autumn. 

(00:00) Marisa's out, but the boys have leftover whiskey from last week's episode, so what could go wrong? And, in another life, what would Eli's rapper name be?

(02:37) Whatcha Been Eatin': Dave's Wagyu fat-washed dirty martini, Eli's Indian restaurant revelation, and t...

Duration: 00:59:55
Ep. 89: Beverage Branding Master Steven Grasse
Nov 11, 2024

This episode of Delicious City is fueled by whiskey with notes of crabs, canine and corpses… sounds wild, we know, and the stories behind each of those whiskeys are just as intoxicating as the spirits themselves. Steven Grasse is today's guest, and his agency Quaker City Mercantile has created brands like Hendrick's Gin and Sailor Jerry. Now, there's a few new beverages in the works, which we get to taste in the studio - and he brought some extra for you, DC fam, to potentially win! 

(00:00) A cucumber a day keeps the doctor away! (05:07) Steven Grasse of Art in...

Duration: 00:59:56
Ep. 88: Dining Destinations and the New Eater App
Nov 04, 2024

Hungry for a getaway? This episode of Delicious City may inspire wanderlust… We cover local getaways, regional hot spots and must-visit restaurants across the country with our guest, Ernest Owens. He tells us which new places he's curious about, and the classics that he goes back to again and again (and why!). Plus: Ernest breaks down the new Eater app, a must for any foodie's phone.

(00:00) The Tasties are happening on February 2nd, 2025, and tickets are on sale now! (04:10) Eater Philly editor Ernest Owens explains how, as one of the longest running online foodie resources, they create and ra...

Duration: 00:54:06
Ep. 87: Craig LaBan Reviews Philly's Ever Evolving Food Scene
Oct 28, 2024

Happy Halloween! In this fully masked episode, the Delicious City team talks to Craig LaBan himself—a man truly dedicated to his craft. For over 25 years, this acclaimed restaurant critic and writer has eaten his way across town and back in relative anonymity, which is quite a feat in the digital age. His reviews in The Philadelphia Inquirer have shaped the city's food scene for decades, and he reflects on all this and more in a special interview with Delicious City that peels back the curtain…

(00:00) We're all wearing masks today, but not only because we're in the Hall...

Duration: 01:12:35
Bonus Episode: The Tasties – Philly's Premier Restaurant Awards Show for Chefs and Hospitality Stars
Oct 23, 2024

Announcing The Tasties, Philadelphia's first-of-its-kind award show dedicated to celebrating an incredible year for the city's vibrant restaurant scene! Join us as we honor the best-in-class chefs and hospitality professionals who make Philadelphia's food culture so remarkable. In addition to industry awards, we'll be featuring the People's Choice category, where you can participate in the voting and help your favorite spots win the coveted bronze piggy award!

Early Bird Tickets are on sale now for $150, offering you access to the full awards ceremony and the post-event celebration, where you'll have the chance to mingle with the stars...

Duration: 00:16:02
Ep. 86: Dave's IHOP Nightmare, Halloween Costumes, and Scary Good Eats
Oct 21, 2024

Which Philly chef would make the best Beetlejuice? How about the Joker? We pair our foodie friends with fitting Halloween costumes. Plus: Dave's got serious beef with IHOP, and we've got a ton of picks for dining around town. Don't listen to this episode hungry! 

(00:00) Eli enlightens Sara, who's in for Marisa, and Dave on the origin of the phrase "86"

(02:21) Eli names his top sandwich in America

(05:17) Whatcha Been Eatin': Eli's education in Thai cuisine, Dave has a whole duck at a new Chinatown restaurant, and the sandwich that saved Sara. Plus, the g...

Duration: 00:52:44
Ep. 85: Adult Spaghetti-O's, Spinal Jelly, and Chef Dane Demarco
Oct 14, 2024

World's Best Hot Dog. Oreo Pancakes. Gnocchi Mac and Cheese. Dane DeMarco has taken the best foods from their childhood and updated them for our "grown up" palate using top notch ingredients at Gass and Main. The small but mighty restaurant has been open for about two years now in New Jersey, an easy PATCO ride for city dwellers. We dive into the inspiration for the mid-century modern spot, plus a few brunchy and bizarre Best Bites…

(00:00) Soup season is on its way!

(05:15) Dane describes the 'world's best hot dog' that's served at Gass and Ma...

