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Tara Duggan Takes Over 'Chronicle Food'

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/06/tara-duggan-takes-over-chronicle-food.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 8:50 GMT by San Francisco Chronicle
      Locales: California, New York, UNITED STATES

San Francisco, CA - February 6th, 2026 - The Bay Area's culinary scene is bracing for a fresh perspective as Tara Duggan officially steps into her role as the new host of 'Chronicle Food,' the long-running and highly respected segment on KRON 4 News. Duggan succeeds Michele Greene, a fixture in Bay Area kitchens and a beloved face to viewers for over two decades, who recently announced her retirement.

The announcement marks not just a changing of the guard, but a potential evolution for a program deeply woven into the fabric of the region's food culture. 'Chronicle Food' isn't simply about reviews; it's a celebration of the Bay Area's unique position as a global epicenter for innovation, sustainability, and sheer gastronomic delight. From Michelin-starred establishments to humble taquerias and the burgeoning world of food trucks, the segment consistently showcases the breadth and depth of the local culinary landscape.

Duggan's appointment signals a commitment to continuing - and potentially expanding - this tradition. Her background as a seasoned food writer, most notably with The San Francisco Chronicle itself, and her editorial experience leading the popular 'Dish Daily' column, make her uniquely qualified to understand and articulate the complexities of the Bay Area's food scene. She isn't arriving as an outsider; she's a veteran observer and chronicler, already intimately familiar with the chefs, restaurants, and trends shaping the region.

But what can viewers expect from Duggan's 'Chronicle Food'? While preserving the core elements that have made the segment successful - insightful restaurant reviews, engaging chef interviews, and explorations of diverse culinary traditions - Duggan hints at a desire to delve deeper into the stories behind the food.

"I'm incredibly honored to be taking over from Michele," Duggan stated in a pre-launch interview. "She set a fantastic standard, and I plan to build on that foundation. I'm particularly interested in exploring the growing emphasis on sustainable practices in the Bay Area, from farm-to-table initiatives to restaurants minimizing waste. We'll also be highlighting the incredible diversity of immigrant-owned businesses that are enriching our food culture, and telling the stories of the people who are passionately driving innovation in the kitchen."

The Bay Area's commitment to sustainable agriculture and responsible food sourcing is arguably unparalleled. With rising concerns about climate change and food security, this focus couldn't be more timely. Duggan's intention to shine a spotlight on these efforts aligns perfectly with the region's values and could further encourage positive change within the industry. Furthermore, the emphasis on immigrant-owned businesses acknowledges the vital role these entrepreneurs play in defining the Bay Area's culinary identity. Their contributions often go unnoticed, and providing a platform for their stories is a welcome development.

Industry insiders are also anticipating a potential shift in review criteria. While traditional factors like taste, presentation, and service will undoubtedly remain important, Duggan is expected to incorporate considerations such as ethical sourcing, employee treatment, and community involvement into her assessments. This holistic approach to restaurant evaluation reflects a growing demand for transparency and accountability within the food industry.

Duggan's first episode, scheduled to air on February 8th, 2026, will feature an exclusive interview with Chef David Kinch, of the acclaimed Manresa restaurant in Los Gatos, discussing his innovative approach to Californian cuisine and commitment to local ingredients. The episode will also include a segment on a newly opened Filipino eatery in the Tenderloin, showcasing the vibrant flavors and cultural heritage of the Filipino community. It's a strong start, signaling Duggan's intention to balance established culinary giants with the exciting new voices emerging within the Bay Area.