Watch A Cook's Tour

A Cook's Tour was a television series on Food Network that premiered in 2002 and ran until 2003. Hosted by the late Anthony Bourdain, it was a travel and food show that explored the cuisine and culture of different countries around the world. The show was based on Bourdain's book of the same name, which chronicled his experiences as a professional chef traveling the world in search of great food.

The show's format centered around Bourdain's visits to various countries, where he immersed himself in the local culture, met with locals, and ate their cuisine. Each episode featured a different destination, ranging from Tokyo and Vietnam to Mexico and Spain.

One of the show's main draws was Bourdain's no-holds-barred approach to exploring local cuisine. He was willing to try any dish, no matter how unusual or seemingly unappetizing, and often sampled exotic meats and unusual preparations. He was also not afraid to speak his mind about a dish, and his brutally honest opinions could be amusing, if not always flattering to the local cuisine.

The show was notable for its gorgeous cinematography, which highlighted the beauty of each country and its food in stunning detail. Bourdain often visited local markets, farms, and restaurants, and the cameras captured the sights, sounds, and smells of each location. The show's visuals provided a powerful backdrop for Bourdain's stories and observations, and gave viewers a sense of the depth and diversity of cultures and cuisines around the world.

In addition to exploring local cuisine, A Cook's Tour also delved into the history and culture of each country Bourdain visited. He met with locals from all walks of life, including chefs, farmers, street vendors, and other food experts, and learned about the country's customs, traditions, and history. Bourdain was a thoughtful and engaging interviewer, and his conversations with locals provided insights into the workings of each country's food system and culture.

Another highlight of the show was Bourdain's irreverent and often humorous commentary. He had a gift for storytelling, and his observations were witty, insightful, and occasionally profane. His commentary gave the show a rebellious edge, and made it stand out from more staid cooking and travel shows.

A Cook's Tour ended after only two seasons, but it has remained a beloved classic amongst food and travel enthusiasts. The show was a precursor to Bourdain's later work, which focused more on the cultural and political issues of each country he visited. However, A Cook's Tour remains a testament to Bourdain's passion for food, his curiosity about different cultures, and his talent for storytelling. It is a must-see for anyone who loves food, travel, or great storytelling.

A Cook's Tour is a series that ran for 2 seasons (45 episodes) between January 7, 2002 and on Food Network