Duration: 00:54:11
Ep. 84: Wyatt Piazza's Kiddo is Both Playful and Sustainable
Oct 07, 2024

Sustainability is not always easy to commit to when you're running a restaurant, but Wyatt Piazza and his team at Kiddo are making it a priority. He tells Eli and Marisa about the restaurant's efforts to create an adaptable, seasonal menu that sources local ingredients, from regional produce to guinea fowl from a nearby farm. The result is a menu is full of colorful dishes that inspire childlike wonder. 

(00:00) More and more late night happy hours are popping up, and Marisa's into it (05:06) Wyatt Piazza hit the one-year milestone with Kiddo, which has been a wild adventure, both c...

Duration: 00:54:02
Ep. 83: Happy Freaking 3rd Birthday To Us!
Sep 30, 2024

Delicious City Podcast is now THREE YEARS running, and we can't thank you enough for sharing your Philly food adventures with us! Our typical agenda goes out the window for an episode and in its place we have a bunch of surprise guests, and even a big ol' birthday cake. 

(03:16) Dave had to dip at the last minute, but he's with us in spirit… and in life-size poster form (04:05) Randy Rucker is our first surprise guest of the day! The "caviar fairy" brings us treats and tells us what's new at River Twice and Little Water (22:24) Peter Breslow, a s...

Duration: 01:03:57
Ep. 82: It's Dinnertime with the Paffuto Boys
Sep 23, 2024

What do you get when you put six foodies around a table? A LOT of restaurant recs! Not only do Jake Loeffler, Sam Kalkut, and Danny Griffiths have some tasty Italian waiting for you at Paffuto, they also shout out a bunch of Philly dishes for your "to try" list. 

(00:00) Buffett strategy: how to make the rounds, and what foods to avoid (03:37) The Paffuto trio are the Boyz II Men of the Philadelphia food scene (12:10) Sam, Danny and Jake tell us about the origins of Paffuto, and how Philly's pop-up culture makes them more creative with their culinary o...

Duration: 00:52:25
Ep. 81: The Philly Foodie Wedding of the Century & Brazilian Adventures
Sep 16, 2024

Dave & Becca tied the knot and their wedding had us drooling from 3,000 miles away.

5,000 miles in the other direction, Marisa was on a 7-day-long-tailgate across Brazil. All while Eli was stuck in here in good ol' Philadelphia.

(00:20) Same man, new bling!

(05:23) Dave talks about his unique…possibly one-of-a-kind… wedding cake from Taste of Spain.

(07:58) Wedding week food highlights: the pre-dinner, the post-dinner…

(12:56) SO MUCH FISH and East Coast v West Coat Oysters

(14:17) How Marisa's bucket list trip to Brazil with Philly Sports Trips came to happen...

Duration: 01:03:10
Ep. 80: The Birds, Beans, and Brazilian Food
Sep 09, 2024

Dave's getting married, Marisa is about to embark on a South American adventure, and Eli plans a tasty surprise for the crew. Plus: our favorite cookies in Philly, and our least favorite ice cream sandwiches. PSA: Do not listen to this episode while hungry and make sure there's a snack nearby! 

(02:28) Marisa and Sara (who's sitting in for Dave) define "Brat Summer" for Eli. Get with it man! (08:21) Whatcha Been Eatin'? Eli's bizarre oyster journey, Marisa's new sugary spot in Rittenhouse, and Sara's perfect pre-concert meal in Fishtown (15:19) Find out which type of bean Eli believes is "the d...

Duration: 00:57:23
Ep. 79: The Culinary Curiosities of Roxanne and a Voi•ãge Giveaway
Sep 02, 2024

Roxanne was born from the experimental mind of Chef Alexandra Holt. Instead of taming her brain and fitting her ideas into stiff boxes of expectation, she embraced her provocative culinary vision to create dishes that have stirred our city's food scene. The opening of her new space is imminent, and in this episode she tells Delicious City about why Philly is the first place she's truly felt at home. 

(00:00) Dave's not here today… because he's getting married today! Congrats Dave and Becca! (04:12) Alexandra's been putting in a ton of work at the new location for Roxanne, which is nam...

Duration: 01:05:50
Ep. 78: An Oyster Surprise with Gary McCready
Aug 26, 2024

Chef Eli is out this episode...again, BUT he set up a succulent surprise for Marisa and Dave. Get ready for some serious oyster ASMR… Plus shucking tips, best bar bites, and we warm up our pipes for karaoke!

