David Chang reflects on the early days of the Momofuku restaurant empire.

David Chang Was Fueled by Fear and Pork Buns

David Chang Was Fueled by Fear and Pork Buns

Risks and rewards of the creative life.
April 7 2015 2:39 PM

David Chang on Fear, Anger, and Pork Buns

The chef and restaurateur talks about survival in the early days of the Momofuku empire.

Chef David Chang.
Chef David Chang of Momofuku.

Photo illustration by Slate. Photo by John Sciulli/Getty Images for Budweiser.

Listen to this episode of The Moment with guest David Chang:

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This week on The Moment, Brian Koppelman talks with David Chang, chef and founder of the Momofuku restaurant group. They discuss love and hate—and how David has used each to fuel his success. They also cover the insanity and rewards of attempting to achieve the impossible—like trying to produce the Platonic ideal of food on a nightly basis.

David also talks about the early days of Momofuku Noodle Bar, when the fear of financial ruin forced him to find a way to succeed.

Topics discussed in this episode:

People mentioned this week:

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Brian Koppelman is a filmmaker (Rounders, Solitary Man), essayist, and podcaster. His latest project is the upcoming Showtime series Billions.