Shows
Ingredient Insiders: Where Chefs Talk103. Calabrian Chili: Chef David Nayfeld & Gian Paolo Celli of Tutto CalabriaOn this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome David Nayfeld, Executive Chef and Co-Owner of Che Fico in San Francisco and author of the new book Dad, What’s for Dinner?David shares how growing up in the Bay Area shaped his love for fresh, seasonal ingredients, and how he fuses California’s bounty with Italian culinary traditions. He dives into his deep affection for Calabrian chili bomba, his family roots, and the creative influences that continue to inspire his cooking—both at the restaurant and at home.In the seco...2025-06-231h 01
Andrew Talks to ChefsDavid Nayfeld (Che Fico, et. al. -- Northern California) on His First Cookbook, Dad, What's for Dinner?Friend of the pod David Nayfeld, of Che Fico and other Bay Area restaurants, discusses his inaugural cookbook, Dad, What's for DInner--an outstanding first effort, and a perfect Father's Day gift. Huge thanks to Andrew Talks to Chefs’ presenting sponsor, meez, the recipe operating software for culinary professionals. Meez powers the Andrew Talks to Chefs podcast as part of the meez Network, featuring a breadth of food and beverage podcasts and newsletters.
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:Andrew is a writer by trade. If you'd like to support him, there's no better way than...2025-06-1142 min
Beyond the PlateHEARD (003): Zarella Restaurant, New Mexican gochujang, crispy rice, chefs rallying against childhood hunger, two cookbooks recs, and food processorsIn this episode, Kappy shares what’s on his plate at the moment. Links and handles mentioned in this episode:Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna / igChef Lee WolenChef Chris PandelBoka Restaurant GroupFra’ ManiChef David RuizOverland Park Convention CenterNM ChileJangKALEJUNKIE, Nicole KeshishianShare Our StrengthChildhood hunger Chef letter sign-onChildhood hunger non-chef call-to-action infoChef Joshua McFaddenSix Seasons of PastaChef D...2025-06-0909 min
The Art of Fatherhood PodcastDavid Nayfeld Talks Fatherhood, New Book, Dad What’s For Dinner & MoreDavid Nayfeld sits down with me to talk about his fatherhood journey. We talk about the importance of spending time with your kids. David chats with me about the many benefits on cooking meals with your kids. In addition, we talk about how dads are just as important when it comes to parenting. After that we talk about his new book, Dad’s What’s For Dinner. He and I talk about what parents and kids can learn from his book. Lastly, we finish the interview with the Fatherhood Quick Five.
About David Nayfeld
David Nayfeld worked with some of the be...2025-05-2837 min
TODAYTODAY May 27, 8 AM: The Search for American Made Goods | TODAY Bestsellers List | Crisy Skin Pan-Roasted Salmon RecipeNBC’s Vicky Nguyen takes a trip to Trader Joe’s to find out how many products come from overseas — and whether shoppers can save by buying American-made goods. Also, the inspiring story of a neurodiverse young man and his journey to overcome adversity in a world that often sees him as different. Plus, our Shop TODAY team reveals the winners from the TODAY Bestsellers list, including one summer gadget that’ll keep the bugs away. And, chef David Nayfeld shares a delicious recipe for crispy skin pan-roasted salmon.
