Dinner Party – Details, episodes & analysis

🏡✨ Curate a home that speaks! Josh Young’s design philosophy is all about creating spaces that reflect who you are. On the podcast, he shares tips on layering textures, incorporating history, and how to develop your own creative vibe. Listen in and get inspired! 🎧

On the first episode of Dinner Party Podcast Katherine Lewin, founder of Big Night and author of the Big Night cookbook joins me to discuss how she’s helping people rediscover the joy of gathering. From mismatched plates to spritz bars, she’s all about making hosting fun and relaxed. Listen in for tips to make your next dinner party shine! 🎙️🍷

On this solo episode, I'm diving into the surprising comeback of the wet martini, inspired by a recent New York Times article by Pete Wells. I explore how Manhattan's Eel Bar is reimagining this overlooked classic, celebrating vermouth in a way that’s redefining what a martini can be. This twist on tradition is sparking curiosity and conversation, inviting us to savor the art of a balanced cocktail once again.

In this Dinner Party Podcast episode, I sit down with Alice Lascelles, author of The Martini: The Ultimate Guide to a Cocktail Icon. We dive into the rich history of the martini, exploring how it’s more than just a drink—it’s a cultural icon that reflects different eras. Alice shares her first martini experience at The Dorchester and the unforgettable impact it had on her. She explains why the martini is a ritual in itself, from choosing the right glass to the sensory magic of lemon zest and stirred ice. We talk about the martini’s iconic associations, like James Bond’s Vesper Martini and discuss the ongoing debate: shaken or stirred. Alice also shares the secrets to pre-batching martinis for dinner parties and how different garnishes create distinct personalities for the drink. We touch on the '80s cocktail craze, which spawned countless “-tinis,” and how the martini has since reclaimed its elegance. For anyone who loves cocktails and culture, this episode serves up plenty of inspiration and a little bit of history with each sip.

In this episode, I talk about my love for store-bought and bodega flowers and how they bring so much joy and beauty into my everyday life. I share how accessible fresh blooms are, no matter the season, and how they can instantly transform any space. I also offer tips on mixing affordable flowers with more special flowers and encourage getting creative with vases. Ultimately, I remind you that adding flowers to your home is a simple, joyful way to connect with the present season, and elevate your space.

In this episode, Edy Massih talks about his journey from Lebanon to New York City, where he transformed a beloved Polish deli into Edy’s Grocer in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. He shares insights from his Lebanese cookbook Keep It Zesty and discusses how he modernizes traditional dishes with practical shortcuts for today’s busy cooks. Edy also reflects on the importance of supporting Middle Eastern-owned businesses and how food connects him to his roots. Lastly, he dives into his love for bold spices, the joy of hosting, and his mission to showcase the beauty of Lebanese cuisine.

🍪🌲 It’s time! The holiday cookie swap season is here. Hetal Vasavada is sharing her best holiday hosting tips, cookie swap strategies, and holiday cookie recipes.

Plus, learn how you can support Cookies for Kids’ Cancer for the “Challenge for a Cure” initiative, encouraging families to bake together and support pediatric cancer research, partnering with Challenge Butter to encourage families to bake together and support pediatric cancer research this holiday season.