Ep 6. India Kolkata-Bombay

In this episode of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, the famous TV personality and chef travels to India to explore two of its most important cities - Kolkata and Bombay.

Bourdain starts his journey in Kolkata, the largest city in Eastern India and a melting pot of various cultures and traditions. He visits the famous Victoria Memorial, a landmark of the British Raj period, and enjoys a cup of tea at the nearby Flury's, a historic bakery that has been serving locals for over a century.

Bourdain then immerses himself in the local street food scene, trying out various delicacies like puchka, jhal muri, and Kolkata-style biryani. He also visits some of the most iconic food joints in the city, including the legendary Kewpie's Kitchen and the 135-year-old Indian Coffee House, where he meets with local intellectuals and writers.

Next, Bourdain heads to Bombay (now known as Mumbai), the bustling city on the west coast of India known for its glamour, Bollywood movies, and street food. He visits the famous Taj Mahal Palace hotel, which was targeted by terrorists in 2008, and talks to the staff and guests about the resilience of the city in the face of adversity.

Bourdain then explores the street food scene in Bombay, trying out different types of vada pav, pav bhaji, and other popular snacks. He also visits some of the hidden gems in the city, such as the Parsi cafe Britannia & Co., which has been serving authentic Parsi food for over a century.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain interacts with local people and learns about the history, culture, and traditions of both cities. He also shares his own thoughts and observations, often with his trademark humor and wit.

Overall, this episode of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich and diverse food culture of India, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing its cities in the modern age.