Tyler Akin on Dreaming up Bars and Restaurants Through Form-Function Hospitality

The meez Podcast

#75. In this episode of The meez Podcast, we dive deep into the culinary world of Tyler Akin, founder of Form-Function Hospitality, and a celebrated chef and restaurateur who has left an indelible mark on the East Coast's dining scene. From his early days in Wilmington, Delaware, where he was inspired by his Southern grandmother's meticulous cooking, to his time at prestigious kitchens like minibar by José Andrés and Michelin-starred Komi, Akin's journey is anything but ordinary.

After leaving law school to follow his passion for food, Akin honed his craft under the mentorship of renowned chefs Johnny Monis and Michael Solomonov. His own ventures, including the acclaimed Stock in Fishtown and Res Ipsa Cafe, have garnered national recognition and cemented his reputation as a key figure in Philadelphia’s culinary renaissance.

Akin's latest project, Bastia, is set to open in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood. This new venture, a collaboration with Foyer Project, will transform Hotel Anna & Bel into a vibrant space, offering a leisurely café experience by day and a coastal Mediterranean restaurant by night, drawing inspiration from the sun-drenched shores of Corsica and Sardinia.

As Form-Function Hospitality continues to expand with concepts like Bastia and the upcoming Caletta, Akin remains at the forefront of creating memorable dining experiences in historic spaces. Join us as we explore Tyler Akin's remarkable career, his passion for preserving culinary traditions, and the exciting new projects on the horizon.
Where to find Tyler Akin:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Where to find host Josh Sharkey:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• TikTok
• Twitter

In this episode, we cover:

(05:40): Tyler's Delaware roots
(10:09): How Tyler got into cooking
(17:57): The worst kitchen injury Tyler's seen
(23:21): All about Form and Function Hospitality
(30:28): Hotel Du Pont and Le Cavalier
(37:46): Batista Restaurant