Hi folks, 

I was in Utah this past weekend and, boy, did it make me miss the food back home. Absolutely beautiful landscapes, though!

But before I get to my love for LA’s diverse food and culture, here are some KCRW highlights you’ll also find below: 

• We’ve got KCRW App Updates we think you’ll like
• Team KCRW had a strong showing in the LA Marathon
• Evan Kleiman explores the problem of smoke taint in the wine industry
• Sam Sanders chats about how the Oscars could be different
• The Left, Right, & Center crew dives into the war with Iran

During my Utah excursion this past weekend, I went out for Thai food on Friday. I ordered the Pad see ew, papaya salad, spicy eggplant, and Massaman curry. While there were some signature Thai flavors, the food just didn’t have the same oomph as the Thai food here in Los Angeles. Being born and raised in LA, I’ve learned that I sometimes take for granted how incredible our culinary scene is. You can grab a delicious bite on every street or fresh veggies at any farmers market (and the fruit trees!). There are fantastic mom-and-pop shops, magical street vendors, and endless food recommendations. We really have it good here, and there’s a big reason why that is…

LA is incredibly diverse, and you can feel — and taste — that in the food. I don’t even know what this city would be without its wide variety of people and, in turn, their cuisines.

I keep adding places to my “want to try” list. At the top is The Mulberry LA on Sawtelle, which has a modern Korean bistro vibe. I’m also a sucker for frozen yogurt, so Lillie is a must. It’s only a pop-up on Saturday nights for now, but I have a feeling they’ll have a storefront very soon!

Travel is great if you’re able to do it, not only because it widens your perspectives, but it can also be a reminder of the things you sometimes forget to appreciate at home.

What spots are on your “want to try” list? I want more recs!

Molly Chapman
Your KCRW Insider

P.S. Speaking of good food, you should absolutely RSVP to PieFest this Saturday! I’ll be there bopping around (in my big red glasses and KCRW gear) and would love to meet you. Come say “hi” if you see me!

The KCRW App Has Member Exclusive Playlists

You might’ve noticed a notification that the KCRW app has a new update (7.2.4). Trust us, you won’t want to miss the new features. You’ll enjoy easier navigation and convenient access to your favorite shows from the home page! Plus, fixes for those pesky login issues. And now, KCRW members can dive into exclusive content, including episodes, shows, music playlists, and additional member benefits. Not a member but want access to the exclusive content? You can join today. And if you don’t have the app yet, it’s time to download!

Team KCRW Goes the Distance at the LA Marathon

Did you catch the LA Marathon this weekend? If you saw a blur of bright blue zip past you, you might have spotted a member of Team KCRW in the wild! Over 50 runners went the distance for KCRW in the Marathon and Half-Marathon, raising over $62k (and counting) for independent news and eclectic music. For many on the team, the race was about more than the miles; it was about supporting KCRW in a new way while connecting with other fans and celebrating the spirit that brings Angelenos together. We’re already putting together next year’s team, and everyone is invited. Hit the link below to stay in the loop!

The Struggle to Save Wine from Wildfires 

In 2020, it was fire after fire after fire. It was the West Coast’s worst fire season, burning more than eight million acres across 12 states. The affected areas included wine regions in California and Oregon, bringing a new challenge: smoke taint. Grapes can absorb volatile compounds in wildfire smoke, and you end up with a bottle of wine that tastes like an ashtray. Sit down with Good Food’s Evan Kleiman and author Nicola Twilley to figure out what winemakers and scientists are doing to address the issue.

Can The Oscars Be Fixed?

The show is too long, the skits are clunky, and winners get cut off during their speeches. The Oscars need a change! Sam Sanders chats with awards insiders Jacqueline Coley and Clayton Davis to brainstorm some big fixes for Hollywood’s biggest night.

Trump Goes to War While Congress Sits Back

The U.S. and Israel attacked Iran, killing the country’s supreme leader. But the reason behind the strikes remains murky as President Trump’s explanation continues to shift. Left, Right & Center host David Greene breaks down what’s at stake for the region and for Trump’s presidency. Also, a congressional effort to limit the president’s war powers falls short. Is it time to give up on Congress playing a role in authorizing military action?