Ep 18. No Reservations: U.S. Southwest

Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations: U.S. Southwest takes viewers on a journey through the heart of the American Southwest. In this episode, Bourdain travels through New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas, discovering the unique cultural and culinary traditions of the region.

As Bourdain begins his journey in New Mexico, he visits the historic Santa Fe Plaza and meets with local artisans and makers. He explores the vibrant art scene in the city, visiting galleries and talking to artists. Bourdain also gets a taste of the local cuisine, sampling traditional dishes like green chile stew and sopapillas.

Moving on to Arizona, Bourdain visits the city of Tucson, where he discovers the city's rich history and Native American heritage. He meets with members of the Tohono O'odham Nation and learns about their traditional farming techniques and food practices. Bourdain also ventures to the nearby Chiricahua Mountains to explore the area's stunning natural beauty and meet with conservationists who are working to preserve the region's unique ecology.

Finally, Bourdain travels to Texas, where he explores the state's famous barbecue culture. He visits legendary barbecue joints in Austin and Lockhart, and talks to pitmasters about their craft. Bourdain also learns about the ranching traditions of the state, meeting with cowboys and cattle ranchers.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain delves into the history and culture of the Southwest, highlighting the region's unique contributions to American culture. He also reflects on the changing landscape of the region, discussing the impact of development and tourism on the area.

No Reservations: U.S. Southwest is a captivating look at one of America's most vibrant and culturally rich regions, and serves as a fitting tribute to its unique history and traditions.