Jacques Pepin, the renowned chef who has been a staple in American culinary arts, is turning 90 later this year. Reflecting on his life and career, Pepin shares insights into his journey from a young apprentice in France to becoming a beloved figure in the United States. Despite reaching this milestone age, Pepin remains active, engaging in various projects and initiatives that continue to inspire and educate future generations.

Washington Gardens, a beloved North Shore pizzeria, is expanding its reach beyond its traditional suburban roots, introducing its tavern-style pizzas to Chicago through a new ghost kitchen in Avondale. With a refreshed brand and collaborations with notable chefs, the family-run business aims to bring its unique pizza, which includes using traditional pepperoni instead of the popular pepperoni cups and options like the Black and White pizza, to a broader audience while preserving its loyal local following.

Doro wat, a spicy Ethiopian chicken stew, is a staple in Washington, D.C., home to the largest Ethiopian diaspora outside Africa. Restaurants like Chercher Ethiopian Restaurant & Mart, Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar, and Das Ethiopian Cuisine each offer unique takes on the dish, showcasing the rich flavors of berbere and kibbeh.

Chef Kristi Brown of Communion R&B in Seattle is redefining identity through her culinary style Seattle Soul, which combines Southern cuisine with influences from Asian and immigrant communities. Brown discusses her journey, her community initiative Everybody Gotta Eat and her desire "to create a space where identity, creativity, and community intersect."

Tortellini en Brodo is an iconic and beloved Italian soup that originated from the region of Emilia. The tortellini are stuffed with pork, prosciutto and romano cheese, and are served in this light, but richly flavored beef broth. Served drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this is the ultimate comfort food.

Bartenders are eagerly looking forward to 2025 with hopes of reviving classic and unique cocktails. Among the top picks, the Palmetto stands out for its potential to replace whiskey with rum, offering a refined flavor profile. The Jungle Bird is celebrated for its tropical and bitter notes, making it a versatile choice for tiki enthusiasts and Negroni fans alike. Force-carbonated cocktails are also gaining attention for their complex and effervescent characteristics, promising a refreshing experience.

Pomelos are the largest citrus fruits, native to Southeast Asia, and are available from late October to February. They come in various colors and sizes, with names like shaddock and Chinese grapefruit, and the scientific name, Citrus maxima, reflects their size, which can be as large as a volleyball.