Why is an entire industry is short-staffed?
Nightlife Should be Fun, Not Frightening
It’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Meet an organization that focuses on making nightlife fun, not frightening. Here’s how they do it…
Growlers & Grit Kept UK Pubs & Pints Flowing During Covid
Pub life & beer seem essential to Brits. So how have they been getting their fill during Covid pub closures?
Meet Champagne’s Most Influential Woman
Who was La Grande Dame? Here’s a bit of Bubbly history you should know.
Insights from A Restaurant Career Drop-Out
After ten years in restaurants, this cook left the kitchen during Covid, and he’s got some insights on how to get others to stay.
AAPI Pastry Chef Pichet Ong: Intimate Interview on Racism & Hate Crimes
Pichet Ong speaks openly about racism & hate crimes against Asian-Americans, and his own experience as an Asian-American, in this YouTube interview excerpt.
Join in Denouncing Costco for Animal Cruelty
This video captures extreme animal suffering on a chicken farm that supplies to Costco. Do your part to denounce this cruelty to animals!
Pastry Chef Lasheeda Perry Just Doesn’t Give Up!
From at-risk youth to Food Network’s Best Baker in America, Pastry Chef Lasheeda Perry defied all the odds on her road to success.
A Serious(ly funny) Story About Going Sober
Your jaw will drop, your sides will split, your heart will break – and then mend – as Cheese Master Adam Moskowitz careens through his crazy and inspirational story of going sober.
Celebrate Black-Owned Businesses with Black Restaurant Weeks 2021
You do not want to miss out on this coast-to-coast culinary extravaganza celebrating Black-Owned restaurants, cafes and bakeries! Check out the calendar here!
The Minimum Wage War: A Server Perspective
The debate over the $15 minimum wage rages on. A career server takes an in-depth look at tipping, equality, and the Raise the Wage Act.
Call Your Reps: $25bil Not Enough to Save Restaurants
The RESTAURANTS Act of 2020 is now part of the HEROES Act 2.0, please act now to help the industry!
A Pandemic Perspective on Restaurant Work-Life Balance
From being out of work, to walking away from restaurant life, to working under Covid conditions, here’s how to strive for work-life balance during the pandemic.
The Iconic Rose Levy Beranbaum Talks Baking & Writing Her Next Cookbook During Covid
Best-selling cookbook author Rose Levy Beranbaum has a Candid Convo about baking the days away and writing her next cookbook during Covid
DC Chef Erik Bruner-Yang on the Capitol Riot & Life Under Trump & Covid
DC Chef Erik Bruner-Yang recounts the Capitol Riot and other incredible challenges of owning restaurants in DC during the Trump Administration & COVID in this Candid Convo on YouTube
A ‘Candid Convo’ about Covid Restaurant Closures with Chef Neal Fraser
Candid Convos goes live on YouTube with host Regina Varolli and Chef Neal Fraser talking COVID restaurant closures in Los Angeles
Why Does Washington Ignore Restaurants?
Why doesn’t Washington give a damn about the restaurant industry and its workers?
Top Ten Ways To Help Restaurants & Workers Survive the COVID Crisis
There IS something we can all do to help the industry and its workers survive! These suggestions offer a range of options, and we know you can manage at least a few of them!
Making Masks Mandatory, for Restaurants Sake!
Chef Greg Leon rallied with other restaurateurs and local businesses to make masks mandatory in Milwaukee, here’s why.
Election 2020, Time to Trash Selfishness
The election and the pandemic will eventually pass, but America still needs a serious attitude adjustment for a better future.
Kerry Vincent’s Twelve Tips for Christmas Gingerbread Houses
Legendary sugar artist Kerry Vincent of Food Network’s Holiday Gingerbread Showdown shares holiday memories and handy tricks for gingerbread!
Restaurateur Takes On Covid-19 Like A Marine
The Marine Mantra helped this restaurant owner combat Covid’s impact, and find a silver lining.
Celebrate Women’s Suffrage by Standing for Voter Rights
On the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote, all voter rights need defending.
Our Health vs The Economy, A Restaurant’s Lose-Lose Situation
New Orleans Chef Eric Cook is trying to do everything right, yet things are still going so wrong.
