Ep 13. Fried and Gone to Heaven

The Best Thing I Ever Ate is a popular food-centric television series that showcases the favorite dishes of chefs and food experts from around the world. Season 11 Episode 13 is titled "Fried and Gone to Heaven," which revolves around the most amazing and delicious fried foods.

In this episode, several celebrity chefs and food enthusiasts discuss their favorite deep-fried delicacies. The show takes us on a culinary journey around the country, from classic fried chicken joints in the south to trendy food trucks in the west.

The episode starts with Chef Maneet Chauhan of Nashville making a trip to Arnold's Country Kitchen to talk about their famous fried chicken. Apart from tasting the juicy and crispy fried chicken, she also delves into how the restaurant has become a Nashville institution.

Next up, Iron Chef Alex Guarnaschelli introduces viewers to her love for fried clams from the iconic Woodman's of Essex in Massachusetts. Guarnaschelli says that fried clams remind her of summer and brings back memories of her childhood.

Then we are introduced to the famous Nashville hot chicken, which Chef Kelsey Nixon claims is the "most perfect fried food." She visits Hattie B's and marvels at the chefs' craftsmanship in creating the unique, spicy chicken.

Later on, Chef Antonia Lofaso visits a trendy vegan restaurant in LA called Little Pine, which serves up a unique vegan version of fish and chips. She is left stunned by the fact that the chefs were able to take out the animal products and still produce a meal that tastes like the real thing.

Next up, Iron Chef and restaurateur Michael Symon talks about his favorite type of fried food - the classic corn dog. He takes us to Chicago and Bub City, where they make the ultimate version of this fair food classic.

The show also features Chef Andrew Zimmern and his love for the ubiquitous Texas-style kolaches. He visits Kolache Factory in Houston and discusses the Texan heritage of this comforting pastry stuffed with sausage, cheese, or fruit.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a visit to Portland's famous Pine State Biscuits, where Chef Eddie Jackson talks about their Buttermilk Fried Chicken Biscuit. The dish is made with the restaurant's famous flaky biscuit and juicy, flavorful fried chicken.

Overall, "Fried and Gone to Heaven" sensationalizes the most amazing types of fried food and celebrates this guilty pleasure. It leaves us all craving something crispy and delicious and provides a roadmap to some of the best fried food destinations across the country.