Erik Bruner-Yang: Cutting Edge Chef, Restaurateur and Entrepreneur
On episode 7, Chef Erik Bruner-Yang gets In The Weeds with Chef Spike Mendelsohn. The two dive headfirst into the highs, lows, and madness of the restaurant industry. Erik is culinary rebel who shook up the industry with his bold flavors and unfiltered opinions. From his unconventional rise in the food world to redefining what it means to cook with heart, Erik doesn't hold back. We talk about his roots, the influences behind his game-changing dishes, and why he refuses to play by the rules. Expect a deep dive into his journey, his philosophy on food, and some behind-the-scenes stories you won't hear anywhere else. Tune in for an unfiltered, unapologetic conversation with one of the most exciting chefs in the game today.Erik Bruner-Yang is a Taiwanese-born American chef and restaurateur celebrated for introducing innovative Asian-inspired dining experiences to Washington, D.C. After moving from Taiwan to California, Japan, and eventually Virginia during his childhood, he developed a deep appreciation for diverse cuisines. In 2011, he opened Toki Underground, D.C.'s first notable ramen shop, earning acclaim for its rich broths and authentic flavors. He later established Maketto, a unique three-level space combining a Cambodian and Taiwanese restaurant, coffee shop, and retail store, reflecting his commitment to community and culture. His other ventures include Brothers and Sisters, Spoken English, and ABC Pony, each blending various culinary traditions. A three-time James Beard Foundation award nominee, Bruner-Yang also founded the Power of 10 Initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing grants to restaurants and meals to communities in need.Listen & Connect with us here: https://linktr.ee/intheweeds.pod🎙️🎙️ In The Weeds Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Saltverk Salt produces sustainable, hand-harvested sea salt in Iceland's Westfjords, utilizing 100% geothermal energy for a zero-carbon footprint. Their artisanal salts, including unique flavors like Birch Smoked and Arctic Thyme, capture the pure essence of the Nordic region. Visit https://saltverk.com to learn more and use promo code INTHEWEEDS for 20% off. Open Water is ultra-purified, electrolyte-packed canned water in BPA-free aluminum packaging.They are driven by love and passion for our oceans and the environment. Visit https://drinkopenwater.com to learn more and use promo code INTHE WEEDS for 20% off. Just Ice Tea isn't just any beverage; it's a delightful refreshment that stands out for its unrivaled flavor. Made from organic, fair trade ingredients, and crafted with sustainability in mind, it's a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy with every sip. Visit https://justicetea.com to find Just Ice Tea at a store near you and discover more about their commitment to positive change. We, The Pizza is arguably the pinnacle of pizza perfection. Treat your taste buds to a slice of pure bliss and make your mouth happy with their delectable pizza pies. Craving a slice? Visit https://wethepizza.com to place your order and locate a convenient location near you. DC Central Kitchen an iconic nonprofit and social enterprise that combats hunger and poverty through job training and job creation. The organization provides hands-on culinary job training for individuals facing high barriers to employment while creating living wage jobs and bringing nutritious, dignified food where it is most needed. To learn more, please visit https://dccentralkitchen.org
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