Dreading Yelp As Restaurants Reopen for Service
A career server has some words for Yelpers as restaurants reopen under Coronavirus constraints
My Mom Wrote the Motto “To Protect and to Serve”
An OpEd from our Editor-in-Chief, whose mother wrote the LAPD motto “To Protect and to Serve”
Chef David McAtee Shot, Killed by Louisville Law Enforcement
Chef David McAtee was shot and killed by law enforcement officers during a demonstration today, his friends at Food Recovery Network speak out
An In-Depth Look at Trump’s Meeting with Restaurant Owners
Thomas Keller and Will Guidara were just two restaurateurs who met Trump to discuss the needs of the industry, here’s a deep dive into that discussion
Shaping A New Norm
Pastry Chef and Insta Pundit @culinaryharassment grapples with the changing reality brought on by COVID-19
Independent Restaurant Coalition Calls for $120 Billion Restaurant Stabilization Fund – You Can Help!
“An eight-week band-aid doesn’t match the twelve to eighteen month job it’s going to take for our restaurants to rebuild, rejoin our communities, and keep over 11 million people employed in our industry.” ~ Andrew Zimmern | IRC
Summoning Samurai Strength to Cut Through COVID-19 Fears
A chef shares his stream of thoughts on dealing with the reality of COVID-19
We’ll get through this with an ‘all for one, one for all’ mentality
D’Artagnan Founder & CEO Ariane Daguin writes about the COVID-19 crisis in the restaurant industry and on farms in this CulEpi exclusive
Hospitality Workers Won’t Be 86’d, We’ll be Heard (…??)
CulEpi Contributor and Career Server writes about being hit by unexpected unemployment and her hopes for the industry
List of Financial Resources for Restaurants & Unemployed Workers During COVID-19 Crisis
Our growing list of financial assistance for restaurant & hospitality workers and business owners impacted by the coronavirus crisis
Hospitality Hit Hard by COVID-19, Millions Will Lose Jobs
Our Editor-in-Chief on how the industry has been hard hit by the Coronavirus, and providing financial resources for those out of work in restaurants and hospitality
New Zealand Defies Myths About Farmed Fish
Monterey Bay Aquarium Executive Chef Matt Beaudin traveled to New Zealand and shares the facts about farmed fisheries leading the way towards sustainability
Why & How I Take Action for Women’s Reproductive Rights
In honor of CulEpi Contributor Miro Uskokovic being named a Semi-Finalist for James Beard Best Pastry Chef, here’s his article on why he supports women’s reproductive rights. Congrats Chef, we’re rooting for you to win!
Why I Joined the #FairKitchens Movement
In honor of CulEpi Contributor Michael Gulotta being named a Semi-Finalist for James Beard Best Chef: South, here’s his article on why he supports fair kitchens. Congrats Chef, we’re rooting for you to win!
From Yale Science & JBA Cheffing to Complex Cold Brew
Chef Craig Shelton graduated biochem at Yale, worked years in kitchens picking up a Beard Award, now he’s tackling coffee
A Billion Oysters Is Just the Beginning
Oysters play a critical role in our waters, here’s why.
American Chefs Go Creative with Traditional French Cassoulet
Cassoulet, a French dish at the intersection of tradition, controversy and creativity
Chemo Kills Taste Buds, This Cookbook is Fighting Back
Chefs come together in this first of its kind cookbook that contends with chemotherapy-induced loss of taste
Santa Barbara Vermouth Starts Local, Finishes Smooth
A Santa Barbara vermouth company uses locally sourced, sustainable ingredients to craft a product that’s both delicious and environmentally friendly.
My Fishmonger Family’s First-Hand Experience of Climate Change
Lyf Gildersleeve is a second generation fishmonger and now a restaurateur, he can teach you a thing or two about sustainable seafood
Que Chevere: ‘Market Line’ Restaurant Benefits Autism
Que Chevere is opening at NYC’s highly anticipated Market Line, and more than bringing excellent food, this restaurant is bringing awareness of autism to the community
Paris-born Salon du Chocolat Brings Top Chocolatiers & Edible Fashion to NYC
The real Salon du Chocolate from Paris is finally coming to the U.S., here’s what you can expect!
Cider Apples Grow “Expressive of Regenerative Farming”
There’s a new apple in town, and chances are, that’s because of the cider industry and its farmers.
I’m Plating Up with L.A. Chefs to End Child Abuse
Pastry Chef Mitzi Reyes shares what you need to know about child abuse, and joins forces with other chefs in support of the Children’s Bureau
Triumph Over Tragedy: My Battle with Breast Cancer at 30
A powerful personal account of being diagnosed with breast cancer at age 30.
Chefs Adopt Adorable Animals & You Should Too!
Chefs are speaking out on social media against puppy and kitty mills, abandoning animals, and unchecked populations, and they’re rescuing, adopting, spaying and neutering too!