(03:18) Our producer Sara reveals that Eli's got a tasty surprise guest lined up: we're talking about Oyster House's own G-Shucks, aka Gary McCready, the man who's shucked over a million oysters, and of course he brought Jersey-grown treats for the crew. We cover east coast vs. west coast, various spots he's shucked at, and why he loves to share th...

Duration: 00:37:50
Ep. 77: Midnight Pasta with Natalia Lepore Hagan
Aug 19, 2024

The only thing that could bring people together more than a big plate of pasta is learning to make the pasta by hand. Our guest today, Natalia Lepore Hagan, can teach you how to do just that at her Midnight Pasta classes - think less "cooking school" and more "fun-loving dinner party" - booze optional! We also talk about what's in our refrigerators, how to make pasta while camping, and our favorite desserts in Philly.

(00:00) Spoiler alert: how awesome was 'Deadpool and Wolverine'?! (02:24) Eli's out this week and we miss him, but Marisa and Dave are excited to...

Duration: 00:59:58
Ep. 76: Dave's Buffet Tips and the QR Code Menu Debate
Aug 12, 2024

Summer is for tomatoes, picnics, and happy hours. This episode is full of insider tips on new spots and classic faves, and we're giving you all the delicious details. Plus: Wit Wez returns with a gripe from Dave- let us know on Instagram if you agree… Now let's dive in!

(00:00) Marisa's on vaca this time, but she'll be back next week! In the meantime we've got Sara in studio (03:30) Whatcha Been Eatin': Dave's got a new spot for crunchy, crispy Korean wings (06:20) Dave tried a new buffet in South Philly, and we get into pro tips for getting th...

Duration: 00:43:06
Ep. 75: An Italian Sausage Kingpin and His Mexi-Korean Best Bite
Aug 05, 2024

Fact: There's no shortage of great places for a sandwich around Philly. However, Rocco's Italian Sausages [Yup, the ones by the Home Depot] goes over the top.  We're talking eggs and steak, jerk chicken, sweet and hot sausage, and vegetarian options, too! And we have one of the OGs in studio today, Dan Winter, who's going to tell us how he expanded the Rocco's brand over the years and what the Philly region means to the team. 

(00:00) A Rocco's sweatsuit: Do we need it? (Yes. The answer is yes (03:01) Dave has been eating Rocco's sandwiches for over 15 years no...

Duration: 00:52:27
Ep. 74: The Bear Breakdown, and Eli's Confession
Jul 29, 2024

Yes, Chef! We binged Season 3 of the Bear and we're going over the highlights, the myths and the Easter eggs on the show. Plus: everything we've been eating this week, and a deep, dark, and crunchy confession from Eli. 

(00:00) Dave isn't here this week, so our producer Sara - and Marisa's fellow DJ at WMMR - is stepping in (04:27) Where in the world are you listening? We want to know! If you're an far-flung Delicious City listener, send us a message on Instagram (@deliciouscitypodcast) from your corner of the world and let us know how you found this p...

Duration: 00:51:41
Ep 73: Behind the Scenes - Opening of Provenance with Chef Nich Bazik
Jul 22, 2024

Chef Nicholas Bazik has worked his magic all over Philly for nearly two decades, and now his most exciting concept yet is bringing French flair to Headhouse Square. We talk culinary technique, the pain and pride of opening a restaurant, and why Paris vibes will never go out of style. 

00:00 Eli tells us about a signature black and white pasta dish that came to him out of nowhere

06:47 Nicholas Bazik is opening Provenance in Headhouse Square, and reservations are now live! His resume in Philly includes La Chinesca, Fork, Russet and more. This next restaurant i...

Duration: 00:59:30
Ep. 72: Hot Dogs, Dumplings and Banana Ketchup
Jul 15, 2024

Eli, Marisa and Dave have been eating around Philly a ton this week, so there's lots of tips and treats in this episode. Tag us on Instagram and Facebook to let us know where you've been eating. 

(00:00) What happens when you leave cabbage in the oven for 8 hours? Chef Eli has the answer (07:32) We're getting caught up on season 3 of The Bear, and you should too - recap episode is coming later this month (7/29)! Send us your thoughts on the show and your questions for our resident chef on Instagram: @deliciouscitypodast (09:14) Whatcha Been Eatin': Eli tells us about b...

