Logo
    Search

    Ep 253: Sophie Willan

    enJuly 10, 2024

    Podcast Summary

    • Off Menu Podcast's secret ingredientThe Off Menu Podcast, hosted by James Acasa and Ed Gamble, features guests sharing their favorite dishes, with a secret ingredient that could potentially reveal their dish in the dream restaurant. Guests must leave if their favorite dish is already served, keeping things light and fun.

      The Off Menu Podcast, hosted by James Acasa and Ed Gamble, invites a guest each week to share their favorite main course, dessert, side dish, and drink. Their first guest was Sophie Willan, known for her sitcom "Elmo's Not Normal" and her appearances on Taskmaster. The podcast also announced an upcoming live show at the London Palladium in March 2023. During the episode, they discussed various topics including favorite Disney films, animal comparisons, and the importance of being open to new experiences. If a guest's favorite dish is revealed to be something already served in the dream restaurant, they must leave, and this week's secret ingredient is trifle. Sophie picked trifle for Nick Mohammed in Taskmaster, leaving the hosts unsure if it's her dream dessert or not. Despite the potential for awkwardness, they aim to keep things light and fun.

    • This Way Up Season 2 Characters and InfluencesSeason 2 of 'This Way Up' introduces new characters like Uncle Dickie and Nick, and creator Aisling Bea pushes comedy and drama boundaries. Personal experiences influenced the storyline, and Bea initially planned for 3 seasons but decided against it. Creators share a love for unconventional beverages like Tizer and Tequila Rose.

      The second season of "This Way Up" brings new characters, including Steve Pemberton as Uncle Dickie and Nick Mohammed as Nick, while the creator and star, Aisling Bea, has pushed the boundaries of comedy and drama further than in the first season. Personal experiences have influenced the storyline, and Bea initially planned for two seasons but has since decided against a third. The discussion also touched upon their shared love for unconventional beverages like Tizer and Tequila Rose, which they find soothing when dealing with acid reflux or having a bad tummy on a night out. The creators have a mutual understanding and even joke about sponsoring each other, as they've already been supporting the brands through their purchases. Overall, the second season of "This Way Up" offers more depth, humor, and relatability, making it an engaging watch for audiences.

    • Food and Drink PreferencesRespecting others' unique food and drink preferences is essential, even if they differ from our own. People find comfort and enjoyment in various foods and drinks, and it's important to appreciate those choices.

      People have unique preferences when it comes to food and drinks, and it's essential to respect those choices even if they differ from our own. During a conversation, the speakers discussed their preferences for sparkling water over plain water, and how some famous figures like Claudia Winkleman and Florence Pugh also avoid drinking water. The speakers also shared their experiences with various food items, such as crumpet bread and poppodums, and how they find comfort and enjoyment in them. The conversation also touched upon the idea that people from colder regions might crave more calorie-dense foods to keep warm. The speakers also clarified the differences between various food preparations like toasted sandwiches and toasties. Throughout the discussion, it was evident that everyone has their unique food and drink preferences, and it's essential to respect and appreciate those choices.

    • Adult pleasuresDiscovering new pleasures as an adult can be liberating, but moderation is key to avoid overindulgence. Try local traditional foods and support local businesses.

      Discovering the freedom to enjoy simple pleasures as an adult, like having butter or Nutella whenever you want, can be liberating. However, it's important to remember that moderation is key and that initial restrictions may have been beneficial. The joy of discovering new things for yourself and indulging in them can lead to overindulgence, but it's all part of growing up and learning to make healthy choices. Additionally, the importance of traditional foods and local businesses was emphasized, with potato cakes and pasties mentioned as delicious and hearty dishes worth trying. Overall, the conversation highlighted the pleasure of discovering new things and the importance of balance and moderation in enjoying them.

    • Northern Food IdentityFood can create a strong sense of belonging and connection to one's place of origin, shaping personal identity. Rebellion and trying one's best are also themes associated with food experiences.

      Food plays a significant role in shaping people's identity and connection to their place of origin. During a conversation, the speaker expressed their admiration for the strong Northern identity connected to food, which they wished they had for themselves. They shared their fond memories of Northern cuisine, such as red cabbage, black peas, and bonfire night dishes. The speaker also mentioned their envy towards those who have a clear sense of belonging and connection to their hometown through food. The conversation also touched upon the topic of rebellion and trying one's best, as exemplified by Guy Fawkes' attempt to blow up the houses of parliament. Despite the brutal way he was punished, the speaker acknowledged his rebellious spirit. Overall, the conversation highlighted the power of food in creating a sense of belonging and identity.

    • Unexpected encounters and experiencesUnexpected encounters and experiences, even in mundane settings, can lead to memorable moments and connections. Embrace different moods and experiences with the right drinks to enhance the moment.

      Unexpected encounters and experiences, even in mundane settings, can lead to memorable moments and connections. This was evident in the story of a sex festival gig that didn't go as planned but led to the formation of bands, or the discovery of a hidden gem of a cocktail bar in Mallorca. Another key takeaway is the importance of embracing different moods and experiences with the right drinks. Whether it's a hot day calling for a beer or a champagne toast for a celebration, the right drink can enhance the moment. Lastly, the power of childhood memories and shared experiences can create strong bonds and bring joy to unexpected moments.

    • Celebrity cooking experiencesCelebrities delivering food during pandemic brought unique experiences, but their intense personalities might impact enjoyment. Hosts considered alternatives, sought expert advice, and found joy in sharing food love and memories.

