Eat Like a Local: Chef Chris Shepherd’s Revolution

In this episode ofOne Bite is Everything, host Dana DiPrima sits down with James Beard Award-winning chefChris Shepherd, whose groundbreaking Houston restaurantUnderbellywasn’t just about food – it was a movement. From his roots as a reluctant student turned kitchen prodigy, to becoming a champion of local farmers and global flavors, Chris has redefined what it means to eat – and live – like a local.

You’ll hear how a Mickey Mouse cookbook sparked his culinary journey, why he once bought out an entire farmer’s market table, and how he used his platform to uplift cultures, communities, and unsung culinary heroes throughout Houston.

What you'll learn:

• Why embracing local ingredients means more than just freshness – it’s about trust, impact, and resilience.
• The value of building relationships with farmers – and the power of showing up for your community.
• How Chris's new showEat Like a Localis taking his ethos from restaurant to screen – and changing lives along the way.

Featured Topics:

• The origin and evolution of Underbelly
• Building culinary trust with a community
• The quiet power of local food systems
• Fish sauce, wine pairings, and making vegetables irresistible
• How a chef becomes a storyteller

Don’t forget to rate and review the show on Apple or Spotify. It helps others find these stories and supports the mission of local food everywhere.