Kitchen Chat® – Margaret McSweeney

"Food is a prism through which you see everything." Tom Parker Bowles.

What does it truly take to define British gastronomy today? In this special London edition of Kitchen Chat®, Margaret McSweeney enjoys a cup of tea in the gardens of Number Sixteen with award-winning food journalist, restaurant critic, author, broadcaster and entrepreneur, Tom Parker Bowles, for an insightful look into the global ingredients of London's thriving dining scene. As Tom emphasizes, "Immigration built this city and made it great." He describes London's delicious culinary diversity, which broadens one's palate.

According to Tom, "Roasting, baking and tea are what perhaps the British will be best known for." Margaret enjoyed all three of these alimentary accolades in London, including her memorable meal at the recently reopened Simpsons in the Strand, best known for its domed silver trolleys with master carvers presenting the roasted meats table-side. Margaret had last dined there during the 1970s with her parents. Tom extols the outstanding vision of restaurateur Jeremy King, who just relaunched this historic establishment. Tom also spotlights Wiltons, a London restaurant that opened in 1742. This iconic destination also epitomizes England's roasting legacy.

Afternoon Tea is a hallmark of British culture with scones, savory sandwiches and pastries. Drawing from his extensive collaboration with Fortnum & Mason and his definitive book Time for Tea, Tom highlights the precision, history, and cultural significance behind one of Britain's most beloved traditions. His most recent book, Cooking & The Crown, also includes a great section on Tea. As he says, "Tea is a universal language." It's important to prepare the tea properly, and loose leaf is preferred.

Book link: Cooking & The Crown: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1783256060

Tom Parker Bowles and his business partners recently launched Christopher's Cordials, "a thoroughly modern celebration of a quintessentially English classic." This non-alcoholic cordial blends pure fruit juice, carefully chosen botanicals, and a judicious measure of organic cane sugar, resulting in sophisticated, forward flavor combinations such as gooseberry and lime. The cordials can be added to sparkling/still water or even a cocktail. This product will hopefully launch in the United States soon.

Lastly, Tom shares what is next on his plate. He is working on a book about chili peppers. He describes how this "pungent pod" has become an essential ingredient worldwide, primarily in the cuisines of Mexico, Thailand, and India. Tom Parker Bowles' culinary brilliance shines in this Kitchen Chat. And how true his words are: "Food is a prism through which you see everything."

Contact Tom: https://www.instagram.com/tompbowles/

Simpsons in the Strand: https://www.simpsonsinthestrand.co.uk/

Book link: Time for tea; https://www.amazon.com/dp/0008387109

Savor the day!

✅ Be sure to visit KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9

Webtalkradio: https://www.Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: https://www.Expertsandauthors.tv

Join host Margaret McSweeney for a special Tea Themed episode of Kitchen Chat: A Taste of Luxury, History and Hospitality with the true American Masters of Tea and Hospitality Harney & Sons. Visit: https://www.harney.com/.

Margaret attended the prestigious Chicago Tea Festival, and into a world of refined elegance and storied heritage for an exclusive one-on-one interview with Michael Harney, the Master Tea Blender of the iconic Harney & Sons. Michael Harney is the author of the greatly respected book The Harney & Sons Guide to Tea, a compendium of the fifty-six teas every tea connoisseur should know. On this special episode, Margaret celebrates the journey of a family-led tea empire that has redefined the luxury of hospitality, exploring the perfect synergy between global sourcing and the art of welcoming with the perfect brew. In 1983, John Harney, Michael's father, officially launched Harney & Sons. Harney & Sons now reaches tea enthusiasts on all seven continents, including Antarctica. Harney & Sons masterfully blends the finest tea, artisanal quality with a legacy of impeccable service. Margaret's conversation with Michael Harney explores how the firm translates their family's philosophy of "mouth-filling umami" and timeless hospitality into every tin. She also discovers the brand's most celebrated blends, including the romantic Paris tea and the brisk, high-altitude Havakai Frost, while delving into the nuances of tea sourcing from the gardens of Japan and China. What is your favorite blend of Harney & Sons Tea?

Savor the day!

✅ Be sure and visit https://www.KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9 or Webtalkradio: htps://www.Webtalkradio.com.

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: https://www.Expertsandauthors.tv

Welcome to a special Kitchen Chat® featuring luxury home kitchens. Host Margaret McSweeney returns to one of her all-time favorite locations for this landmark episode: the historic The Brazilian Court in Palm Beach. Joining Margaret is Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD. As a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer and a Kitchen and Bath Magazine 2025 Innovator of the Year, Stacy's mastery lies in the "transition"—specializing in seamless interior renovations for families navigating significant life challenges. This episode offers a compelling look at the essential framework of modern design, moving beyond fleeting trends to discuss the resurgence of natural woods, the deliberate use of bold color, and the sophisticated evolution of 1970s-inspired aesthetics.

If you are "reimagining your kitchen," today's show will help provide some insights into working with a designer and making your dream into a reality.

Savor the day!

Welcome, dear foodie friends, to my charming hometown of Barrington, Illinois. I'm your host, Margaret McSweeney, and it is such a joy to welcome you to a very special episode of Kitchen Chat as we celebrate a culinary destination that is truly elevating the spirit of our community. I am so honored to feature the visionary Chef and Owner of the new Progressive American restaurant Noe, Robert Gadsby. Many thanks to Quintessential Barrington for introducing me to Chef Robert and Noe.

Impressive, innovative, and intentional are the words that best describe Chef Gadsby's cuisine, and today we explore the profound emotional authenticity, seasonality, and excellence that elevate every dish he creates.

Although Chef Robert Gadsby has worked with some of the most iconic chefs around the world, his mother and the family's Victory Garden in England had a major influence on his appreciation of fresh produce and food preparation. The above photo features Chef Robert's mother, grandfather and sister in the family's Victory Garden in England.

At the heart of Noe's mission is a Four Pillars philosophy—Seasonality, Sustainability, Technique, and Community—which serves as a sacred reminder that Progressive American cuisine is a rigorous commitment to both the land and the craft. In this episode, we go behind the scenes to discover how Noe defines the new American palate through a sophisticated global lens. Their culinary identity is masterfully forged by French sophistication, Italian freshness of product—aligned perfectly with the seasonality of the Victory Gardens—and the unwavering Japanese discipline of execution. Most of all, it is defined by a distinct American ingenuity that transforms these influences into something entirely original. Join us as we explore how this soulful intentionality brings a world-class perspective to our Barrington landscape.

Savor the day!

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9

Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

Join Kitchen Chat host Margaret McSweeney as she steps into a sanctuary of bespoke British elegance in the heart of London's most prestigious neighborhood: The Peninsula London in Belgravia. On this week's special London Tour '25 episode with a Taste of Luxury, History and Hospitality, Margaret explores the perfect synergy between architectural grandeur and culinary artistry at The Peninsula London. Superbly situated alongside Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, the hotel masterfully blends classic British design with the Peninsula's signature Asian grace.

Margaret has a fascinating and delightful conversation with Executive Chef Saravanan Palanipandichamy, exploring how he and his world-class team translate the hotel's philosophy of impeccable, cross-cultural service onto the plate and home to the two-Michelin-starred Brooklands by Claude Bosi.

• Delicious highlights include: Margaret's Afternoon Tea in The Lobby with May Wong and Claire Myers-Lamptey, founder of Great British Tea Party.
• The Beef Wellington Experience in The Lobby, which brought back special memories for Margaret.
• Dinner at Canton Blue, which is the top Cantonese restaurant in London.
• Dinner at Brooklands by Claude Bosi, the two Michelin starred rooftop restaurant on the 8th floor of The Peninsula London. The Tasting Menu is outstanding.

It was an honor to meet Chef Claude Bosi at Brooklands. The Peninsula London is indeed a delicious destination.

Savor the Day!

✅ Be sure and visit KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040
• Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9
• Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

Get ready for what we're calling the most exciting and anticipated Kitchen Chat episode of the year! Host Margaret McSweeney traveled straight to the heart of the culinary world in New York City to sit down with a true legend: celebrated restaurateur Drew Nieporent, the founder and inspiration behind the Myriad Restaurant Group. The reason for this dynamic, can't-miss conversation is the release of his insightful and candid new memoir, "I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches" written with Jamie Feldmar.

This episode, like the book, is an intimate, compelling look at one of the world's most impactful hosts and multi-talented men in the hospitality industry. From establishing iconic eateries to shaping the entire modern dining landscape through the preservation of the legacy hospitality style, Nieporent's influence is unparalleled. Join Margaret as she invites Drew to share the stories behind the man—a titan of service, a visionary entrepreneur, and, as you'll quickly discover, a genuine genius who is one of the kindest people in the industry. (Photo below is when Margaret met Drew in 2015 at the International Association of Culinary Professionals celebration of Chef Jacques Pepin's 80th birthday).

As Ruth Reichl says, "If you go out to eat, you need this book." Here is a link to the must read "I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches" by Drew Nieporent.

Savor the day!

It's time for a holiday kitchen confession… I grew up in the South, yet somehow never learned how to make biscuits! Thankfully, my dear friend Chef Carla Hall—along with the wonderful Chadwick Boyd—brought Biscuit Time to this special encore edition of Kitchen Chat.

We rolled up our sleeves at Chicago's Merchandise Mart, where Chef Jaime Laurita joined us for a fun, flour-dusted biscuit lesson. One bite of a warm, fresh biscuit instantly transported me back to my childhood and the flavors my father used to make with such love. This is an episode you'll want to cherish.

With Carla and Chadwick as your biscuit buddies, you'll learn exactly how to create tender, perfect biscuits every single time.

✅ Be sure and visit KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040
• Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9
• Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

Congratulations to Kevin Boehm on the launch of his compelling book The Bottomless Cup: A Memoir of Secrets, Restaurants and Forgiveness. In this Kitchen Chat, Kevin shares the highs and lows of his personal life along with key components of success in his professional life. He also discusses the importance of mental health. You will be inspired by his story and strength.

Link to the book (Launching November 4, 2025) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1419775243

Margaret McSweeney and Kevin Boehm first met in 2016 at The James Beard Awards in Chicago after their first Kitchen Chat. Kevin is the co-owner and co-founder of the highly acclaimed and award winning Boka Restaurant Group which he started with Rob Katz. In 2019, Kevin and Rob were the recipients of Outstanding Restaurateur at the James Beard Awards.

✅ Be sure and visit Kitchencaht.info for photos of this amazing property.

Savor the day!

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9

Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

Host Margaret McSweeney takes us to the Oxfordshire countryside to Estelle Manor, one of the "hottest" destinations in England. Originally built in 1780 in Georgian style and rebuilt in 1908 in Jacobean style, Estelle Manor sits on 85 acres and is surrounded by 3,000 acres of parklands and gardens. In 2023, Ennismore opened this beautiful property as a private club and hotel.

The kitchen gardens provide a bountiful and beautiful harvest of greens for the salads at the Glass House, one of the hotel's restaurants. Margaret enjoyed chatting with one of the chefs who was collecting the day's harvest from the gardener.

The Potting Shed is the perfect place for a morning latte and pastries amongst the lush plants throughout the interior.

Margaret's friend May and her dogs, Lulu and George joined her for this stay. They enjoyed a delicious lunch in the private library and dinner at Brasserie.

Margaret especially enjoyed booking the Thermal Journey at the Eynsham Baths, an oasis of relaxation at Estelle Manor. This experience included exclusive access to the Tea Lounge where a tea master prepared a special blend for her. She purchased some tea to continue her wellness journey in Chicago.

Please click here for additional information about Estelle Manor. https://estellemanor.com/.

✅ Be sure and visit Kitchencaht.info for photos of this amazing property.

Savor the day!

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9
• Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

"Scotland is a land of mountains, glens, and islands, a land of myth and legend" - Walter Scott. Join Kitchen Chat host Margaret McSweeney as she celebrates the 100th anniversary of Gleneagles, located at the base of the Scottish Southern Highlands. After its grand opening in 1924, media proclaimed that Gleneagles was the "8th Wonder of the World" and called it "The Glorious Playground." Learn more at https://gleneagles.com/

Tee and Tea are hallmark experiences at this timeless resort. With three championship courses and a nine-hole course, golfers can test their skills amidst the lush landscape. In 1921 (before the hotel opened), Gleneagles hosted their first golf tournament between American and British players, which is considered to be the precursor to the Ryder Cup. Photos at Kitchenchat.info

Enjoy Afternoon Tea in Glendevon at Glenagles for a taste of Scottish heritage with a legacy of impeccable service and refined elegance. Margaret especially enjoyed the Centenary Afternoon Tea offered during her stay with savories and pastries representing the culinary highlights during the 100 years, including the Truffled Egg Mayonnaise sandwich made famous in the 1930s in The Ritz.

Explore the verdant grounds and crunch along the paths of the Kitchen Garden, an oasis of produce and botanicals. Photos at Kitchenchat.info

Expand your knowledge about Scottish Whisky through a tasting offered at Gleneagles. Visit: https://gleneagles.com/the-gleneagle-blog/spirited-away/

Remember, every episode of Kitchen Chat can be heard on all podcast platforms and NOW heard on The Great British Tea Party on Facebook., https://www.facebook.com/GreatBritishTeaParty/

What are your favorite memories and experiences in Scotland? ✅ Be sure and visit KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9
• Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

Savor the day!