James Oseland

The Climb

James Oseland trained at San Francisco Art Institute. James went on to work as proofreader at LA Weekly in Los Angeles (1990), editorial positions at various publications in New York City (1993–2006), theater critic at Time Out New York in New York City (1996–1998), contributor (writer and photographer) at Saveur (1997–2006), managing editor at American Theatre in New York City (from 1998), editor-in-chief at Saveur (2006–2014), judge at Top Chef Masters (2009–2013), and founding editor-in-chief at Rodale's Organic Life (2014–2016). Today, James is author and editor-in-chief of World Food (since 2016) and host of WHDD's Food Traveler.

Today

He has described the project this way: "to him it is not a food magazine, rather it is anthropological magazine that looks at places, peoples and cultures through the lens of food."

Career - author and editor-in-chief — World Food (2016–present) - host — WHDD's Food Traveler - proofreader — LA Weekly, Los Angeles (1990) - editorial positions — New York City (1993–2006) - theater critic — Time Out New York, New York City (1996–1998) - contributor (writer and photographer) — Saveur (1997–2006) - managing editor — American Theatre, New York City (from 1998) - editor-in-chief — Saveur (2006–2014) - judge — Top Chef Masters (2009–2013) - founding editor-in-chief — Rodale's Organic Life (2014–2016) Education: San Francisco Art Institute; San Francisco Art Institute

Signature

James's signature dishes include Cradle of Flavor, World Food: Mexico City, and World Food: Paris.

Recognition

James's honors include James Beard Award for Cradle of Flavor, best books of 2006 honor for Cradle of Flavor (2006), International Association of Culinary Professionals cookbook award for Cradle of Flavor, and Jerome Foundation fellowship.

FAQ What is James Oseland's current role? As of 2026, James Oseland is Author and editor-in-chief of World Food. Where did James Oseland train or study? James Oseland trained at San Francisco Art Institute and San Francisco Art Institute. What recognition has James Oseland received? James Beard Award for Cradle of Flavor (2006).