Guest: Milt’s Owner Jeff Aeder and Chef Bryan Gryka

It’s MILT’s and here I am in the very secret interview room along with Milt’s owner Jeff Aeder (center) and Chef Bryan Gryka (right).

We had a great time talking all about BBQ, Milt’s, Extra Innings Deli and Jews in Baseball. Both eateries are community focused and enjoyed by lots of hungry folks from the neighborhood and beyond.

Guest: Chef Laura Frankel

We all start talking about and planning for Passover months before the holiday is even close. it’s the most celebrated of all Jewish holidays and there are lots of plans that have to be made, not the least of which is planning the menu for the Seder and preparing the ritual foods.  The main mean is all about keeping the food memories alive and what better way to do that than to continue to serve family favorites. But what if you want to start your own traditions? Or change it up this one time? Chef Laura gives some great food ideas and she shares a super delicious dessert recipe.

Guest: Joanne Oppenheim

It’s my first ever interview with a children’s book author. And not just any children’s book author…she’s the author of a children’s book called: The Knish War on Rivington Street. How could I pass up the opportunity to talk about this? We had a great time together and Joanne even shares two knish recipes with The Big Schmear! Very generous. Now that the episode is finished the only thing I can think about is eating a knish. I’m in a bad way.

Guest: Gil Hovav

​​Gil Hovav is back for Part 2. He’s a guy who seems to have a never ending supply of energy and creative ideas. He writes cookbooks, but not your ordinary cookbooks. And he develops shows for television, sometimes about food but not your usual cooking show and finally he defines Israeli cuisine as only someone in love with the food of Israel can describe it. Think truth, fresh vegetables and fruit and exotic spices. The best time to listen to this episode? While cooking middle eastern food!

Guest: Gil Hovav

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I’ve had a great time talking with Gil Hovav in this episode, learning about his family history, his experience as a food writer, as a TV star and all-around fun  guy. His energy and cool ideas don’t quit. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I loved being in conversation with him. And a heads up– you may want to have some hummus on hand because you could find yourself awfully hungry for anything Israeli by the time we are finished with Part 1.