Duration: 01:03:12
Ep. 71: Ethiopian Fried Chicken with Mebruka Kane of Doro Bet
Jul 08, 2024

This episode is full of crunchy chicken ASMR. This isn't your typical fried chicken fare - it's even more finger-lickin' good, found in the heart of West Philly. We've got an exciting lineup of Best Bites, and a ton of events and pop-ups to fill your calendar.

(00:00) Dave took a trip to the Fancy Food Expo, and Philly was well represented! (04:59) White meat, dark meat or vegan meat? (06:46) Mabruka Kane joins us in studio. She and her sister Hayat Ali serve up Ethiopian-inspired fried chicken at Doro Bet in Philly. Not only does it have that perfect crunch...

Duration: 01:09:05
Ep. 70: Fiore's Philly Summer Dining Tips
Jul 01, 2024

Welcome to Week 2 of weekly episodes! Every Monday you'll be getting Delicious City wherever you get your podcasts, so make sure you subscribe for all the good stuff - and this week, it's REAL good. We catch up with our friends Justine McNeil and Ed Crochet from Fiore, who dish out pro tips for Philly summer dining, Ed gives up his secret to an indulgent grilled cheese, and we discover what's in vegan lox.

(00:00) Binge listening? Weekly listening? No matter how you listen, we love that you're here!

(03:03) Justine MacNeil and Ed Crochet peel back...

Duration: 00:52:44
Ep. 69: Life-Changing Pastries with Robert Toland, Baking Master Winner
Jun 24, 2024

BIG NEWS, Delicious City fam: we're going weekly! You'll hear about what we've been chewing on, literally and figuratively, every single week. Best Bites, Food News, and conversations with the movers and shakers in Philadelphia - it's all here. These episodes will get delivered to this feed every Monday, so smash that SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW button if you haven't already.

(00:00) Episode 69? Niiiiice. 

(02:12) We jump right into pastry chat with Robert Toland, who just won Food Network's 'Next Baking Master: Paris'. Prepare yourself for some crunchy ASMR

(07:23) Robert gives us a behind-the-scenes look at filming t...

Duration: 00:55:20
Ep. 68: Savoring the Summer (with TWO Giveaways)
Jun 10, 2024

Summer has arrived, which means al fresco dining, festivals everywhere you turn, and the weekly tradition of SIPS in Center City. Eli, Marisa and Dave dive into their warm weather favorites, debut a new segment, and have not one, but two tasty prizes that you could win. 

00:00:00 Chewy vs. crunchy cookies: which team are you?  

00:01:17 Dave is back! And no, he's not moving to Newark. He's happy to be back in Philly after a work trip back-to-back with a bachelor weekend (lots of Dirty Bananas were involved) 

00:05:57 Gia Suraci, who has the most Phil...

Duration: 01:15:22
Ep. 67: Philly Beer Week Shenanigans with Varga Bar's Rich Colli and To Go Cocktail Memories
May 27, 2024

Beer lovers, belly up to the newest episode of Delicious City and pour yourself a pint. Rich Colli is in studio to talk about all the brewers from Philadelphia and beyond who are not only quenching your thirst, but throwing some of the most ridiculously fun parties in the city. From sours to stouts, we cover it all.

(00:00:00) Hat chat and Phillies jerseys

(00:06:10) Rich Colli is here to talk all things beer, which Marisa is VERY excited about. He also owns Varga Bar, and he tells us about the itchiest interview of his life… 

...

Duration: 01:27:53
Ep. 66 Liz Grothe of Couch Cafe is Fearlessly Silly and Talks Her Scampi Journey
May 13, 2024

With Memorial Day Weekend fast approaching, the Delicious City gang have scoured the internet (i.e. we polled our followers) for the best beach experiences that'll turn a typical holiday weekend into a legendary party. We've got the info for you, plus the scoop on the new restaurant from the mind of Liz Grothe, self-described "fearlessly silly" Philly chef. 

(00:00:00) Everybody vote for Dave Wez for Philly Mag's Influencer of the Year award! 

(00:07:04) Liz Grothe tells us about how she landed in Philadelphia, via a food safety job involving cheesesteaks

(00:27:45) The story behind Couch Ca...

