Donny Osmond isn’t known for his adventurous palate, but that changed recently when he appeared on the hit Netflix series ‘Somebody Feed Phil.’
Phil Rosenthal, the creator of ‘Everybody Loves Raymond,’ guided the longtime entertainer through the culinary delights of Las Vegas, a city with which Osmond has a long and storied connection.
In the latest season, now streaming on Netflix, Rosenthal takes viewers on a culinary journey, showcasing the blossoming food scene around Las Vegas hotels and casinos.
Osmond, 67, who has performed in Las Vegas since the age of 7 and is currently on a solo residency at Harrah’s, joined Rosenthal for a meal at Gritz Cafe.
The soul food restaurant, located a short drive from the famed Las Vegas strip, is owned by Trina Jiles, who also holds the title of Clark County’s first Black female firefighter.
As the two settled into their meal, Rosenthal lightheartedly welcomed Osmond with some playful screams.
During their conversation, Rosenthal pointed out Osmond’s preference for simple flavors.
“You told me you have very simple tastes,” Rosenthal said to the singer.
Osmond humorously responded, “You would think that I would, with all the traveling, the restaurants. I really don’t know. Give me something simple, because I just need some energy for the show.”
The meal included a sweet potato waffle topped with chicken, which Osmond remarked, “That should be illegal,” after taking a satisfying bite.
Additionally, the menu featured catfish, a butter pecan waffle, grits that Osmond loves, biscuits and gravy, and peach cobbler.
As they dined, Rosenthal noted the Osmond family’s roots in Ogden, Utah, and their recording experiences in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where Southern food played a significant role.
Osmond reminisced, telling Rosenthal about how they often received food from Kentucky Fried Chicken while recording.
“It was nothing but Kentucky Fried Chicken,” he said, providing an amusing anecdote about a time he and his brothers retrieved tape from a trash can after their producer mistakenly discarded it.
In a light-hearted tone, he explained how they used towels to wipe the grease off the tape to salvage their work.
Reflecting on his early performing days in Las Vegas, Osmond shared memories of his late-night schedule, going to bed at 6 a.m. after late dinner and cocktail shows.
As their meal wound down, Osmond expressed his intention to return to Gritz Cafe with his family, showcasing a sense of appreciation for the restaurant.
Throughout the episode, Rosenthal visits various other restaurants in Las Vegas, each known for their unique cuisine.
He checks out Esther’s Kitchen, an Italian venue located in the Arts District.
Another stop is Milpa, a Mexican eatery operated by James Beard award semifinalist chef DJ Flores.
Rosenthal also highlights Big Dan’s Shanxi Taste, praised for its hand-pulled noodles and James Beard nomination, and Don’s Prime steakhouse.
To celebrate the premiere of ‘Somebody Feed Phil,’ Osmond joined Rosenthal and former Rolling Stone reporter David Wild on their ‘Naked Lunch’ podcast.
The episode featured lively conversations and reflections on their respective careers, food preferences, and the Las Vegas dining scene.
Ultimately, Osmond’s experience with Rosenthal is a delightful exploration of food, camaraderie, and nostalgia, revealing not only his own palate but also the exciting culinary landscape of Las Vegas.
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