Ep 1. Kids Menu

In the first episode of Ugly Delicious season 2, titled "Kids Menu," host and chef David Chang explores the world of kid-friendly cuisine. Chang, who recently became a father himself, is interested in discovering why kids' menus are often so limited and unadventurous. He wants to find out if it's possible to create genuinely delicious food that kids will love.

To begin his investigation, Chang visits a preschool in Brooklyn, where he talks to a group of kids about their favorite foods. He's surprised to find that many of them enjoy dishes like sushi and kimchi, which are often considered too "adult" for young palates. He also learns that kids are often more adventurous eaters than adults give them credit for, and that they're willing to try new things if they're presented in the right way.

Next, Chang visits a group of chefs who specialize in creating kid-friendly meals that are both healthy and tasty. They explain that in order to get kids to eat well, it's important to engage all their senses. They offer tips like making food colorful, using interesting textures, and providing a sense of playfulness. Chang also learns about the importance of involving kids in the cooking process, as it can help teach them healthy habits and encourage them to try new foods.

The episode also explores the cultural differences in kids' menus around the world. Chang travels to Japan, where he discovers that the country has a long tradition of serving children the same foods as adults, rather than creating separate menus. He visits a kindergarten where the kids are served a variety of traditional Japanese dishes, like miso soup and grilled fish. He also learns about the importance of the bento box in Japanese cuisine, and how it can be used to create visually appealing and delicious meals for kids.

Back in the United States, Chang visits a restaurant in Los Angeles that offers a "dinner and a movie" experience for kids. The restaurant serves gourmet pizzas with creative toppings like truffles and smoked salmon, and also has a selection of healthy sides like roasted vegetables and quinoa salad. After dinner, the kids get to watch a movie in a private screening room, making for a fun and memorable experience.

Throughout the episode, Chang emphasizes the importance of expanding kids' palates and introducing them to a wide variety of foods. He argues that while it's easy to fall back on simple and familiar meals, it's essential for kids to learn to appreciate different flavors and textures. By doing so, they'll be more likely to develop healthy eating habits and avoid the picky eating that can plague them later in life.

Overall, "Kids Menu" is a thoughtful and engaging episode that will appeal to parents and foodies alike. It offers a fresh perspective on kids' cuisine and provides plenty of inspiration for creating meals that are delicious, healthy, and fun. Whether you're a parent struggling to get your child to eat their veggies or a chef looking for new ideas, this episode of Ugly Delicious is sure to leave you hungry for more.