Medieval taverns were gritty, chaotic hubs of food, drink, and community, serving as the first restaurants and vital social centers. Despite the filth, noise, and violence, they offered warmth, conversation, and escape from daily hardships. Chef Janine explores this raw history to highlight how far we've come in hygiene, food, and comfort—and to remind us to cherish the modern luxuries we often take for granted.

Yes, cheese is keto-friendly due to its high fat and low carb content. Just watch portion sizes, as carbs can add up. Hard cheeses typically have fewer carbs than soft ones. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with added starches. Net carbs range from 0g (Babybel, chèvre, halloumi) to about 1.6g per ounce (cream cheese), with cottage cheese being the highest at 2.9g per 4 oz. Chef Janine prefers low-carb varieties like Gruyère, Brie, and Camembert.

Many avoid fermented foods on low-carb diets due to carb concerns, but properly fermented foods are low in carbs and rich in probiotics. Fermentation reduces sugars and supports digestion, immunity, and gut health. Unlike pickling, fermentation enhances food with beneficial microbes. Low-carb options include yogurt, kefir, kimchi, cheese, and more—especially when fermented longer for reduced carbs and increased sourness.

Cheese is a staple on the ketogenic diet. Although milk, the source for cheese production, is relatively high in carbs, the fermentation...