Ep 15. Domincan Republic

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations season 8 episode 15 takes us on a journey to the beautiful island nation of the Dominican Republic. Bourdain immerses himself in the culture and cuisine of this Caribbean nation, exploring its vibrant history and diverse flavors.

The episode begins with Bourdain landing in the capital city of Santo Domingo and exploring the bustling Mercado Modelo, a market filled with colorful produce, fresh seafood, and exotic spices. Bourdain then heads to a typical Dominican neighborhood where he joins a group of locals in a game of dominoes and dances to the rhythm of traditional merengue music.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain showcases the rich culinary traditions of the Dominican Republic, sampling everything from the succulent roasted pork known as lechon, to the crispy fried plantains called tostones, to the refreshing coconut water that is a staple of the Caribbean diet. He also visits a number of local restaurants and street food vendors, trying their specialties and chatting with the chefs and owners.

One of the highlights of the episode is Bourdain's visit to a small fishing village, where he meets a group of local fishermen who take him out to sea to catch the freshest seafood imaginable. They grill the seafood right on the beach, served with a side of tangy lime juice and garlic sauce. Bourdain raves about the flavor and freshness of the seafood and shares a toast with the fishermen.

Bourdain also delves into the complex history of the Dominican Republic, which has been shaped by colonization, slavery, and political upheaval. He visits the Zona Colonial, the oldest and most historic section of Santo Domingo, where he learns about the Spanish conquest and the African slave trade. He also visits a Haitian-Dominican border town, where he witnesses the discrimination faced by Haitian immigrants and their descendants.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain develops a deep appreciation for the warmth and hospitality of the Dominican people. He shares meals and drinks with locals, attends a lively baseball game, and even tries his hand at making traditional Dominican dishes. He also reflects on the challenges faced by the country, including poverty, political corruption, and environmental degradation.

Ultimately, Bourdain leaves the Dominican Republic with a sense of awe and admiration for this vibrant and complex nation. He has tasted its food, learned about its history and culture, and connected with its people, leaving him with a newfound appreciation for the joys and struggles of life in the Caribbean.