Roy Choi seeks to use Broken Bread as a story telling device, interview

As Broken Bread Season 2 is set to be released, Roy Choi is using the platform as more than just a vehicle to showcase cultures. While the subject of each episode implores viewers to ponder poignant questions, the invitation to the table is more than a 30-minute discussion to be devoured and put aside. Choi hopes that this story telling device serves as megaphone for voices that may not get heard.

In food circles, Roy Choi is a well-known figure. While his Kogi food truck might have put him on the map, the popular chef and entrepreneur is more than just a single endeavor. Over the years, he has used his position as a way to encourage others to have meaningful conversations around food and culture. Although there might be a seat waiting at that Best Friend table, the hope is that the lessons discussed over the meal are not dismissed after the last bite.

For Broken Bread Season 2, the six new episodes take on difficult topics. From gentrification to lack of fresh food, Choi gives a voice to those who are often silenced.

During a recent interview with FoodSided, Choi commented that he looks to Broken Bread as the show that “bridges the gap.” Mixed with the food, there is a plethora of information. From history to activism, each episode is meant to show how “food is the through line” in each community. Without creating any divisiveness, the show succeeds in giving a touch of optimism even when the difficulties seem to overpower.

Choi believes that his personal experience as one of the influential voices behind the modern food truck movement via Kogi affords him the ability to bring authenticity to the table. Having grown up in the community and seen it with his own eyes, he is confident that the stories being told are vital to imploring a meaningful conversation. Even if change is not immediate, the willingness to listen to the story is the first step bridging the gap.

For Choi, looking to change the descriptors is key to impacting people’s perceptions. Speaking specifically to the food truck revolution, Choi saw how the change in stereotyping opened doors for a whole community. Instead of the lowly food truck being pushed aside, the concept thrives. But, people had to break those barriers to entry.

Throughout Broken Bread Season 2, Choi looks to tell stories that offer a little curve ball to the narrative. While he hopes to give a glimmer of a “making a world a better place,” the reality is that many of these stories are focused on finding the commonality. While people might look different or speak a different language, it is time to find the connection instead of focusing on the separation.

As viewers watch the new season, the topics will bring up a variety of questions. Granted, everyone will not have the same perception and may be far from finding an agreement. Still, the disparity shouldn’t be the focus.

Choi commented that as a strong voice in the culinary world, he feels that he as a duty to foster a situation where walls can be broken down and people can share with one another. The varying points of view may be a given, but that should not be a barrier to entry.

Specifically, he commented that like in a restaurant environment, everyone needs to leave their baggage at the door. It might sound simplistic, but that willingness to be vulnerable and be open to others can lead to great discoveries. In the end, Choi hopes that people can find a way to love each other.

Broken Bread Season 2 is a KCET and Tastemade collaboration. The new season premieres on Tastemade, Tuesday January 25 at 8 p.m.