Ina Garten Joins Willie Geist for Live Conversation in NYC

NEW YORK CITY — Ina Garten, the renowned chef and author known as the Barefoot Contessa, will join Willie Geist for a live edition of Sunday Sitdown at City Winery on May 19. This event will feature a candid conversation between the two culinary figures, offering fans the chance to engage in a unique and personal discussion.

Garten and Geist’s dialogue will cover a spectrum of topics, including tales behind her famous recipes and insights from her recently released book, “Be Ready When the Luck Happens.” The book delves deeper into her personal life, offering readers an intimate glimpse beyond her culinary successes.

“(The book) went a little bit deeper into her personal life and her childhood,” Geist explained to TODAY.com. “But I’ve known her for some time now, and we’ve shared private meals and conversations, which I think this will feel more like that.”

Geist, who has conducted over 530 Sunday Sitdown interviews throughout his career, noted the long-standing friendship he has with Garten, which dates back to her appearances on the TODAY show. “It started professionally — I think it was with her coming on the TODAY show, and me admiring the way she worked and carried herself,” Geist stated.

Attending the live show offers fans a chance to witness extended conversations and even participate by submitting questions. “Now we’re giving you the chance to literally sit there with us while we have the conversation,” Geist said. “There might be a little demo involved that we’re cooking up.”

Tickets are already in high demand, with early sales suggesting they might sell out quickly. Fans of both Garten and Geist can secure tickets now to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.

In a prior interview, Garten expressed her excitement about the event, saying, “Well, I could talk to Willie anywhere, anytime. So he’s just fun and smart, and I love when we’re talking backstage and whatever we talk about backstage ends up on stage.”

Geist echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the genuine nature of their conversations. “The truth is, it’s just sort of speaking with a friend. It doesn’t feel like an interview,” he said.

Fans of Garten will also be able to see the interview aired on the TODAY show for those who cannot attend the live event. The Sunday Sitdown Live will also be available as a full-length podcast and on Today Digital platforms.