2025-05-2739 min
Modern Dadhood | Unpacking Fatherhood + Parenting for Dads (and Moms!)Making Mealtime a Family Affair | Chef David Nayfeld on Picky Eaters + Family Friendly RecipesStruggling with kids who are picky eaters? Want to involve your kids in meal preparation but don't know where to start? This episode is for you. We welcome esteemed professional chef (and professional dad) David Nayfeld, who brings fresh ideas to your family kitchen. With his upcoming cookbook, Dad, What's for Dinner?, David shares recipes and strategies for engaging your kids in cooking—transforming mealtime from a chore into an adventure. And for parents of kids who only like mac and cheese with a side of pre-packaged preservatives, David offers insights into making meals and snacks that are fun, he...2025-03-2855 min
Food Scene San FranciscoSecrets of SF's Sizzling Food Scene: Chefs Dish on Bold Bites and SustainabilityFood Scene San Francisco **San Francisco's Culinary Renaissance: A Feast for All Senses**In the heart of the Bay Area, San Francisco is cooking up an irresistible storm, captivating food lovers and culinary adventurers alike. This glittering city at the edge of the Pacific has always been a melting pot of cultures, and its ever-evolving food scene is no exception. From daring new restaurant openings to innovative dining concepts, the city is redefining what it means to relish in gastronomy.San Francisco has never shied away from the bold and inventive. Among the most...2025-03-2503 min
Pizza QuestA Quest To Make Gourmet Dishes AccessibleWelcome back to Pizza Quest 2025, for a new season with lots of new and exciting guests! We kick off the new season with Chef David Nayfeld, chef and owner of a hot new restaurant in the shadow of San Francisco's dynamic sports complex in an area called Thrift City (the restaurant is located on Warrior Way, lest there be any doubt about Chef Nayfeld's lifelong allegiance to Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors). Che Fico Pizzeria (pronounced "kay-fico") is doing crisp, "slightly but intentionally-charred" slices and pies, as well as a very inventive Italian-themed menu of start...2025-01-2648 min
The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldJoshua David SteinOn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld, we talk to writer Joshua David Stein about fatherhood.2023-02-281h 16The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldSeason 2 Episode 4 Katie ParlaOn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld, we talk to Katie Parla about her newest book "Food Of The Italian Islands".2023-02-241h 07
The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldSeason 2 Episode 3 Jonathan TuckerOn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld we discuss the parallels between art mediums with actor Jonathan Tucker. 2022-05-181h 11
The Maximus PodcastThe Maximus Podcast Ep. 146 - David NayfeldIn this episode of “The Maximus Podcast” we sit down with David Nayfeld. He’s a Bay Area native and Born to refugee parents from the former USSR, Nayfeld is a believer in the American dream. He started working in kitchens at the age of 13 as a dish washer. After high school, Nayfeld started his journey of traveling the globe and working for the best restaurants world. In 2018, Nayfeld opened Che Fico in San Francisco, CA. Che Fico was named one of the best new restaurants in the United States by Bon Appétit and Esquire magazines. It has been reviewed...2022-01-1345 minThe Main Ingredient with David NayfeldSeason 2 Episode 2 Will GuidaraIn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld we talk with restauranteur, former co-owner of Eleven Madison Park and The Nomad, and co-founder of the Welcome Conference, Will Guidara.2021-12-271h 01The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldSeason 2 Episode 1 Bobby StuckeyOn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient With David Nayfeld, WE ARE BACK! Season two of our show kicks off with no other than the legendary Bobby Stuckey of Frasca Food and Wine. Bobby is a Master Somm with the Court of Master Sommeliers. An advocate for independent restaurants as well and a member of the board of directors of the Independent Restaurant Coalition.2021-12-141h 06The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 22- David KinchOn This Week's Episode of The Main Ingredient With David Nayfeld we sit down with industry vet and 3 Michelin starred chef David Kinch.2021-07-0153 min
