Ep 8. Bar Food

Food(ography) Season 3 Episode 8, Bar Food, takes a dive into the world of bar cuisine. Host Mo Rocca explores the creativity and originality that goes into this often underrated food genre. Through interviews with chefs and food experts, Rocca learns about the history and evolution of bar food in America.

The episode begins with Rocca visiting a popular Sports Bar, to sample some classic bar fare. He tries out buffalo wings, nachos, sliders, and other staples of bar menus. Rocca also learns about the origin stories of some of these dishes and how they have become ubiquitous on bar menus.

Next, Rocca travels to different regions of America to discover unique bar dishes that reflect the local culture. He visits a bar in Louisiana to try red beans and rice, a dish that originated as a cheap and filling meal for laborers. He also heads to Portland, Oregon, to check out an oak-smoked brisket sandwich that is a must-have for locals.

The episode also delves into the bar food trend of "elevated" or "gourmet" versions of classic dishes. Rocca stops by a top-rated restaurant in San Francisco, where the chef serves up deviled eggs with caviar and fried chicken with truffle honey. Rocca is amazed at how these high-end ingredients take these comfort foods to the next level.

Rocca also explores the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making bar food. He visits a wholesale bakery that supplies buns to bars all over the country. He also visits a company that makes and packages hot sauce, which is an essential condiment for many bar dishes.

Throughout the episode, Rocca interviews chefs and food experts who offer insight into what makes great bar food. One chef talks about the importance of balance in flavors, while another emphasizes the need for comfort food at a bar. Rocca also speaks with a food historian who explains how different cultures have influenced bar cuisine.

Food(ography) Season 3 Episode 8, Bar Food, is a fascinating look into the history, culture, and creative evolution of bar cuisine. Whether you are a fan of classic bar dishes or enjoy more upscale takes on these comfort foods, there is something for every foodie in this episode. So, grab a beer and some peanuts, and settle in for a fun and informative exploration of bar food.