Ep 18. Tasty Taverns

In this episode of Food Paradise, titled Tasty Taverns, we delve into the world of classic American tavern fare and discover some of the best and most iconic dishes served in these beloved neighborhood hangouts. From juicy burgers and crispy onion rings to hearty stews and savory pies, these cozy taverns offer a taste of comfort and nostalgia that is sure to satisfy any appetite.

We start our journey in Portland, Oregon, at a historic brewpub that serves up some of the best beer-battered fish and chips in town. Made with locally caught cod and paired with a zesty house-made tartar sauce, this hearty dish is the perfect complement to a cold pint of IPA. Next, we travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and stop at a beloved spot that has been serving up classic tavern fare since the 1800s. Here, we sample the famous cheese curds - lightly fried nuggets of gooey, melty Wisconsin cheddar that are a must-try for any cheese lover.

Moving on, we head to Cincinnati, Ohio, where we visit a tavern that features one of the city's most iconic dishes: the Cincinnati-style chili. This unique chili is made with a blend of ground beef, spicy chili powder, and a secret spice blend that gives it a distinct cinnamon-like flavor. It's then served over a bed of spaghetti and topped with cheese, onions, and a dollop of sour cream - a delicious and satisfying meal that is a staple of the region.

Continuing on our journey, we make our way to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where we stop at a cozy little pub that serves up a classic meat pie known as a pasty. This savory treat features a flaky crust filled with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots - a hearty dish that is perfect for the cold Minnesota winters. Next, we travel across the country to San Francisco, California, where we explore a tavern known for its signature dish: the Hangtown Fry. This unique dish is a combination of crisp fried oysters, bacon, and eggs - a tantalizing blend of salty and savory flavors that is truly unforgettable.

As we continue our journey, we make a stop in Louisville, Kentucky, where we visit a pub that serves up a delicious twist on an American classic - the hot brown. This Kentucky specialty features an open-faced sandwich made with roasted turkey, crispy bacon, and a decadent cheese sauce, all served over toasted bread and baked with a golden-brown crust. Finally, we travel to Cambridge, Massachusetts, and visit a cozy tavern that serves up a classic New England dish: the lobster roll. This simply prepared dish features succulent chunks of fresh lobster meat tossed with a hint of lemon juice and served on a warm buttered bun - a true taste of New England that is not to be missed.

Throughout this episode of Food Paradise, we discover the unique regional flavors and iconic dishes that make America's taverns some of the most beloved dining destinations in the country. From classic dishes like burgers and fries to more unique offerings like the Hangtown Fry and Cincinnati-style chili, the taverns featured in this episode offer a taste of comfort, nostalgia, and pure culinary delight that will leave any food lover satisfied.