Food About Town

This episode features guest Gene Olczak from Karma Sauce (@karmasauce)! The main focus of their conversation revolves around the intricacies of developing unique hot sauces, including the balance of flavors, sourcing ingredients, and the challenges of scaling production. The episode also touches on the influence of various cultural flavors and the art of creating sauces that respect those traditions while still being innovative. As they taste through some of Karma Sauce’s offerings, Chris and Gene share insights on the sensory experiences of heat and flavor, providing a rich understanding of what goes into making a great hot sauce.

Chris Lindstrom hosts a discussion on the Food About Town podcast that dives deep into the evolution of PlantiePops (@plantiepops), a business that focuses on vegan options in Rochester and beyond!

Check out their vegan tasting event event at Balsam Bagels on August 9th from 2pm - 4pm. Get your tickets at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/plantiepops/1796361 or find the link on plantiepops.com!

He talks with guests Jason and Stefanie Schwingle about their journey from their original venture, The Rochesteriat, to their current iteration, highlighting their commitment to sustainability and plant-based living. The...

Check out the upcoming Glorious Garlic Festival (@gloriousgarlicfestival) being held at the Geneva Lakefront on August 2nd and 3rd. Chris chats with Brud Holland (@flxmaker), the chef at Fox Run Vineyards, who shares insights about his Sunday cooking demo at the festival, where he’ll showcase a creative dish featuring local ingredients like blue corn and organic chickpeas. They explore the importance of using fresh, local products in cooking and how these choices enhance flavors, making food not just nutritious but also a delightful experience.

References:

gloriousgarlicfestival.com - foxrunvineyards.com (@foxrunvineyards) - senecagreenandbean.com (@se...

Chris Lindstrom hosts the Food About Town podcast, diving into the vibrant world of culinary experiences centered around the Glorious Garlic Festival (@gloriousgarlicfestival). The episode features Christin Ortiz, who is set to lead a food demonstration Sunday August 3rd showcasing roasted garlic gnocchi topped with fresh pesto. Ortiz emphasizes the importance of approachability in cooking, aiming to inspire attendees to explore new flavors and cooking techniques while fostering a love for food in their everyday lives.

Links referenced in this episode:

gloriousgarlicfestival.com - rochesterbrainery.com (@rocbrainery) - nykitchen.com (@_nykitchen) - senoritagordita.com

Chris Lindstrom hosts a deep dive into the upcoming Glorious Garlic Festival (@gloriousgarlicfestival) happening at the Geneva Lakefront on August 2nd and 3rd. Chris and Reagan Burns discuss the festival's new features, including a family zone and VIP tent, aimed at enhancing visitor experience. Regan shares insights on taking over the festival and her passion for garlic, emphasizing the diversity of vendors and the fresh, local produce available.

Mentions

gloriousgarlicfestival.com - Fox Run Vineyards (@foxrunvineyards) - Three Brothers (@3broswine) - Point of the Bluff (@concertsatpointofthebluff)

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe...

Chris Lindstrom hosts the team from the Sager-Stoneyard Pub including Jim Zobel from Doughboyz! This episode revolves around the collaboration between Sager Beer Works and Stoneyard Brewing, highlighting how partnerships just might be the future of brew pubs!

Listeners are introduced to Paul Guaracini and his journey in brewing, along with Oz from Stoneyard, who brings his unique brewing style to the mix, and Jim from Doughboyz with the pizza and technically challenging chicken wings that were a delight.

We also touch on the upcoming dinner between DeWolf Brewing and the team which will be...

Chris Lindstrom (@stromie) hosts a captivating discussion about the vibrant food and beer scene in Rochester, particularly focusing on the upcoming Rails and Ales festival. Otto Vondrak (@roc_otto), the marketing manager for the Rochester and Genesee Valley Railroad (@rocrealtrains) and create of the Rochester Beer Blog (@rocbeerblog), joins the conversation to share insights about the festival, the railroad museum, and the importance of supporting local breweries. They delve into the intricate relationship between the railroad and the food industry, showcasing how railroads transport essential ingredients for local products like pasta and Cool Whip. The episode highlights the camaraderie...

