Ep 4. Finger-Licking Good

Burgers, Brew & 'Que is a Food Network show that follows renowned chef Michael Symon as he travels across America in search of the best burgers, beers, and barbeque joints. In season 1 episode 4 titled "Finger-Licking Good," Symon visits Kansas City, Missouri, to explore the city's famous barbeque scene and discover the local specialties.

The episode begins with Symon visiting the legendary Gates Bar-B-Q, a family-owned restaurant that has been operating since 1946. Symon meets with the owner, Ollie Gates, and learns about the unique cooking techniques that distinguish Kansas City-style barbeque from other regional styles. Gates Bar-B-Q is famous for its burnt ends, a Kansas City specialty made from the charred and crispy ends of a brisket.

Symon then visits the Char Bar, a trendy barbeque joint that offers a modern twist on traditional barbeque dishes. He meets with co-owner Kevin Timmons, who explains the restaurant's philosophy of "smoking everything" and utilizing wood-fired grills. Symon samples the Char Bar's signature dish, a "burnt end burger" that combines the smoky flavor of barbeque with the juicy, savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger.

Next, Symon visits LC's Bar-B-Q, another famous barbeque joint that has been operating for over 30 years. Symon meets with owner Lindsay Shannon and learns about the restaurant's secret barbeque sauce recipe, which includes over 20 different ingredients. Symon tries LC's famous "pork sandwich," a tender and juicy pulled pork sandwich served on a soft, buttery bun.

Symon then heads to Boulevard Brewing Company, the largest craft brewery in Kansas City, and meets with head brewer Jeremy Danner. Danner explains the art of craft brewing and the importance of using locally sourced ingredients. Symon samples the brewery's "Tank 7" farmhouse ale, a refreshing and crisp beer that pairs perfectly with barbeque.

The episode concludes with Symon visiting Arthur Bryant's Barbeque, a legendary restaurant that has been serving authentic Kansas City-style barbeque since 1908. Symon meets with one of the restaurant's pitmasters, and learns about the process of slow-cooking and smoking meats for hours on end. Symon tries Arthur Bryant's signature dish, a "burnt-end sandwich" that combines the crispy and slightly charred pieces of brisket with tangy coleslaw and pickles.

Overall, season 1 episode 4 of Burgers, Brew & 'Que offers a mouthwatering exploration of Kansas City's iconic barbeque scene and showcases the unique flavors and techniques that make the region's barbeque so special. From burnt ends to pork sandwiches to burnt end burgers, Symon discovers the finger-licking good dishes that have made Kansas City a mecca for barbeque lovers.