Food Court with Richard Blais
Deep dish vs. thin crust? Hamburgers vs. hot dogs? Creamy peanut butter vs. crunchy? Welcome to the high-energy, game-show-style podcast Food Court, where celebrity chef Richard Blais (Top Chef, MasterChef, etc.) presides over his guests – comedians, writers, chefs – to debate opposing viewpoints. After a trivia lightning round, each guest will argue passionately why their position is the best as well as the opportunity to explain why their opponent’s stance is The Absolute Worst. It’s comedy meets culinary and by the end of each episode, Richard Blais will act as ultimate judge to settle these timeless arguments once and for all. Who wants pineapple on their pizza, anyway?
Episodes
Salad vs. Mayonnaise Based Salads
Happy Holidays to our Food Court fans! And what better way to celebrate Hanukkah (or Christmas or Tuesday or whatever you're doing this week) than this very special episode featuring Seth Rogen (The Fablemans) and Lauren Miller Rogen (Like Father) discussing the world of mayonnaise based salads. The salads that make a deli a deli. Seth hates them, Lauren loves them, and that's how a Food Court is made. In addition to salads Lauren and Seth are super passionate about their non-profit Hilarity for Charity. HFC is a national non-profit on a mission to care for families impacted by Alzheimer's disease, activate the next generation of Alzheimer's advocates, and be a leader in brain health research and education. They talk about what makes smash burgers so darn tasty, the McDonalds double cheeseburger, jello based salads, French dressing, mayonnaise in all its glory, ranch dressing, cel-ray soda and so much more. Happy 50th episode to us! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20/12/22•44m 16s
Butter Pecan vs. Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream
Season 3 is winding down but we're going out with a bang and not a whimper. This week friends and podcast co-hosts Busy Philipps (Girls 5Eva, Busy Philipps is Doing Her Best, Cougar Town) and Caissie St. Onge (Busy Philipps is Doing Her Best, Busy Tonight, Watch What Happens) had a hard time coming up with something argue about but then came up with this: butter pecan vs. mint chocolate chip ice cream. Which one of these ice creams is the best of the worst? Full disclosure, my kid loves both and was devastated to learn these two flavors are unpopular but to be fair my kid hasn't found an ice cream flavor she doesn't like yet. This episode covers a lot of fun topics including manufactured olives, David Letterman pushing caviar, Martha Stewart judging the craft services table, deviled eggs and what they're all doing their best at this week. Richard's Instagram Ember & Rye a Richard Blais steakhouse Four Flamingos a Richard Blais Florida Kitchen See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
13/12/22•1h 3m
Chicken Sandwich Wars!
When we first started recording in early 2020, a guest was lined up who was excited to dig into the chicken sandwich wars but then covid shutdown came and the war on chicken sandwiches ended and the episode never happened. Cut to almost three years later and the topic is back! Chef Pyet DeSpain (Next Level Chef) is here to defend the Chic-fil-A chicken sandwich while Chef Nekia Allen is arguing in favor of Popeye's. Pickle brine, 11 herbs and spices, can something be TOO crispy? A lot of things are covered and our honorable judge Richard is put the test yet again. *After this episode the guests were so sweet they went to Popeye's and got us all lunch. Gems! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
06/12/22•39m 15s
Spicy vs Not Spicy Food
Every season someone brings an "I love this" vs an "I hate this" take. Season 1 brought us loving cilantro vs. hating cilantro and then season 2 brought us the infamous loving butter vs. hating butter and now here we are in season 3 with another spicy (or not spicy depending on your taste) take. Does spicy food have a place? Chef and author Wylie Dufresne is unashamed to say that he thinks spicy food is bad and overrated no matter how many people disagree with him. His friend Chris Ying (The Dave Chang Show, Recipe Club) is here to say spicy food rules. These two came to court with buckets of evidence and it all adds up to one of the best Food Court debates of all time. The most iconic exchange of season 3 is in this episode and is about how difficult it is to make Pirate Booty, you don't want to miss this! Richard Blais Instagram Food Court Podcast instagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29/11/22•42m 34s
Savory Cornbread vs. Sweet Cornbread
Wow wow wow, as we approach the holiday season Chef Carla Hall is here to throw down for savory cornbread against her friend, fellow cook and writer, Chadwick Boyd, who is totally okay with a little extra sugar in the mix. Carla does NOT add extra sugar in her recipe and she has the evidence to prove it. This is a Food Court to remember with Carla going into a trance that cannot be broken by any mere bell, Chadwick overcoming a duck confit injury and a final winner's scream that woke my dog from a deep sleep. Happy Thanksgiving, y'all! Richard Blais instagram Carla's book- Carla and the Christmas Cornbread Chadwick Boyd LifestyleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
