Deep Dive
Why did Eli Zabar decide to open his own food store in 1973?
Eli Zabar wanted to create a place that sold the best quality products, regardless of price. He realized that to achieve this, he would have to do much of it himself, as the quality he desired wasn't readily available in America at the time.
What was Eli Zabar's initial philosophy when he opened his first store, EAT?
Eli's initial philosophy was to find people who still did things the old way, focusing on bakers, pastries, and vegetables made in traditional methods. However, he quickly realized that these people no longer existed, forcing him to learn how to make these products himself.
How does Eli Zabar ensure the quality of the flowers in his market?
Eli sources his flowers from Holland, where they are grown with hundreds of years of expertise, unlike the majority of flowers in New York City, which come from Colombia and South America.
What is Eli Zabar's approach to making a great sandwich?
Eli believes the secret to a great sandwich lies in proportion. The thickness of the bread, the amount of each ingredient, and how they are combined are crucial. He also emphasizes using high-quality, fresh ingredients and avoiding overpowering flavors.
Why does Eli Zabar avoid using basil in his tomato and mozzarella sandwich?
Eli believes basil is too strong for both the tomato and the mozzarella, which would overpower the sandwich's flavors. He prefers to keep the ingredients simple and let each element shine on its own.
How has Eli Zabar influenced the current food culture in America?
Eli Zabar was ahead of his time in promoting high-quality, simple ingredients. His influence can be seen in chefs like Ina Garten and shops like Eataly. He helped pave the way for the current trend of seeking the best ingredients and minimal processing in food.
What does Eli Zabar think about the current state of American food tastes?
Eli believes that there is a much larger population interested in food now, driven by media and TV. He notes that while there is more food knowledge and cultural blending, the essence of good food remains simple, as seen in Ina Garten's recipes.
What is Eli Zabar's favorite way to enjoy truffles?
Eli's favorite way to enjoy truffles is on toasted good country bread with lots of butter. He believes this is the easiest and most enjoyable way to appreciate truffles, as it highlights their flavor without complexity.
- Show ending in early January
- Listeners encouraged to submit questions
- Gratitude for five years of broadcasting
Shownotes Transcript