Ep 2. Puerto Rico

In season 2 episode 2 of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, Bourdain visits the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. The episode begins with Bourdain taking in the bustling streets of San Juan, where he samples the city's famous deep-fried snacks and enjoys local music. From there, he travels around the island, exploring its unique mix of cultures and cuisines.

Bourdain's first stop is an old hacienda, where he meets with chef Wilo Benet. Benet is a native of Puerto Rico and is passionate about preserving the island's culinary traditions. He takes Bourdain on a tour of his herb garden, where he showcases the vast array of fruits, vegetables, and herbs used in Puerto Rican cooking.

Bourdain and Benet then head to a local market, where they sample a variety of local specialties. Bourdain tries everything from fresh oysters to grilled octopus, and he is impressed with the island's vibrant food scene.

Next, Bourdain visits the town of Ponce, where he meets with local farmers and learns about the process of growing coffee in Puerto Rico. He discovers that the island has a rich history of coffee production and that many farmers are still using traditional techniques to cultivate their crops.

Bourdain then heads to the Loíza district, where he is introduced to Afro-Puerto Rican culture. He meets with members of a group called Bembé de San Antonio, who are dedicated to preserving the island's African traditions. He learns about the importance of music and dance in this community, and he witnesses a powerful display of traditional drumming and dancing.

Finally, Bourdain concludes his trip with a visit to Vieques, a small island off the coast of Puerto Rico. Here, he meets with local fisherman and learns about the island's sustainable fishing practices. He also enjoys a delicious meal of fresh fish and other local delicacies.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain is struck by the diversity of Puerto Rico's cuisine and culture. He interviews locals who are passionate about preserving their traditions, and he is impressed with the island's commitment to sustainable farming and fishing practices. The episode is a celebration of Puerto Rican culture and cuisine, and viewers are sure to be inspired to visit this beautiful island after watching.