Ep 21. Back to Beirut

In season 6 episode 21 of No Reservations, titled "Back to Beirut," host Anthony Bourdain travels to Beirut, Lebanon to explore the food, culture, and history of the city. Bourdain starts his journey by visiting the famous Raouche Rocks, a scenic landmark that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. He then heads to the city's bustling Souk el Tayeb market where he meets local farmers and chefs and tries traditional Lebanese dishes like tabbouleh and shwarma.

Bourdain also visits a Palestinian refugee camp to learn about the struggles of the people living there and how they create sustainable businesses to support themselves. He tries a traditional Palestinian dish called maqluba, a layered rice and vegetable casserole, and commends the resilience of the people despite their challenging circumstances.

In addition to exploring the food culture of Beirut, Bourdain also delves into the city's complex history. He visits the National Museum of Beirut, which showcases the country's rich and diverse history, and interviews a historian about the city's past conflicts and the current political situation. He also visits Martyrs' Square, a significant site for protests and demonstrations, and meets with local activists who are fighting for social and political change in Lebanon.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain is touched by the warmth and hospitality of the Lebanese people and the strength of their community. He reflects on the resilience and adaptability of humans, despite facing adversity and war. The episode is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of a diverse city with a complex history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.