Savory Stories

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

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, cultu

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 Wash

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,

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 d

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 V

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-

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 peop

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 institut

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 h