Culinary Confidential with Christina Cates

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates explores how food and drink become extraordinary gifts to give during the holiday season, and how they can transform into tokens of luxury, thoughtfulness, and lasting memory.

Two remarkable voices join the show: Petra Highby and Priscilla Jimenez.

Petra Higby, CEO and Co-Founder of The Caviar Co., has redefined how Americans experience one of the world's most iconic delicacies. Since launching The Caviar Co. with her sister Saskia in 2015, Petra has made caviar approachable while preserving its luxurious aura. Her company sources sustainable, small-batch roe balancing tradition with innovation.

Joining the show later in the hour is Priscilla Jimenez, known to her audience as The Wannabe Sommelier. With humor and deep knowledge, Priscilla resonates well with her audience - one that has become a loyal following. She makes wine education accessible and fun, with her content demystifying the complexities of wine while offering expert-level insight, approachable reviews, pairing suggestions, and tasting notes resonating across multiple experience levels. Her philosophy is a simple yet powerful one - wine should be a source of joy and connection, not intimidation.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates is joined by two guests that bring family, fashion, and Campbell's products to the table. Celebrated New York fashion designer Cynthia Rowley is known for fearless use of color, surf-chic aesthetic, and decades of shaping American style. From ready-to-wear to swimwear and accessories, Cythnia has transformed everyday inspiration into runway art.

Joining Cynthia on the show is her daughter, Kit Keenan. An entrepreneur and digital creator, Kit blends wellness, cooking, and fashion into her creative work. She also made headlines as the youngest contestant on Season 25 of ABC's The Bachelor, bringing her sharp wit and modern perspective to a national audience.

Together, the mother-daughter duo will explore how food and fashion have always been part of the fabric of their family's story - rituals in the kitchen, creative expression, and the way personal style shows up everywhere, including at the dinner table.

Cynthia and Kit also share details on their newest collaboration with Campbell's Soup - The Sides Collection, a limited-edition holiday collection that transforms comfort food nostalgia into wearable art. Think festive bags and accessories that make something as simple as holiday sides into runway ready fashion!

Expect a belated Thanksgiving feast of conversation, one where taste meets trend and holiday traditions meet innovation.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes in the duo behind Bridgehampton's own Almond, Chef Jason Weiner and restauranteur Eric Lemonides.

For two decades plus, Almond has been the East End's gathering place where farmers, fishers, and foragers aren't just suppliers - they are all partners at the same table. Its chalkboard menus shift like the soil and the tides of the Atlantic, serving food rooted not in gimmicks but in integrity.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, Jason and Eric break down what it means to champion local agriculture, how the dining scene has evolved since the opening of Almond, and why supporting small purveyors is much more than hospitality - it's stewardship.

Chef Jason Weiner, Almond's culinary engine, allows for peak-season ingredients to lead the way. Expect kitchen stories, sharp insights, and how he keeps the menus aligned with the farms and docks.

Eric Lemonides, the heartbeat of Almond's hospitality, connects front-of-house to community. He shares how trust with these local and smaller purveyors, staff culture, and long-term collaborations have shaped the enduring vibe Almond has consistently brought to the Hamptons.

Together, the two have made Almond a Hamptons staple, and proved that farm-to-table isn't a fad but a philosophy.

Culinary Confidential takes to the seas this week as Christina Cates dives into the world of luxury hospitality on the water!

Joining this week's show is Captain Hugo Ortega and Chief Stewardess Bee Hayn, two seasoned pros whose careers were shaped by the tides. Hugo, well known to fans of Bravo's Below Deck, shares his journey from deckhand to captain, and the leadership skills required to manage high-pressure charters. Bee brings her expertise in interior service, guest care, and the subtle art of making every detail feel effortless.

Together, they've launched Super Yacht Sunday School (www.superyachtsundayschool.com), a training program built to prepare aspiring crew for the reality that is living life at sea. From safety drills to silver service, their curriculum blends practical know-how with the polish of elite hospitality.

Whether you may be involved with the hospitality industry or merely curious about what it takes to create unforgettable moments at sea, this week is sure to deliver a unique glimpse into a reality where service meets adventure.

On this week's Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates dives into the tasty and savory intersection that is sports and food - the part of the fan experience where game day passion meets plate worthy flavor.

Returning to the show is Chef Joey Fortunato of The Splendid, known for elevating comfort food with soul and precision. Also joining the show is Martin Whelan of Stout NYC Hospitality Group, whose venues have been go-tos on game days since the days of operating Maggie's Place.