15/11/22•37m 23s
Dark Beer vs. Light Beer
This week in the Food Court we have two podcasters, lovers of the art of arguing and friends: Matt Frederick (Stuff They Don't Want You to Know) and Alex Williams (Ephemeral) take on the topic of dark beer vs. light beer. Which one is tastiest? Which one attracts the most snobs? Which one has notes of peanut butter? Which one did your grandpa drink? We have something called a tongue drum (seriously), learn that something called Heineken Zero exists (seriously) and that Miller Beer is comprised of soft bubbles (also true?). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
08/11/22•32m 21s
Hot Cereal vs. Cold Cereal
Today in the Food Court with Richard Blais we have a case of two cereals. Comedian and writer, Ashley Ray, is truly passionate about hot cereals of all kinds while her friend and fellow comedian/writer, Babs Gray, is equally passionate about a simple bowl of cold cereal. It's instant oats vs marshmallow stars, it's congee vs corn flakes and it's all going down TODAY in the Food Court. Hopefully Ashley drops some recipes because I am dying for some carrot cake oatmeal now that I know it exists. Now I'm off to eat my yearly bowl of Count Chocula - Happy Halloween y'all! *Rated Explicit because of mentions of weed*See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
01/11/22•40m 51s
Popcorn Shrimp vs. Popcorn Chicken
Today in the Food Court we have comedian and writer, Marcy Jarreau (Brooklyn 99), here all the way from the Bayou to defend her beloved popcorn shrimp. Her friend, Michael McMillian (True Blood / My Crazy Ex-Girlfeiend), is from the midwest and here to tell us all that popcorn chicken is actually the best popcorned food. It gets verrrry personal and Richard also takes this opportunity to talk to actors about the auditioning process and his favorite topic of all - the crafty table. For Food Court devotees you'll also finally find out Richard's feelings on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles when he drops some real secrets. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25/10/22•42m 47s
Soft vs. Crunchy Tacos
It's a family food feud in the Food Court this week! Cousins Manolo and Sandra Vergara are in the studio (our first fully in-studio episode since March 2020!) to argue soft vs crunchy tacos. Many great side topics come up in this one including the Taco Bell menu, Julia Child, international chips, the best red carpet snacks, Oreos and even Abercrombie and Fitch of all things in the year 2022 somehow. In the end I think we can all agree that tacos are delicious and, boy, are we hungry. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18/10/22•44m 3s
Ophira and Josh Bonus Content!
Richard was having so much fun with Ophira and Josh that they did this fun bit of bonus content. Listen to find out snap opinions on several food topics in a quick game we are calling Snack Attack! Josh, I see that you've added "year round ice coffee drinker" to your twitter bio. Or has a it always been there?!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
14/10/22•10m 33s
Hot Coffee vs. Iced Coffee
This week in the Food Court we have two incredible comedians and coffee connoisseurs here to fight the battle between hot and iced coffee. Ophira Eisenberg veteran of NPR's Ask Me Another, the Moth and the new podcast Parenting is a Joke, is taking the position of hot coffee with a side of "is iced coffee even coffee?!?" while comedian and writer Josh Gondelman (Desus and Mero, Last Week Tonight and more) is here to say that iced coffee is the only coffee, even in the dead of winter. You'll laugh, you'll laugh some more but most of all you'll hear them both keep talking through the gavel. NOTE throughout the recording there was the sound of ice clinking on Josh's audio track. Was he drinking an iced coffee the whole time we were recording?! Truly devoted to his argument.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/10/22•51m 45s
Dark vs. Milk Chocolate
Jordan Runtagh and Alex Heigl from the Too Much Information podcast are here to argue the virtues of dark and milk chocolate. It's a very good episode all the way through but the rebuttals in this one are a thing of beauty. <chef's kiss> literally. Enjoy this epic throwdown! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
03/10/22•35m 45s
Crispy vs. Chewy Cookies
We're back! So sorry about the delay. What even is time anymore? Do not fret though because we are back with a BANG! On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais our judge is faced with a doozy of a debate. What's better- crispy or chewy cookies? And two people who are as good at talking as they are at cooking are here to lay it all out. John Kanell of the Preppy Kitchen is defending the honor of crispy cookies while Chef Maneet Chauhan is throwing down for chewy. John's cookbook hit stores this week and there are a bunch of great fall recipes perfect for right now! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
27/09/22•40m 48s
The Full Food Court Theme Song!
