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

How I Built This · 13 Aug 2025 · 43m

What this episode covers

Daniel Humm, chef and owner of Eleven Madison Park (EMP), explains his decision to reintroduce animal products after four years of operating a 100% plant-based menu. He details the creative and economic challenges of the plant-based experiment, including a 20% increase in labor costs and a dip in revenue due to reduced wine sales and private events. Humm describes how the shift fundamentally changed his cooking philosophy, leading to a new 90% plant-based menu that deliberately incorporates fish, shellfish, and duck to welcome a broader audience while maintaining sustainability goals.

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