Phil Rosenthal, the beloved host of the hit series “Somebody Feed Phil,” radiates an infectious enthusiasm that is evident from the moment he appears. At 65, his signature wide-eyed smile reflects his genuine passion for food and travel, which has become the hallmark of his show, now in its eighth season. Recently, Rosenthal took a break from his European tour, which includes a live performance at The Palladium in London, to enjoy a meal at Rovi, the flagship restaurant of renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi.
Rosenthal recalls fond memories of his childhood in a lively Jewish-American household in New York, where mealtime was often more of a chore than a joy. This background contrasts sharply with his current life, where he eagerly explores global cuisines and shares the experience with his viewers. His journey into culinary adventure began during a transformative trip to Europe at the age of 23, where he relished inexpensive baguettes in Paris and home-cooked meals in Italy, experiences that changed his perception of food forever.
Throughout his career, including his time as a showrunner for “Everybody Loves Raymond,” Rosenthal has creatively blended humor and culture, encouraging viewers to embrace the joy of cooking and eating. The essence of his show revolves around highlighting the positive impact of immigrants on culture and cuisine, a theme he feels is especially relevant today amidst rising global tensions and political divisiveness. “The fact that I literally embrace people from other cultures is somehow now a political statement,” he remarks.
In addition to the latest episodes of “Somebody Feed Phil,” which explore places like Amsterdam and Australia, Rosenthal is also set to release “Phil’s Favourites,” a recipe book that follows his bestselling series. He expresses excitement about opening Max and Helen’s, an LA diner named in honor of his late parents.
As he continues to travel the world and discover new culinary delights, Rosenthal remains optimistic. He believes that despite the negativity often portrayed in the news, the majority of people simply want happiness and connection through food. “I don’t have time for the negative,” he asserts, emphasizing the power of food to bring people together in joyful experiences.
With numerous destinations still on his list, such as Greece and Turkey, Rosenthal’s adventures are far from over. His unwavering excitement for exploration and connection through food serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of culture that exists in the world, making every meal not just a necessity, but an opportunity for celebration and understanding.