Raised in the Bensonhurst neighborhood of Brooklyn, Sal Lamboglia grew up on Italian-American food in a family populated by his chef father, butchers, and other food professionals. Following graduation from culinary school, he spent many years with a Manhattan-based restaurant group before returning to Brooklyn and launching his hit restaurant Cafe Spaghetti in 2022, and its follow up, Swoony's, in 2024. On this episode, Sal takes us through his early life experience, pro training, and how he applies it all in his restaurants today.

This Sunday, June 2, Sal is hosting Andrew and spirits writer Robert Simonson for a book party, talk, and signing at Swoony's restaurant in Brooklyn. (click through for info and tickets)

Huge thanks to our presenting sponsor, meez, the recipe operating software for professionals. Sign up today for a basic  (free) or premium membership. 

Thanks also to S.Pellegrino. The application process is now open for the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2024-2025!

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Andrew is a writer by trade. If you'd like to support him, there's no better way than by purchasing his most recent book, The Dish: The Lives and Labor Behind One Plate of Food (October 2023), about all the key people (in the restaurant, on farms, in delivery trucks, etc.) whose stories and work come together in a single restaurant dish.

We'd love if you followed us on Instagram. 

Please also follow Andrew's real-time journal of the travel, research, writing, and production of/for his next book The Opening (working title), which will track four restaurants in different parts of the U.S. from inception to launch.

For Andrew's writing, dining, and personal adventures, follow along at his personal feed.

Thank you for listening—please don't hesitate to reach out with any feedback and/or suggestions!