‘StarChefs’ ICC Lives Up to Its Name, Showcases Top Talent
StarChefs ICC returns to NYC with culinary giants like Pierre Hermé taking the Main Stage!
Robert De Niro & Nobu Matsuhisa: Two Legends Talk Shop
Robert De Niro, Nobu Matsuhisa and Meir Teper take a deep dive into the history, philosophy and expansion of Nobu Restaurants and Hotels
Here’s the Real Dirt on Restaurant Letter Grades
There’s way more to a restaurant’s letter grade than you might think – it’s not all rats and food poisoning – here’s everything you need to know.
Social Entrepreneurs & Impact Investors Connect Over Food
High Impact Paris event puts purpose and profit on the same plate
Hitting a New High on My Quest for Mental & Physical Health
Chef Evan Hennessey shares his raw account of life behind the burner, and his personal quest for mental and physical health.
Big-Hearted Bakeries Give Second Chance Careers
When it comes to giving a second chance at a career after incarceration, the hospitality industry has been way ahead of the U.S. Government
‘All in the Industry’ Podcast Has Killer Convo with CulEpi Founder
Regina Varolli was a guest on Shari Bayer’s popular podcast All in the Industry on Heritage Radio and these lively ladies lit up the airwaves!
Smash Server Stereotypes & Show Some Respect
A self-respecting server speaks up for FOH workers and calls for an end to the negative attitudes they don’t deserve
One Solution to Fight CO2 Emissions, Food Waste & Hunger
This national non-profit is battling the vicious cycle of food waste, hunger and carbon emissions, and you can help
Sustainable Alternatives to the Big, Bad Meat Biz: Some Facts You May Not Know
Chefs and consumers are rejecting the big, bad meat business, and are shifting towards small, sustainable farms, read what these farmers are doing to benefit the animals and the planet
Dominique Crenn on Activism, Politics & Influence
An in-depth discussion with Dominique Crenn about activism and politics. Part One of a two-part series of interviews with CulEpi Editor-in-Chief Regina Varolli
PX+ Festival: Celebrating & Challenging Hospitality
The hospitality world unites for the PX+ Festival to celebrate and discuss the future of the industry, and CulEpi is the proud Co-Producer of this year’s LTAI!
Food Photography Shouldn’t *Fake* With Mother Nature
A world-renowned food photographer shares his philosophy for capturing the work of chefs like Dan Barber, José Andrés, Daniel Boulud, and Dominique Ansel
Baking the “Bread of Inclusion” with Holy Water
A Serbian food historian and avid baker sets out to bake bread with holy water and creates the Bread of Inclusion
We Took Our Support for Sustainable Seafood to Capitol Hill
Sammy Monsour’s personal account of what happened when he and other ‘Chefs for Fish’ hit The Hill!
Bread & Beer: Women Leaders in the Slow Grains Movement
Local, slow grains make beer and bread better! Meet the women who made the movement happen.
Ode to The Kitchen | Symphony & Battle, Love & Fear
A ground-breaking Poem from Pastry Chef Omar Zahirovic expressing the beauty and the beast that is life on the line.
Carbon Free Dining Initiative Launches in U.S. at Bosie NYC
Here’s everything you need to know about the highly successful Carbon Free Dining initiative that’s just hit the States from Europe
I Ran A Gay Pride Ad on Social Media, Here’s What Happened
Chef León shares what happened when he and his husband / business partner ran a Gay Pride Month FB Ad for their restaurant Amilinda – plus a little history of Pride Month!
Café D’Avignon Co-Owner Reflects on Global Refugee Crisis
Decades ago, Uliks Fehmiu was displaced by the war in the former Yugoslavia, today he talks about his take on fear and isolationism, and how he built a successful business in the U.S. with his lifelong friends
Australian Barista Champion & Roaster Hits US With Gumption
Hazel de los Reyes has got gumption! She’s a champion among baristas, and she’s a stellar example of famous female barista-roasters not taking a back seat at the machine!
Francisco Migoya on Remembering Anthony Bourdain
On the one year anniversary of the passing of Anthony Bourdain, we honor his life and memory through the moving words of Pastry Chef Francisco Migoya’s personal tribute.
Angel Investor Joanne Wilson on Bravery, Luck & Diversity
Culinary Industry Angel Investor Joanne Wilson shares her keen insights into success, diversity, and investing in women
Here’s Your Hot Guide to Cool NYC Rooftops
Summer in NYC means hanging out on the city’s coolest rooftops, this guide helps you discover them all!
