Introducing “Stir the Pot," Our New Series Featuring Your Hot Takes

Whether it’s over toppings, trends, or regional staples, everyone seems to have a strong food opinion. East Coast vs. West Coast, pineapple on pizza, ketchup on everything (or nothing)—the debates are endless.

That’s why we’re excited to introduce Stir the Pot, our new social series starring pastry chef and Bodega Bakes author Paola Velez. Each week, Paola takes to the streets of New York City to ask strangers about their most controversial food opinions. Think: hot takes, polarizing preferences, and the quirks that keep food debates fiery.

To celebrate the first episode, we asked our own editors the same question that Paola asks: What’s your food hot take? From condiment controversies to bagel preferences, here’s what our staff had to say.

1. “Ketchup belongs nowhere—and I mean nowhere—near french fries. It's aioli or nothing.” —Julie Vadnal, Editorial Director

2. “Seafood and dairy do not mix.” —Kiernan Black, Senior Manager, Creative Ops

3. “Bagels should never be paired with sweet cream cheese.” — Chelsea Burnside, Social Media Associate

4. “Strawberry cream cheese is elite.” — Julia Nelson, Senior Manager, Social and Video

5. “Stop all breakfast burritos—just make good burritos.” —Georgia Panitch, Talent Manager

6. “Sandwiches are kind of annoying, I'd rather just have bread with a meal.” —Kelly Kenneally, Graphic Designer

7. “Ranch is a sauce, not a dressing.” —Sarthak Kher, Producer

8. “The only acceptable ketchup foods are: fries, burgers, hot dogs and chicken fingers or nuggets.” —Justin Sullivan, Hotline Producer

9. “Chicken wings should be eaten with a fork and knife. Not with your hands.” — Elvin Abril, Production Coordinator

10. “I'm told I eat pizza weirdly: I bite on the cheese side then spin it to get a bite on the crust side, so I get an even ratio of crust, cheese, and sauce. I hate crust by itself." —Lizette Gesuden, Video Editor

We want to know: What is your food hot take? Tell us in the comments below!