Food Network Obsessed

Gabe Bertaccini on Chopped Castaways and What Makes Great Food TV

May 29, 2026·57 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Chef Gabe Bertaccini joins the pod to talk about his latest Food Network adventure, Chopped Castaways, a wild new spin on Chopped that drops elite chefs onto a remote island where strategy, survival, and cooking skills all collide. Gabe breaks down what made the experience so intense, what surprised him most about judging in that environment, and why the show pushes chefs in completely different ways than a traditional kitchen competition. Gabe also dives into his digital series Cook Like an Italian, sharing how the show became a way to make Italian cooking feel approachable, relaxed, and rooted in joy rather than perfection. He talks about teaching techniques in a more specific, practical way for home cooks, why simplicity matters so much in Italian food, and how creating digital content allows him to connect with audiences differently than competition television. Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Gabe on Instagram: HERE Learn More about Chopped Castaways: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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