Ever reminisce about the good old days of mom's cooking or cringe at the memory of your first taste of college cuisine? Stuart Melling of Gastronomic SLC joins me, Eric Nielsen, to swap tales of our food journeys and how they've seasoned our lives. We traverse Stuart's transatlantic trek from the UK to Utah, his pivotal contributions to the Salt Lake Tribune, and our shared chuckles over the evolution of dining preferences shaped by childhood, college, and our inherent cultural roots.Sneakerheads might understand the delicate balance of wearing a prized pair versus keeping them box-fresh, something comparable to the current state of food blogging. Our conversation takes a twist into the world of influencers, as Stuart and I reflect on the transformation from free meals to paid critiques, ensuring our voices remain genuine in the culinary crowd. We chew over the metamorphosis of Salt Lake City's gastronomic landscape, once a desolate food desert, now a burgeoning oasis of flavors that rivals the likes of Austin and Portland.Capping off our culinary expedition, we muse over the ethics of food criticism versus the sheer joy of discovering a new restaurant. From the increasing allure of solo dining to the nostalgic tug of our favorite haunts, join us as we celebrate the community's role in the burgeoning Salt Lake City food scene. Stuart and I extend an invite to listeners, encouraging you to engage with our stories, discoveries, and the delectable future that awaits the city's ever-expanding palate.Have a Question? Ask it here!50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITYNow through January 2nd, buy or lease a new Subaru at Mark Miller Subaru and they’ll donate up to $500 to local Utah charities like USARA and Girls on the Run. Drive a new Subaru and give back to the community at the same time. Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time Support the showJoin Small Lake City: https://www.smalllakepod.com/subscribe Instagram: @smalllakepodYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcastTikTok: @smalllakepod

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