Andrew Talks to ChefsEpisode 167: Felipe Donnelly & Tamy Rofe (Colonia Verde & Disco Tacos, Brooklyn); David Nayfeld & Matt Brewer on TippingAt the heart of their successful Brooklyn restaurants Colonia Verde and Disco Tacos is the longstanding romance between Felipe Donnelly and Tamy Rofe. The couple sat down with Andrew in Williamsburg to discuss how they met, fell in love, and eventually ditched their marketing careers for a new life in hospitality. At this precarious moment in time, this is a feel-good conversation sure to put a smile on your face.In The Line-Up, our news and commentary segment, David Nayfeld and Matt Brewer of Che Fico and Che Fico Alimentari discuss the complexities of the tipping issue...2021-06-172h 37
Snacky TunesDavid Nayfeld + Wilderado (Live)Bay Area native David Nayfeld is the Executive Chef and Co-Owner of the award-winning restaurants Che Fico and Che Fico Alimentari in San Francisco. Nayfeld boasts a venerable restaurant pedigree having worked alongside some of the most esteemed names in the industry. In 2018, Nayfeld opened his first restaurant, Che Fico, which features Italian cuisine through the lens of California. In 2019, he opened Che Fico Alimentari, a Roman-inspired, wine- centric restaurant and Italian market featuring traditional Italian fare. Che Fico was named one of Bon Appetit's Top 10 Best New Restaurants in America as well as one of Esquire Magazine's Best N...2021-05-231h 17The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 21 - Tim KennedyOn this week's Episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld we are joined by non other than former UFC fighter Tim Kennedy. Tim is a green beret as well as the successful entrepreneur of Sheepdog Response.2021-04-301h 18The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 20 - Matt HornOn this Week's episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld we chat with Matt Horn of Horn BBQ. During the past year, it would have been impossible to hear anything about American BBQ and not hear the name, Matt Horn. We discuss the passion that it takes to stay up all night tending to the gentle smoke that it takes to create some of the best BBQ in the country.2021-04-0755 min
Balanced HospitalityDavid Nayfeld of Che FicoOur guest is David Nayfeld. A native of the Bay Area and owner of Che Fico. He is a well-traveled Chef having gained experience at some of the best restaurants in Europe and here in the US. He is also the host of the Main Ingredient podcast.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/wayward-muse/donations2021-04-0247 minThe Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 19 Lee WolenIn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld, we sit down with a long-time friend and former colleague Lee Wolen of Boka restaurant in Chicago. 2021-03-1757 minThe Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 18 - Bobby MaximusOn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld, we sit down with fitness expert and former UFC fighter, Bobby Maximus. We discuss the scam of "new year's resolution goals" and how to motivate yourself to get out of a rut and stay on top.2021-02-251h 07The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 17 - Kevin BoehmOn This Week's Episode, we sit down with American Restaurateur Kevin Boehm. Listen as we head down the rabbit hole of the business of restaurants and what needs to change to make them viable again. We also discuss the importance of the Independent Restaurant Coalition and what role it will play in the future of our industry.2021-02-191h 02The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 16 - Jamal James KentOn this week’s episode of The Main Ingredient With David Nayfeld, we sit down with long time friend and former colleague Jamal James Kent of the white hot NYC restaurant Crown Shy.2021-02-041h 20The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 15 - Kyle ConnaughtonOn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld, we sit down with one of America's best chefs. Kyle Connaughton is the chef and co-owner of Single Thread Farm and Restaurant which was awarded Three Michelin Stars as well as countless other accolades since its debut in 2016. Kyle has cooked in some of the best restaurants across the globe including holding the position of head r&d chef at The Fat Duck in Bray, England. 2021-01-231h 06The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 14 - Andrew ZimmernThis week on The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld we talk with our friend Andrew Zimmern about his recovery from drug and alcohol addiction and his accent to stardom. We also discuss his role in the Independent Restaurant Coalition and the need for restaurants and chefs to band together for progress.2021-01-061h 28The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 13 - Sam KassOn This Week's episode, David and Manny chat with former chef to the Obama’s. Sam Kass is an investor and food activists.2020-12-2451 minThe Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 12 Camilla MarcusOn this week's episode of The Main Ingredient, David and Manny speak with restaurateur and fellow member of the Independent Restaurant Coalition, Camilla Marcus. 