Logo
    Search

    Podcast Summary

    • Celebrate Mother's Day with Whole Foods, PlushCare, Blue Nile, and Michael McKeanShop Mother's Day gifts at Whole Foods, start a weight loss journey with PlushCare, design a unique ring at Blue Nile, and listen to Michael McKean's dream menu on Off Menu

      Mother's Day is a special occasion deserving of the best, and Whole Foods Market offers unbeatable savings on premium gifts, flowers, desserts, and more. Additionally, those seeking to begin a weight loss journey can do so conveniently with PlushCare, which offers online access to board-certified physicians who can prescribe FDA-approved medications. For those planning to propose, Blue Nile provides the convenience of designing a unique ring online. And finally, Michael McKean, a beloved actor and comedian, shared his dream restaurant menu on the Off Menu podcast, but goat's milk, the secret ingredient, may not be an option due to its distinct taste.

    • Embracing the unexpected in lifeLearn from unexpected challenges, find humor in them, and appreciate the journey of life with its twists and turns

      Life can present unexpected challenges, just like a false start during a recording or choking on a hot dog. However, we can learn from these experiences and even find humor in them. For instance, the second take of the recording might turn out to be better than the first one, and successfully performing the Heimlich maneuver on a loved one can be a relieving and satisfying experience. Additionally, everyone's dream restaurant might have its quirks, such as being too close or too far from the men's room, and unexpected incidents can add to the overall experience. Lastly, personal milestones, like the 50th anniversary of moving to a new place, can bring back memories and remind us of the journey we've taken. Overall, it's important to embrace the ups and downs of life and find joy in the unexpected twists and turns.

    • Reminiscing about Unique Dining ExperiencesThe speaker cherishes memories of distinctive dining encounters and values timeless dishes over food trends.

      The speaker shared stories of unique dining experiences from his past, including encounters with famous figures like Iggy Pop at Duke's coffee shop near a motel owned by Sandy Koufax. He also reminisced about Los Angeles' Restaurant Row, where late-night dining options like Ollie Hammonds provided a perfect end to a night out. The speaker expressed his appreciation for tried-and-true dishes and his lack of interest in food trends, comparing it to his preference for harmonica music and the skill of great harmonica players like John Popper. The conversation touched on the evolution of dining culture and the speaker's personal experiences and preferences.

    • Actor Harry Shearer discusses his acting career and selectivity in rolesActor Harry Shearer shares his experiences of being typecast based on appearance and past work, but emphasizes the importance of acting as a distinct art form.

      Actor and musician Harry Shearer uses his musical abilities to enhance his acting roles, but he's selective about the opportunities he takes to avoid being typecast. Shearer discussed his acting career, which includes his current role in the TV show "Breeders," and how his musical talents have influenced his casting. He shared stories about being asked to play certain roles based on his appearance and past work, such as a rocker or Trump. However, he emphasized the importance of acting as a separate art form and not wanting to be defined solely by his music or physical appearance. Shearer also talked about the delicious hot rolls made by his mother-in-law's cousin, Mary Louise, which are a beloved tradition at their family gatherings. The conversation ended with Shearer mentioning his late friend Gary Goodrow and his brother Kenny Shopsin's cashew tomato cream soup as his preferred starter.

    • Kenny's Shopsons: A Community HubUnique restaurants like Shopsons, beyond just serving food, become community hubs where people connect and create lasting memories

      Kenny Shops, a unique character from Greenwich Village, ran a small restaurant called Shopsons, famous for its extensive menu and exceptional dishes. The comic Michael Malone frequently visited Shopsons and particularly enjoyed the cashew tomato cream soup. However, one day, Kenny refused to make him the soup and instead offered a turkey sandwich, which turned out to be the best one Michael had ever had. Kenny's restaurant was more than just a place to eat; it was a community hub where people came to socialize and be a part of something special. Unfortunately, Kenny passed away about a year and a half ago, but his legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren who now run the place. The menu, though smaller than before, still showcases the creativity and passion that defined Shopsons.

    • Finding joy in the unexpectedUnexpected experiences and connections can bring great joy and meaning, even if unconventional schemes don't always succeed. Embrace the unique and personal in life.

      People can find joy and connection in unexpected places, such as a delicious but unconventional soup or a shared love for music or a unique menu. The speaker's brother-in-law had an unconventional scheme to create a calendar using menus from Long Island restaurants as a way to convince famous people to participate. Although the scheme did not succeed, it shows how people can find value and meaning in the most unlikely things. The speaker also emphasized the importance of not second-guessing important decisions, like choosing a ring for a proposal, and instead embracing the unique and personal.

