Ep 8. Indonesia

In season 2 episode 8 of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, the renowned chef and travel journalist takes viewers on a captivating journey to Indonesia. A country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary traditions, Indonesia proves to be a captivating destination for Bourdain, who is determined to explore every aspect of its food scene.

The episode opens with Bourdain arriving in Jakarta, the bustling capital city of Indonesia. He wastes no time in delving into the local cuisine, visiting a food market where he samples a variety of street foods and dishes from different regions of the country. He then visits a seafood restaurant in Jakarta where he tries a unique dish called gurami, a fish that is famous in Indonesia.

From Jakarta, Bourdain travels to Yogyakarta, a city with a strong cultural and historical significance. He visits the famous Borobudur temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and then heads to a local market where he learns about the ingredients used in traditional Indonesian dishes. He then has lunch with a local family who prepare a delicious home-cooked meal for him, giving him a true taste of Indonesian hospitality.

Continuing his culinary adventure, Bourdain travels to Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city. Here he meets up with a local chef who takes him to a colorful market where they pick up ingredients for a traditional dish called rujak cingur. After the market, Bourdain visits a warung, a small roadside food stall, to try the dish. He is impressed by the complex flavors and textures of the spicy dish, which includes cow snout, vegetables, and peanut sauce.

Bourdain then heads to Bali, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. However, he is more interested in the local food scene and visits a street market to try babi guling, a traditional Balinese dish that includes roasted pork, rice, and vegetables. He then meets up with a local chef who teaches him how to make a spicy Balinese chicken dish called ayam betutu.

The episode ends with Bourdain on a beach in Bali, reflecting on his experiences in Indonesia and the country's diverse and colorful cuisine. He notes how the food reflects the many cultural influences present in Indonesia, including Chinese, Indian, and Dutch.

Overall, this episode of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations is a must-watch for any food lover or traveler interested in experiencing the rich and diverse cuisine of Indonesia. Bourdain's engaging and insightful commentary, combined with stunning visuals of the country's stunning landscapes and colorful markets, make for a truly unforgettable viewing experience.