John Mulaney

In this episode of Off Menu, James Acaster and Ed Gamble welcome comedian John Mulaney to their dream restaurant, where he shares his ideal meal with playful, deeply personal anecdotes. Mulaney’s dream starter is French onion soup, though he’s famously frustrated by the soggy bread and hot, watery broth beneath the cheesy crust. His main course is chicken Parmesan, a dish he loves for its melted cheese and crispy breading, though he admits he rarely eats the spaghetti side. He pairs this with hen of the woods mushrooms, a favorite that he’s only recently discovered. For drinks, he chooses Cherry Coke, and for dessert, a bag of Sour Patch Kids and a cigarette—drawing from a poignant SNL monologue about his rehab days. The conversation is rich with stories: Mulaney recounts being a last-minute replacement in Cinderella, his experience on the set of The Bear, and his deep admiration for the history of Pinewood Studios. He also shares funny, vulnerable memories of his father, his childhood, and his early comedy career, including being mentored by Milton Jones. The hosts celebrate his work, especially his storytelling and emotional honesty, and the episode ends with a warm, affectionate exchange that underscores the joy of shared fandom.