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    Ep 257: Amy Annette

    enAugust 07, 2024
    What does the Off Menu Podcast focus on discussing?
    Who was the guest on the podcast this week?
    What humorous ingredient did James use related to Amy's surname?
    How did food influence the hosts’ childhood experiences?
    What are Easter eggs in movies commonly known as?

    Podcast Summary

    • Off Menu Podcast with Amy AnnetteJames and Nat's Off Menu Podcast with comedian Amy Annette was filled with laughter and entertaining conversations about food combinations and Amy's comedy career

      The Off Menu Podcast, hosted by James and Nat, is a unique and entertaining show where they invite guests to share their favorite food combinations and discuss various topics, often with a humorous twist. This week, their guest was comedian Amy Annette, who they welcomed to their dream restaurant. During the conversation, they discussed Amy's debut stand-up comedy show and her podcast, "What Women Want." James jokingly used the word "net" in Amy's surname to come up with the secret ingredient for the episode, which was Nettle T. They reminisced about their past meals together and shared some funny anecdotes. Throughout the podcast, they established a friendly and lighthearted atmosphere, making for an enjoyable listening experience.

    • Movie Easter eggsEaster eggs in movies, also known as post-credit sequences, add excitement for viewers and create a sense of community through shared experiences and discussions.

      Easter eggs in movies, also known as post-credit sequences or nuggets, are hidden references or scenes that appear after the main credits. These can range from minor character appearances to major plot twists. They add excitement for viewers and create a sense of community among cinema-goers who share the experience of waiting for them. The term "nugget" is a fun and engaging way to refer to these easter eggs, and it can lead to interesting conversations and shared experiences. For example, one person might stop others from leaving the theater to warn them about an upcoming nugget featuring a handsome, hairy man. Overall, the discovery and discussion of Easter eggs adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the movie-going experience.

    • Social dining experiencesThe social interaction and enjoyment derived from sharing meals with others is a crucial aspect of dining, not just the physical act of consuming food.

      Food and dining experiences are not just about the physical act of consuming, but also the social interaction and enjoyment derived from sharing meals with others. The speaker expresses a preference for dining with others, making noises of appreciation, and engaging in conversation, rather than being alone in a dream restaurant with endless food and no interaction. The experience of bread, specifically, was highlighted as an essential part of the speaker's personality and a source of joy, whether it's the simple pleasure of toasting pitas at home or the more refined experience of a bread platter at a restaurant like Honey and Co. The conversation also touched on the role of food in creating shared experiences and memories, such as the speaker's use of the phrase "so sorry, Baskin Robins" after an unexpected bathroom break. Overall, the conversation emphasized the importance of the social and emotional aspects of dining, rather than just the physical consumption of food.

    • Food ExperiencesPeople cherish unique and delicious food experiences, reminisce about past food trends, and look forward to trying new dishes, creating joy and excitement, and cherished memories.

      The speakers in this conversation express their shared appreciation for unique and delicious food experiences. They reminisce about food trends from the past, such as chocolate-covered bacon, and look forward to trying new dishes, like Venetian Chiketi. Their conversations are filled with humor and light-hearted banter, showcasing the joy and excitement they find in discovering new flavors. They also value the experience of trying these foods in their authentic settings, whether it's in a food hall or a restaurant in Venice. Overall, their conversations highlight the importance of food in bringing people together and creating cherished memories.

    • Food DiscoveriesExploring new food experiences can bring great joy and disappointment, emphasizing the importance of authentic communication and understanding context and limitations.

      Discovering new food experiences can lead to great joy and disappointment. The speaker shared their excitement about trying a mortadella sandwich from Italo Italo in Vauxhall, which they described as delicious and worth the trip. However, they also experienced disappointment when they learned that a dessert they loved at a different place, Core in Bristol, was no longer available. The speaker emphasized the importance of communicating authentic experiences while also acknowledging the limitations of recommending specific dishes or places. They also reflected on the appeal of certain foods, such as mortadella and charcuterie boards, and the nostalgia and cultural connections that can influence our food preferences. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the joy and complexity of exploring new food experiences, as well as the importance of understanding the context and limitations of recommendations.

    • Childhood experiences and foodChildhood experiences involving food can serve as coping mechanisms, assert individuality, and shape our identities and sense of humor as adults.

      The speakers in this conversation shared stories from their childhoods involving food, costumes, and feeling unwelcome or different. One common thread was the use of food as a coping mechanism or a way to assert individuality. For instance, Avie discussed her decision to become a vegetarian as a child to ensure she could always have buttery pasta, while James shared stories of dressing up as a pirate and stowing away on imaginary ships. These behaviors allowed them to explore their sense of humor and express themselves in unique ways despite feeling unwelcome or misunderstood at times. Additionally, food played a significant role in their memories, with some foods being remembered vividly while others were forgotten. Overall, these stories illustrate the power of childhood experiences and the role they can play in shaping our identities and sense of humor as adults.

    • Meat DiscoveriesThe speaker's exploration of different meat dishes led her to develop a strong preference for raw and finely chopped varieties, despite starting as a vegetarian. Her dining experiences also included encounters with busy restaurants and attentive waiters.

      The speaker's experiences at various events and restaurants led her to explore different types of meat dishes, from chicken to beef tartar, and even raw meat. She started as a vegetarian but eventually embraced her love for meat, particularly raw and finely chopped varieties. The speaker also shared her preferences for certain dishes and her experiences with waiters and menus. Despite her fondness for meat, she acknowledged the stress and chaos that can come with ordering at busy restaurants. Overall, the conversation showcases the speaker's journey to discovering and enjoying various meat dishes, as well as her unique dining experiences.

