“The Glutster,” Javier Cabral, writes about food, drinks, punk rock, and culture, and blogs at theglutster.com. He’s also a restaurant scout for Los Angeles Times critic Jonathan Gold and producer of Pocho Hour of Power on KPFK. Before participating in a panel on the state of L.A.’s plate, he talked Vegenaise, his hideously ugly (and uncomfortable) couch, and what he loves most about L.A. in the Zócalo green room.
What’s your favorite condiment?
I think Vegenaise. Pea protein Vegenaise. I eat that stuff by the tub.
Which weapon would you choose in a zombie apocalypse?
Machine gun.
What’s your favorite thing about L.A.?
Just that there’s always something to do. That there’s so much to cover, so much to experience. Even for a native.
What food will you absolutely not eat?
Stinky tofu. That’s my weakness. I tried my best, but I just … it’s really one of those foods. And I love tofu, but stinky tofu …
Are you good at keeping secrets? If so, who can vouch for you?
Yes. Isn’t that like a trick question?
Did you have any nicknames as a kid, before you became “The Glutster”?
People used to call me “Spex” because of my glasses.
What do you wish you had the nerve to do?
Write a book, damn it! [Stomps.] Finish a book.
If you could take only one more journey, where would you go?
All through Mexico.
What’s the ugliest piece of furniture you own?
Oh my god. My girlfriend and I bought this mid-century couch—futon—because we were expecting guests, and bought it on a whim. It’s the most uncomfortable and most ugly piece of furniture we own. The fabric, it feels like a dirty office carpet—itchy on your skin, and weird pieces of coil and metal sticking out.
What music have you listened to today?
Punk rock, pop punk. Cobra Skulls, Teenage Bottlerocket, Dead to Me, Against Me!, and Descendents.