Ep 17. Dominican Republic

In season 8 episode 17 of No Reservations, host Anthony Bourdain travels to the Dominican Republic to explore the country's culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Bourdain begins his journey in Santo Domingo, the capital city, where he visits a bustling market and samples local delicacies such as sancocho soup and chicharron.

Next, Bourdain heads to the countryside to meet with a group of farmers who harvest organic cacao and coffee beans, and learns about the traditional methods they use to cultivate their crops. He then travels to the rugged coastline of Samana, where he takes a boat tour to witness the annual humpback whale migration and enjoy the stunning views of the turquoise ocean.

Throughout his travels in the Dominican Republic, Bourdain also delves into the country's complex history and political struggles, including the legacy of colonialism and the impact of tourism on local communities. He meets with a group of Haitian immigrants who have faced discrimination and challenges in their attempts to build new lives in the Dominican Republic, and discusses the issue with a local human rights advocate.

Despite the challenges, Bourdain also celebrates the resilience and creativity of the Dominican people, from street artists to musicians to chefs who are reimagining traditional dishes with modern twists. He visits a rooftop restaurant in Santo Domingo where chef Maria Martinez is blending global techniques with local ingredients, and samples creative dishes such as plantain gnocchi and pork belly with passionfruit sauce.

Overall, No Reservations season 8 episode 17 offers a fascinating and multifaceted look at the vibrant culture and cuisine of the Dominican Republic, as well as the challenges facing the country and its people. Bourdain's usual wit and insight make for an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience.