Ep 5. Wexler's Deli

In season 3, episode 5 of The Chef Show, actor and director Jon Favreau and his friend and chef Roy Choi visit Wexler's Deli, a classic Jewish deli in Los Angeles. The episode revolves around their exploration of the rich history of the deli and its iconic dishes, as well as their conversation with the deli's owner Micah Wexler.

The episode begins with Favreau and Choi arriving at Wexler's Deli and being greeted by Wexler himself. They immediately dive into the food, sampling some of the deli's staples like matzo ball soup, reuben sandwiches, and pastrami on rye. Throughout the episode, the trio discusses the intricacies of the deli's dishes, from the slow-smoked pastrami to the house-made pickles.

As they eat, Favreau, Choi, and Wexler also discuss the history of the deli and its place in the Jewish community. Wexler talks about his family's roots in the deli business and his own journey as a chef, and the group reflects on the importance of preserving traditional Jewish cuisine in a changing world.

In addition to exploring the deli's savory offerings, the group also delves into its dessert menu. They sample babka, a sweet braided bread, as well as black and white cookies and cinnamon buns. Favreau and Choi also get a behind-the-scenes look at the deli's baking process, watching as the pastry chef prepares dough for a fresh batch of bagels.

Throughout the episode, the focus is on the relationships between food, culture, and community. Favreau and Choi speak to various members of the deli's staff, including the matzo ball soup specialist and the pastrami cutter, and learn about the pride and care that goes into every dish. They also reflect on the deli's role as a gathering place for the Jewish community, a space for celebration and connection.

As the episode nears its end, Choi and Wexler join forces to create a new dish, a smoked salmon bagel with all the fixings. They experiment with different combinations of toppings and sauces, discussing the importance of balance and harmony in a dish. When the final product comes together, they all dig in, savoring the flavors and textures of the dish and the joy of cooking and eating together.

Overall, The Chef Show season 3, episode 5 is a celebration of the culinary arts and the power of food to bring people together. It highlights the importance of preserving traditional cuisine while also embracing innovation and creativity. Through their exploration of Wexler's Deli, Favreau, Choi, and Wexler create a rich tapestry of flavors, stories, and relationships that inspire and nourish.