Savory Stories

When thinking of foods that are deeply rooted in the American South, Grits might immediately come to mind. City Lights Collective members and food contributors Akila McConnel and Chef Asata Reid have the story behind the creamy porridge's history, AND how grits became a classic Atlantan dish. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Summertime is officially upon us, and there's nothing better to help cool you off on hot Atlanta days than ice cream. City Lights Collective food contributors Akila McConnel and Chef Asata Reid know this well, and they're taking us back to 1870 to learn the history of ice cream in our city.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savory Stories , we’re diving into all things brunch! Hosts Akila McConnell and Chef Asata Reid explore the rich culture of brunch in Atlanta, unpacking its social and culinary significance. Joining the conversation is Mike Jordan, Senior Editor on Black culture at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, James Beard Award-winning journalist, and true Atlanta food aficionado. Fro...

Today, we dive into the rich exploration of Jewish holidays through the lens of food and culture in Atlanta. In this episode, we welcome Chef Shai Lavi, co-owner of Third Space, and Professor Marni Davis, a historian specializing in ethnicity and immigration at Georgia State University . Together, we uncover the deep connections between the diaspora, traditional holiday foods, cultural heritage, a...

With Thanksgiving and gratitude, we present a special episode of Savory Stories celebrating the rich flavors, history, and traditions behind one of America’s most cherished holidays. Starting with Thanksgiving's origins as a New England tradition, we explore the first feast between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag and the complex relationship between the two, as well as George Washington’s 1789 proc...

In this Savory Stories (Rewind), we revisit the powerful connections between soul food, activism, stereotypes, and the civil rights movement. From fried chicken sandwiches and black-eyed peas to the enduring symbolism of watermelon, they explore how food has fueled Black resistance and community building.  While icons like Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are well-known, we will spotligh...

In this timely episode of Savory Stories, hosts Akila McConnell and Chef Asata Reld dive into the intriguing relationship between drinks and elections in the U.S., just in time for the 2024 election season. Whether it’s a cold beer, a sophisticated cocktail, or a refreshing non-alcoholic option, beverages have played an unexpected but important role in politics. Akila and Asata discuss everything...

Does food play a part in political campaigns? Join us for an exciting episode of Savory Stories! Today, we explore the fascinating connection between food and politics. From George Washington’s 1758 House of Burgesses election barbecue to modern-day political stops at beloved food spots, we uncover how food has been used to influence voters. Learn how former President Trump and Vice President Harr...

Does Atlanta have a customer service problem? Is fine dining the only way to experience top-tier service? Today, we’re diving into the hot topic of “tipping and customer service.” With recent social media buzz surrounding popular food bloggers, customer service, and hospitality in Atlanta’s food scene, we’re breaking it all down. From the history of tipping to the modern-day trend of auto-gratuity...

Welcome back to another episode of Savory Stories! We're continuing our deep dive into the world of barbecue with Part 2. If you haven’t already listened to Part 1, pause this episode and check that out first! In this episode, we explore the history of barbecue with a special focus on flavor, sauces, and regional profiles.   We revisit how barbecue originated with Indigenous people using barbacoas...

In this episode of Savory Stories, we embark on a journey through the rich history of barbecue, tracing its origins from Native American traditions to the pitmasters of modern-day Atlanta. We’ll explore how the art of barbecue has become an integral part of America's social, cultural, and political fabric.   Hosts Akila and Asata celebrate Atlanta's longstanding barbecue institutions, giving shout...

We hope you enjoyed a tasty lunch as we dive into the country’s favorite midday meal: the sandwich. Who are we kidding? Sandwiches can be enjoyed any time of day! In this episode of Savory Stories , we explore the fascinating world of sandwiches. What truly defines a sandwich? Is it the variety of bread, or is it the flavorful fillings that make it irresistible? From the classic ham and cheese to...

Sink your teeth into another juicy episode of Savory Stories. Today, we're peeling back the layers of Atlanta's rich history with peaches, giving a special shoutout to "The Georgia Peach" by William Thomas Okie.  Discover when peaches first arrived in Georgia and explore their ancient origins tracing back to China around 6,000 BCE. Learn about the Indigenous Cherokee and Muscogee tribes of Ge...

