The sound of slurping has taken over downtown Tucson, and our destination for this week’s broadcast was Slurp Central itself, Obon Sushi + Bar + Ramen!

Chef Paulo Im, Matt Russell, Matt Martinez & Jamie Rice

Chef Paulo Im, Matt Russell, Matt Martinez & Jamie Rice

Our celebrity co-host was Jamie Rice of 520 Eats, who got us up to date on everything making news on his online food and beverage beat. We then welcomed Obon’s owner Brandon Katz for a conversation about his concept and what he thinks is behind the new restaurant’s early success. Obon’s bar manager, Matt Martinez, sat down with us as well to talk Asian-inspired cocktails and sake.  Our featured guest was Obon’s executive chef Paulo Im, who walked us through his fascinating journey, talked about his creative menu, and demonstrated how to approach and enjoy a bowl of ramen. At Obon, slurping is not just allowed, it’s encouraged, and we slurped our way through a traditional Japanese dining experience with modern expressions!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:25 — 26.7MB)