Ep 1. Los Angeles

In the first episode of the ninth season of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, Bourdain takes a trip to Los Angeles to explore the diverse and vibrant food scene of the city. He begins his journey in the Koreatown neighborhood, where he samples some traditional Korean dishes and learns about the history of the community.

Bourdain then heads to Boyle Heights, a neighborhood with a rich Mexican-American heritage. He visits a family-run restaurant that has been serving up classic Mexican dishes for over 40 years and chats with the owner about the importance of preserving traditional cuisine.

Next, Bourdain ventures to the city's downtown area, where he visits a few of the many food trucks that have become a staple of the LA food scene. He tries some fusion cuisine, featuring unique combinations of Korean and Mexican flavors, and enjoys the laid-back atmosphere of the trucks' outdoor seating areas.

The episode also features Bourdain's visit to a local restaurant that specializes in Taiwanese cuisine, including beef noodle soup and pork belly buns. He learns about the chefs' commitment to using fresh and authentic ingredients, and samples some dishes that are completely new to him.

Finally, Bourdain ends his journey in the San Gabriel Valley, which is known for its large Chinese-American population. He visits a dim sum restaurant and tries a variety of dishes, including dumplings, crispy pork belly, and egg tarts. He also meets with a group of local food writers and bloggers who share their thoughts on the LA food scene and why it is so unique.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain highlights the importance of immigration and cultural diversity in shaping the food culture of Los Angeles. He also acknowledges the challenges faced by many communities in the city, such as gentrification and economic inequality. Overall, the episode provides a fascinating look into the vibrant and multifaceted food scene of one of America's most iconic cities.