Have you ever wondered how our whole song goes? Please enjoy the full Food Court theme song in all its glory. Arranged and preformed by Jason NeSmith with lyrics by Christopher Hassiotis wayyyy back in 2020 but most of its debate predictions have come true.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/04/22•1m 2s
Buffalo vs. Lemon Pepper Wings
In the season two finale of Food Court with Richard Blais Richard is faced with two old friends with a score to settle. Food writers, critics and podcast hosts Jennifer Zyman (The Food that Binds) and Mara Davis (Sounds Delicious) are here to argue which is better? The old standby; buffalo wings or the scrappy upstart; lemon pepper wings. Two cities enter, but only one will leave victorious.... which one will it be??**NOTE** Apologies for the audio issues this week but mostly I'd like to thank Spectrum for the most unstable internet connection in all the land Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
27/07/21•36m 37s
Egg and Cheese vs. Egg and Cheese
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais our judge will have to decide a very regional debate. In NY/NJ delis and bodegas egg and cheese sandwiches are a way of life; but what defines these popular sandwiches? Chris Gethard (Beautiful/Anonymous, The Chris Gethard Show) is here to argue that the parameters are very specific while Hallie Bulleit (Punk News podcast) thinks it's more loosey goosey, and she can do what she wants. Who is right? Who is wrong? Richard, a native New Yorker, will have to think long and hard about this one but either way there mayyyyy be some hate mail in his future. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20/07/21•44m 33s
White Meat vs. Dark Meat
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais two longtime friends and co-hosts of The Kitchen, Geoffrey Zakarian and Jeff Mauro, break it down and get into the meat of this debate- what's the best? White meat or dark meat? Richard has his work cut out for him while he fights to get a word in. Do these two even hear the gavel? Tune in to find out!Please check out Geoffrey's new podcast Four Courses where he interviews high performers and how they achieved their success right here on the iHeart network. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
13/07/21•38m 27s
Organic Peanut Butter vs. Classic Peanut Butter
This week on Food Court with Richard Blais two friends? Enemies? Frenemies? And co-stars on the hot Netflix series Cobra Kai, Dan Ahdoot and Bret Ernst, are here to argue about peanut butter but they could really argue about anything (and have a great time doing it!). Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
06/07/21•38m 56s
Soup vs. Salad
On this installment of Food Court with Richard Blais Caroline and Cristen, hosts of Unladylike Podcast, are here to say that when you have to choose between soup and salad, there is only one true choice. They just can't agree on which one is the right one so Richard will have to decide.And the "you may remember me from" line was a reference to Lionel Hutz from the Simpsons, for the record. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29/06/21•35m 38s
Ketchup vs. Mustard
Today in the Food Court with Richard Blais two incredible chefs debate the merits of a condiment that kids love to put on chicken nuggets. Amanda Freitag is a chef who is willing to go to bat for her favorite condiment, ketchup, while Marc Murphy is here to say absolutely not, mustard all the way. One guest even pulls out props*.... despite podcasting not being a visual medium. This episode is serious business.*Amanda pulled out a giant bottle of ketchup during Marc's rebuttal and walked through her entire apartment with it which made me sad we weren't making a video. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
22/06/21•38m 13s
Loving Butter vs. Hating Butter
On this installment of Food Court with Richard Blais podcaster and journalist Robert Evans (Behind the Bastards, After the Revolution) goes up against longtime friend and collaborator, podcaster and rapper Propaganda (Hood Politics, Red Couch Podcast, Behind the Insurrections) in a case to determine whether or not butter is nasty or tasty. Is it a miracle or a curse? This one is a doozy!Prop's new book Terraform: Build A Better World is on shelves now!**NOTE** Apologies for Richard's audio- he had to record this one on the go while doing Top Chef promos so there is a bit more echo than usual Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
15/06/21•39m 13s
Pancakes vs. Waffles
This week in the Food Court with Richard Blais two comedians (and supposed friends), Atsuko Okatsuka and Danielle Perez, go head to head in a no-holds-barred fight between pancakes and waffles. These two are not afraid to make it personal and make us all laugh.RIP Siete Mares, the amazing fish tacos place that Danielle shouted out that closed during Covid. **NOTE** There were some technically difficulties with this one and I had to use the zoom audio sometimes so you'll hear an echo etc... as the internet connections were often laggy. I did my best and I think you can at least HEAR what they're saying. Apologies! -Producer Crystal Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