2020-12-161h 07The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 11 Tom ColicchioThis week on The Main Ingredient, Tom Colicchio joins us to discuss the need for restaurant relief, the changing industry, and the role of Top Chef in the culinary world. 2020-12-101h 33The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 10 - Andrew FriedmanAndrew Friedman is an American podcaster, writer, journalist, and all around food lover. On this week’s episode we talk to him about the role of the food media during the global pandemic. We discuss the restaurant industry’s need for relief in the form of the Restaurant Act. We also discuss navigating the challenging waters of reporting on bad behavior in the industry.2020-11-241h 27The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 9 - Gwyneth Paltrow (part 2)On part 2 of this special series, David Nayfeld and Manny J talk to Gwenyth Paltrow about women taking ownership of their bodies, embracing age as it comes, and the state of restaurants in America and their importance to our communities.2020-11-1845 minThe Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 8 - Gwyneth Paltrow (part 1)On this week’s episode, our hosts David Nayfeld and Manny J have the opportunity to speak with Oscar winning actor turned entrepreneur Gwyneth Paltrow. GP takes us through the transition from being a world renown actor to the head of a globally heralded modern lifestyle brand, Goop. The trio discuss dealing with criticism, challenging yourself to change, and embracing whats next. Subscribe to the podcast so you do not miss a minute of this special 2 part series with GP.2020-11-1153 minThe Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 7 - Halloween**Trigger Warning** On this week’s episode, David and Manny have a discussion about things people are scared of. There is no topic that cannot be discussed. So in true “The Main ingredient” spirit, our hosts talk about race/racism, Covid, and the holy grail of third rails: gun control. We will be taking off election week for a little break. Tune in again November 11, for a very special Veteran’s Day episode. GO VOTE!2020-10-291h 21The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 6 - Marty JamesOn this weeks episode of The Main Ingredient, David Nayfeld and Manny J talk to Songwriter/Producer Marty James. Join in as David and Manny speak to Marty about social issues like cancel culture and the political climate. Marty opens up about the intricacies in the art of songwriting as a career, from humble beginnings to working with world class artists like Enrique Iglesias, and co-writing the 2017 smash record "Despacito Remix" by Luis Fonsi ft Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber.2020-10-221h 15The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 5 - Tanya HollandOn this week’s episode of The Main Ingredient our hosts David Nayfeld and Manny J speak with industry veteran Tanya Holland. They discuss the systemic challenges facing black chefs in America, being a female in a male driven profession, all the while succeeding at the highest levels of culinary arts and media. Chef Holland has carved out a place for herself and opened the door for many like her to walk through. Tanya Holland is the chef/owner of Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, Ca, a former top chef contestant, and host of her own podcast Tanya’s Tabl...2020-10-151h 16The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 4 - Big VonOn this weeks episode of The Main Ingredient, hosts David Nayfeld and Manny J take a walk in the oversized shoes of Bay Area Legend Big Von. As DJ, hip hop historian, and Bay Area Icon for over 25 years. We discuss his longtime mentor Sway, the emergence and subsequent fizzle of the Hyphy Movement, and the ever present 2020 election.
2020-10-071h 28
All in the Industry ®David Nayfeld, Che Fico, Che Fico Alimentari; The Main Ingredient podcastOn today's episode of All in the Industry®, Shari Bayer's guest is Bay Area native David Nayfeld, Executive Chef and Co-Owner of the award-winning restaurants Che Fico and Che Fico Alimentari in San Francisco, CA. David, a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, boasts a venerable restaurant pedigree having worked alongside some of the most esteemed names in the industry. In 2018, he opened his first restaurant, Che Fico, which features Italian cuisine through the lens of California. In 2019, he opened Che Fico Alimentari, a Roman-inspired, wine- centric restaurant and Italian market featuring traditional Italian fare. Che Fico was n...2020-09-301h 03The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 