Are four-star restaurants serving narcotics? In this episode we talk truffles, which, according to Italian researchers and news reports, have provoked gunfights and might get you high. Next, we debate the merits of soothing violins vs. sonically dynamic restaurant background music. Finally, microwaves: We think outside the box.

Joining us at the Oregon Truffle Festival are Harold McGee, a world-renowned food science expert, author of three books, and a former columnist at The New York Times; Dave Arnold, the founder of the Museum of Food and Drink, owner of Booker and Dax, and an author; and Peter Meehan, an author and the former editorial director for Lucky Peach