08/06/21•37m 21s
Yeast Donuts vs. Cake Donuts
This week in the Food Court with Richard Blais we have host of the Storytime podcast, Will McFadden , arguing with actor Eric Artell about donuts. Which is the best; yeast donuts or cake donuts? Dang, now I really want a donut. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
01/06/21•36m 40s
Brownie Centers vs. Brownie Edges
Today on Food Court with Richard Blais we have two powerhouse women (who also happen to be good friends) are here to argue about fudgey and delectable brownies. Chef Brooke Williamson (Playa Provisions) is arguing for the brownie centers while Author Ellen Bennett (founder of Hedley and Bennett) is here to defend the honor of those crispy brownie edges. Richard has his work cut out for him when his longtime friends continue to ignore the gavel.Ellen's new book is in stores now- Dream First, Details Later a guide to help you stop overthinking and make it happen! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25/05/21•38m 11s
Cold Sandwiches vs. Hot Sandwiches
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais two incredible food writers who are ready to find out once and for all- is the best sandwich a hot sandwich or a cold sandwich?* Farley Elliott, Senior Editor at Eater LA, takes on Stephanie Breijo a food writer who writes for the LA Times and Time Out. It's writer vs writer, friend vs friend and sandwich vs sandwich. A lot of great points will be made but who will win? Listen and find out!The restaurant fund that Stephanie mentions is called No Us Without You and you can read about them at that link.*sandwich sandwich sandwich Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18/05/21•35m 40s
Spaghetti vs. Mafalde
It's the season 2 premiere of Food Court with Richard Blais and Dan Pashman (the Sporkful) is here to tell Evan Kleiman (KCRW's Good Food), and the rest of the world, that spaghetti is the worst pasta shape but mafalde, a pasta shape few have even heard of, is the best. Last year Dan and Evan set out on a quest to create a new pasta shape and along the way Dan came to the realization that he just hates spaghetti but Evan couldn't disagree more so they had to bring this case to the Food Court and find out who's right, once and for all. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/05/21•37m 45s
BONUS CONTENT- The Last Bonus Content from Season 1
In this installment of BONUS CONTENT on Food Court with Richard Blais we cover a lot of bases from movies to cooking for a Prince. Past guests include Mark Rennie, John Flynn, Amy Rhodes, Julie Brister, Derrick and Kimberly Fox, Korama Danquah and Dana Schwartz!Get ready because new episodes start going live next week! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/05/21•21m 5s
Food Court with Richard Blais Season 2 Trailer!
Food Court with Richard Blais is back and better than ever. New episodes will start posting next week! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
06/05/21•1m 4s
BONUS CONTENT- Things That Are Annoying
In this installment of BONUS CONTENT on Food Court with Richard Blais we learn what annoys our guests and even what annoys our host. Past guests Mark Rennie, John Flynn, Amy Rhodes, Julie Brister, Katherine Spiers, Josh Scherer, Nyesha Arrington and Catherine McCord make an appearance!John Flynn would like you all to know that he said "Cravings" was the cookbook when it was actually "Jubilee" that he had the incredible chicken and dumplings from.Season 2 episodes start airing next Tuesday 5/11! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
04/05/21•16m 59s
BONUS CONTENT- The Best and Worst Foods
In this installment of Bonus Content of the Food Court with Richard Blais past guests discuss what their most favorite and least favorite foods are, share food stories, share cooking fails and drop a few bombs. Top Chef alums Melissa King and Gregory Gourdet get into their least favorite foods and one is a doozy, the court is still recovering.Past guests include: Esther Ku, Heather Fink, Anney Reese, Lauren Vogelbaum, Melissa King, Gregory Gourdet, James Heaney and Jacki Schwarz Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
22/04/21•25m 40s
BONUS CONTENT- The Craft Services Table
Food Court with Richard Blais will start posting new episodes in May but to tide you over, here is some bonus content. In this installment some past guests talk about their favorite things to eat at the craft services table*.GUESTS INCLUDE: Julie Brister, Amy Rhodes, Andy Beckerman, Naomi Ekperigin, Andrew Ti, Cody Ziglar, Betsy Stover and Jessica Elaina Eason.*The craft services table is a table of snacks that exists on sets where movies, tv and digital content is being made. One time I was on a set that had 5lb buckets of sour patch kids on every table- it can be a blessing and a curse at the same time. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20/04/21•14m 9s
Rice vs. Noodles
