#anthony-bourdain

#anthony-bourdain

The late celebrity chef, author, and renowned adventure travel TV host Anthony Bourdain opinionatedly sampled a variety of regional cuisine from around the world on his show, "No Reservations." But he also tried the best food in underestimated locations, like Ohio. From quintessentially American food to shops owned by the Polish, German, and Japanese immigrants that shaped the Buckeye state's food scene, Bourdain visited eight spots across Cleveland and Columbus on the show back in 2005 and 2009, respectively.

Bún Chả Hương Liên is a very unassuming establishment. It's cheap, busy, and dimly lit, with plain white tiled walls, communal metal tables, and flimsy plastic stools - not exactly where you picture a former U.S. president dining. Bún chả is a traditional Hanoi dish made with marinated pork patties, grilled pork belly, vermicelli noodles, broth, and herbs. It's delicious, and Bún Chả Hương Liên does an amazing job with it.

There's a good chance you've seen it on your social media feeds for the last three months: everyone you've ever met in your entire life is getting out of town, out of the state, or out of the country. It's what summer is for: Lay on a beach, hike an exotic canyon, swim with a dolphin, try and fail to surf for the first time.

Bourdain's seminal "Kitchen Confidential" was first published in 2000. Crack a copy and thank us later. The first writing of his that caught major public attention was a 1999 article that ran in The New Yorker titled "Don't Eat Before Reading This." This bitingly honest, sardonically-toned professional kitchen industry exposé formed the basis of what would expand to "Kitchen Confidential" - the bestselling book that launched Bourdain's written and on-screen career.

Bourdain identified his first raw oyster as the igniting moment for his lifelong love of food, emphasizing the value of traditional, underrated ingredients.

Barney Greengrass on the Upper West Side is regarded by many chefs as New York's best breakfast spot, celebrated especially for its bagels and schmears.

Rentier de cochon is a traditional Cajun soup, known as pig backbone stew, cherished for its rich flavor, tender pork, and the luxurious texture from melting bone marrow.

Marilyn Hagerty wrote an article praising Olive Garden, leading to a viral backlash filled with condescension, until Anthony Bourdain defended her perspective on social media.

Anthony Bourdain identified food as a significant cultural experience, valuing meals that evoke memories and feelings. His ideal last meal was roast bone marrow at St. JOHN in London.

Bourdain criticized Paula Deen for promoting unhealthy food while claiming to represent traditional Southern gastronomy, insisting her recipes undermined authentic Southern cuisine.

Whether you’re searing veal or deep-frying chicken, heavy-bottom pans like the sauté and sautoir are indispensable for achieving perfection in the kitchen.

Bourdain referred to Guy Fieri's American Kitchen and Bar in Times Square as a "terror dome," criticizing its scale, high prices, and gimmicky offerings.