Creative Conversations: Jason Skrobar
Jason Skrobar is a cookbook author and food expert who creates joyful culinary experiences inspired by his parents' love of cooking and gathering.
As often happens these days, we encounter people whose work we admire from afar through social media. And I must say, it’s particularly hard when it’s food—all you want to do is devour it. Jason is one of those people. His book The Book of Sandwiches is so beautiful and stunning that I’ve become a fan of his cooking, even though I have yet to have the pleasure of tasting it. But that’s the beauty and the curse of the modern social era. All that to say, it was insightful to learn about his inspiration and aspirations.
Who are you and how would you describe your creative work?
I’m Jason Skrobar, cookbook author, on-air food expert, and culinary storyteller. My work is all about joy and connection through food. Whether it’s a cookbook, a TV segment, or a styled plate, I want people to feel inspired, curious, and a little more excited about what they’re eating and sharing.
What’s a key moment that reflects your creative journey?
I would have to say that holding my first cookbook, The Book of Sandwiches, in my hands for the first time was a huge moment. For me, it was a milestone - something tangible that represented years of cooking, styling, and imagination. It showed me that all the long days, late nights, and risks I’d taken could come together into something people could actually cook from and share, and that felt really good.
When you were younger, what career did you think you’d have?
Funnily enough, I thought I’d become a doctor. I spent a lot of time in hospitals as a kid, and the doctors were the people I looked up to most. That idea didn’t last long, though! It was more childhood admiration than an actual plan. Even after going to school for advertising, I found myself drawn to the world of restaurants and never really looked back.
Are there moments when you wish you had a 9–5?
Not a chance. I love the crazy, unpredictable schedule that comes with this career. It can be intense at times, but the creativity and energy keep me going. And the people are pretty great too! I’d never swap that for fluorescent lights and a cubicle.
What or who inspires you to keep going?
100 % my parents. They’re no longer here, but their influence is everywhere in my work. From the health food store my mom ran to the love of cooking and gathering that I got from both of them. They’re always present in some way in what I do. I wish they could have seen this part of my career take off.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Keep going. Even when you don’t know where it’s all leading, trust that all the little skills and experiences will add up to something bigger than you can see in the moment.
If you could collaborate with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Padma Lakshmi. She’s someone who’s used food as a way to start bigger conversations about culture, politics, and identity, while still celebrating the joy of cooking and eating. I admire her voice, her perspective, and her presence. Collaborating with her would be as much about sharing ideas as it would be about the food. And that’s precisely what excites me most about this career.
What does a perfect day look like for you?
If it’s truly a perfect day, I wake up in Paris, early, but not my usual 5 a.m., more like a respectable 7 a.m. Make a strong coffee, and play all the NYT word games (Wordle, The Mini, Connections, and Strands — yes, all four, every morning). I’ll catch up on the news, then head out for a run along the Seine. Later, I’d meet friends for a late brunch, the kind that isn’t rushed, with a few extra coffees and maybe even a cocktail or two. In the afternoon, I’d wander through the market, pick up fresh produce and pastries, and head home. Music or a podcast on, I’d spend time in the kitchen cooking (I know people might not believe this, but I’d still want to cook on my perfect day). And I’d end the evening the way I love most, around a table with friends, ideally outside, sharing food, drinks, and lots of laughter, before winding down with a good book or a show on the couch.
Where can people find you or find out more about your work?
Instagram @jasonskrobar is the best place to start. Though I’ll admit I’m not always the quickest at keeping it updated. You’ll still find recipes, behind-the-scenes glimpses of shoots, and plenty of food inspiration. My debut cookbook, The Book of Sandwiches, is out now, and you can also catch me on Canadian TV cooking segments, where I get to bring the food to life in real time.