Note from Chris (@stromie) - this was intended to be an episode with short interviews with all of the vendors mentioned recorded live at the Lilac Festival (@rochesterlilacfestival), but unfortunately, technical issues are preventing these from being listenable.

Instead, I am bringing you some highlights from my discussions with these fascinating people with the hope that you can go visit them either today or tomorrow at the Lilac Festival or at other events and their establishments.

Apologies to all of the vendors for the issues and I look forward to doing full interviews with you...

This episode of Just Can't Not features Chris Lindstrom (@stromie) chatting with Magnus (@magnusapollo) to learn about the interactive art he created for the 2025 Lilac Festival (@rochesterlilacfestival)!

This project has everything - a photo scavenger hunt of animal art around the park, a giant Magnus along the entrance, laser artwork on rocks, and more! This project is so Magnus and we are all excited to go check it out. Visit the Lilac Festival - it is open today through Sunday May 18th. Enjoy it!

Mentions:

rocwalk.com - Seneca Park Zoo (@senecaparkzoo)

The Rochester Lilac Festival (@rochesterlilacfestival), a celebrated institution marking the commencement of spring and the festival season, is ready to kick off on Friday May 9th! This year, the festival commemorates 127 years of tradition, having evolved from a modest gathering into a grand ten-day event that attracts over half a million visitors.

Guests can expect diverse attractions, including an enhanced VIP experience, a farmer's market featuring local vendors, and a lineup of musical performances that resonates across genres. And don't forget about the food and drink options! The festival not only showcases the exquisite beauty of lilacs...

This episode of the Food About Town podcast features guests Matthew and Oliver from the One Drink Podcast (@onedrinkroc), who join Chris in discussing their gas station snack favorites in a tournament to crown the best snack on the go! They explore the nostalgia tied to snacks encountered on road trips and late-night adventures, emphasizing how these experiences shape our choices at gas stations. Throughout, they reflect on both the good and the questionable options available, shedding light on the unique charm that gas station snacks hold for many.

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Welcome to a VERY SPECIAL crossover podcast episode between @FoodAboutTownPodcast / @LunchadorPodcasts and the sister shows That Sounds Terrific in the 585 (@soundsterrific) and That Sounds Terrifying (@thatsoundsterrifying) hosted by Christine Green (@chrissygreenny), Nick Koziol (@kozioln), and Jess DiCotas (@rocjessy)!

The crew talks about the origin of each of their shows, the challenges of being positive, the importance of genuine engagement, where they explore how storytelling can bridge gaps between diverse perspectives and promote community building. Each host brings their distinct flair to the table and celebrate the creative endeavors that make the 585 special!

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The episode commences with an introduction to a special event, celebrating the ten-year retrospective of Explore Rochester at the Rochester Contemporary Art Center. The host expresses gratitude towards Steve Carter and Justin Doucet for their involvement and the opportunity to conduct nearly fifty-five interviews, capturing the essence of Rochester through the perspectives of various contributors. Each interviewee shares their insights and experiences relating to their photographic contributions, reflecting on the evolution of the city over the past decade. Key themes include the significance of community, the artistic vibrancy of Rochester, and the role of individual contributions to the city's...

This episode of FAT Bites was recorded on-site during March Magnus (@magnusapollo) at Made On State in the heart of Rochester. Chris chats with John Ballou (@jackbearstamps), an artist and curator of the Mini Mystery Art Machine (@minimysteryartmachine).

Chris and John reflect on personal experiences, making it clear that community engagement is not just about the events, but the connections forged along the way. They chat about trips that don't measure up and how to keep expectations better balanced. Mentions of cool Toronto spots also included!

Mentions:

Made On State (@madeonstate) - Ali's...

Chris chats with Courtney Klee, a farmer at Growing Family Farms, who shares her journey into agriculture and highlights the farm's commitment to regenerative practices. They discuss the variety of produce they grow and how CSAs foster a direct relationship between farmers and consumers. Courtney explains how CSAs work, allowing customers to receive fresh, local produce while helping farmers during the off-season. They emphasize the value of knowing where food comes from and the unique flavors that come from freshly harvested crops, encouraging listeners to engage with local agriculture as the spring season unfolds.

