Food Network Obsessed

Chef Jonathon Sawyer shares his journey from engineering school to a celebrated culinary star, explaining how a backhanded compliment from a tough chef unexpectedly ignited his passion for cooking. He reflects on his early days as a rookie in the kitchen and memorable moments in culinary competitions, including a loss on Iron Chef America that still lingers in his mind. Jonathon offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his Chicago hotspot, Kindling, where a striking 13-foot wood hearth takes center stage. He talks about some of his more unconventional inspirations, like his famous wood-fired quesadilla inspired by late-night Taco Bell cravings, and his unique foraging adventures, including a roadside stop to marvel at a non-edible green parasol mushroom. The chef explains why wood-fired cooking might be the "sixth taste bud" that connects people to their primal love for flame-grilled flavors. Jonathon opens up about his journey to sobriety and how fatherhood has profoundly shaped his approach to mentoring young chefs and fostering creativity in the kitchen.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Jonathon Sawyer on Instagram: HERE 

Erica Barrett, winner of the fifth season of BBQ Brawl, opens up about her unexpected path to the competition, taking on the challenge despite the recent loss of her grandmother. She humorously recalls sprinting toward Bobby Flay when he called her name, comparing it to a schoolyard game where no one wants to be picked last. Erica dishes on more behind-the-scenes moments, including her almost burning her legs with hand warmers hidden in her pockets during the surprisingly cold Texas finale. The Alabama native discusses her deep Southern pride and how it shapes her culinary style, from her signature peach-infused barbecue sauce to her secret weapon, Alabama white sauce. She paints a vivid picture of what it means to be a Southern girl, from the joy of walking barefoot in the grass to embracing the relaxed rhythm of rural life. Erica dives into her entrepreneurial ventures, from her trailblazing Dough Boy Pizza concept—a tech-driven pizzeria with no cashiers or vent hoods—to her passion for creating unique food products. The chef reflects on her commitment to uplifting other black food entrepreneurs, sharing stories of how she has helped others bring their culinary dreams to life.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE  Follow Erica Barrett on Instagram: HERE  Learn More About BBQ Brawl: HERE 

Food Network Obsessed is back with more episodes. Each week, host Jaymee Sire sits down with your favorite chefs, food influencers and Food Network personalities to dish on all things delicious in the food world.

Chef Brooke Williamson shares how she became one of Bobby Flay's titans on Bobby’s Triple Threat, describing the intense yet authentic atmosphere of the show and reflecting on memorable moments. She discusses the dynamics among fellow titans Michael Voltaggio and Tiffany Derry, highlighting their growing camaraderie and mutual support. Brooke delves into her role as a judge on BBQ Brawl, where she admires the barbecue chefs' skill and dedication and notes the unique team dynamics this season. She shares her excitement over her highly anticipated cookbook, Sunkissed Cooking, which emphasizes produce-forward dishes inspired by her upbringing in Los Angeles. Brooke opens up about the challenges of writing her cookbook, highlighting the lengthy process of recipe writing, testing, and editing. The chef shares her struggle with the meticulousness required, contrasting it with her usual instinctive cooking style, but expresses pride in the final product.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Brooke Williamson on Instagram: HERE Follow Brooke Williamson on Twitter: HERE Learn More About Bobby’s Triple Threat: HERE Learn More About BBQ Brawl: HERE 

Chef Brittney "Stikxz" Williams delves into the roots of her nickname, “Chef Stikxz,” tracing it back to her childhood. She discusses how her vibrant Jamaican heritage serves as the cornerstone of her culinary creations. She recounts a pivotal moment during her college years, where her trajectory shifted from sports management to culinary arts, underscoring the profound impact of food in fostering connection. Stikxz offers a glimpse into her initial impressions of the Ciao House hosts, Alex Guarnaschelli and Gabe Bertaccini, noting their blend of nurturing support and disciplined guidance. She intricately describes her approach to melding Jamaican and Italian flavors on the show, drawing upon her deep understanding of both cultures' culinary traditions and techniques. The chef reflects on her immersive pasta-making sessions with authentic Italian nonnas, emphasizing the transformative power of slowing down and fully immersing oneself in the culinary process. Brittney offers insights into her catering enterprise, BWC Catering, unveiling her aspirations for dream collaborations and forthcoming projects.  Follow Food Network on InstagramFollow Jaymee Sire on InstagramFollow Brittney "Stikxz" Williams on Instagram Learn More About Ciao House