    • Improve health and find thoughtful giftsConsider online consultations for weight loss, meaningful gifts for Mother's Day, and enjoy a variety of healthy dishes

      There are convenient ways to improve your health and find thoughtful gifts for loved ones. For weight loss, consider using PlushCare for online consultations and prescription of FDA-approved medications. For Mother's Day, consider gifting an Aura digital picture frame filled with cherished family photos. Blue Nile offers a promo code for $50 off on jewelry purchases over $500, and Aura has a deal for $30 off and free shipping on their best-selling frame for Mother's Day. Regarding food, while some believe tomatoes may worsen arthritis, there's no definitive scientific evidence. Instead, focus on enjoying a variety of healthy dishes, like James' wife's delicious turkey chili or cornbread. Remember, small surprises and thoughtful gifts can make a big impact in our loved ones' lives.

    • Enjoy life's pleasures in moderationSavor life's pleasures, like food, in moderation to maintain balance and create meaningful memories

      Pleasure in life, whether it comes from food or experiences, should be enjoyed in moderation. Mary Louise's warning about her blueberry preserves being a "pleasure food used sparingly" resonates with the speakers' experiences with various dishes, particularly turkey chili, which they find especially enjoyable. The conversation also touches upon the idea that certain foods, like rattlesnake chili, can evoke strong emotions and memories. Additionally, the speakers share their experiences with food-related traditions, such as eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Day. Overall, the discussion highlights the importance of savoring life's pleasures while being mindful of balance and moderation.

    • Actor Michael McKean's Career and Love for Spicy FoodActor Michael McKean shared stories from his extensive TV career, joked about his 'Charmadelic' character, and discussed his love for spicy food, including a funny incident in a London restaurant.

      Actor Michael McKean has had an extensive career in television, including appearances on shows like Law and Order and Special Victims Unit. He played various roles, some of which were written for him by his wife, who was a writer on the shows. McKean also shared an amusing anecdote about ordering spicy food and being warned against it, which led to a humorous exchange with an American couple in a London restaurant. McKean also mentioned his experience as a guest on Richard Belzer's show and joked about playing a "Charmadelic" character. While McKean has played various roles, including a child molester and a homicidal couple, he does not consider himself a expert on solving murders. He also shared a light-hearted conversation about the differences between different types of chilies and the macho behavior associated with eating them. Overall, McKean's conversation showcased his acting experience, his sense of humor, and his appreciation for spicy food.

    • Food and Personal ConnectionsFood holds deep personal connections and memories for people, evoking emotions and memories of loved ones and significant experiences.

      Food holds deep personal connections and memories for people. The speaker shared stories about specific dishes and their connections to various people, including his wife, his fiancee, and even famous figures like Mary Louise and Kenny Rogers. The speaker also discussed his love for spicy chili and his inability to make it for his fiancee without making it too hot. He also talked about his dream restaurant, mentioning dishes like Mary Louise's hot rolls, Kenny Shops and Soup, and his wife's children's creations. The speaker also discussed his allergies and preferences, such as his love for pears and his inability to find Asian pears in the UK. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of food and its ability to evoke memories and emotions.

    • A chance encounter with a kiwi in New York and a woman's explanation leads to the speaker adopting an unusual name for the fruit.The speaker's first encounter with a kiwi led to an amusing name and a deeper exploration into food mythology on a TV show.

      The speaker had an encounter with a kiwi fruit for the first time in a New York food store and was intrigued by its unusual appearance. A woman next to him explained that it was called a Moby Grape, and the speaker adopted this name for the fruit, much to the confusion of others. The speaker also shared his first experience of seeing the inside of a kiwi, which he found surprising due to its large, grape-like appearance. The conversation then shifted to food mythology and the speaker's experience working on a food show called "Food Fact or Fiction" with his family. The show explored the truth behind various food-related myths and legends, and the speaker mentioned some examples such as the origin of chili and the French dip sandwich. The speaker also shared that they would have experts and taste-testers on the show to debunk or confirm food myths.

    • World War II food restrictions led to the popularity of root beer and ginger aleDuring wartime, comfort foods like root beer and ginger ale gained popularity due to food restrictions and the unique flavors they offered.

