John T. Edge, executive director for the Southern Foodways Alliance and the go-to expert for all things Southern food, was tapped for a Nightline Labor Day package on barbecue.
In case you missed it, the Nightline crew was in town a few weeks ago, taping several local chefs for Platelist segments and taking Edge on a trip to Bertha’s Kitchen and Scott’s BBQ in Hemingway.
The reporter does a fine job getting John T. talking, firing him up to give a passionate discourse on the importance of food to the South.
If he’s known for one thing, it’s his way with words.
Some key quotes:
• “Our food matters, our food comes with a really distinctive, sometimes troubling, but ultimately triumphant backstory. That’s what makes it matter to me.”
• “Food is our common bond.”
• “Barbecue restaurants aren’t segregated.”
• “There is hope in barbecue.”
• “Everyone comes for the food and then experiences the fellowship.”
Watch it below. And if you haven’t been to Scotts BBQ yet, this video will get you in the car.
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