Summary: If you've been to Israel in the past few years, you already know Gil Hovav. That's his voice over the loudspeaker, welcoming you to Ben Gurion International Airport, and wishing you a pleasant stay. It's no surprise, considering Gil's great-grandfather is credited with reviving the modern Hebrew language, writing one of the first-ever Hebrew dictionaries. Gil Hovav is a leading culinary journalist in Israel, a restaurant critic and the author of several best-selling books. His latest book, called "Candies From Heaven," is a memoir about what food and family recipes meant to him as a boy growing up in Israel. His dark and witty essays about family are likely what David Sedaris would sound like if he was from Israel. Often dubbed Israel's first foodie, Gil Hovav's outsized personality has made him a staple on TV. He was involved in creating, producing and presenting some of Israel's most viewed and beloved television food shows. He travels the world giving lectures about Israeli cuisine in the U.S., Europe and Asia. On today's episode, we catch up with Gil Hovav from his home in Tel Aviv, to discuss his career, why Israeli cuisine is the perfect food to photograph on Instagram, the craziest experience he's had at restaurants and one of the biggest food fights in American history. For behind the scenes access to our show, please join the "Our Friend from Israel" Facebook group. For additional notes, photos and a transcript of this episode, please visit www.ourfriendfromisrael.com.