Duration: 01:32:40
Ep 65: Josh Eats Philly talks Tacos, Brunch and Social Media
Apr 30, 2024

Heads up, Delicious City fam: due to some technical difficulties, this episode may sound a bit different. We'll be back to normal next time, and no, we do not have drunken lisps in real life. Head to our Instagram @deliciouscitypodcast for videos from the studio (that all sound normal!). Speaking of Instagram, one of Philadelphia's original foodie influencers @josheatsphilly is here to talk about social media, brunch spots you can actually score a reso at, and Cinco de Mayo plans. 

00:00 Marisa had to bail at the last minute, so producer Sara is joining in on the conversation Duration: 01:17:13

Ep. 64 Jen Carroll and Billy Riddle Announce a Philly Food Tour
Apr 15, 2024

Eclipses, earthquakes and eats, oh my! Not even Mother Nature can stop us from trying every bite in the city of Philadelphia. Let's dive into this jam-packed episode of Delicious City, complete with insider info, a giveaway announcement, and a special discount for listeners

The solar eclipse was underwhelming for us here in Philly, but what does NOT disappoint is our good friends Jen Carroll and Billy Riddle joining us for an update on their many food projects We cover how they landed back in our city during the pandemic, get an update on their cooking classes and...

Duration: 01:42:44
Episode 63: A Snacky Show with Snacktime, a Big Announcement and Stories from the Road
Apr 01, 2024

What are your favorite snacks? Well, we all have our opinions, but today we have the perfect guests to be on an episode that is fully dedicated to those salty, crispy treats. "Hit it, Snacktime!" You hear us say it in every episode of Delicious City, and now, Snacktime themselves have joined us in the studio. We have a little April Fools fun in this hour of snacking, crunching, reminiscing, and looking forward to the future, including: 

Merch Madness Update: The bracket has been narrowed down to the final championship round. Listen to find out how you can w...

Duration: 01:25:54
Episode 62: Merch Madness, "El Chingon" Defined, Our Happy Hour Recap
Mar 18, 2024

We're fresh off of our first Delicious City Happy Hour, and we can't thank you all enough for joining us! We recap that great event, and on the other side of the coin, we run down a fantastic chef's tasting that Eli, Marisa, and Dave all took part in. Plus, we welcome a guest whose Mexican dishes are getting national attention. There's something for everyone in this episode.

Here's what you're going to hear in this episode:

Happy Hour at Paulie Gee's was a DC family affair. The beer! The pizza! The 90s decor! We had...

Duration: 01:37:09
Episode 61: The Bear Chat, "Name The Flav" with 1-900, Chef's Tasting for 2 Giveaway!
Mar 04, 2024

Delicious City is back with a *sweet* new episode. We welcome Ryan Fitzgerald of 1-900-ICE-CREAM. His small-batch ice cream combos will satisfy your sweet tooth, and his flavor names are some of the most creative. We put him to the test to name our own fictional flavors.

Vote for your favorite on Instagram: @deliciouscitypodcast - Ryan tells us he'll create a limited edition pint based on our votes! 

Episode 61 is brought to us by our friends at Forsythia restaurant in Old City where chef Christopher Kearse's modern French food continues to wow guests. Listen to...

Duration: 01:52:41
Episode 60: Hoagie Hero, South Philly Stories and an Upcoming Beer & Pizza Happy Hour
Feb 19, 2024

Hoagies are the fabric of Philadelphian society. They fuel our long days and late nights. They bring us together at the deli counter. Our orders show off our individuality: are you an extra hot peppers kinda guy, or a seeded roll only kinda gal? Our own Hoagie Hero (as voted by you, Delicious City listeners, in the Tasties awards) Jason Okdeh tells us how this special sandwich has put him on a path to success and allowed him to foster community around his shop, Farina Di Vita.

Plus!

Jae explains how he went from having a...

Duration: 01:40:30
Episode 59: The 50 Best Restaurants in a City of Pop-Ups (plus a Gift Card GIVEAWAY!)
Feb 05, 2024

Philadelphia Magazine's annual list of 50 Best Restaurants always sparks controversy in our food scene. Who's in? Who's out? What does "best" mean, anyway? We discuss it all in a riveting conversation with Philly Mag's food editor, Kae Lani Palmisano. We've also got new music from our friends in Snacktime, AND something for you, loyal listener, to potentially win!

Plus This!

