Christopher St. Cavish, known for his expertise in Chinese food and as a beloved food writer in Shanghai, is embarking on a new venture: video storytelling. His latest project is a YouTube channel, @saintcavish, where he releases bi-monthly mini documentaries showcasing regional dishes and the artisans behind them. St. Cavish, often likened to the late Anthony Bourdain, has lived in Shanghai since 2005 and has made a name for himself through his meticulous research and passion for local cuisine.
In his first episode, which premiered on November 1, St. Cavish explores the world of soup dumplings, a subject that earned him international recognition with his viral “Shanghai Soup Dumpling Index.” The Index, known for its detailed analysis, examined dumplings based on their weight, filling, soup content, and skin thickness. However, St. Cavish admits that while he focused on modern variations, he initially knew little about the historical origins of these iconic dumplings. Episode one delves into this history, comparing the well-known Shanghai xiaolongbao and Henan’s guantangbao, while questioning the conventional narrative surrounding their invention.
The series promises a blend of culinary exploration and cultural storytelling, brought to life with humor and insight. In one scene, St. Cavish breaks character, laughing as he watches a master dumpling maker handle dough like a snake tamer. The episode, filled with lively interactions and vibrant visuals, has garnered praise from viewers, who eagerly await the next installment.
St. Cavish credits much of the series’ success to his collaborator, photographer and videographer Graeme Kennedy, along with a dedicated team of researchers and fixers who make the episodes possible. Their behind-the-scenes efforts are essential in gaining access to kitchens, factories, and homes across China, where the team captures the intimate stories of food artisans.
Upcoming episodes will feature a variety of dishes, including Lanzhou beef noodles, the most popular type of noodles in China. One anticipated episode showcases a unique East-meets-West collaboration, where three top Italian chefs join local Chinese noodle makers in Shanxi province. This cross-cultural exchange offers a fascinating glimpse into the shared passion for wheat noodles and the techniques that bridge culinary traditions.
Reflecting on his journey, St. Cavish muses about the global perspective that defined Anthony Bourdain’s legacy—empathy, curiosity, and wit. “Maybe one day I’ll get there,” he once remarked. Judging by the response to his new series, he might already be well on his way.
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