Ep 9. Austin
- September 3, 2012
In season 8 episode 9 of No Reservations, host Anthony Bourdain takes viewers on a culinary adventure in Austin, Texas. Known for its quirky culture, music scene, and vibrant food scene, Austin proves to be the perfect destination for Bourdain's exploration.
The episode starts with Bourdain walking around the city and taking in the local culture, including a visit to the famous graffiti walls at HOPE Outdoor Gallery. From there, he heads to Franklin Barbecue, widely regarded as one of the best barbecue joints in the country. There, he samples their famous brisket and chats with owner Aaron Franklin about his passion for barbecue.
Next up is a trip to La Condesa, a modern Mexican restaurant with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Bourdain is impressed with their inventive takes on classic Mexican dishes, like their corn ice cream with caramel and popcorn.
Bourdain then heads to the East Side King food truck, where he meets with chef Paul Qui. Qui, winner of season 9 of Top Chef, showcases his unique style of Asian street food, which combines traditional Asian flavors with a Texas twist.
Continuing his exploration of the city's food scene, Bourdain visits Uchi, a restaurant specializing in traditional Japanese dishes with a modern twist. There, he samples their famous hamachi, which is prepared with a smoked soy sauce and is topped with crisp fried onions and garlic.
Finally, Bourdain heads to one of Austin's dive bars, The White Horse, where he experiences the city's vibrant music scene. He watches as local bands take the stage, and even tries his hand at line dancing.
Throughout the episode, Bourdain highlights the unique culture of Austin and how it influences the city's food scene. From classic Texas barbecue to inventive Mexican dishes and Asian street food, Austin's culinary offerings are as diverse as its people.
Overall, season 8 episode 9 of No Reservations is a must-watch for anyone looking to explore Austin's vibrant food and music scene. Bourdain's trademark wit and keen eye for culinary trends make for an entertaining and informative journey through one of America's most unique cities.
