Ep 1. Food Tastes Better With Sand Between Your Toes

A Cook's Tour is an adventure and food travel series hosted by chef, author, and television personality Anthony Bourdain. Season 2, episode 1, named Food Tastes Better With Sand Between Your Toes, takes Anthony Bourdain to Thailand to explore the local food and culture.

In this episode, Bourdain travels to the southernmost province of Thailand, Narathiwat, which borders Malaysia. Narathiwat is a predominantly Muslim region, and Bourdain is thrilled to explore the unique food scene and rich culture of the area. He starts his journey by meeting up with his local guide and friend, whom he affectionately refers to as "Muay", which means "boxer" in Thai. Together, they set out on a culinary adventure that takes them through bustling markets, street food stalls, and traditional restaurants.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain samples a variety of dishes, many of which he had not tasted or heard of before. He starts with a breakfast of roti canai, which is a flaky, layered bread served with a savory curry sauce. He then tries bingka ubi, a steamed cake made from tapioca and sweet potato, and a type of coconut jam called kaya. Bourdain raves about the flavors and textures of these dishes and marvels at the skill and creativity of the local chefs.

As he continues his journey, Bourdain learns about the fusion of Thai and Malay cultures in the region. He samples dishes such as biryani rice, grilled fish with sambal sauce, and curry noodle soup. He also experiences the unique "roti john" sandwich, which consists of a fried egg and meat served inside a baguette-like bread. Bourdain is delighted by the mix of flavors and spices in these dishes and fully immerses himself in the local food scene.

Beyond the food, Bourdain also learns about the challenges faced by the people of Narathiwat. The region has been plagued by violent conflicts between the Thai government and Muslim separatists, which has led to a decline in tourism and economic opportunities. Despite these difficulties, Bourdain is impressed by the resilience and hospitality of the locals he meets, who welcome him with open arms and share their stories and traditions.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain reflects on his own love of food and travel, and how these experiences have shaped his life. He ponders the idea that "food tastes better with sand between your toes", a sentiment that captures the joy and freedom of discovering new cultures and cuisines. As he savors his last meal in Narathiwat - a sumptuous seafood feast - Bourdain expresses his gratitude for the amazing journey he has been on and the people he has met along the way.

Overall, A Cook's Tour season 2 episode 1 is a captivating and inspiring exploration of food, culture, and human connection. Bourdain's passion and curiosity shine through as he experiences a new place and shares his love of food with viewers around the world.