The Whet Palette Productions Podcast

S5 E73 MICHELIN Guide Florida: Perspective & Predictions

The MICHELIN Guide Florida returns on May 28 and if you’ve been following along, you already know this isn’t just another announcement. The guide has expanded statewide. The ceremony is gone. And the questions surrounding consistency, standards, and direction feel louder than ever. In my previous coverage, I broke down how 2025 revealed a more […]

S5 E72 The Fire Behind Apocalypse Miami: Smoke, Setbacks, and Success

From Cancer Survivor to Pitmaster: The Story Behind Apocalypse Barbecue Miami may be known for cafecito and croquetas, but in this episode we’re talking about another side of the city’s food story: barbecue. In this episode, I sit down with Jeff Budnechky, the brawn behind Apocalypse BBQ, to discuss: This episode is about much more than smoked meat. If love […]

S5 E71 Chef Jonathan Kaiser on Calusso, Pier Sixty-Six, and Raising the Bar in Fort Lauderdale

I am taking it to the 954, where “Michelin-level dining” used to feel like a Miami-only sport. Not anymore. In this episode, I’m joined by Chef Jonathan Kaiser, a South Florida native quietly helping rewrite Fort Lauderdale’s dining reputation from the inside out. We talk about his path from early kitchen curiosity to big-league fine dining, including […]

S4 E70 Cajitas, Community & Cuban Coffee: The Vicky Bakery Story with Amy Cao

Miami y Hialeah, this one is for you. I’m joined by someone who feels like an extension of every 305 childhood: Amy Cao of Vicky Bakery. She embodies everything that makes this brand so beloved: warmth, family, community, and that unmistakable sense of Cuban hospitality that hits you the second you walk through the door. We chat about: If […]

S4 E69 Miami’s Culinary Glow-Up: Featuring GMCVB’s President & CEO David Whitaker

Miami’s dining glow-up continues. 🍽️ In this episode of The Whet Palette Podcast, I sit down with David Whitaker, President & CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, to unpack how Michelin stars, James Beard wins, and local programs like Miami Spice have elevated the Magic City into North America’s #1 food destination.

S4 E68 Mitch’s Bagels: A Father-and-Son Story of Family, Food, and Entrepreneurship

Adam Shidlofsky, a CPA from New York, co-owns Mitch’s Bagels in South Florida, a rapidly growing bagel brand. He discusses the evolution from a diner to modern delis with host Brenda Popritkin, emphasizing family values, work ethics, and the influence of local culture on their unique New York-style bagels.

S4 E67 Featuring MIMI PUCHE of Happy Wine in the Grove

In this episode of The Whet Palette Podcast, host Brenda Popritkin interviews Mimi Puche, owner of Happy Wine in the Grove. Mimi, a Colombian-born entrepreneur, shares her journey from Colombia to establishing a thriving wine destination. The discussion includes her experiences during the pandemic, wine education, and future expansion plans.

by Brenda Popritkin

S4 E65 The Secret Star Life: A Former MICHELIN Guide Inspector Reflects

For 20 years, “P”, a Sicilian-born, Bronx-raised former MICHELIN Guide inspector lived a secret life, dining in the world’s top restaurants and deciding who earned (and lost) the Guide’s coveted stars. In this rare interview, she reveals insider stories, surprising truths, and answers your burning questions about the most mysterious job in food.

S4 E64 The Fine Wine Icon of Saint-Émilion: Yves de Launay on Château Angélus, Terroir, and Timeless Elegance

In this episode, host Brenda interviews Yves de Launay, Executive Vice President of Château Angélus, sharing insights on the estate’s legacy and recent expansion into hospitality. Topics include sustainability in winemaking, withdrawing from Grand Cru Classé A, and marketing to younger consumers. A must-listen for Bordeaux enthusiasts and collectors.

S4 E63 Big Flavors, Bigger Heart: Daniel Serfer’s Very Miami Chef Story

Chef Daniel Serfer of Blue Collar and Mignonette shares his unexpected journey from law school dreams to thriving in a peculiar South Florida restaurant setting. The conversation covers personal struggles, restaurant success, and lighthearted food confessions. It’s an engaging and humorous reflection of Miami culture and culinary passion. Listen now!