Ep 1. Big Bend

BBQuest is a thrilling adventure series where the hosts take viewers on a journey through different parts of North America in search of the best barbecue. Season 2 Episode 1, titled Big Bend, is no exception and promises to be a captivating ride.

The episode takes place in Big Bend National Park, a remote area deep in the heart of Texas. The park is known for its rugged terrain, picturesque views and unique blend of cultures. The hosts, Amanda and Bobby, are on a mission to discover what makes the barbecue in this area so special.

The episode opens with a shot of the hosts driving through the desert landscape, discussing their excitement for what lies ahead. They arrive at a quaint roadside diner, where Amanda immediately strikes up a conversation with the owner about the local barbecue scene. As it turns out, the diner makes its own sauce using a secret family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Bobby takes a moment to try it out and is visibly impressed with the complex blend of flavors.

From there, the hosts set out to explore the park itself. They hike through stunning rock formations and take in breathtaking vistas, all while chatting about the unique qualities that make Big Bend's barbecue stand out. They meet up with a ranger who shares some history of the area, and Bobby peppers him with questions about the local cuisine.

As the sun sets, the hosts head to their first BBQ joint. It's a small, family-owned spot in the middle of nowhere, and the smell of smoke hits them as soon as they walk in the door. The menu is simple yet inviting, with brisket and sausage being the stars of the show. Bobby is thrilled to learn that the pitmaster has been smoking meats for over 30 years and is happy to give them a behind-the-scenes look at his setup. Amanda is equally excited to sample the sides, including the restaurant's famous cornbread and beans.

The next day, the hosts continue their exploration of Big Bend. They drive through the desert and encounter some of the local wildlife, including javelinas and snakes. They also visit a small ghost town that was once a hub of mining activity. While there, they stop at a tiny general store that serves as a gathering place for locals. Amanda strikes up a conversation with some of the regulars and discovers a hidden gem of a BBQ joint that they hadn't heard of yet.

The hosts make their way to the new BBQ spot, which boasts a unique blend of Texan and Mexican flavors. The pitmaster here uses traditional techniques passed down through his family, and the result is a fusion of rich spices and bold flavors. Amanda is particularly taken with the brisket, which is coated in a savory rub and served with a spicy salsa. Bobby raves about the pork tacos, which are piled high with juicy meat and topped with fresh cilantro.

As the episode comes to a close, Amanda and Bobby reflect on their time in Big Bend. They talk about the unique blend of cultures and regional influences that make the area's barbecue so special. They also share some of their favorite moments from the trip and tease upcoming episodes in the season. Overall, Big Bend is an exciting and engaging start to what promises to be a memorable season of BBQuest.