#1487 - Janet Zuccarini & Evan Funke

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Current Events Impacting Restaurants and Adapting to New Regulations

  • Discussion on the impact of rioting, chaos, and looting on restaurants
  • Challenges faced by restaurants in adapting to sudden reopening rules and regulations
  • Exploration of difficulties in managing restaurant operations during the pandemic
• 00:01:59

  Adaptability and Tradition in the Restaurant Industry

  • Adaptability of the restaurant industry in response to changing circumstances
  • Emphasis on maintaining traditional culinary practices and craftsmanship
  • Focus on creating a connection between chefs and diners through handmade pasta and culinary traditions
• 00:11:43

  Opening a Restaurant and Partnering with Chef Evan Funky

  • Janet talks about opening the restaurant Felix in LA after moving from Toronto for lifestyle reasons
  • Unexpected situation where the initial chef for the restaurant bailed out, leading to bringing in Chef Evan Funky through a recommendation
  • Description of Evan Funky's cooking style as 'casalinga' which resonated with Janet, leading to them becoming partners
• 00:14:14

  The Craft of Handmade Pasta and Italian Dining Experience

  • Exploration of the art and depth of Italian cuisine and handmade pasta by Chef Evan Funky
  • Discussion on the differences in wheat types used in pasta making and the impact on digestibility
  • Insight into the dedication and mastery required for making pasta by hand, the rarity of such skill, and recommended spots for authentic pasta experience
• 00:24:28

  Struggles Faced by Restaurants During Pandemic

  • Discussion on the challenges restaurants are encountering during the pandemic
  • Impact of the pandemic on iconic restaurants and their closure
  • Insight into the economic hardships faced by the restaurant industry and the need for government support
• 00:33:40

  The Business Realities of Running a Restaurant

  • Exploration of the economic repercussions on the food industry due to the pandemic
  • Consideration of the intricate web of suppliers and employees connected to the restaurant business
  • Insight into the complexities and responsibilities of managing a restaurant from a financial and operational standpoint
• 00:36:08

  Entrepreneurial Journey and Restaurant Business Expansion

  • Joe Rogan shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting with opening his first restaurant in Toronto and later expanding into real estate and multiple restaurant ventures
  • Discussion on the challenges of maintaining and growing a restaurant business over time
  • Impact of the pandemic on Joe Rogan's business, including the struggles faced during the closures and financial implications
• 00:38:36

  Pandemic Impact, Financial Struggles, and Hope for Change

  • Reflection on the immediate effects of the pandemic, including the shutdown of operations and laying off of staff
  • Joe Rogan's thoughts on the ongoing pandemic, predictions about future waves, and the necessity of adapting to a new normal
  • Hope for positive change in society, emphasizing the need for tolerance, equality, and reform, especially within law enforcement
• 00:47:36

  Awakening and Impact of a Singular Event

  • Discussion about the awakening caused by witnessing a man being essentially tortured
  • Reflection on the global impact of a singular event and the protests it sparked
  • Analysis of the systemic issues in law enforcement and the need for reform and mental health support
• 00:50:01

  Challenges in the Restaurant Business and Importance of Hospitality

  • Critique of societal systems like underpaying teachers and frontline workers
  • The impact of COVID-19 on the restaurant business with sudden changes and challenges
  • Emphasis on the importance of consistency, understanding clientele, and the personal nature of cooking
• 00:59:33

  Appreciation for Culinary Art and Hard Work in Cooking

  • Reflections on developing an appreciation for food as an art form, inspired by Bourdain's love for cuisine
  • Discussion on the evolution of culinary industry from a blue-collar job to a celebrated profession
  • Insights into the dedication and challenges faced by chefs, emphasizing the importance of time and effort in mastering the craft
• 01:01:54

  Surviving and Innovating in the Restaurant Industry

  • Navigating the stresses and challenges of managing multiple restaurants and adapting to industry changes
  • Strategies employed during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure survival and explore new revenue streams
  • Adaptation to the new normal with focus on safety measures and considerations for reopening amidst the uncertain times
• 01:11:26

  Impact of Pandemic on Restaurants and Celebrity Influence in LA

  • Discussion on the challenges faced by the restaurant industry due to the pandemic
  • Exploration of the unique personalities of restaurants in LA, including celebrity spots
  • Observations on the impact of celebrity clientele and engineered dining experiences
• 01:13:53

  Critique of Michelin Stars and Emphasis on Word of Mouth in Gauging Restaurant Success

  • Criticism of Michelin Guide's criteria for rating restaurants and exclusion of certain styles
  • Explanation on the role of word of mouth in determining a restaurant's success
  • Emphasis on customer feedback and accolades like Esquire's recognition over Michelin stars
• 01:24:09

  Creating Memorable Dishes and Adapting to Changing Circumstances

  • Focus on creating dishes that leave a lasting memory and evoke a desire to return
  • Adaptation during the pandemic - transitioning to takeout and delivery to survive
  • The importance of flexibility and proactive measures in the restaurant business
• 01:26:43

  Challenges Faced by Restaurants During the Pandemic

  • Staffing issues and concerns about safety and returning to work amid the pandemic
  • Discussion on government support like the CARES Act and emphasis on strengthening immune systems
  • Observations on the impact of protests and the need for restaurants to innovate and renegotiate to survive
• 01:36:40

  Attention to Detail in Cooking and Importance of Ingredients

  • Discussion about the importance of attention to detail in cooking and how it impacts the dish's satisfaction level
  • Explanation of the background experience needed for creating seemingly simple yet delicious dishes
  • Emphasis on the significance of procuring high-quality ingredients from farmers markets and establishing relationships with farmers
• 01:39:02

  Terroir Concept in Food and The Complexity of Meat Varieties

  • Exploration of terroir concept in food, including fruits, vegetables, and meat
  • Explanation of how different soil contents and environmental factors influence the taste of produce like broccoli
  • Discussion on the varying tastes and qualities of meat based on the animals' diets and locations of rearing
• NaN:NaN:NaN

• NaN:NaN:NaN

• NaN:NaN:NaN