About this episode

The episode discusses a viral TikTok review that ignited a food controversy in Los Angeles, exploring themes of pricing, tradition, and influencer culture.

A TikTok review of a $38 Armenian basturma brisket sandwich has exploded into one of the biggest food controversies Los Angeles has seen all year. This week, Luca is joined by Taqueando producer Robert Haleblian , who's been following Glendale favorite Yerord Mas since its pop-up days, to unpack how one viral video ignited a debate about restaurant pricing, tradition, influencer culture, and why some cuisines are still expected to stay cheap. If you've seen the Richie Gaines , Yerord Mas , or Los Angeles Times discourse online, this is the conversation behind the headlines. Then it's time for Chef's Kiss / Big Miss with MY WIFE as the crew weighs in on Diarrhea Lettuce Summer , the rise of luxury all-you-can-eat buffets , Chipotle opening in Mexico , The Tasting Kitchen's return to Venice , and whether food media needs more people who've actually worked in restaurants.

People in this episode

Host: Luca

Guest: Robert Haleblian

Topics covered

• food controversy
• restaurant pricing
• influencer culture
• luxury buffets
• food media
• cuisine expectations

Keywords

• TikTok review
• Armenian basturma brisket sandwich
• food controversy
• luxury buffets
• Diarrhea Lettuce Summer
• restaurant pricing
• influencer culture

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Yerord Mas, Los Angeles Times

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