Welcome to another delicious episode of Savory Stories. Today, we're diving into the rich and tasty history of some of Atlanta's most beloved food franchises. From their humble beginnings to becoming icons in the culinary world, we'll explore the fascinating journeys of these eateries that started in ATL and changed the food industry forever.  Join us as we uncover the stories behind your fav...

Welcome to another delicious episode of Savory Stories, the podcast where we explore Atlanta's rich cultural identity through its vibrant cuisine and food history. Today, we're diving into an iconic Southern staple that has long been the hallmark of a great cook: the biscuit. Join us as we trace Atlanta's love affair with biscuits from its historical roots to the present day. We'll uncover the jou...

Atlanta is a melting pot of diverse cuisines, with Chinese food playing a significant role in the city’s rich cultural and culinary landscape. In this episode of Savory Stories, we dive into the delightful world of Chinese cuisine and explore the history of Chinese immigration to Atlanta, dating back to the 1800s with the construction of the railroad. From dumplings to stir-fry to smoked duck and...

On today's episode of Savory Stories, we delve even deeper within the history of Atlanta’s people through its cuisine and more.  Today, Victoria Lemos of the Archive Atlanta podcast joins us as we embark on a culinary tour of the Westside of Atlanta, uncovering its rich and captivating history. This journey takes us through the evolution of transportation, the diverse religious and spiritual...

Welcome to another delectable episode of Savory Stories! Today, we're indulging in the delightful world of brunch, with a spotlight on everyone's favorite breakfast item—the waffle.  Waffles may seem like a modern invention, but they actually have a long and fascinating history. Dating back to medieval times, waffles have evolved into the thick, grid-patterned delicacies we know and love toda...

A podcast experience that will hit the spot. Just Sat with Maximilian Hines features Atlanta chefs, farmers, mixologists, and everyone else involved in the restaurant industry sharing their stories of opening a new spot, mixing the perfect drink, and those times when everything freezes in the kitchen. The first episode is out now! wabe.org/justsat/ or on the app you're using right now to read this...

Indulge your taste buds in another mouth-watering episode of Savory Stories! Today, we're delving deep into the rich and flavorful world of wings in Atlanta.  Just as pizza is synonymous with New York, wings hold a special place in Atlanta's heart—an iconic dish deeply ingrained in the city's culinary identity.  Join us as we unravel the captivating history and cultural significance behi...

Welcome to another episode of Savory Stories! Today, we're embarking on a captivating journey through the history of coffee, exploring its origins and vibrant presence.   Join us as we traverse the rich history of Ethiopia, where the tale of the dancing goats heralds the beginning of coffee's enchanting story. From there, we'll dive into the bustling streets of Atlanta, where coffee shop...

Tune in to this episode of Savory Stories for an intriguing dive into the world of Michelin stars and Atlanta's culinary scene!  Ever pondered why a tire company rates restaurants or what the ratings mean? Today, we're unraveling the mysteries behind Michelin stars and celebrating Atlanta's winners.  Congratulations to the one-star recipients: Atlas , Bacchanalia , Hayakawa, Lazy Betty a...

Spring has arrived, and with it, the official opening of Farmers Markets! In today's episode of Savory Stories, we delve into the lush landscape of fresh food, produce, and the rich history of the Farmers Market in Atlanta. These markets are integral to providing not only nourishment but fostering community spirit. We journey back through history, tracing the origins of early Turkish markets in 60...

On today's episode, we're diving into the vibrant world of Indian cuisine in Atlanta! Join us as we uncover the rich tapestry of flavors, explore the city's culinary landscape and history, and debunk common stereotypes about Indian food. First up, we'll take you on a tour of some of Atlanta's top markets where you can find authentic Indian spices and ingredients. From the bustling aisles of Dekalb...

In today's episode, we explore the captivating history of Black Grocers, unsung heroes in Atlanta's narrative who have served as vital links between farmers and consumers. Join us as we shine a spotlight on their founding stories, from navigating the challenges of segregation to the diverse flavors of niche markets and the cutting-edge technology of digital checkout counters.  Tune in to disc...