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In this episode, Chris interviews Christine Montroy, the creator behind the Instagram page Fairport Food and Drink, who shares her journey of documenting local dining experiences. They dive into how Christine transitioned from merely taking pictures of her meals to fostering a strong community connection through her platform, emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses. The conversation touches on the evolution of Fairport's dining options, highlighting various restaurants, breweries, and community events that contribute to its charm.

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In this special episode of Just Can't Not, Steve Carter (@stevecarter) and Justin Dusett (@jdusett) join host Chris Lindstrom (@stromie) to explore the origins and evolution of Explore Rochester, highlighting its role in connecting individuals to their surroundings and each other.

We explore the significance of the upcoming 10-year retrospective exhibition, which will be held at the Rochester Contemporary Art Center from March 7 to May 10. The exhibition will feature contributions from over 500 local creators, showcasing a diverse array of perspectives on the city.

Lunchador will be live recording on First Friday March 7th from 6pm...

Chris Lindstrom hosts a conversation centered around the Rochester Supper Club, emphasizing its focus on communal dining and local ingredients. He chats with chef Mike Durfee and sommelier Shomari Smoak (@winewithsmoak), who share their experiences and the evolution of their collaboration. The duo discusses how they create unique, seasonal menus that highlight local flavors and pairings, making each dining experience distinct. Their relationship has grown from a shared passion for food and wine into a fruitful partnership.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Chris Lindstrom hosts a chat with owner Jared Valentine from Open Face currently located at the Goerge Eastman Museum. Make sure you swing by for some sandwiches, soup, and Moxie any day the Museum is open!

The conversation kicks off with a reflection on the restaurant's significance and its evolution over the years. Jared shares his journey from initially envisioning Open Face as an art gallery to successfully establishing it as a unique dining experience, influenced by his roots and favorite family recipes. The episode also explores the behind-the-scenes challenges of running a restaurant, including the importance...

Chris Lindstrom shares his recent adventures in Flushing, Queens, where he delved into the food that captivated him during his recent trip. The episode kicks off with Chris highlighting the vibrant mix of cultures in Flushing, particularly the strong Chinese influence. He recounts his explorations, from savoring delicate duck egg yolk noodles at Maxi's Noodles to enjoying fresh rice rolls made right before his eyes. He also touches on a day in Manhattan including a phenomenal visit to Bar Contra.

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Cody Donahue (@codyreconnect), the director of policy and advocacy for Reconnect Rochester, joins the podcast to discuss the organization’s mission to promote car-light transportation options in the Rochester area. A significant focus of the conversation is the challenges and opportunities related to improving bike and pedestrian safety, particularly on dangerous roads like Empire Boulevard. Cody shares insights on recent efforts to redesign transportation infrastructure, including the importance of creating safe bike lanes and enhancing public transit services.

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Mentioned in this ep...

Petit Poutinerie's impending closure at the end of January marks a significant moment in Rochester's food scene, as discussed by Chris Lindstrom on this episode of the Food About Town podcast.

Chris reflects on his personal history with Le Petit Poutine, from its origins as a tiny food truck to its brick-and-mortar restaurant, highlighting the impact it has had on the local culinary landscape. The episode also features Chris’s recent trip to Chicago, where he explored the Logan Square neighborhood, enjoying local cuisine like Roman-style pizza, and discovering unique coffee shops.

Companies mentioned in th...

Mercury Coffee Company, a new mobile coffee brand in Rochester out of The Commissary (@roccommissary), joins hosts Chris Lindstrom, Aaron Pascucci, and Wade Reed from Level Up (@levelup.wny) to delve into the journey of launching their venture, from the inspiration behind their delicious offerings to the challenges of starting a business in the food and beverage industry. Co-founders Kyle and Isabelle O'Gara share insights on crafting balanced coffee drinks that resonate with new and seasoned coffee drinkers, emphasizing the importance of flavor and approachability. Join the discussion as they explore the art of coffee making, the significance of...

