Ep 3. New Jersey

In this episode of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, the adventurous host takes us on a journey to his home state of New Jersey to explore the culinary offerings of the Garden State. Bourdain's affection for New Jersey is palpable as he takes viewers through various towns and neighborhoods, showcasing the unique cultures and flavors that make the state a true melting pot.

The episode opens with Bourdain cruising down the turnpike in a 1960s Cadillac convertible, jamming out to Bruce Springsteen's "Born to Run." He sets the tone for the episode by explaining that New Jersey is often the butt of jokes and sneers, but that he loves it nonetheless. He points out the diversity of the state's population, which he says "leads to one of the few things Jersey can truly be proud of: its food."

Bourdain's first stop is in Newark's Ironbound neighborhood, which he describes as "one of the most vibrant ethnic enclaves I've ever seen." He walks through the streets, taking in the sounds and smells of the Latin American and Portuguese businesses that line the sidewalks. He stops by a seafood restaurant that specializes in Portuguese-style grilled octopus and enjoys a plate of it with a glass of vinho verde.

Next, Bourdain heads to Hoboken, the birthplace of Frank Sinatra and home to some of the best Italian food in the state. He meets up with his buddy, Todd, who takes him to his favorite slice joint, Benny Tudino's. They share an enormous slice of pizza that Bourdain describes as "as big as your head."

After Hoboken, Bourdain heads down to the Jersey Shore, stopping first in Asbury Park. He nostalgically recounts memories of going to the boardwalk as a kid and watching the place slowly decline over the years. But he's pleasantly surprised to find that Asbury Park is making a comeback, with new shops and restaurants opening up all the time. He stops by a spot called Frank's Deli, where he indulges in a classic Jersey breakfast sandwich: pork roll, egg, and cheese on a kaiser roll.

Bourdain then heads a bit further down the coast to Long Beach Island, where he meets up with a group of hardcore fishing enthusiasts. He fishes with them for a bit before they all gather on the beach to cook up their catch. They fry up some bluefish and Bourdain marvels at the simplicity and deliciousness of the dish.

The episode ends with Bourdain back in his old stomping grounds of Leonia, where his parents still live. He visits a spot called Mitsuwa Marketplace, which he describes as "paradise." It's a Japanese grocery store with all manner of exotic snacks and ingredients. Bourdain wanders the store, picking up foods he's never tried before and reminiscing about his love for his home state.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain's love for New Jersey shines through in his interactions with the people he meets and the foods he tries. He insists that the state's food is underrated and overlooked, and makes a compelling case for why it deserves more recognition. His infectious enthusiasm and genuine curiosity make for an engaging and entertaining watch.