      During World War II, cities implemented blackouts to prevent bombers from seeing their targets, leading to the creation of "blackout cakes" and food restrictions, including the infamous "don't shoot till you see the whites of their cauliflowers." Some foods, like root beer and ginger ale, became comforting treats during these dark times. The difference between ginger ale and ginger beer is significant, with ginger beer being brewed and foamy, while ginger ale is aerated and not truly a root beer. Root beer, with its unique sassafras root flavor, was a popular and distinctively American beverage that some Londoners longed for. The speaker, who gave up alcohol for 30 years after a Broadway show, shared his appreciation for high-quality root beers and ginger ales.

    • Discovering the Charm of American DessertsThe speaker cherishes memories of American desserts, particularly pies, and fondly recalls experiences associated with them. He highly recommends trying a blueberry pie at Becky's Cafe in Prospect, Oregon.

      The speaker has discovered a deep appreciation for American-style desserts, particularly pies, during his time in the US. He has fond memories of desserts made by his family and colleagues, with blondies and blueberry pie being standouts. The speaker was especially moved by a blueberry pie he tried at Becky's Cafe in Prospect, Oregon, which he highly recommends to anyone visiting the area. American-style desserts, especially pies, hold a special place in the speaker's heart, and he cherishes the memories associated with them. The speaker also mentions his admiration for chef Amy Sedaris and her dessert recipes. Overall, the speaker's conversation reveals a deep love for desserts and the memories and experiences they bring.

    • Caring for Peaches: Turn Them Three Times a DayTaking extra care of fruits like peaches by placing them in a cushioned bowl and turning them three times a day can help them ripen evenly and fully develop their flavor.

      Taking proper care of certain fruits, like peaches, can significantly improve their quality. This involves placing them in a cushioned bowl and turning them three times a day. While it may sound excessive or even comical, this method can help ensure that the peaches ripen evenly and fully develop their flavor. This anecdote was shared in a conversation, possibly inspired by a sincere recommendation or reading. The idea of pampering peaches in this way may seem unconventional, but it highlights the importance of paying attention to the details and providing the right conditions for something to thrive. This concept can be applied to various aspects of life, from growing produce to nurturing relationships. The speaker's experience with this method was shared in the context of a conversation about their friendship with Catherine O'Hara, who is known for her exceptional acting abilities. The anecdote illustrates the value of investing time and care into something, as the results can be truly remarkable.

    • Michael McKean's ideal meal: A personal journey through food and memoriesMichael McKean's ideal meal is a heartfelt tribute to loved ones and cherished memories, filled with dishes named after them. Listeners can discover new culinary experiences and enjoy personal stories on the 'Off Menu' podcast.

      The hosts of the "Off Menu" podcast had an engaging conversation with Michael McKean about his ideal meal, which was filled with personal stories and memorable dishes. McKean's menu included various items, each named after someone, such as Mary Louise's hot rolls and Becky's Cafe's blueberry pie. The hosts were delighted by the personal touches and appreciated McKean's enthusiasm for food. McKean also mentioned his current project, "Breeders," a show available on Sky in the UK and FX in the US. The podcast also provided details on how to access more information about the restaurants mentioned on the show through their website and social media channels. Overall, the episode showcased the joy of sharing food stories and the pleasure of discovering new culinary experiences.

    • Innovative solutions for everyday tasksFrom monitoring cat health to conveniently ordering flowers and gifts or managing business operations, innovation simplifies everyday tasks and offers cost-effective solutions.

      Innovation and smart solutions can make everyday tasks easier and more effective. For example, Pretty Litter's advanced crystal formula not only controls odor but also monitors cat health, making it a superior choice for cat owners. Similarly, services like 1-800-Flowers and Stamps.com offer convenient and cost-effective ways to celebrate special occasions and manage business operations, respectively. In the world of podcasts, the Rob Orton Daily Podcast offers a daily dose of creativity and amusement on various subjects. Moreover, Mother's Day is a time to express gratitude and appreciation to the special moms in our lives. 1-800-Flowers offers a wide range of gifts, including handmade bouquets, sweet treats, gourmet food, and unique presents, which can be easily ordered and delivered fresh. Stamps.com, on the other hand, provides a no-brainer solution for businesses that need to mail items, offering up to 89% off USPS and UPS shipping. Lastly, it's essential to think creatively and consider the potential of everyday things. For instance, what if Picasso painted your house, or if a beach was made of digestive biscuits? The Rob Orton Daily Podcast explores such imaginative concepts and more, making it a must-listen for those who enjoy a daily dose of inspiration and amusement.