    • Food and Cultural DifferencesDespite cultural differences, food can bring people together and create unique experiences. Be open to new culinary traditions and appreciate their significance in shaping cultural identities.

      Despite cultural differences, food and its preparation can bring people together and create unique experiences. The discussion revolved around a North American fruit salad called "salad supreme," which includes grapes, pineapple, mayonnaise, and whipped cream. The speaker initially had reservations about the dish due to its unusual combination of ingredients, but came to appreciate it as a cherished family tradition. The conversation also touched upon the differences between North American and British perceptions of the term "salad," with the former associating it with mayonnaise-based side dishes and the latter with leafy greens and vegetables. Ultimately, the conversation highlighted the importance of being open to new culinary experiences and the role that food plays in shaping our cultural identities.

    • Wine languageUsing the right language when discussing wine with connoisseurs can enhance the conversation and avoid misunderstandings. Being incorrect about wine selections can lead to disappointing outcomes.

      When it comes to impressing wine connoisseurs, using the right language and avoiding certain words can help navigate the conversation. The speakers in this discussion discovered that they often act as the "wine choosers" for their group, but being incorrect about wine selections can lead to disappointing outcomes. They also shared their love for Craps from the Crapery in Hampstead, a dessert made with crepes and various toppings. The speakers fondly recalled past experiences, including a New Year's Eve dinner where one of them had a cocktail instead of wine with each course, and a pancake day routine involving crepes and bullying. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of enjoying food and wine experiences, even if one isn't an expert.

    • Food Apps and Everyday CravingsFood apps have made once occasional indulgences into everyday cravings, allowing us to enjoy various items like burgers, chips, mac and cheese balls, crepes, and more, sometimes even with a more sophisticated touch like a martini.

      The convenience of ordering food through modern apps has transformed the way we consume certain treats, like burgers and crepes, from occasional indulgences to everyday cravings. The speakers in this conversation shared their fondness for various food items, from burgers and chips to mac and cheese balls and crepes with chocolate, banana, and marshmallow fillings. They also discussed their preferred ways of enjoying these foods, such as with a martini instead of with hands for a more sophisticated experience. The conversation was filled with laughter and nostalgia, showcasing the guests' familiarity with the hosts and the relaxed atmosphere of the episode. Overall, it was a delightful exploration of food and the joy it brings to our lives.

    Recent Episodes from Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster

    Ep 262: Joe Locke

    Ep 262: Joe Locke

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    P.S. Under no circumstances is anyone being sent a signed chopping board. This is a joke by two professional comedians for comedic effect.


    Joe Locke stars in 'Agatha All Along' which is available on Disney+ on 18 September in the US and 19 September in the UK. Watch it here.

    Series 3 of ‘Heartstopper’ is on Netflix on 3 October. Watch it here.

    Follow Joe on Instagram @joelocke03


    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 261: Natalie Cassidy

    Ep 261: Natalie Cassidy

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    Natalie podcast ‘Life with Nat’ is out now, wherever you get your podcasts. Listen here.

    Follow Natalie on Instagram @natcass1 and Twitter @nat_cassidy


    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 260: Rachel Stevens

    Ep 260: Rachel Stevens

    There ain’t no party like an Off Menu party. S Club’s Rachel Stevens joins us in the Dream Restaurant this week, and we finally find out what the S stands for.


    Rachel Stevens is working with Activia to promote good gut health. For more info visit rachelstevens.com

    Rachel’s autobiography ‘Finding My Voice’ is out now. Buy it here.

    Follow Rachel Stevens on Instagram and Twitter @msrachelstevens


    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 259: Will Ospreay

    Ep 259: Will Ospreay

    AEW wrestler Will Ospreay is this week’s dining guest, and he’s impressed by Ed (and James’s) wrestling experience. But can he help with James’s kitchen?


    AEW All In is at Wembley Stadium on Sunday 25th August. Get tickets here.

    AEW Dynamite/Collision is at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff tonight, Wednesday 21st August. Find any last-minute tickets here.

    Follow Will on Instagram and Twitter @willospreay


    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 258: Phil Dunster

    Ep 258: Phil Dunster

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    Phil Dunster stars in ‘Oklahoma! in Concert’ at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 19th and 20th August. Get tickets at oklahomaconcert.co.uk

    Follow Phil on Instagram and Twitter @phildunster


    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 257: Amy Annette

    Ep 257: Amy Annette

    Superb stand-up, writer and podcaster Amy Annette – who, already, is frequently mentioned on Off Menu – is this week’s guest. Remember: always order an extra egg in a ramen.


    Amy Annette’s debut solo show ‘Thick Skin’ is at the Edinburgh Fringe, Pleasance Courtyard, until the 25th August. Buy tickets here.

    Listen to Amy’s podcast ‘What Women Want’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Follow Amy on Instagram and Twitter @theamyannette


    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 256: Hammed Animashaun

    Ep 256: Hammed Animashaun

    ‘Black Ops’ star and BAFTA-nominated actor Hammed Animashaun has a booking this week. But will Colonel Sanders and Mr Kipling be dining with him?


    Hammed Animashaun is currently starring in ‘Kiss Me Kate’ at the Barbican Theatre in London until 14 September. Get tickets at kissmekatemusical.com

    Follow Hammed on Instagram @hammedhamz


    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 255: Saoirse-Monica Jackson

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    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

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    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

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    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.