Today in the Food Court with Richard Blais our judge has to decide between two perfect foods that sustain the world. How does he do it?? Chef Melissa King (Top Chef) is here to defend rice as the most perfect food she can imagine while her good friend, and fellow Top Chef alum, Chef Gregory Gourdet thinks noodles are somehow even better than rice. In the Food Court season one finale our judge has his work cut out for him but you'll have to listen to find out who wins!**NOTE- This episode was recorded in each guest's respective home during sheltering in place. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
01/09/20•38m 31s
Hot Dogs vs. Hamburgers
In this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais the judge must decide which friend is right and which friend is wrong in the epic battle of hot dogs vs. hamburgers. Food Network star and cookbook author Justin Warner is here to fight for his beloved hamburgers while restaurant critic and Food Network judge, Troy Johnson, is in the court to fight for the underdog, the noble hot dog. Sure, you could have both but what fun is that? In the Food Court, there can only be one verdict- which one will win??*NOTE- this episode was recorded remotely from home during sheltering in place and there are some audio issues that I apologize for. Many lessons were learned, I promise!* Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25/08/20•31m 40s
Breakfast for Breakfast vs. Breakfast for Dinner
Today on Food Court with Richard Blais our judge will have to decide between two moms out here doing their best to get food into their kids. Comedian, actress and the co-host of Why Mommy Drinks podcast, Betsy Stover (American Princess), thinks that eating breakfast for dinner is chaos and must be stopped. Meanwhile her friend, writer actress and improvisor, Jessica Elaina Eason (The Big Show, The Baby-Sitters Club), thinks breakfast tastes just as good at any time of day. How will the judge decide? You'll have to tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18/08/20•33m 48s
Apps battle: Mozzarella Sticks vs. Fried Calamari
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais, Richard has to determine which appetizer reigns supreme. Which fried app stands above all the rest on the platter of various fried things that comes on an apps platter? Comedian Esther Ku is in the court to defend mozzarella sticks, a very strong choice in the ring. Going up against Esther we have writer and filmmaker Heather Fink who thinks fried calamari is the ultimate app. Who will win? Tune in and find out!**NOTE** This was recorded before the sheltering in place order started in CA and we were still able to be in studio together. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/08/20•31m 51s
Regular fries vs. Sweet Potato Fries
This week on Food Court with Richard Blais our judge must decide between two golden, crispy, delicious, perfect... fries. Two delectable sides to any burger, two amazing accompaniments to any BLT, two sidekicks who are versatile enough to become the star... but today there can only be. ONE winner. Writer and podcaster (Popcorn Book Club, Noble Blood) Dana Schwartz has decided to be the Clarence Darrow of food court and take the underdog position that sweet potato fries are in fact the ultimate fried potato option. Writer, actor and Dana's Popcorn Book Club co-host Korama Danquah is in the court to argue for regular fries and as someone who once ate fries every day, she's an expert on the topic. How will our judge decide? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
04/08/20•38m 1s
McDonald's vs. Burger King
This week on Food Court with Richard Blais the hosts of the podcast Two Old Queens have brought a fast food case fit for a drive thru. Comedian and writer Mark Rennie believes that McDonald's is the iconic choice whereas actor and writer John Flynn would rather have it his way over at Burger King. This one's a Whopper folks (or a Big Mac, I'm not playing favorites). Tune in to find out who wins- will it be the clown or the crown? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28/07/20•34m 5s
Chicken Wings vs. Boneless Wings
Today in the Food Court with Richard Blais we have the case of the bones and do you want your chicken wings with or without them. Host of the "Yo, is this Racist?" podcast we have writer Andrew Ti here to plead the case for the classic chicken wings. Going up against him, with the decidedly underdog take, we have young upstart and co-host of the Dark Weeb podcast, Andrew's friend Cody Ziglar. Who will reign victorious? You'll have to listen to find out! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
21/07/20•35m 47s
Condiments are good vs. Condiments are bad
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais our judge settles a case for a couple in quarantine who need a third party's opinion. From the podcast Couples Therapy, real life couple Naomi Ekperigin (Two Dope Queens, Mythic Quest) and Andy Beckerman (Beginnings Podcast) have very different opinions on condiments; namely, does food ever need them? Naomi is a strong believer where as Andy thinks they're messy and unnecessary. Who will win? Will this couple need couple's therapy by the time the case is over? Listen and find out! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
