Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster: Best of 2024 – Part 2

Hosted by Plosive

Release Date: December 27, 2024

In "Best of 2024: Part 2," comedians Ed Gamble and James Acaster revisit the most memorable moments from their popular podcast, "Off Menu." This episode compiles highlights from the year, showcasing their trademark humor, engaging discussions, and creative culinary conversations that have captivated their audience.

Opening Remarks

Ed and James kick off the episode by welcoming listeners back to their annual best-of compilation. They express excitement about revisiting favorite segments and moments that defined their podcast throughout 2024.

Water Wars: Still vs. Sparkling

A significant portion of the episode revolves around a lighthearted debate on water preferences—still versus sparkling. James shares his distaste for sparkling water, humorously suggesting it should be renamed due to its distinct taste:

James Acaster: "Sparkling water should taste like it was neutral, just fizzy. It doesn't—it tastes bitter and sour, like an unflavored soda."
[09:19]

Ed counters by sharing a personal aversion to still water, linking it to past experiences:

Ed Gamble: "Still water reminds me of the water from drip bags in hospitals. It's just interstitial fluid, rotten to the core."
[XX:XX]

Their playful banter highlights differing tastes and sets the tone for the episode's humorous exploration of everyday preferences.

Creative Characters and Imaginary Conversations

Ed and James delve into their creative sides by crafting fictional characters inspired by their guests. They introduce amusing personas like Scro on the Prawn and Little Shitbag, each with unique backstories and quirks:

James Acaster: "Little Shitbag keeps everything bottled up and snaps every once in a while."
[XX:XX]

These characters serve as a humorous reflection of their guests' personalities, adding depth and entertainment to their culinary discussions.

Memorable Dining Experiences

The hosts share entertaining stories from various dining outings, recounting encounters with eccentric waitstaff and unique restaurant atmospheres. Ed narrates an unforgettable experience at a renowned restaurant where the animated waiter left a lasting impression.

James reminisces about the Old Ivy, a beloved establishment known for its welcoming vibe and actor clientele:

James Acaster: "They treated everyone so wonderfully and openly. It made me wish I could bring my mother there because the staff were so amiable."
[XX:XX]

These anecdotes provide listeners with a glimpse into the hosts' gastronomic adventures and the quirky characters they've met along the way.

Health, Skincare, and Personal Habits

Transitioning to more personal topics, Ed discusses his skincare routine and experiences with facial treatments, highlighting the importance of self-care:

Ed Gamble: "Using an LED face mask makes me feel rejuvenated, almost like I've just emerged from the ocean."
[XX:XX]

James shares his meticulous approach to dental care, debating the effects of sparkling water on teeth and overall oral health.

Uber Ratings and Everyday Frustrations

In a relatable segment, the hosts humorously explore the impact of Uber ratings on their daily lives. They exchange stories about how minor actions can significantly influence their ratings, leading to amusing reflections on customer service and personal behavior.

Spotlight on Favorite Dishes

Ed and James celebrate their favorite dishes, discussing everything from perfectly cooked lamb to innovative nacho creations. Ed praises the succulent lamb he enjoyed at a Somali restaurant in Whitechapel:

Ed Gamble: "The lamb was cooked to perfection—melts in your mouth and absolutely delicious."
[XX:XX]

James talks about creating the perfect nachos, emphasizing the importance of balance in flavors and textures.

Fan Interactions and Podcast Highlights

The episode features highlights from fan interactions and memorable podcast segments. Ed and James recall standout moments where guests shared unique dream meals, adding a personal touch to their culinary explorations.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode draws to a close, Ed and James reflect on the year’s journey, celebrating the laughter and connections they've forged with their listeners. They tease upcoming projects and express gratitude for their audience's continued support.

Ed Gamble: "What are we doing with our lives?"
[Closing Remarks]

This rhetorical question encapsulates the show's blend of humor and introspection, leaving listeners with a thoughtful yet amusing final impression.

Notable Quotes

• James Acaster on Sparkling Water: "It's like an unflavored soda."
  [09:19]

• Ed Gamble on Still Water: "It's just interstitial fluid, rotten to the core."
  [XX:XX]

• James Acaster on Little Shitbag: "He keeps everything bottled up and snaps every once in a while."
  [XX:XX]

• James Acaster on Old Ivy: "They treated everyone so wonderfully and openly."
  [XX:XX]

• Ed Gamble on Skincare: "Using an LED face mask makes me feel rejuvenated."
  [XX:XX]

• Ed Gamble on Lamb Dish: "Melts in your mouth and absolutely delicious."
  [XX:XX]

• Closing Rhetorical Question: "What are we doing with our lives?"
  [Closing Remarks]

Note: Time stamps are approximate and based on transcript flow.

Additional Highlights:

• Character Development: The creation of Scro on the Prawn and Little Shitbag adds a layer of imaginative humor, showcasing Ed and James's ability to craft entertaining narratives.

• Culinary Expertise: Discussions about favorite dishes demonstrate the hosts' passion for food and their appreciation for diverse culinary traditions.

• Personal Stories: Sharing personal health routines and everyday frustrations humanizes the hosts, making them relatable to listeners.

• Fan Engagement: Highlighting fan interactions reinforces the community aspect of the podcast, emphasizing the bond between the hosts and their audience.

"Best of 2024: Part 2" serves as a delightful recap of Ed Gamble and James Acaster's year in podcasting, blending humor, creativity, and heartfelt moments to create an engaging and memorable listening experience.