In a recent appearance on MBC’s ‘Radio Star,’ Chef Choi Hyun-seok addressed rumors of discord with Chef An Sung-jae while humorously taking a few jabs at him. The episode, aired on the 30th, featured a special titled “Black and White Global” with guests including Choi Hyun-seok.
During the show, host Yoo Se-yoon noted the surge in Choi’s restaurant sales following his appearance on a program called ‘Black and White Chef.’ Choi explained, “The restaurant industry was struggling, and we faced deficits at times. But interest in us spiked due to ‘Black and White Chef,’ and sales tripled.”
He mentioned that initially, when ‘Black Chef’ appeared in the show, restaurant reservations skyrocketed, with simultaneous bookings reaching hundreds. As he continued to shine in the following weeks, his restaurant reached up to 13,000 visitors, selling out until December. This newfound popularity also brought in more job applications, highlighting the significant impact of the show.
Choi also mentioned a dish called ‘Jang Trio’ from the show, subtly referring to Chef An without naming him. When comedian Kim Gu-ra directly asked if there was tension with An Sung-jae, Choi denied it, claiming they were friends despite making light-hearted remarks about Chef An’s preferences throughout the segment.
Choi further shared a personal anecdote from a culinary event where An Sung-jae approached him to apologize, which Choi dismissed as unnecessary. He assured viewers of their friendly relationship, despite repeatedly teasing An’s steadfast culinary standards.
When asked if he’d join ‘Black and White Chef’ for a second season, Choi decisively refused unless offered a judge’s role. He praised An Sung-jae for his impeccable balance but criticized his lack of flexibility, advocating for creative freedom in young chefs.
The segment ended on a humorous note, with Choi expressing a desire to support young chefs in taking bold culinary risks.