Eli brings his homegrown "rooftop juice" to share with the crew. It's fire! Our friend and self-described "food history nerd" Kae Lani impresses all of us with her ability to expertly balance so many projects at...

Duration: 01:42:26
Episode 58: For the Love of Local Wine, BYO Pairing Ideas, and Plenty of Pop-Ups in Philly
Jan 22, 2024

A glass of wine can elevate a meal from good to great with a single sip. Pair local eats with local drinks, and you've got a match made in foodie heaven. That's what this episode of Delicious City is all about! The folks from Mural City Cellars join us in studio and quickly become our favorite guests ever when they crack open a bottle of wine for us that's not even on bar shelves yet! No offense every other amazing guest we've ever had on here, but.....did you bring wine? Plus: a HUGE event announcement in Food News...

Duration: 01:46:51
Episode 57: A Mythical Chef Guest, 2023 Restaurant Retrospective, and a Soup Dumpling Hack
Jan 08, 2024

The first episode of 2024 is here! Delicious City's first guest of the year is a man who is known by one name, like Madonna, Bono, and Slash… Shola runs one of the most exclusive dining experiences in Philly at his Studio Kitchen in the BOK building, wowing everyone who sits at his table with his unique take on modernist cuisine. Plus: a 2023 Restaurant Retrospective, and what we're most looking forward to in the new year!

Some of the DC cast are embarking on *Dry January* and discuss non-alcoholic options that still taste good without booze Shola talks about hi...

Duration: 01:33:42
Episode 56: Dave the Santa, The Tasties Recap and Christmas Morning Memories
Dec 23, 2023

We're feeling a little ~crispy~ after an epic bash mere hours before recording, but it was 100% worth it to power through and recap the awesomeness, and of course we had to thank everyone who joined us at the 2nd annual Delicious City holiday party!

Also on the show: 

Dave plays Santa and gives out gifts to everyone on his "nice" list. Marisa's gift is very Philly and Eli's looks prehistoric Dave recounts his experience as our official party Santa, which was far better than his days as Santa at K-Mart when he was a teen Memories o...

Duration: 01:02:43
Episode 55: Broadway Sundays, Stock's Poundcake, and the Inaugural Delicious City Awards, The Tasties!
Dec 12, 2023

It's a busy day here at Delicious City with multiple special guests, lots of Best Bites AND an awards announcement! Let's jump right in:

Fresh off an excellent podcast lunch at High Street, the group brings Randal Mrazik into the studio to talk about The Tavern Group, which includes Tavern on Camac, Tavern Inn, U Bar, and the newest addition, Otto's in Brewerytown Randal runs down the history of Camac Street in Philadelphia, and Marisa shares one of her favorite weekend parties: Broadway Sundays, plus a magical Christmas moment at U Bar Dave's getting married! He tells the...

Duration: 01:17:48
Episode 54: Turkey Love, Favorite Trimmings, Secret Dinner Parties
Nov 22, 2023

It's the greatest foodie holiday of them all, Thanksgiving! Delicious City sets the table with their turkey techniques, trivia with a special guest host, veggie options and more.

Also on the show:

This episode kicks off with an unexpectedly wild story about a maniac chef and a missing Kunz spoon Thanksgiving chat: electric carving knives, how to find the "turkey oyster", and Eli's mission to fry a turkey for the very first time this year We've also got all the trimmings: we cover the best time of day to have holiday dinner, why crab cakes are...

Duration: 01:02:29
Episode 53: Big-Time Bromances, Local Coffee Superstar, and Famous Peeps Etiquette
Nov 13, 2023

Delicious City is buzzing over Rival Bros Coffee, and we've got co-founder Jon Adams on this episode to explain their approach to java and how it reflects the bold and authentic spirit of Philadelphia. We also talk about one of the hottest new dining experiences in the city, Enswell, and Jon and Eli get swept up in culinary history - the convo was so absorbing that we lost track of time and had to be kicked out of our studio.

Also on this episode: 

Dave Wez is out this week, but a bromance blossoms between Eli a...

Duration: 01:48:22
Episode 52: Slow Drinks, Fermentation Conversations, and Potato Chip Flavor Fantasizing
Oct 30, 2023

We're taking it slow with special guest Danny Childs on this episode of Delicious City. Danny is the founder of Slow Drinks, specializing in foraging ingredients for world-class cocktails. You'll wonder what you can pluck from your own backyard to use in the kitchen after hearing this episode. 

