Ep 11. Finger Lickin' Food

Finger Lickin' Food is the 11th episode of the 23rd season of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. In this mouth-watering episode, host Guy Fieri hits the road to explore some of the country's most finger-licking good food.

First stop on the tour is a small, family-owned barbecue joint in St. Louis, Missouri, where Guy sinks his teeth into some of the best ribs he's ever had. The pitmaster is a second-generation barbecue chef who has spent his life perfecting his craft, and the results speak for themselves. Guy is blown away by the smoky flavor and tender texture of the meat, and can't get enough of the homemade barbecue sauce.

Next up, Guy heads to a bustling food truck in San Diego, California, to sample some spicy and savory Vietnamese street food. The truck's owner is a former chef who left the restaurant industry to start her own business, and she has since become one of the most popular food vendors in the city. Guy tries the pho, a traditional Vietnamese soup, as well as some crispy fried rolls and a tangy noodle salad. With every bite, Guy can taste the passion and care that goes into the food.

The third stop on the tour takes Guy to a tiny diner in Portland, Oregon, where the menu features classic comfort food with a twist. The owner and head cook is a former punk rock musician who traded in his guitar for a spatula, and his cooking is just as creative and bold as his music. Guy tries a bacon-stuffed waffle, a spicy chicken sandwich with pickled jalapenos, and a dessert that combines ice cream and candied bacon. The flavors are surprising and delicious, and Guy can't help but sing the praises of this hidden gem.

The final destination on this episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives is a restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia, that serves up Southern soul food with a side of live music. The chef and owner is a longtime musician who opened the restaurant as a way to combine his two passions. Guy tries the fried catfish, collard greens, and mac and cheese, all of which are cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. And as he listens to the live blues music playing in the background, Guy can't help but feel like he's been transported to another era.

Throughout the episode, Guy is not only impressed by the food, but also by the people who make it. Each owner and chef has a unique story and a deep love for their craft, and Guy is inspired by their passion and dedication. Finger Lickin' Food is a celebration of the art and joy of cooking, and of the people who pour their hearts into every dish they create.