Explore every episode of the podcast Chefs In The City

In this episode of Chefs in the City, we sit down with Joshua Wickham, Senior Director and Chairperson of the School of Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts at Columbus State Community College. We dive into the impact of Mitchell Hall, the latest updates in the program, and how Columbus State is shaping the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals. From hands-on training to industry partnerships, find out how this program is fueling Columbus’ vibrant food scene. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about education, opportunity, and the future of food in Central Ohio!

In this episode of Chefs in the City, we sit down with Annie Pierce, co-owner of Lawbird, one of the top 20 semifinalists for the James Beard Award for Best Bar in the Nation. Annie shares the story behind Lawbird’s welcoming atmosphere, their top-tier non-alcoholic program, and the creativity behind their latest art-inspired cocktail menu. We also dive into the evolving Columbus bar scene, the importance of hospitality, and what it means to be recognized on a national stage. Plus, Annie gives us a sneak peek at their upcoming Japanese pop-up and their vision for the future of mixology. Cheers to a conversation you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of Chefs in the City, we sit down with James Beard semifinalist Dan Riesenberger, better known as Dan the Baker. From his early days selling loaves out of a basket at farmers' markets to running one of Columbus' most beloved bakeries, Dan shares his journey of mastering the art of breadmaking. We dive into the science behind sourdough, the magic of fermentation, and how each loaf carries the unique terroir of its environment. Plus, we discuss the evolution of Columbus’ dining scene, must-visit restaurants, and why baking is really just chemistry. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of artisan bread!

In this episode of Chefs in the City, we sit down with Avishar Barua, 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist and the culinary visionary behind Agni and Joya’s in Columbus. Avishar shares his journey of creating unique dining experiences that blend his Bengali-American heritage with modern techniques while offering insight into his philosophy of empowering staff and embracing mistakes as part of the creative process. As part of our three-part series featuring Central Ohio’s James Beard semifinalists, this episode dives into how Avishar’s approach to food and restaurant culture is raising the bar for the local dining scene. Tune in for a deeper look at his culinary vision and what it means to be recognized by the prestigious James Beard Foundation.

Steve Stover isn’t done with 2024 just yet—but this time, he’s using it as a springboard to drag us headfirst into 2025! In this episode, we discuss what’s on the horizon for the Columbus food scene, from fewer new restaurant openings to what’s next for Chefs in the City. With temperatures hovering around 4 degrees, we also take a moment to appreciate some of the coziest dining spots in town. And of course, we talk chefs.

 #ColumbusEats #FoodScene2025 #CentralOhioFood #ColumbusRestaurants #CozyDining #ChefStories #FoodTrends #ColumbusFoodies #OhioEats #LocalDining #ColumbusChefs #FoodCulture #ColumbusPodcast

In this episode, Steve Stover breaks down what went down in Central Ohio's food scene in 2024—but not without first setting the stage with a look back at 2023, a year that saw nearly 200 new restaurant openings and just 56 closures. From standout spots to key trends and, of course, the chefs behind it all, this episode dishes out the stories, flavors, and moments that shaped Columbus' culinary landscape.

#ColumbusEats #FoodScene2024 #CentralOhioFood #ColumbusRestaurants #ChefStories #FoodTrends #OhioEats #LocalDining #ColumbusFoodies #RestaurantRoundup #ColumbusChefs #FoodCulture #ColumbusPodcast #DiningOut

Think you know Columbus? Think again! In this episode, we’re breaking down why the foodie world has fallen in love with Ohio’s capital. From its humble meat-and-potatoes beginnings to becoming a celebrated, eclectic hub of diverse restaurants and food shopping, Columbus has transformed into a culinary cornucopia. We talk about the city’s evolution, the rising stars in the food scene, and why we’re so passionate about the chefs who make it all happen. Spoiler: We love those chefs, and you’ll find out why!

In this debut episode, get to know the voices behind Chefs in the City—Ann Fisher, Rich Terapak Sr., and Steve Stover. We dive into our personal approaches to food, restaurants, and travel, exploring how these passions intersect and why they matter so much to us. Plus, we share our deep love for chefs and their craft, and what makes them the heart and soul of any great dining experience. Tune in to discover what drives our obsession with the culinary world and why we’re excited to bring you along on this delicious journey!