3 - Roy ShvartzapelFollow us as we take a deep dive into the maniacal mind of a pastry genus. Roy Shvartzapel has worked alongside some of the greatest pastry chefs in the world. Over the past five years he has emerged with his own brand, This is from Roy. Oprah has named his panettone one of her favorite things. It has subsequently risen to meteoric cult following status. During this episode we discuss his relentless ambition, mamba mentality, and how those things collide when met with depression.2020-09-291h 52The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 2 - Adrian MarcelAdrian Marcel is an American singer, songwriter, rapper, and actor from Oakland, California. In April 2013, he released his first mixtape, "7 Days of Weak". The mixtape was presented by Grammy Award-wining musician Raphael Saadiq, who took Marcel in as his protege. In 2014, Marcel hit the Billboard charts with "2AM" which sold over 1 million copies and the music video garnering 60 million views on YouTube. SInce that time, he has recorded with such artists as Sage The Gemini, Keyshia Cole, Kelly Rowland, and many more. In 2019, he starred as James DeBarge in "The Bobby DeBarge Story". For his latest album, "98th", Marcel formed h...2020-09-231h 39
Andrew Talks to ChefsEpisode 128: David Nayfeld Introduces The Main IngredientFriend of the pod David Nayfeld, one of our favorite recurring guests, has launched his own podcast, The Main Ingredient with David Nayfeld, cohosted and produced by Manny Jimenez (aka Manny J) . David checks in from San Francisco to talk about his new show, why he launched, it some of his first guests (including Dominique Crenn and Gwyneth Paltrow). And, of course, he and Andrew can't help a little shop talk along the way.If you enjoy this episode of the show, check out our earlier conversations with David:Episode 61: David Nayfeld & Angela Pinkerton2020-09-181h 06The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldEpisode 1 - Dominique CrennWorld reknown Chef Dominique Crenn discusses the restaurant industry at large, Michelin stars, and the fight for her life. 2020-09-151h 07The Main Ingredient with David NayfeldIntro TrailerGet to know your host David Nayfeld and co-host, Manny J2020-09-1209 min
Intellectualish with Jeff Grace#55: The Broken Economics of Restaurants Food journalist Marisel Salazar brings on two nationally acclaimed chefs -- David Nayfeld of Che Fico and Eric Rivera of Addo -- to chat with Jeff about the flawed economics of the restaurant industry. This passionate conversation hits a wide range of topics: Challenges of the PPE program, reopening in the Covid Era, server vs. kitchen staff wage disparities, the Danny Meyer's layoffs, Immigration, and more! Jeff Grace (Host) @jeffgrace (Twitter) @jeffgrace (IG) Marisel Salazar (Michelin Guide Journalist) @MariselSalazar (Twitter) @mariselmsalazar (IG) David Nayfield (Che Fico San Francisco) @davidnayfeld (IG) @chefico (IG) Er...2020-07-011h 51
Andrew Talks to ChefsSPECIAL REPORT #36: David Nayfeld on the Changes that Need to be MadeLast week, David Nayfeld chef-partner at San Francisco's Che Fico, wrote (with Larissa Zimberoff) a Business Insider piece that addressed--in uncommon, unflinching honesty--aspects of the restaurant industry that he believes need to change post pandemic. The article addressed everything from livable wages to the creation of a sanctioned apprenticeship program to the what the cost of a restaurant meal should be to support sound food production and employment practices.David joins Andrew on today's show to expand on the ideas expressed in his article. It's a refreshingly unvarnished, unfiltered conversation that industry professionals will find cathartic and...2020-05-1236 min
The Jeff Schlarb PodcastEp. 46: David NayfeldAfter working at restaurants in New York, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, David Nayfeld is now here in San Francisco as chef and co-owner of Che Fico, an Italian Taverna in the Nopa neighborhood. His ambition is refreshing, his family background is inspiring, but most importantly, his food is delicious.
2019-05-2934 min
Andrew Talks to ChefsEpisode 61: David Nayfeld & Angela PinkertonThe duo behind one of the hottest restaurants in the country—San Francisco’s Che Fico—join Andrew for today’s interview. Executive Chef David Nayfeld and Pastry Chef Angela Pinkerton hailed from very different backgrounds when they met working at Eleven Madison Park in New York City. But the two became friends and stayed in touch, even when David moved back to the West Coast. They’ve come together at the Italian restaurant Che Fico, which was selected for both Bon Appetit’s Hot List and Esquire magazine’s Best New Restaurants in 2018. In addition to getting the story behind t...2018-12-081h 48