Diana Davila: Competing on Padma’s Cooking Show, Owning the Narrative & Making Mexican Food Her Own!!

Adrienne and Joe are joined by Chef Diana Davila to discuss competing on Padma’s new show (America’s Culinary Cup), the pressure of cooking competition TV, and taking ownership of your story. In this episode, we also discuss:

Navigating the intense anxiety and public perception of competition television

Diana’s approach to Mexican cuisine: history, tradition, and innovation

Regional Mexican food divides: Chicago, Texas, California, New York, and Mexico

The creative process: mastering classic ingredients before reinventing them

A quick-fire food round on tacos, chiles, onions, and large-scale service

Walk-In Confession: Confronting sexism early in her career and standing up to kitchen intimidation

Follow Diana: @dianalache

Follow the show: @chefscutpod

Follow Adrienne: @chefadriennecheatham 

Follow Joe: @insta.flamm