In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I speak with Chef Carlos Brown, a Charleston-born Gullah Geechee chef and the chef behind Pandora on the Square near Atlanta. The conversation explores the cultural depth of Gullah cuisine, the difference between “Southern food” as a broad label and Gullah Geechee food as a specific heritage, and how Chef Carlos uses French technique, hospitality, and storytelling to bring more recognition to Lowcountry foodways. What begins with shrimp and grits, okra soup, Hoppin’ John, egg and rice, sage, and tarragon becomes a deeper reflection on food as communication, memory, dignity, and cultural authority. Chef Carlos challenges the idea that Gullah Geechee cuisine needs to be “elevated,” suggesting instead that America first needs to understand the soul, history, and intelligence already present in the food. This episode is especially relevant for chefs, culinary creators, food lovers, culinary travelers, and food industry professionals interested in heritage cuisines, cultural storytelling, and the responsibility of translating food traditions for broader audiences. What you’ll learn from Chef Carlos Brown Why Gullah Geechee cuisine should not be reduced to the broader category of “Southern food.”How Gullah food carries African, Lowcountry, coastal, and family memory through everyday dishes.Why Chef Carlos believes “the soul” is often the missing part when people talk about heritage cooking.How dishes like shrimp and grits, okra soup, Hoppin’ John, and egg and rice can carry cultural meaning beyond their ingredients.How French culinary technique can help reveal a cuisine’s depth without erasing its roots.Why education is essential to bringing wider recognition to Gullah Geechee food.How a humble dish like egg and rice can be reframed with the dignity of “the best caviar.”Why food sits at the center of communication, hospitality, and community.How Chef Carlos thinks about bringing Gullah flavors to Atlanta while staying connected toCharleston and the Lowcountry.What chefs, food brands, and culinary professionals can learn from cultural preservation done with respect, technique, and heart. Beyond the Mic: My Stories in Print A Taste of Madagascar: Culinary Riches of the Red Island invites readers to join me on his unforgettable journey across the island of Madagascar, where a vibrant culture and stunning ecosystem intertwine to create an extraordinary culinary experience. Explore the unique ingredients and traditions that define Madagascar and discover their profound impact on the global culinary landscape. Alongside the captivating stories, the book presents a collection of exciting recipes that showcase the incredible flavors and ingredients of Madagascar. Publication date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 Pre-order the book here! “Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door” is my debut book, published in Fall 2022. It features insights from chefs and culinary leaders interviewed on the Flavors Unknown podcast, offering a behind-the-scenes look at creativity, culture, and the future of the hospitality industry. Get the book here! Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode) Chef Sheldon Simeon Chef Andy Doubrava Chef Nina Compton Chef Jacques Pepin Social media Chef William Dissen Instagram Facebook Social media Pandora on The Square Instagram Facebook Links mentioned in this episode Chef Carlos Brown Shop Gullah Gourmet Pandora on the Square SUBSCRIBE TO THE ‘FLAVORS UNKNOWN’ NEWSLETTER
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2026/08/1834 分