Chris Lindstrom sits down with Jon Olek, the founder of Black Cat Baking Company, to discuss his journey from working in various culinary roles to creating a successful vegan bakery in Rochester. They explore the challenges and techniques involved in vegan pastry-making, emphasizing the importance of quality and flavor. Jon shares insights into his experiences at renowned establishments, including his time making donuts and working in ice cream production in Boston. The conversation highlights the significance of using high-quality ingredients and the satisfaction of creating delicious vegan options that don't compromise on taste or texture.

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Chris Lindstrom kicks off the new year with an update on the Food About Town podcast, reflecting on the past year’s successes and outlining ambitious plans for 2025. Listeners will appreciate the behind-the-scenes peek at recent episodes, including a memorable two-part dialogue with the NOMINATE team, where they delve into the impact of supporting local minority-owned restaurants.

Food About Town is looking for feedback with suggestions for future guests and topics, and Chris is striving to produce weekly episodes, incorporating live-streaming elements, and expanding video content. This episode not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the st...

The conclusion of the Nominate journey marks a significant chapter in the lives of the hosts, reflecting on three years of dedication to supporting local restaurants in Rochester and Buffalo. As they reminisce about their experiences, they share the challenges and triumphs that shaped their path, from navigating the complexities of running a food delivery service to building lasting relationships with chefs and restaurateurs. The conversation highlights not only the joy of introducing diverse cuisines to the community but also the personal growth each host experienced along the way. They emphasize the importance of community and collaboration in their...

Chris Lindstrom and his core team come together to reflect on their journey with NOMINATE, a venture aimed at supporting local restaurants by offering surprise meals to customers. Over three years, they successfully served over 2,500 meals and injected more than $65,000 back into the local dining community during challenging times, particularly amid the pandemic. The discussion dives into the origins of NOMINATE, the logistical hurdles faced, and the critical lessons learned, including the importance of clear communication with restaurant partners.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

What is Think Global, Act Local all about? This intro episode will reveal it all. Host Dario Joseph, sat down with Ginny Ryan, long-time 13WHAM news anchor to break it all down. For more on the podcast, follow them on Instagram @ThinkGlobalActLocalRoc

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Coffee

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts Everyone - https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Chris Lindstrom and Lucas Smith from Baytowne Wine and Spirits explore the nuances of the Rochester scene and dive into some spirit tasting. Chris and Lucas discuss the importance of having a clear point of view when tasting and discussing spirits, enhancing the overall experience for both drinkers and listeners.

Lucas shares his vision for Baytowne Wine and Spirits, emphasizing the commitment to curating an exceptional selection and fostering an engaging atmosphere for customers. Their shared passion and enthusiasm resonate throughout the episode, making it an inspiring and engaging listen for spirits enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Chris Lindstrom welcomes Wendi Loyet to the Food About Town podcast to discuss her journey from Texas to opening her restaurant, Crisp, in Rochester. The conversation dives into the Southern hospitality that influences the restaurant's atmosphere and menu. Wendi shares how her upbringing in Texas, filled with open doors and home-cooked meals, inspired her vision for Crisp—a place where patrons feel at home. The episode also touches on the restaurant's growth in the community, emphasizing how it aims to be a neighborhood haunt where people can enjoy signature dishes like chicken and churros.

Throughout the interview, We...

This mini-episode features a lively discussion with Dena Jones and Kathy Turiano, co-owners of Joe Bean Roasters, who share exciting updates about their evolving coffee business. They highlight their commitment to sourcing high-quality, directly traded coffees and the importance of building strong relationships with coffee farmers.

The conversation delves into the distinctive flavors of a recently introduced Oaxacan Mexican coffee, which stands out for its vibrant notes and the powerful story behind its production by artisan women farmers. Listeners will also learn about Joe Bean's focus on roasting as a core aspect of their identity and how...

Chef Fredo, co-owner of Palermo's Market and Me Gusta Caribbean Cuisine, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Rochester to successfully launching multiple restaurants in the heart of downtown. The conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of running a food business, especially during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fredo discusses the importance of community engagement and the role of local events, like the Jazz Festival, in revitalizing downtown Rochester. He emphasizes the significance of embracing cultural diversity in cuisine, blending Puerto Rican and Jamaican influences to create unique dishes that reflect his heritage. The episode is...

