Episode 1 Season 2 With Love, Meghan Review: Meghan Returns More Confident Than Ever

Meghan’s caramelized onion tart set the rhythm of the day. She laid cold puff pastry squares onto parchment, filled them with a mixture of sweet butter- and olive oil, caramelized onions, fresh thyme, Gruyère cheese, and a hint of garlic powder, then finished each tart with a brush of beaten egg, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. That simple yet elegant dish captured the episode’s playful approach, humble ingredients elevated by technique and creativity.

Cooking Out of the Comfort Zone

As they cooked, conversation shifted to personal memories. Chang and Tosi alone referenced their early days in northern Virginia and casual drives down Interstate 95.

The mood quickly turned experimental. Inspired by Christina Tosi’s graham cracker recipe (which includes butter, sugar, honey, flour, and salt), they created unconventional pairings, combining those crackers with soft marshmallows and bold flavors like lavender honey, peanut butter, even potato chips. Tosi leaned into the sweetness, while Martin introduced balance through thoughtful additions. Chang encouraged this creative freedom, demonstrating that a recipe could be a launchpad, not a script.

Chang’s Egg Hack for Crispy Edges and Runny Centers

David Chang shared a standout tip: place an egg on very high heat to crisp the edges and set the whites, then remove the pan from heat and cover it briefly. That trapped steam gently finishes cooking the white while leaving the yolk luxuriously runny.

Creativity Beyond the Kitchen

The playful energy flowed beyond the kitchen into scarves and blooms. Meghan introduced a water marbling session, dropping scarves into swirling paint on water, and a flower arranging segment where guests chose their own vessels and arranged blossoms with personal flair. An imaginative task, it clearly delighted Christina Tosi, who praised the vibrant patterns. Daniel Martin, more reserved, admitted that he identified as “more of a plant person” than a flower arranger (a moment noted by a reviewer who highlighted his preference).

The activity sparked laughter and gentle competition. Imperfect arrangements felt authentic, echoing the earlier cooking, which championed spontaneity and experimentation. By episode’s close, the table showcased more than food. It held scarves, flowers, and marshmallows, each shaped by creative impulse. Without striving for perfection, Meghan, Chang, Tosi, and Martin reminded viewers that connection often blooms out of shared curiosity and the courage to try new things.

Final Thoughts

Meghan feels noticeably more confident this season. In Season 1, while the show was strong, you could sense she was holding parts of herself back, likely a result of the relentless press scrutiny that pounces on her every move. This time, she appears more assured and commanding. Her fashion style and thoughtfully curated soundtrack add polish, while the guest lineup brings genuine depth and warmth. The shift makes the show feel both personal and elevated. I’m genuinely excited to dive into more episodes.