Ep 11. Regional Classics

In the Regional Classics episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives season 5, host Guy Fieri travels across the United States to explore the best regional dishes the country has to offer. From the East Coast to the West Coast and everywhere in between, Fieri samples a diverse range of cuisines that have become synonymous with certain regions in America.

The episode begins in Baltimore, Maryland, where Fieri visits the Chaps Pit Beef food truck. This local favorite specializes in the city's classic sandwich - pit beef. Fieri samples their signature sandwich, complete with slow-cooked top round beef, raw onions, and creamy horseradish sauce, all piled high on a soft roll. He also tries their classic crab cake sandwich, made with jumbo lump crab meat and served on a sesame seed bun. The owner, Donna, shares the history of the family-owned business, which has been going strong for over 30 years.

Next, Fieri heads to Phoenix, Arizona, to visit the Welcome Diner. This cozy spot serves up southern-style comfort food, with a focus on fried chicken and biscuits. Fieri tries the diner's famous red wattle pork shoulder, slow-cooked for over 24 hours with a secret blend of spices. He also samples their chicken and waffles and classic biscuits and gravy. The owners, Michael and Jen, share their passion for hospitality and community-building through food.

In Covington, Kentucky, Fieri visits the Anchor Grill, a local landmark that has been serving up classic diner fare since the 1940s. He tries their famous double decker cheeseburger, featuring two patties, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce, all stacked between three slices of bread. He also samples their homemade chili, served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheese and onions. The owner, John, shares the history of the restaurant and its loyal customer base.

The next stop on Fieri's journey is Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he visits the Nook, a neighborhood pub that has been serving juicy Lucy burgers for over 60 years. A juicy Lucy is a burger patty stuffed with cheese before being grilled to perfection. Fieri tries their signature Juicy Nookie burger, served on a buttered bun with all the fixings. He also samples their cheesy tater tots and classic onion rings. The owner, Michael, talks about the pub's commitment to community and the importance of supporting local farmers and suppliers.

Finally, Fieri travels to San Francisco, California, to visit Brenda's French Soul Food. This bustling spot serves up classic New Orleans-style dishes with a French twist. Fieri tries the beignets, fluffy and powdered with sugar, and the gumbo, packed with sausage, chicken, and seafood flavors. He also samples their shrimp and grits, made with stone-ground grits and smothered with a spicy tomato-based sauce. The owner, Brenda, shares her love for the city and its rich cultural history.

Throughout the episode, Fieri celebrates the unique flavors and traditions of each region he visits. He uncovers the stories behind each dish and the people that make them, shining a light on the diversity and richness of American cuisine.