Ep 8. Egypt

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations season 5 episode 8 takes us on a journey through Egypt, a country steeped in history, culture, and food. Bourdain sets out to explore the country's culinary traditions, as well as its people, and its iconic landmarks.

Bourdain begins his adventure in Cairo, where he takes a walk through the city's streets, sampling its street food and mingling with locals. With each bite, he discovers the flavors that make Egyptian food unique and gains a deeper understanding of how it connects to the country's history and culture.

He then visits one of Cairo's most famous landmarks, the Great Pyramids of Giza, where he learns about their origins and the rich history of the ancient Egyptian civilization. Bourdain also visits the Egyptian Museum, where he marvels at the collection of treasures showcased, including Tutankhamun's golden mask.

Bourdain then travels to Luxor to dive deeper into Egypt's past. He visits the temple of Karnak, one of the largest temple complexes in the world, and learns about the gods that were worshipped there. He also visits the Valley of the Kings, where he explores the tombs of pharaohs and learns about their beliefs in the afterlife. As he delves deeper into Egypt's history, Bourdain gains an appreciation for its people and traditions.

The second half of the episode focuses on Egyptian cuisine, as Bourdain visits a variety of establishments to sample some of the country's most popular dishes. He visits a restaurant in Cairo serving up traditional Egyptian dishes such as Koshary, a vegan-friendly dish made of pasta and lentils, and Shawarma, a sandwich made with spit-roasted meat. He also stops by a bakery to watch the creation of Feteer, a pastry that's been around since the time of the pharaohs.

Bourdain's culinary tour takes him to Alexandria, where he samples fresh seafood and meets with local fishermen. He visits a juice bar that has been serving customers since the 1890s and samples sugarcane juice. As he eats his way through the city, Bourdain discovers the role that food plays in Egypt's social and cultural traditions.

The episode ends with Bourdain reflecting on his journey through Egypt, sharing his thoughts on the country's cuisine, people, and history. Through his travels, he reveals how food can bring people together, bridging cultural divides and creating new connections.

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations season 5 episode 8 is an immersive and engaging look at Egypt's food and culture. It showcases the country's rich history and landmarks while delving into the traditions and culinary delights that make it unique. With Bourdain as our guide, we're taken on a journey of discovery, exploring the sights, sounds, and flavors of this captivating country.