Ramadan, Remembrance and Reason
Pastry Chef Omar Zahirović is fasting for Ramadan, for him it’s a journey of memories, appreciation, and personal betterment
Restaurants Host Refugee Chefs for Pop-Ups with A Purpose
Chefs are opening their kitchens to collaborate with refugee chefs for the Refugee Food Festival, here’s how you can be a part of this awesome experience!
Elizabeth Falkner Joins Chefs Cycle 300-mile Charity Bike Ride
Chefs across the country are joining forces for Chefs Cycle, a 300-mile charity bike ride supporting No Kid Hungry
Stand Against Hate: Swastikas Carved in My Restaurant
As a frightening wave of anti-Semitism spreads across America, Author and Executive Chef & Co-Owner of Kachka and Kachinka Bonnie Morales speaks up about swastikas carved in her restaurant by vandals
Chef Eric Ripert: An Interview of Ideals
Eric Ripert opens up about his ideals, his ethics, and his ethos in this in-depth interview by Regina Varolli
The Seriously Scary Stuff You’ll Find in Pet Food
Choose your pet’s food with as much care as you choose your own, they can’t read labels for themselves!
Sanctuary & Insane Asylum, A Cook’s Pilgrimage in the Kitchen
The bold voice of IG thought-leader @culinaryharassment ushers readers through the rocky path of a cook’s life
Cooking Up a Positive Perspective on Immigration
Celebrated Milwaukee Chef Gregory León on the importance of hosting Tables Across Borders refugee dinner series
Ethnic BBQ Innovations Fuel Heated Competition
The 8th Annual Brisket King Competition is coming to Brooklyn, and with it, some surprising secret recipes!
For Pichet Ong, DC’s Cherry Blossoms Are a Piece of Cake
Chatting with James Beard Finalist Pichet Ong about cherry blossoms, the DC food scene, and keeping his career on the up
The CBD Industry: An Incredible Edible Struggle
Marc Siden of Cloud Water Brands and Ian Ford of Caffein Underground speak up about navigating ever-changing – and often frustrating – CBD food and drink regulations
French Chefs Condemn Yellow Vest Destruction of Fouquet Restaurant
French Chefs in New York City speak out against the Yellow Vests destruction of Restaurant Fouquet in Paris
What Modernist Bread Means to Co-Author Francisco Migoya
An in-depth interview with Francisco Migoya, co-author of the James Beard Award Winner “Modernist Bread”
End the Grind: A Line Cook’s Plea for Work-Life Balance
A fine-dining line cook tackles the issue of work-life balance and shares how he succeeded in achieving it
Mimi Weissenborn Gathers Female Chefs for Collaborative Dinners
Chef Mimi Weissenborn hosts Women’s Dinner Series alongside Chef Elizabeth Falkner to ignite conversation and create community for women in the industry.
Meet José Andrés’ Director of Culinary Development for Mercado Little Spain
Meet the Chef behind José Andrés biggest project ever, Mercado Little Spain in NYC
High-Powered Industry Women Panel-Up for A Bold Discussion
How women can collectively lead the culinary industry, according to these leading industry women.
Go Virtual Shopping for Change & Fill Your Cart With Facts
A new online experience lets users wheel virtual shopping carts around a virtual supermarket to uncover some of the actual stories of our food system—from farm to fork
Interview with Chef Jeremiah Tower: A Charming Revolutionary
One of the first celebrity chefs, Jeremiah Tower of the legendary Stars and Chez Panisse shares the exciting tales of his infamous and innovative career
The Good and Bad of “Ugly Food”
What to do with ugly food? Ugly produce boxes are the latest trend facing a lot of controversy.
A Heads-Up for Chefs Shopping at Farmers Markets
What all chefs need to know about shopping farmers markets in the age of farm-to-table
I’m A Coast-Less Chef Fighting for Sustainable Fishing
A land-locked chef encourages her colleagues coast-to-coast to get involved in the sustainable seafood movement at Chefs for Fish
10 Tips for Killer Cooking Demos & Panel Discussions
Gotta give a cooking demo or speak on a panel? Check out these pro tips for performing under pressure!
StarChefs NY Rising Stars: Your Go-To List of Must-Try Food & Drink
StarChefs has announced its New York Rising Stars! Check out the full list here, and find tickets to the Gala Tasting Event!
Pastry Chef Michael Laiskonis Returns to Plated Desserts at Récolte
World-renowned pastry chef Michael Laiskonis is serving a stunning dessert tasting menu on New York’s Upper West Side