Exclusive Update: The Chef Who Shocked the Culinary World and Why He’s Changing Course Again—Daniel Humm of Eleven Madison Park

In this episode of How I Built This Lab, Guy Raz interviews Daniel Humm, chef and owner of Eleven Madison Park, about his decision to transition the restaurant to a fully plant-based menu and the subsequent evolution to reintroduce some animal products. Humm discusses the creative restlessness that led to the initial shift, the challenges and backlash faced, and the impact on the restaurant's business model. He explains that while the plant-based approach led to culinary innovation and earned accolades, it also created exclusivity and financial strain. Humm details his decision to reintroduce limited animal products to create a more inclusive dining experience while maintaining a plant-forward focus, emphasizing that this evolution is about welcoming everyone to the table and ensuring the restaurant's long-term sustainability.