In this episode of Flavors Unknown, we’re thrilled to welcome Chef Dave Beran, a culinary visionary whose remarkable journey spans some of the most iconic restaurants in Chicago and Los Angeles. From his early days at MK, Tru, and the trailblazing Alinea, to creating the critically acclaimed Pasjoli and his newest venture, Seline, Chef Dave Beran has continually redefined what it means to innovate in the kitchen.

Join us as Chef Dave Beran shares the highs and lows of his career, including the lessons learned from working with culinary legends and stepping into the spotlight as a restaurateur. We’ll explore his philosophy of food, his unique approach to storytelling through cuisine, and how his restaurants in Santa Monica are shaping the future of fine dining. Plus, you’ll hear a sweet behind-the-scenes moment as Chef Dave seamlessly balances being a chef, entrepreneur, and father during our recording.

What you’ll learn from Chef Dave Beran

• How Chef Dave Beran’s quirky family food memories shaped his love for cooking (3:49)
• The surprising influence of cigarettes on dishes at Alinea (4:54)
• Chef Dave Beran’s teenage path into the back of the house (6:42)
• The industry event that brought Chef Dave Beran to Chicago (7:54)
• Why he chose experience over culinary school (9:20)
• Chef Dave Beran on hiring challenges and why longevity matters over pedigree (11:25, 13:04)
• Insights from Chef Dave Beran’s time at Alinea (15:10)
• The challenges Chef Dave Beran faced after leaving a legendary restaurant (16:35)
• How anonymity unlocked new creativity for Chef Dave Beran (17:55)
• Chef Dave Beran’s creative evolution after moving to Los Angeles (19:42)
• The inspiration and philosophy behind Seline, his latest Santa Monica restaurant (23:20)
• Chef Dave Beran’s French culinary roots and how he modernizes classic concepts (24:33, 26:03)
• How Chef Dave Beran’s menu designs provide a sense of time and place (22:09)
• The whimsical design and flavors that make Seline stand out (28:46, 30:32, 32:17)
• Chef Dave Beran’s take on originality in a social media-driven world (36:15)
• Lessons from closing Dialogue and growing through challenges (42:28, 44:28)
• Chef Dave Beran’s top spots to eat in Santa Monica (45:46)
• His guilty pleasure sweet and biggest kitchen pet peeve (46:44, 47:30)
• Chef Dave Beran’s favorite ingredients and the chef he dreams of collaborating with (49:01, 50:18)
• The worst advice Chef Dave Beran has heard in the culinary world (51:30)

Why Listen to Chef Dave Beran on Flavors Unknown

Chef Dave Beran’s name is synonymous with innovation, creativity, and pushing boundaries in the culinary world.
Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, French cuisine, or simply love stories of perseverance and growth, this episode offers an intimate look into Chef Dave Beran’s world.
Be sure to listen, subscribe, and share this episode to discover the untold stories behind Chef Dave Beran’s incredible career.
Visit flavorsunknown.com for more episodes featuring culinary legends like Chef Dave Beran.

I’d like to share a potential educational resource, “Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door”, my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry.

Get the book here! Links to other episodes with the chefs from Los Angeles

Don’t miss out on the chance to hear from these talented chefs and gain insight into the world of culinary techniques. Check out the links below for more conversations with chefs from Los Angeles.

Interview with Nancy Silverton

Inside Los Angeles Food Scene: A Panel Discussion

Interview with Chef Suzanne Goin

Conversation with Chef Elizabeth Falkner

Conversation with Coffee Roaster Zayde Naquib

Interview with Chef Tim Hollingsworth

Conversation with Chef Brad Miller – Food Truck Nation

Interview with Chef Alison Trent

Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode)
Chef Sheldon Simeon
Chef Andy Doubrava
Chef Chris Kajioka
Chef Suzanne Goin Social media

Chef Dave Beran

Instagram

Social media

Pasjoli

Instagram

Social media

Seline

Instagram

Links mentioned in this episode

Restaurant Pasjoli in Santa Monica

Restaurant Seline in Santa Monica