Joe Bastianich, renowned for his role as a judge on “MasterChef” U.S., believes that his Italian culinary program “Foodish” has the potential to serve as a sort of ‘MasterChef lite’ with global appeal.
Banijay is set to introduce the format to an international audience at the forthcoming Mipcom TV market in Cannes.
Currently in its second season on Sky Italia’s free channel TV8, “Foodish” is enjoying impressive ratings. The show focuses on discovering local restaurants that excel in serving the best versions of regional specialties or delightful dishes, including hot dogs.
Each episode features Bastianich and a celebrity guest sampling four variations of a particular dish, scoring each from 0 to 10 to pinpoint the local favorite. Contestants compete in direct challenges, with the winner crowned “Most Foodish,” receiving a plaque and the privilege to display the official “Foodish” sticker at their establishment.
Francesco Lauber, the chief creative officer at Banijay Italia, conceptualized this format, stating it arises from the universal desire to find the best local specialties when visiting a city: “You want to seek the best in town or in any specific area,” he explains.
“For instance, when I visit Monferrato in Piedmont, friends often take me out for the best vitello tonnato (veal with tuna sauce). My British colleagues similarly boast about the best smashburger in London when I visit,” he adds.
In an exclusive interview with Variety, Bastianich discusses what sets “Foodish” apart and its potential for expansion.
What drew you to host “Foodish” in Italy?
It was the chance to present a daily show during primetime access, offering a different experience compared to my previous engagements primarily in evening slots like “MasterChef.” After a hiatus from Italian food TV, this format appeared to be the perfect way to transition back: it’s fresh, creative, and well-timed.
How would you summarize the format?
It’s essentially a battle for the best dish, akin to King of the Hill. Contestants select a dish, and the challenge is to find the best iteration available. They compete head-to-head, with the best advancing until the champion is declared. It’s straightforward yet compelling.
The emphasis is on the delectable nature of cuisine, showcasing a variety of iconic dishes, whether it be traditional Italian fare or international delights. The show is filmed outside a studio, often in cars while visiting restaurants, contributing to a lively and fast-paced format where interaction and engagement are key. Each episode features a different guest from diverse fields like sports, entertainment, or cinema, aimed at crafting entertaining conversations and shared experiences around food.
What distinguishes the “Foodish” format on an international scale?
The versatility of the format is striking. It could easily be adapted to various locations, from using a tuk-tuk in Bangkok to a yellow cab in New York City. The absence of a studio setup allows for greater adaptability to cultural contexts, making it easier and more cost-effective to produce. With just three to five cameras, it’s possible to generate high-quality content efficiently, making it a potentially simpler and more universally appealing version of “MasterChef.”
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