      During the pandemic, celebrities, including Jason Manford, have been delivering food to people's doors, and while it would have been a unique experience to have him make a bread and butter pudding for us, his intense personality might have made the experience less enjoyable. The podcast hosts discussed their own experiences with making bread and butter pudding and considered using crumpet bread instead, but ultimately decided against it after consulting with a family member. The expert, Grandad, shared his recipe for bread and butter pudding, and the hosts expressed their admiration for his culinary skills. The episode showcased the hosts' enthusiasm for food and their appreciation for the expertise of others. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, they found joy in sharing their love for food and the memories it brings.

    • Food and HumorThe group enjoyed a lively discussion about the heavy carb-filled menu at a restaurant, sharing jokes, memories, and plans for future food-related activities, highlighting their camaraderie and shared love for food and humor.

      The group discussed the heavy carb-filled menu they experienced at a restaurant, joking about the potential consequences and the benefits of being alone or in a car share during such meals. They also reminisced about past episodes featuring bread and butter puddings and made plans for James to make and share his versions of various recipes, potentially involving a bath for added entertainment. The conversation was filled with humor and references to popular culture, with Nish Kavar interrupting to promote his own comedy tour. Overall, the group's discussion showcased their camaraderie and shared love for food and humor.

    Recent Episodes from Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster

    Ep 255: Saoirse-Monica Jackson

    Ep 255: Saoirse-Monica Jackson

    ‘Derry Girls’ and ‘The Decameron’ star Saoirse-Monica Jackson joins us in the Dream Restaurant this week. And we’re all getting Nike ticks shaved on our heads.


    Saoirse-Monica Jackson stars in ‘The Decameron’ which launched on Netflix on 25th July. Watch it here.

    Follow Saoirse-Monica on Instagram @saoirsemonicajackson


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 254: Michelle de Swarte

    Ep 254: Michelle de Swarte

    Model-turned-stand-up comic Michelle de Swarte is this week’s guest diner. And Ed and James are amazed to find out she doesn’t know a childhood song.


    Trigger warning: this episode has chat about dieting.


    Michelle de Swarte’s new sitcom ‘Spent’ is on BBC Two, Mondays at 10pm. Watch is on BBC iPlayer.

    Follow Michelle on Instagram @michelledeswarte


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 253: Sophie Willan

    Ep 253: Sophie Willan

    The Dream Restaurant is taking bookings for its 12th series, and our first diner is ‘Taskmaster’ and ‘Alma’s Not Normal’ star Sophie Willan. Woo!


    Watch series one of ‘Alma’s Not Normal’ on BBC iPlayer. Series two is coming soon.

    Follow Sophie on Instagram @sophiewillan


    Tickets for ‘Off Menu: Live in London’ go on sale this Friday 12th July at 10am. Visit offmenupodcast.co.uk for details.


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 252: Jason Mantzoukas

    Ep 252: Jason Mantzoukas

    ‘How Did This Get Made?’ podcaster and ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ star Jason Mantzoukas finishes up series 11. And half of his meal is lurking in the shadows…


    Listen to Jason’s podcast ‘How Did This Get Made?’ wherever you listen to podcasts.


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 251: Helen Skelton

    Ep 251: Helen Skelton

    TV presenter, author and Strictly contestant Helen Skelton takes on her next challenge: ordering her Off Menu menu in the Dream Restaurant.


    Helen Skelton’s book ‘In My Stride’ is out now published by Headline. Buy it here.

    Follow Helen on Twitter and Instagram @helenskelton


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 250: Patti Harrison

    Ep 250: Patti Harrison

    US stand-up and ‘I Think You Should Leave’ star Patti Harrison is this week’s dream dinner guest. She arrived so early her table wasn’t ready yet.


    Trigger warning: this episode contains talk of eating disorders.


    Patti Harrison is bringing her show ‘My Huge Tits Huge Because They Are Infected NOT FAKE’ to London’s Soho Theatre at the end of May and the Edinburgh Fringe in August.

    Follow Patti on Instagram @party_harderson


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 249: Rhys Nicholson

    Ep 249: Rhys Nicholson

    ‘Drag Race Down Under’ judge and ‘Taskmaster Australia’ star Rhys Nicholson is our guest diner this week. And they’ve brought along their pal Jeff Tartare.


    Rhys brings their new show ‘Huge Big Party Congratulations’ to the Edinburgh Fringe this August and then is touring the UK. For dates and tickets go to rhysnicholson.com.au

    Rhys’s book ‘Dish’ is out now. Buy it here.

    Watch Rhys’s special ‘Live at the Athenaeum’ on Netflix.

    Follow Rhys on Instagram @rhysnicholson


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 248: Huge Davies

    Ep 248: Huge Davies

    Comedian and podcaster Huge Davies brings disturbing news. Another great episode of Off Menu with Ed Gamble and The Boy.


    Listen to Huge Davies’s podcast ‘Slime Country’ with Ed Night and Sunil Patel wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Watch Huge’s special ‘The Carpark’ on YouTube for free.

    Follow Huge on Twitter and Instagram @hugedavies



    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 247: Ardal O’Hanlon (Live in Dublin)

    Ep 247: Ardal O’Hanlon (Live in Dublin)

    It’s the final b-b-b-b-bonus episode from the live tour and what better way to end than with Irish comedy god and ‘Father Ted’ star Ardal O’Hanlon. Oh, and eating a creamy dessert.


    Follow Ardal on Twitter @ardalsfolly and Instagram @ardalohanlon


    Recorded by Matt Mountford-Lister for Storm Productions Group live at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre in Dublin.

    Edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.