14/07/20•41m 51s
Chocolate vs. Vanilla Ice Cream
In this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais he takes on a case made for these hot summer days - what's the best ice cream? Chocolate or vanilla? But these aren't just any defendants in the courtroom today, these are his kids and the stakes have never been higher. Please go to Richard's instagram account to weigh in on who you thought won the case!**NOTE- this was recorded inside their home, during the shelter in place order** Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/07/20•28m 9s
Breakfast Burrito vs. Breakfast Sandwich
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais our judge has to decide between two classic breakfast items - the breakfast burrito and the breakfast sandwich. Married couple Kimberly (actress) and Derrick (chef) Fox are sick of fighting about it and are ready for a third party to settle this one and for all. How will Richard decide between these two perfect foods? Tune in to find out!**NOTE** This episode was filmed before the sheltering in place order started in California when we could all be in the studio together. During sheltering in place we have all eaten countless breakfast burritos and breakfast sandwiches. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30/06/20•29m 38s
Flour vs. Corn Tortillas
In this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais our judge must decide between two tasty and delectable tortillas. You might be thinking, why not get one of each? But this is the Food Court and it's all or nothing so get outta here with that accommodating opinion. Comedian and writer Rekha Shankar thinks the obvious choice is flour tortillas while fellow comedian and writer Mike Trapp thinks corn tortillas are not only healthier they also taste so much better. This debate has been raging for years and today they will finally get a judgement.**NOTE** This episode was recorded long before the sheltering in place order, in the before times, and the contents sometimes reflect that. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
23/06/20•33m 40s
Sparkling vs. Still Water
This week on the Food Court with Richard Blais we have two writers and podcasters who disagree on a very basic human need; water. Humans need water to live but which water would you rather drink- regular water or water with bubbles? Flat or fizzy? Still or sparkling? Anna Hossnieh and Shereen Lani Younes of Ethnically Ambigious don't care how you say it but they feel strongly about how you drink it.**NOTE** This episode was recorded at a distance during the sheltering in place order. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
16/06/20•33m 35s
Chili: Beans vs. No Beans
The case being brought to the Food Court with Richard Blais this week is one of chili and do you think beans are okay in it or do you think they're completely and totally unacceptable? Well cake-master Duff Goldman thinks they're against everything chili stands for while his wife Johnna thinks beans help make chili into a complete meal. This episode was recorded remotely during self quarantine where the two have had ample time to realize that they just don't see eye to eye on this and need an impartial judge to settle it. Who will win?? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
02/06/20•30m 7s
Movie Theater Popcorn vs. Movie Theater Candy
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais comedian Melanie Maras has brought the case of movie theater snacks and that she believes popcorn is the only choice. Her friend and fellow comedian Ariel Kashanchi thinks candy offers variety and fun flavors that popcorn just can't compete with. How will our judge decide?? Listen to find out!NOTE- this was recorded in February, before sheltering in place, when being in the same room was okay. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
26/05/20•24m 53s
Girl Scout Cookies: Thin Mints vs. Samoas
In this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais our judge will hear two culinary powerhouses debate the merits of Girl Scout cookies. Chef Nyesha Arrington is arguing in favor of Thin Mints while cookbook author Catherine McCord is going to bat for her beloved Samoas. Luckily, listeners at home can eat whatever cookie they want while they listen to this epic throw down.NOTE- this episode was recorded before the shelter in place order when we could still record together in the studio and Girl Scouts were out selling their cookies out in public. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
19/05/20•30m 30s
Deep Dish vs. NY Style Pizza
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais our judge is tasked with choosing between two beloved and cherished pizza types. Comedian James Heaney has come to court to argue passionately in favor of deep dish pizza while his friend and fellow comedian Jackie Schwarz, who lived in Chicago for four years, is here to argue in favor of New York style. No matter what, one thing is for certain, a whole lot of people are going to disagree with the verdict! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/05/20•30m 39s