Together, these two industry vets break down why tailgate favorites like wings, hot dogs, and nachos became stadium staples, how chefs balance hype with heart, and what makes a bar truly feel like home turf.

It's all flavor this week! No lab-grown nonsense, just the real deal served hot!

On this week's Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates explores the dining scene and culture in Hong Kong with Ronald Asher, founder and chief pie maker of Tai Tai Pie Pies - one of Hong Kong's most beloved dessert brands.

Known for his handmade pies and nostalgic comfort flavors, Ronald has carved out quite the unique space in the city's competitive culinary scene by blending American-style baking with Hong Kong's vibrant food culture. He shares how Tai Tai Pie Pies grew from a passion project to a citywide sensation, the flavors that inspire his creations, and what it takes to stand out in a dynamic and very competitive culinary market that Hong Kong has become.

From street stalls to patisseries, Hong Kong is a pace where Eastern and Western cultures meet at the table. Ronald's savory pies perfectly embody that, celebrating the spirit, creativity, comfort, and sweet sides of Hong Kong food culture.

Better not ghost this week's spooktacular edition of Culinary Confidential! Christina Cates is serving up a special Halloween treat that you won't want to miss.

She dives into the sweet side of spooky season with Katie DeCapria, Senior Brand Manager for the Halloween portfolio at The Hershey Company.

Katie takes us behind the scenes of Hershey's largest season of the year. From the creative process behind haunting new treats to trends shaping your 2025 trick-or-treat haul, this episode is packed with sugary surprises!

Did you know Hershey produces nearly half a billion pounds of candy every year for Halloween? October sales alone top $500 million. The reigning champions of the candy bowl? Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Kit Kats, and Hershey's Miniatures make up the Top 3 in that order.

Whether you're a candy connoisseur, Halloween superfan, sweet tooth enthusiast, or merely curious how the biggest name in sweets plans for the annual Candypocalypse, this episode is right up your alley!

Christina will be unwrapping some chocolatey secrets, as well as a few Halloween jokes with producer Ryan Pagano and this week's Ingredient of the Week! The best part? No golden ticket is required.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes Zamir Gotta - Russian-born producer, cultural diplomat, and longtime travel companion of the late great Anthony Bourdain - for a powerful and insightful conversation on food, friendship, and the art of connecting with others.

Zamir's unique journey spans from classrooms in the Soviet Union, to global film sets, to unforgettable meals in every corner of the globe. With an English degree from Moscow State Pedagogical University, Zamir began his career as a teacher before becoming a bridge between cultures through film and television. His work on No Reservations, Parts Unknown, and Cities of the Underworld made him a fan favorite. He leaves a deeper legacy though, in using food and storytelling to foster understanding throughout the world.

Together, they explore how food becomes a language of diplomacy, how meals in unfamiliar places shape our view of the world, and how Zamir's new memoir, The Fixer and The Chef, honors his life and friendship with Bourdain.

This week's episode is all about laughter and insight into these adventures, as well as a few unexpected confessions along the way.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates celebrates the strength, creativity, legacy, and hospitality that family-run food businesses have to offer, by featuring three inspiring guests whose brands are built on parent-child relationships.

Linnie and Morgan Gold, the mother-daughter duo behind NOSH NYC, have turned candy into a personalized experience by specializing in custom candy gift boxes and 'candy grams', blending premium treats with playful designs. From sour gummies to rich chocolates, NOSH NYC delivers joy in every box. Their secret ingredient? The Golds' bond as co-founders of a women-owned business.

Misty Skolnick is co-founder of Uncle Jerry's Pretzels, an artisanal brand of pretzels based out of Lancaster County, PA, alongside her father Jerry. The two have spent over three decades crafting crunchy, all-natural sourdough pretzels with integrity and grit. 

Their stories are ones of resilience, tradition, and staying true to their roots in this changing food landscape - proof that teamwork as a family can truly elevate a business and deepen its purpose in ways that trends cannot.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates continues the tradition of spotlighting women who are hard at work shaping culture and community through passion, creativity, and purpose. Joining the show is Judia Black, founder of enJoie - a lifestyle, media, events, and gifts company that celebrates wine culture and shared experiences, and Maricel Gentile of Maricel’s Kitchen in East Brunswick, NJ.

