Ep 8. Viewer's Choice

In the eighth episode of season two of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, titled "Viewer's Choice," the host, Guy Fieri, takes a back seat as viewers get to choose which diners, drive-ins, and dives he visits across America. The episode is a testament to the diverse and quirky culinary landscape of America, showcasing small, family-run establishments serving up delicious, inventive dishes that have won over local residents and food critics alike.

The episode begins with a visit to a diner in New Orleans that has been serving up classic Creole and Cajun cuisine for over 70 years. The menu is bursting with bold flavors, from the spicy seafood gumbo to the rich jambalaya. Guy samples a variety of dishes, including fried catfish, shrimp and grits, and the house specialty, a po'boy sandwich stuffed with crispy fried oysters and dripping with remoulade sauce.

Next up is a drive-in in Albuquerque, New Mexico, that has been a local favorite since the 1950s. The signature dish here is the green chile burger, a juicy beef patty smothered in spicy green chiles and melted cheese. Guy also tries a classic chili dog and a green chile milkshake, made with locally grown chiles for an extra kick of flavor.

The episode then takes a detour to a dive bar in Chicago that has gained a reputation for its inventive bar food. Here, Guy samples a dish that is both a nod to the city's deep-dish pizza and a unique creation in its own right: a deep-dish pizza puff, a crispy, doughy ball filled with rich tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings like pepperoni or sausage. The bar also serves up classic Chicago-style hot dogs, loaded with all the fixings, and buffalo chicken wings with a fiery homemade sauce.

The final stop on Guy's culinary tour is a family-run diner in San Diego that specializes in farm-to-table comfort food. The menu changes with the seasons, but Guy gets to try the restaurant's signature dish: a massive chicken-fried steak served with gravy, mashed potatoes, and green beans. He also tucks into a bowl of hearty chili and a slice of freshly baked, fruit-filled pie.

Throughout the episode, Guy is effusive in his praise of the restaurants and the people who run them. He emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses and celebrating regional cuisines, expressing his admiration for the passion and creativity that go into each dish.

"Viewer's Choice" is a delightful episode that showcases the diversity of American cuisine and the joy of discovering hidden gems in unexpected places. Whether you're a fan of classic diner fare or looking for something a little more daring, this episode has something for everyone.