What's Eric Eating Episodes 292 and 293
Meet the acclaimed chef behind Katy's Phat hot spot, plus our visit to ElRo Pizza & Crudo
Chef Alex Au-Yeung is this week's guest.
On this week’s episode of “What’s Eric Eating,” chef Alex Au-Yeung makes his third appearance on the show. It’s been almost three years since the chef-owner of Katy’s acclaimed Phat Eatery sat down for an interview, so he and Sandler have much to discuss.
The conversation begins with Au-Yeung explaining his decision to close Yelo, the street food restaurant he opened in partnership with chef Cuc Lam. From there, the duo do a deep dive into Phat Eatery’s plans to open a new location in The Woodlands, with chef Au-Yeung providing an update on when he expects to open and sharing details about how the menu will be larger than the Katy location — think Peking duck served with Phat Eatery’s signature roti canai instead of traditional pancakes. He also explains how having a larger, standalone building may facilitate events such as parking lot parties and the introduction of a happy hour menu.
Sandler also asks Au-Yeung about his 2022 James Beard Award semifinalist nomination for Best Chef: Texas. Even though he didn’t advance to finalist status, the chef still celebrates the accomplishment.
“When I got the call, I closed my office door and cried. It was unreal. It was not something I expected,” Au-Yeung says. “I understand we work hard, but working hard does not mean we deserve something this big. I believe it will be tied to my name for the rest of my life. It’s an accomplishment that I’m very proud of. Sometimes I think about it — wow, that actually happened.”
Prior to the interview, Sandler and co-host Mary Clarkson discuss the news of the week. Their topics include: Chris Shepherd’s new TV show coming this September to KPRC 2; Dandelion Cafe’s appearance on Good Morning America; and Tony’s veteran Scott Sulma starting May I Speak Hospitality Consulting.
In the restaurant of the week segment, Sandler and Clarkson discuss their recent visits to ElRo Pizza & Crudo. Newly opened on the border of Montrose and Midtown, the restaurant is chef Terrence Gallivan’s return to the kitchen four years after he closed The Pass & Provisions.
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