Pauly sits down with Lunchador Podcast Network cofounder Chris Lindstrom to talk about the entrepreneurship journey that Chris is on with Lunchador. Then, we're joined by Matt Deturck and Adam Lubitow to preview this year's Anomoly Film Festival.

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone.

Use promo code Lunchador for 15% off your order! https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Behind the Glass

Hosted by Richard B Colón and Quajay Donnell, Behind the Glass is a monthly talk with the current month’s BTG Roster. Artists are...

Join Chris Lindstrom as he delves into the world of Countertop Creamery with owner Travis Briggs, exploring the innovative flavors and creative processes behind his artisanal ice cream. They talked about Travis' journey starting during the pandemic to his aspirations of expanding his business and developing unique flavors that evoke nostalgic memories. Listeners will discover the intricacies of achieving the perfect texture in ice cream, the challenges of balancing flavors, and the importance of community collaboration in Rochester’s vibrant food scene.

Links referenced in this episode:

Companies mentioned in this episode:

In this exciting premier episode of 'Shelling Peas', special guest Pauly Guglielmo, of the Pauly Guglielmo Show and Craft Cannery shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey from radio host to business owner. Chatting with Chef Ryan Jennings, Pauly reflects on their meeting at Grow New York and the critical role of mentorship. Topics include navigating the pandemic's impact on the food industry, developing pricing strategies, and balancing work with family life. Pauly's humorous and thoughtful stories reveal the challenges and joys of blending professional and personal aspirations, showcasing resilience and authenticity as keys to success. The discussion underscores the...

Introducing Shelling Peas with Ryan Jennings

In this episode, we are introduced to Ryan Jennings, chef and owner of Sweet Pea Plant-Based Kitchen, and the new host of the Shelling Peas podcast on the Lunchador Network. Ryan discusses his journey from running restaurants to starting a podcast. He shares insights on balancing a busy career with family life, the motivation behind launching his podcast, and the thrill of connecting with interesting people. Ryan and Chris Lindstrom also delve into Sweet Pea's expansion and the launch of a new granola bar company, Junabar. The episode highlights the importance...

Join Chris Lindstrom on the Food About Town podcast as he discusses Rochester Tiki Week (@rochestertikiweek) with Eric Rozestraten and Dan Herzog (@beardzog) from Jack's Extra Fancy and rum enthusiast Meredith Callinan Olszewski (@rumming_head_start). The event runs from September 23rd to the 29th, featuring themed cocktails across eight local bars, and ends with a swizzle contest at Marge's Lakeside Inn.

The podcast explores the world of tiki cocktails and the diversity of rum with spotlights on Mai Tais at Ziggy's with Pat (@pstet1), a Leonore's pop-up, and the grand finale swizzle contest at Marge's. Listeners...

In this episode of the Food About Town podcast, Chris Lindstrom (@stromie) shares his latest culinary experiments and travel adventures.

Topics

In this episode of 'Just Can't Not,' the hosts share humorous banter and updates about their podcasting journey. They talk about their new video setup, reflect on six months of the Lunchador Podcast Network, and express excitement about upcoming community partnerships and new shows. They emphasize their goal to highlight positive local stories and acknowledge the support from their sponsors: Joe Bean Coffee Roasters and Sweet Pea Plant-Based Kitchen.

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. Use promo code Lunchador for 15% off your order! ...

In this episode of the Food About Town podcast, Chris Lindstrom (@stromie) welcomes Chris Clemens (@cpclemens) from the NonROCaholic (@nonrocaholic) Instagram feed to delve into the world of non-alcoholic beverages. Clemens, known for his deep dives into the beverage scene, shares his journey through a variety of non-alcoholic options, from de-alcoholized wines to zero-proof spirits.

The duo explores the evolution of non-alcoholic drinks, noting the significant advancements in quality and variety over the past decade. They kick off the tasting with Lyre's (@lyresspiritco) Dark and Spicy, a ready-to-drink (RTD) option that mimics the flavors of a dark...