Viet Pham delves into his culinary journey, highlighting the competitive spirit that has driven his success in numerous Food Network competitions, including triumphing over Bobby Flay three times. He discusses his strategic move from fine dining to a fast-casual concept, emphasizing the scalability and broader appeal of his hot chicken. Viet shares his deep connection to fried chicken, rooted in his childhood as an immigrant in America, and how he perfected his recipe by incorporating fine dining techniques and Vietnamese flavors, such as fish sauce. He dishes on the dynamics of running Pretty Bird with his wife, Alexis, and the challenges and rewards of their partnership. The chef reflects on the honor of sharing his story on a national stage, aiming to inspire other chefs grappling with cultural identity. He reveals the secret to making great fried chicken, blending flour and starch for the perfect crunch and crispness.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetwork   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesire  Follow Viet Pham on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefvietpham/?hl=en  Follow Viet Pham on Twitter: https://x.com/chefvietpham?lang=en 

Alex Guarnaschelli returns to share her excitement about the upcoming season of Ciao House, set in the picturesque region of Puglia, Italy. She discusses her dynamic with co-host Gabe Bertaccini and contrasts Puglia's distinct culinary landscape with that of Tuscany from the first season. Guarnaschelli praises the villa's rich array of local ingredients, emphasizing the authenticity and flavor they bring to the show. She candidly addresses the contestants' unpredictable nature and the intense, emotional atmosphere of the competition, highlighting the playful and supportive relationship she shares with Bertaccini, which adds depth to the show's narrative. The chef delves into her experience hosting Supermarket Stakeout, where she thrives on engaging with participants and adapting to unpredictable ingredients. Guarnaschelli also talks about her newest cookbook, Cook It Up, co-authored with her daughter Ava, emphasizing their collaborative cooking adventures and the inclusion of recipes that hold special significance in their family life.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetwork   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesire  Follow Alex Guarnaschelli on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guarnaschelli/  Follow Alex Guarnaschelli on Twitter: https://x.com/guarnaschelli  Learn More About Ciao House: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/ciao-house  Learn More About Supermarket Stakeout: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/supermarket-stakeout 

Marcel Vigneron reflects on his victory in the first season of 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing, discussing the emotional journey and his strong motivation to win the prize money for his mother's cochlear implant surgery. He offers behind-the-scenes insights, including his strategic dish planning and the camaraderie with fellow contestants. Marcel highlights the simplicity challenge as the most difficult, underscoring the importance of humility in a chef's success. He emphasizes valuing hard work, teamwork, and a positive attitude over raw talent in his staff, crediting life experiences and mistakes as crucial to his growth as a chef. He mentions that his staff at Lemon Grove were thrilled to watch him on the show and even showcased his competition dishes as specials. The chef shares his recent experience on Selena + Restaurant, where Selena Gomez impressed by successfully creating a lemon frozen yogurt dish. Marcel outlines his future plans, which include dedicating more time to his restaurants, possibly taking on more roles as a judge in cooking competitions, and finally embarking on the creation of his long-overdue cookbook.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetwork   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesire  Follow Marcel Vigneron on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcelvigneron/?hl=en  Follow Marcel Vigneron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarcelVigneron  Learn More About 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/24-in-24-last-chef-standing 

Jesse Palmer, recently surprised to find himself as a question on Jeopardy, humbly rates his trivia knowledge at a modest six. He joyously discusses the transformative experience of becoming a new dad to his daughter, Ella, expressing heartfelt admiration for his wife Emily and the meticulous preparations they made for parenthood. Fondly reminiscing on cherished summer memories from his Canadian upbringing, Jesse eagerly anticipates the upcoming season with plans for unforgettable family adventures. Offering behind-the-scenes insights into filming Summer Baking Championship, Jesse delights in sharing anecdotes about the judges' distinct personalities and preferences, including Duff Goldman's infamous distaste for raspberry seeds. The TV personality hints at the thrilling challenges viewers can expect, teasing a special episode inspired by Shark Week and sharing his own exhilarating encounters swimming among the aquatic animals.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetwork   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesire  Follow Jesse Palmer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessepalmer/  Follow Jesse Palmer on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessePalmerTV  Learn More About Summer Baking Championship: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/summer-baking-championship