Here's what else was discussed:

Eli opens the show up by telling us about the time he cooked for Robin Williams in NYC amongst many other High profile peeps Danny explains how his new book will help you discover the deliciousness growing all around us, and how to f...

Duration: 01:22:10
Episode 51: Two Year Birthday Vibes, Cake Trivia, and Georgian Cheese Boats
Oct 16, 2023

Red October has washed over Philadelphia again, and Marisa's got a game to get to, so we jump right into all things food and drink, including ballpark eats and birthday cake!

In this episode:

It's Delicious City's 2nd birthday! Thank you for spending two delectable years with us. We talk favorite cake flavors, annoying cake trends, and birthday cake trivia Dave's Best Bites include two sandwiches and a dessert, one of which delivers "an upper cut of flavor to your face" Eli's Best Bites are a sourdough cheese boat found in Reading Terminal Market and an...

Duration: 00:51:09
Episode 50: Saying Cheese, Vacation Eats, and Rowdy Kids in Restaurants
Oct 02, 2023

Curd nerds, you're in for a lot of cheese chat on this episode of Delicious City. Yoav Perry tells the gang about Perrystead Creamery and the uniquely flavored cheeses he's creating in Kensington. 

They also talk about: 

The arrival of Red October (go Phils!) and Dave and Marisa's plan to pull a Brandon Marsh on the bull at Xitnity Live Dave's trip to Orcas Island and Port Townshend Perrystead Creamery, summed up by Dave as "the Willy Wonka Factory, but with cheese instead of chocolate" Yoav's backstory and how he ended up with a creamery in th...

Duration: 01:17:23
Episode 49: The Wit Wez Debut, Willy Wonka of Tacos, and 54 Taps of Tastiness
Sep 04, 2023

Eli's back in studio with Marisa and Dave to talk food news, best bites and debut a brand new feature on Delicious City that makes us wonder why you would ever disassemble a beignet. Plus, Chef Reuben Asaram, aka Reuby, brings a pop of pink to the show (move over, Barbie!).

They also discuss:

Lots of Best Bite contenders from Eli's travels, Marisa's birthday and Dave's experience with StudioKitchen Shola and other mononyms (think Bono, Prince) Our favorite bagel spots Eli presents the gang with tasty treats from Portuguese superstar Gilda Reuby, the Willy Wonka of...

Duration: 01:18:26
Episode 48: A New Food Incubator, an Absentee Dad, and some Swordfish Schnitzel
Aug 21, 2023

When "dad" is away, the kids will play! With Eli on a little summer vacation, Marisa and Dave take the reins of this episode of Delicious City. They welcome Chef Chad Rosenthal, who's launching an incubator project via The Lucky Well that's four mouthwatering concepts under one roof. It's a unique project that gives food entrepreneurs a chance to show Philly what they're made of.

The gang also covers:

How Chad's Lucky Well Incubator sounds like a crazy reality show The FOMO you feel when you miss a food pop-up - and how the Lucky Well...

Duration: 01:05:09
Episode 47: A New Korean-Polish-Italian Cohost, an Indonesian Chef, and Ethiopian Fried Chicken
Aug 07, 2023

It's not every day that we announce a new cohost on Delicious City, but today's the day! We officially have a third wheel on DC and we are ecstatic to have Dave Wez, aka @feedingtimetv, officially join this podcast. It's a very international podcast this week that's packed to the gills with deliciously entertaining chit-chat. 

Here's what else to expect in this episode:

Introducing Dave Wez as he gives us a summer update Eli learns what a 302 is in Sea Isle City 🥴 How Dave figures out where to eat next Would you eat the Sardinian cheese that...

Duration: 01:25:44
Episode 97: Josh Sharkey - Chef, Entrepreneur and Founder of meez
Jul 25, 2023

Josh Sharkey trained under some incredible, generational chef talent, like David Bouley, like Indian super star chef, Floyd Cardoz, and the Great Gray Kunz, and in doing so, he built up his repertoire and his résumé, so no matter what he did, he would be successful. But after working for these industry titans, he found himself on a new mission. It was after he lost an important notebook that was chock-full of recipes and techniques that he had been taught over the years that he came up with the idea of developing software where no recipe, no technique, or...

Duration: 01:12:15