Why French

By Kyle Johnson Cherek

Published January 29, 2026 at 5:01 AM CST

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In a nation of immigrants, why did French cookery become the preeminent cuisine of the better part of the 20th century? Chefs and experts alike weigh in. Why French?

Classic Eats with Kyle Johnson Cherek is created and hosted by Kyle Johnson Cherek, and co-produced by a'point productions and WUWM. Executive producers are Kyle Johnson Cherek and Rob Schoonover. Audio editing and engineering by Brian Arkta and John Rymaszewski. Additional production by Valeria Navarro Villegas, Michelle Maternowski and Rob Larry, Special thanks to our guests author David Kamp and Chef Gavin Kaysen.

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Kyle Johnson Cherek

Kyle Johnson Cherek is a culinary historian and food essayist. He was the former host of Wisconsin Foodie on PBS, and for over a decade he has chronicled regional food stories, exploring where our food comes from, and how it shapes who we are. His signature wit and keen observations have made him a sought-after keynote speaker, media contributor, and culinary storyteller. Kyle has been awarded the Wisconsin Broadcast Association Award twice for his compelling essays on food culture.

See stories by Kyle Johnson Cherek