Joanna O'Leary

Joanna Shawn Brigid "Bridey" O'Leary was born in Alexandria, Virginia, grew up in central Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, and now calls Houston, Texas home. She graduated from Harvard University with a degree in English and earned a PhD in Victorian literature from Rice University. Bridey serves as a culinary consultant, food historian, and travel/food critic for media outlets such as Let's Go travel guides, Wine Enthusiast, BlackBook, the Onion, Houston Press, Houstonia, ColinCowie Weddings, and Fit, Strong & Sexy.


Articles by Joanna O'Leary

The Jewish History of Snapple

Spilling the tea on the Jewish American tea industry...

The Jewish History of America’s Favorite Crackers

How Ritz and animal crackers grew to prominence in America.

What Is Hanukkah Chocolate Gelt?

A deep dive into Hanukkah’s foil-wrapped chocolate currency.

The Jewish History of Margarine

The spread we love to hate, but just can't quit.

It’s Time to Rethink The Egg Cream

They have so much more to offer than just nostalgia.

The Nice Jewish Boys Shaping the U.S. Pizza Scene

Great pizza can be Jewish pizza, no matter how you slice it.

The Jewish History of Beano and Lactaid

It's no surprise that these digestion aids were invented by someone Jewish.

The Jewish History of Sweet’N Low

The pink packets hold a special niche in Jewish culinary culture.

The Best Jewish Food in Dublin

Along the streets of Dublin, you'll be surprised to find delicious Jewish eats.

The Surprising History of Pepperidge Farm’s Jewish Rye Bread

This hearty classic has become an indelible staple among Jewish kitchens and delis alike.