    Recent Episodes from Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster

    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.


    Ep 246: Karan Gokani

    Ep 246: Karan Gokani

    Co-founder of Hoppers restaurants Karan Gokani has a table booked this week, and he’s bringing along Edward Stephenson Jamison Gamble as his dining companion.


    ‘Hoppers: The Cookbook’ is out now, published by Quadrille Publishing. Buy it here.

    Go to Hoppers restaurants in London. Visit hopperslondon.com to book a table.

    Follow Hoppers on Instagram and TikTok @hopperslondon

    Follow Karan on Instagram @karancooks


    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 245: Tommy Tiernan (Live in Dublin)

    Ep 245: Tommy Tiernan (Live in Dublin)

    Irish comedy icon Tommy Tiernan joins us for night one in Dublin. And, no, this episode hasn’t been edited much.


    Tommy Tiernan is on tour now with ‘Tommedian’. For dates and tickets go to tommytiernan.ie

    Follow Tommy on Twitter @Tommedian and Instagram @officialtommedian


    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.


    Ep 244: Sara Barron

    Ep 244: Sara Barron

    Superb stand-up and podcaster Sara Barron has a reservation this week. And did you know her brother is a babe?


    Listen to Sara’s podcast ‘They Like to Watch’ wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Sara Barron is at the Edinburgh Fringe this August with her new show ‘Anything For You’. For tickets and info visit edfringe.com

    Follow Sara on Twitter @sarabarron and Instagram @sarabarron1000000


    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 243: Joe Wilkinson (Live in Brighton)

    Ep 243: Joe Wilkinson (Live in Brighton)

    Despite wanting to go home, Joe Wilkinson showed up for his table at the Dream Restaurant, live in Brighton.


    Listen to Joe’s podcast Chatabix with David Earl wherever you listen to podcasts and follow Chatabix on Instagram @chatabixpodcast

    Joe’s book ‘My Autobiography’ is out now. Buy it here.

    Follow Joe on Instagram @gillinghamjoe


    Recorded by Matt Mountford-Lister for Storm Productions Group live at the Brighton Dome.

    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.


    Related Episodes

    Episode 109 - Dr. Nicole Baldwin: Pediatrician/TikTok Creator

    Episode 109 - Dr. Nicole Baldwin: Pediatrician/TikTok Creator
    Dr. Nicole Baldwin tries to explain TikTok to Lizzie and Kaveh and talks about the totally cool and totally normal response anti-vaxxers had to her TikTok video promoting the use of vaccines.Send your questions and comments to hopquestions@gmail.com, or leave a voicemail at 408-444-6623

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

    Help We Didn't Flinch At Felching

    Help We Didn't Flinch At Felching
    William and Jordan are coming in hot in today’s episode with some strong opinions on software updates, bow ties, and stock cubes (Yes - you are still listening to the Help I Sexted My Boss podcast - don’t worry). Once they’ve got all that off of their chests and into your ears, normal business resumes as they offer advice on your dilemmas regarding whether you should use cutlery or hands to eat a burger, what to do when you find your sex toys in the kids' sandpit, and how to tell your partner their mother's nipples are exposed.

    Join Sexted Extra and laugh along to William Hanson and Jordan North helping you navigate the challenges of modern life ad free at https://plus.acast.com/s/sextedmyboss.



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

    Ep 130: Bridget Christie

    Ep 130: Bridget Christie

    It’s the final episode of series 6, and who better than Netflix star, Edinburgh Comedy Award-winner and one of the finest comedians in the country – Bridget Christie – to be the dream restaurant’s last customer. That poor squirrel.


    Bridget Christie’s new show ‘Who Am I?’ is at the Leicester Square Theatre in London, 14-18 Dec. Book tickets here.


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design) and Amy Browne (illustrations).


    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.


    Help It's The Best Of Series 7 - Part One

    Help It's The Best Of Series 7 - Part One
    William and Jordan take you through the best bits of the main episodes in Series 7 - including killing off Barry Mannilow, some lube on the side and a couple of bizarre listener problems. The best bits from Series 7 Weekend Release episodes will be with you on Friday morning.

    Join Sexted Extra and laugh along to William Hanson and Jordan North helping you navigate the challenges of modern life ad free at https://plus.acast.com/s/sextedmyboss.



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