MI Great Plates

MI Great Plates
Podcast Description
MI Great Plates is your passport to Michigan's vibrant culinary landscape, showcasing the hottest restaurants, food and beverage-focused brands, and the passionate people behind them. Hosted by Justin Near, the region's top food and beverage publicist, this monthly show explores the state’s booming food scene, where new delights pop up weekly and reservations are a coveted prize.
With exclusive insights from hospitality-driven news media and food influencers, MI Great Plates brings you the stories, flavors, and trends that are transforming Michigan into a foodie paradise. Tune in at 8 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month to experience the culinary magic that makes Michigan a great place to eat!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Explores a variety of topics related to Michigan's food culture, including restaurant spotlights, chef interviews, and food trends, with episodes like the debut featuring Method Co.'s restaurants and discussions on local food influences.

MI Great Plates is your passport to Michigan’s vibrant culinary landscape, showcasing the hottest restaurants, food and beverage-focused brands, and the passionate people behind them. Hosted by Justin Near, the region’s top food and beverage publicist, this monthly show explores the state’s booming food scene, where new delights pop up weekly and reservations are a coveted prize.
With exclusive insights from hospitality-driven news media and food influencers, MI Great Plates brings you the stories, flavors, and trends that are transforming Michigan into a foodie paradise. Tune in at 8 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month to experience the culinary magic that makes Michigan a great place to eat!

May 22, 2025 ~ With it’s nationally-recognized Phoenicia, Chickpea Hospitality has been serving up exceptional and unforgettable experiences since 1971. In this episode of MI Great Plates, host Justin Near sits down with Sameer and Samy Eid, the father/son duo behind Michigan’s beloved Phoenicia, Forest, Leila and Wilder’s. Take a delicious dive into the ribs, rituals and legacy that will leave you inspired – and craving a rack of those legendary Samy Spice ribs!
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