Ep 14. Cleveland

Cleveland, Ohio is known for more than just its sports teams. Host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary journey through the city in The Zimmern List season 2 episode 14. The episode showcases the city's diverse food culture, from traditional Polish pierogies to modern twists on classic American dishes.

The episode starts with a visit to Sokolowski's University Inn, a Cleveland institution that has been serving up classic Eastern European cuisine for over 90 years. Andrew samples pierogies, kielbasa, and stuffed cabbage, all made with traditional recipes passed down through generations. He also explores the history of the restaurant, which was founded by a Polish immigrant family in 1923 and has since become a favorite of locals and celebrities alike.

Next, Andrew visits Mabel's BBQ, a modern take on classic barbecue that has put Cleveland on the map as a barbecue destination. The restaurant is known for its smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, and pork belly, as well as its unique sides like Cleveland kraut and jalapeno cornbread. Andrew meets with owner Michael Symon, a celebrity chef and Cleveland native, who shares his passion for bringing high-quality barbecue to the city.

The episode also features a visit to Banter, a gastropub in the trendy Ohio City neighborhood. Andrew tries their famous "Totchos," a dish that combines tater tots with nacho toppings like cheese, salsa, and jalapenos. He also samples other pub fare like chicken wings and beer cheese dip, all made with fresh ingredients and a creative touch.

Andrew then heads to the West Side Market, a historic indoor market that has been a Cleveland staple since 1912. He explores the market's diverse offerings, from fresh produce to exotic meats like alligator and kangaroo. He also meets with vendors who have been selling their goods at the market for decades and learns about the market's role in the city's food culture.

The episode ends with a visit to The Plum Cafe and Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant in the trendy Tremont neighborhood. Andrew samples their seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, including a salad with roasted beets and goat cheese, and a pork chop with apple chutney. He also learns about the restaurant's commitment to sustainability and supporting local farmers.

Overall, The Zimmern List season 2 episode 14 showcases the diverse and vibrant food culture of Cleveland, from traditional Eastern European cuisine to modern twists on classic American dishes. Andrew Zimmern's enthusiasm and passion for food make for an entertaining and informative episode that will leave viewers hungry to explore the city's food scene for themselves.