Episodes

  • MI Great Plates ~ The Critic, The Creator and The Cravings

    MI Great Plates ~ The Critic, The Creator and The Cravings
    Jun 27 2025
    June 26, 2025 ~ Host Justin Near welcomes two culinary powerhouses: Yumna Jawad of Feel Good Foodie, whose viral recipes (hello, TikTok pasta!) have married the Middle East to the Midwest, and Lyndsay Green, the Detroit Free Press dining and restaurant critic and a two-time James Beard Award winner. From crispy feta croutons to the politics of poultry in Detroit, this episode is a flavorful journey through food, culture and creativity. Whether you're craving inspiration or just a great dining destination, this one’s worth a listen!
    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • MI Great Plates ~ Detroit’s First Family of Mideastern Fare

    MI Great Plates ~ Detroit’s First Family of Mideastern Fare
    May 23 2025
    May 22, 2025 ~ With it’s nationally-recognized Phoenicia, Chickpea Hospitality has been serving up exceptional and unforgettable experiences since 1971. In this episode of MI Great Plates, host Justin Near sits down with Sameer and Samy Eid, the father/son duo behind Michigan’s beloved Phoenicia, Forest, Leila and Wilder’s. Take a delicious dive into the ribs, rituals and legacy that will leave you inspired - and craving a rack of those legendary Samy Spice ribs!
    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • MI Great Plates ~ Method Co. at Book Tower

    MI Great Plates ~ Method Co. at Book Tower
    Apr 25 2025
    April 24, 2025 ~ In the debut episode of "MI Great Plates," host Justin Near chats with Scott Sadoff and Patrick Jobst from Method Co., revealing the secrets behind their six sensational restaurants in Detroit's Book Tower. Also on the episode, food writer and comedian Danny Palumbo shares his unique take on Detroit's hidden Lebanese treasures, while also offering some insight on the pitfalls of pasta making. Listen to experience the stories, flavors, and trends that are transforming Michigan into a foodie paradise!
    Show More Show Less
    38 mins