Ep 13. Mama's Cookin'

In this episode of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, host Guy Fieri is on a mission to find the best home-style cooking in America. As the title suggests, this episode focuses on "Mama's Cookin'," featuring family-run restaurants that serve up delicious comfort food just like mom used to make.

First up on the tour is a restaurant in Denver, Colorado called the Grubstake. With its retro decor and classic diner menu, the Grubstake has been a neighborhood favorite for over 70 years. But it's their signature dish, the "Grubstake Breakfast," that has people lining up at the door. Guy tries the massive breakfast platter for himself, which includes eggs any style, bacon or sausage, hashbrowns, and choice of pancake, French toast, or waffle. It's a meal fit for a king, and Guy can't get enough.

Next, Guy heads to El Paso, Texas to check out Lucy's Cafe. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up authentic Mexican cuisine for over 35 years. Guy chats with Lucy herself, who shares stories of growing up in Mexico and cooking with her mother and grandmother. She then prepares a delicious feast for Guy, including crispy chicken taquitos, shrimp fajitas, and her famous green chile enchiladas. Guy can't resist taking a taste of everything, and he's blown away by the flavors and spices of authentic Mexican cooking.

Moving on to Nashville, Tennessee, Guy visits Arnold's Country Kitchen, a staple of the local community for over 30 years. This cafeteria-style restaurant serves up classic Southern dishes like meatloaf, fried chicken, and mac and cheese. But it's their homemade pies that really steal the show. Guy tries a slice of their famous chess pie, a sweet and creamy dessert that's been a favorite in the South for over 100 years. He also chats with the owner, Jack Arnold, who shares stories of the restaurant's history and his pride in serving up traditional Southern cooking.

Finally, Guy heads to Phoenix, Arizona to check out Mrs. White's Golden Rule Cafe. This iconic restaurant has been a fixture in the city's African-American community for over 50 years. Mrs. White herself shows Guy how to prepare some of her famous soul food dishes, including fried catfish, collard greens, and cornbread. Guy samples it all and is blown away by the bold and savory flavors of the South.

Throughout the episode, Guy highlights the hard work and dedication of these family-run restaurants, many of which have been in business for multiple generations. He also emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional cooking techniques and flavors, and the role that food plays in bringing communities together. For viewers looking for a taste of home-style cooking, "Mama's Cookin'" is not to be missed.