Ep 12. Oklahoma/Route 66: The Onion Fried Burger

In Roadfood season 1 episode 12, viewers are taken on a culinary adventure through Oklahoma and the legendary Route 66. Hosts Jane and Michael Stern are on the hunt for one of the state's most iconic dishes – the Onion Fried Burger.

The episode begins with a visit to a local diner located off Route 66 called Johnnie's Grill. Here, the duo is introduced to the Onion Fried Burger – a dish that is said to have originated in El Reno, Oklahoma. This mouth-watering burger is made using ground beef that is mixed with onions and then fried on a griddle. The result is a crispy, flavorful patty that is then topped with more fried onions and served on a toasted bun. Jane and Michael give the burger a try and are blown away by the deliciousness of it all.

Next, the hosts head over to the Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma. This establishment has been around for over 75 years and was even the inspiration behind the character Sally in the movie Cars. Here, the duo is treated to another classic Oklahoma dish – chicken fried steak. The steak is breaded and fried to perfection, then smothered in a hearty gravy. Jane and Michael describe it as "pure comfort food" and it's easy to see why.

The Roadfood team then makes their way to another famous Route 66 landmark – Pops in Arcadia, Oklahoma. This soda pop shop has an incredible selection of over 700 different types of soda. But it's not just the soda that draws the crowds – they also have an impressive burger menu. Jane and Michael try out the Big Pops burger, which is made with two patties and all the fixings. It's a massive burger, but the hosts are up to the challenge.

Moving on, the hosts visit Clanton's Cafe in Vinita, Oklahoma. This restaurant has been feeding locals since 1927 and is famous for its chicken fried steak. But Jane and Michael have their sights on a different dish – the fried chicken. The chicken is coated in a special seasoning and then fried to perfection. It's served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans. The hosts are impressed with the quality and flavor of the food, stating that it's some of the best they've ever had.

The final stop on this delicious journey is Robert's Grill in El Reno, Oklahoma – the birthplace of the Onion Fried Burger. Here, the hosts get a behind-the-scenes look at how the famous burger is made. They watch as the beef and onions are mixed together and then grilled to perfection. The burger is topped with more crispy fried onions and served with a side of fries. Jane and Michael bite into the burger with anticipation and are absolutely delighted with the flavor. They declare it the best burger they've ever had.

Overall, this episode of Roadfood is a love letter to Oklahoma and the iconic dishes that have made the state famous. Jane and Michael Stern take viewers on a culinary journey through incredible small-town diners and classic Route 66 landmarks. Whether you're a fan of burgers, chicken fried steak, or just delicious comfort food, this episode is not to be missed.