Judia is a certified somellier, strategic consultant, and luxury event curator known for her warmth, storytelling, and insight into the hottest beverage trends. Whether she’s hosting a pairing dinner or breaking down the latest in wine marketing, Judia brings charisma and clarity to every conversation.

As Chef and Founder of Maricel’s Kitchen in East Brunswick, Gentile runs a studio that is a culinary haven offering Chef’s Table dinners, cooking classes, and bespoke catering rooted in tradition and community. Maricel is also a Chef Ambassador for K-Seafood, where she represents Korean seafood and Asian culinary heritage on the global stage. She’s been featured on Food Network, Hulu, and PBS, and continues to inspire countless others through appearances at food and women’s expos. Her story is one of perseverance, pride, and the power of flavor to connect generations.

Judia and Maricel’s stories combine to make this flavorful hour one of inspiration, insight, and celebration!

This week marks the start of Season 2 of Culinary Confidential, and there's no better way to kick that off than by opening with the world's best bar!

Handshake Speakeasy out of Mexico City is not just the world's best bar - it's redefining cocktail culture worldwide. Hidden behind an unmarked door in Colonia Juarez, this intimate lounge's recent accolades speak for itself. Christina Cates goes behind the scenes in the Season 2 premiere with the two men who made that happen: Rodrigo Urraca and Javier Rodriguez.

Urraca is the co-founder and creative force behind this unique concept, and shares how Handshake Speakeasy evolved from a dream into a destination.

Rodriguez is Handshake's head bartender whose cocktails are pure artistry. From rare spirits and lab-based techniques to unforgettable hospitality, they've created a place where innovation meets intimacy, and every cocktail tells a story. In addition to revealing the science, emotion, and storytelling behind every drink, Javier also discusses Handshake’s newest campaign in partnership with 1800 Tequila.

The campaign, Obsessed With Taste, highlights Rodriguez crafting a cocktail with seven unique ingredients, and with 1800 Tequila Blanco as the central element. The World’s Most-Awarded Tequila proudly poured at the World’s Best Bar!

This week on Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates celebrates a huge milestone in the finale of season one. We're celebrating ONE YEAR of pulling back the curtain on the culinary world! Sharing the unforgettable stories, voices, and flavors that have shaped our dining experiences today. From luxury dining to behind-the-scenes grit, Christina has brought heart, humor, and insight to all 52 episodes thus far!

Christina welcomes back powerhouse guest Shaina Nestor, Regional Director of Gibsons Restaurant Group in Chicago, IL. With prior executive roles at Darden, The Palm, The Russian Tea Room, and Tavern on the Green, Shaina brings an unmatched perspective on the evolution of dining culture. Shaina isn't just a guest. She's a loyal listener, ready to reflect on the episodes that resonated, the insights that stuck, and the moments that have made this show a must-listen.

Also joining the one-year anniversary show is Lucas A. Ferrara and producer Ryan Pagano to discuss their favorite moments from season one!

Whether you've been with Christina since day one or you're just discovering Culinary Confidential, this week's one year reflection is a celebration of the journey, and a toast of what's to come.

One year, dozens of guests, countless stories, with many more to come in Season 2!

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes hospitality power duo Kevin and Janine Fenton to talk all things private dining and luxury hotel culture. With decades of experience managing and curating guest experiences in branded NYC properties, the Fentons have seen firsthand just how intimate dining spaces are reshaping the hotel industry.

Kevin, General Manager at a premier hospitality provider, has led operations at some of Manhattan's most iconic boutique hotels. His approach blends hospitality with cultural programming, turning private dining into a strategic asset for guest loyalty and brand identity.

Janine, Director of Catering at a prestigious lodging brand, brings her signature style and precision to luxury events and culinary experiences. With a PR background and a career spanning Loews Hotels, Highgate, and The RealReal, Janine understands the way private dining creates emotional impact and serious revenue.

They will share stories, lessons, and expert insights on why private dining is now a must-have, not just a perk.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes extraordinary culinarian Christian J. Fischer, whose journey began in a family-run hotel in eastern Austria, surrounded by ten siblings and the hum of a busy kitchen. By age 14, he became a certified Master Chef, baker, and butcher. At 19, he opened his first restaurant and by 23, he was overseeing six successful establishments.

But Christian's journey goes far beyond the kitchen. Following decades in hospitality, he saw a gap: brilliant professionals often struggling to turn their expertise into influence. So he pivoted to becoming a sought-after coach who helps leaders build personal, resonating brands. Fischer is also the voice behind The Disruptive Chef Podcast, where food meets culture and transformation is always on the menu.

Learn more about Christian at www.christianjfischer.com.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes Emmy Award-winning chef Frankie Celenza to celebrate the launch of his brand new Tastemade series 'Let Frankie Cook', which premiered earlier this week just in time for Pizza Week.

Born and raised in New York City, Frankie studied music at NYU before turning his college-era budget cooking into a full-blown culinary movement. His Emmy-winning career spans multiple viral cooking shows such as Struggle Meals, food advocacy, and a mission to make great meals accessible to everyone.

Frankie invites you into his home kitchen for bold recipes, clever hacks, and his signature low-stress style of cooking. If you enjoyed Struggle Meals, which ran for nine seasons and 100 episodes while helping millions cook delicious meals without breaking the bank, chances are you will enjoy his latest offering. He's also the author of EAT: Easy, Affordable, Tasty: 100 Recipes with All of the Flavor and None of the Fuss, his first cookbook, which is now available wherever books are sold.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, it's a courtside conversation blending in tennis with taste and talent.

Christina Cates welcomes hospitality legend Nick Mautone, the creative force behind the US Open's official cocktail - The Honey Deuce. Made with Grey Goose vodka, lemonade, raspberry liqueur, and honeydew melon balls made to resemble tennis balls, this viral drink has generated $12 million in sales in 2024.

Nick's career spans over 40 years - from leadership roles at iconic venues like the Rainbow Room and Gramercy Tavern, to the launch of his consulting firm, Mautone Enterprises. He's also the author of Raising the Bar and The Artisanal Kitchen series.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes in Dillon Baxter, Dominic Russo, and Jodi Moreno.

Baxter is the CEO of PlantSwitch, a biodegradable plastics company specializing in turning agricultural waste into compostable plastic alternatives. He was featured in Forbes' 30 Under 30, and is changing the game in sustainability.

Russo is the owner and mastermind of Squares and Fare, the Jersey Shore's #2-rated pizzeria this summer. Originally getting its start as an underground pop-up, Squares and Fare has since garnered rave reviews, offering a variety of pizzas with fresh ingredients from Italy and local gardens.\

Moreno is a James Beard-nominated cookbook author. Her new book, Simple Pleasures, is full of craveable comfort food with a twist - think Salsa Macha Fried-Egg Tacos and Date Cake with Tahini Ice Cream!

Sustainability, Style, and Spice. This week's lineup has it all!

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes Dr. Julie Gatza, founder of the Florida Wellness Institute, to discuss how certain foods may be triggering stress and anxiety, and what you can eat to feel calmer and more at ease.

Anxiety isn't just emotional, it's biological. Your gut produces 90% of your serotonin, the neurotransmitter regulating your mood. What you feed your gut helps support or sabotage your mental health.

In addition to founding the Florida Wellness Institute, Dr. Gatza also serves as a spokeswoman for Nature's Sources - makers of AbsorbAid digestive enzymes. She shares how your gut health and nutrition impact anxiety, and what you can do about it.

Call 1-800-827-7656 or visit www.naturessources.com for free samples or 20% off your first order with promo code: RADIO

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes Jay Reifel, co-author of A History Of The World In 10 Dinners: 2,000 Years, 100 Recipes. Published by Rizzoli Books, this cookbook combines narrative history and food anthropology with hands-on cooking - designed to be accessible and scholarly for home cooks doubling as curious historians.

A History of the World is a beautifully illustrated and meticulously researched cookbook combining historical storytelling with adapted recipes from key eras from across the globe, such as Renaissance Italy and 19th-century New York City.

Reifel is a classically trained chef, author, and food historian known for recreating historical dishes using modern techniques and ingredients.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates explores generational recipes and the cultural roots they preserve. Joining the show is Frank Iovine and Mariano Graus.

A retired NYPD officer turned mindfulness coach, Iovine will share his cookbook-memoir Ricette e Ricordi di Nonno (Meals and Memories with Nonno) inspired by his grandfather Angelo, Iovine's guiding light, who lived to 101 years of age by eating fresh and simple Mediterranean meals.

Graus is a Senior Editor at Naples-based Graus Edizioni, and he joins the show to share insights on publishing across cultures, tradition through literature, and how Italy's publishing vastly contrasts to America's.