Loving Cilantro vs. Hating Cilantro
On this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais, two long-time friends, comedians, actors and writers Julie Brister and Amy Rhodes throw down in a cilantro debate. They may agree on a lot of things but they simply cannot agree on cilantro so Judge Richard will have to settle this once and for all. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
05/05/20•25m 49s
Cheap vs. Expensive Coffee
In the Food Court this week Judge Richard Blais has to settle the case of coffee and whether or not it should cost more than $2. Comedian and writer Teresa Lee has very strong opinions on this one even if it may be unpopular to admit. Going up against her is California chef Bradley Miller who is down with expensive coffee and doesn't care who knows it. Who will win? You have to listen to find out! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28/04/20•26m 57s
Cake vs. Pie
In this episode Judge Richard Blais will have to settle the case of cake vs. pie. Anney Reese and Lauren Vogelbaum of the iHeart food history/science/culture podcast Savor have done their research, they have their receipts and they're ready to settle this once and for all. What will it be America? Cake or pie? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
21/04/20•24m 6s
Reservations vs. Waiting in Line
In this episode of Food Court with Richard Blais our judge has to preside over an unusual case. This one has more to do with restaurants than it does with food but it's definitely food-adjacent. Author and Food Network host and judge, Simon Majumdar is just plain tired of waiting in line and he has a lot to say about it. Going up against him is comedian Joey Greer, who does't mind waiting in line and actually embraces it. Two men enter... and both men leave, this is just the Food Court not Thunderdome. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
14/04/20•29m 45s
Bagels: Toasted vs. Not Toasted
On this episode of Food Court, Richard is presented with a very specific case- to toast or not to toast... a bagel! Food writer and host of Smart Mouth Podcast Katherine Spiers takes on Josh Scherer of YouTube's Mythical Kitchen in a debate for the ages. More sources were cited in this episode than any before so these two did not come to play. Will our judge be able to help these two resolve their food feud once and for all? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/04/20•34m 2s
Bacon vs. Sausage
In this episode Judge Richard Blais has to solve the case that podcasters Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown have brought to the court. It's a no-holds-barred bacon vs. sausage throwdown where only one can win. If you think it's too hard to choose, don't worry, the judge will do it for you. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
31/03/20•25m 51s
Blue Cheese vs. Ranch
Restaurateurs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo (known as Jon and Vinny) firmly believe that blue cheese is better than ranch dressing. Podcaster and writer Courtney Kocak could not disagree more. The debate is fierce but no matter what Judge Richard Blais decides there are going to be a whole lot of listeners who disagree.NOTE- Jon and Vinny would like their Los Angeles listeners to know that Jon and Vinny's Fairfax and Brentwood as well as Kismet Rotisserie are open and doing takeout and delivery during this quarantine. Try some delicious pizza with your social distancing! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
24/03/20•29m 0s
Crispy vs. Soggy Fries
Jack O'Brien and Miles Gray make The Daily Zeitgeist every day and know each other very well so for them it was a no-brainer to bring their French fry debate to the Food Court. Miles knows his soggy fries are the underdog so he'll bring his A game. Judge Richard Blais is working overtime to stay impartial today. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
17/03/20•26m 55s
Pineapple on Pizza?
Chefs Antonia Lofaso and Aarti Sequeira have come to the Food Court to battle it out over this hot button pizza topic. One loves pineapple on pizza and the other hates pineapple on pizza so much that she'd rather we start putting avocado on our pizzas. This one is going to be an extra tough one for the judge! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
17/03/20•30m 9s
Introducing: Food Court with Richard Blais
Deep dish vs. thin crust? Hamburgers vs. hot dogs? Creamy peanut butter vs. crunchy? Welcome to the high-energy, game-show-style podcast Food Court, where celebrity chef Richard Blais (Top Chef, etc) presides over his guests – comedians, writers, chefs – to debate opposing viewpoints. After a trivia lightning round, each guest will argue passionately why their position is the best as well as the opportunity to explain why their opponent’s stance is The Absolute Worst. It’s comedy meets culinary and by the end of each episode, Richard Blais will as ultimate judge settle these timeless arguments once and for all. Who wants pineapple on their pizza? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/03/20•1m 27s