Ep 2. San Diego

Adam Richman travels to San Diego to take on some of the city's most iconic and challenging food challenges. The episode kicks off with Adam visiting the Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop, famous for its enormous surf 'n' turf burrito called the "Hulk." Weighing in at over five pounds, the burrito is packed with tender carne asada, succulent shrimp, crisp french fries, creamy avocado and tangy pico de gallo. Adam has just one hour to eat the entire burrito, and it's no easy feat. From the moment the burrito is placed in front of him, it's clear that this challenge is no joke. He struggles to take the first few bites, noting that the burrito is incredibly dense, with layer upon layer of flavor-packed ingredients. Despite feeling full after just a few minutes, Adam manages to power through, using his signature techniques like dunking the burrito in water to make it easier to swallow. Will he be able to finish the Hulk, or will it be game over for Adam in San Diego?

Next, Adam heads to Phil's BBQ, a San Diego institution known for its mouth-watering ribs. He takes on the "El Toro" challenge, which involves eating over two pounds of beef and pork ribs, plus four sides, in under an hour. The massive platter of ribs is coated in Phil's signature BBQ sauce, making each bite a flavor explosion. Adam marvels at the tenderness of the meat and the balance of sweet and tangy flavors in the sauce. But as the clock ticks down, he starts to feel the pressure. The ribs are surprisingly filling, and Adam realizes that he'll have to hustle if he wants to finish in time. With just minutes left on the clock, he digs deep and pushes himself to the limit. Will Adam emerge victorious, or will the El Toro prove too much to handle?

No visit to San Diego would be complete without a trip to the beach, and Adam heads out to Ocean Beach to sample some of the city's famous fish tacos. He stops at South Beach Bar & Grille, which is known for its signature Cali-style tacos. The tacos are loaded with crispy battered fish, creamy slaw, and tangy pico de gallo, all nestled in a warm tortilla. Adam notes that the combination of textures and flavors is a perfect balance, with each element contributing to the overall deliciousness of the dish. But he's not content to stop there - he also takes on the "Wilbur" challenge, which involves chowing down on a massive burrito filled with fish and shrimp. As he tackles the burrito, Adam is impressed by the abundance of fresh seafood and the perfectly cooked rice and beans. Despite feeling full from his previous food challenges, Adam powers through, determined to finish what he started.

The episode ends with Adam visiting Hash House a Go Go, a popular brunch spot in San Diego. He takes on the "Big O" challenge, which involves eating a plate-sized biscuit covered with fried chicken, bacon, and scrambled eggs, all drenched in a rich sausage gravy. Adam notes that the dish is a perfect combination of breakfast and lunch, with savory flavors and satisfying textures. But as he embarks on the challenge, he realizes that the massive portion size and rich flavors are going to make it tough to finish. With time running out, he pushes himself to the brink, using all his strategies to get the food down. Will he be able to conquer the Big O, or will he be defeated by the mighty breakfast behemoth?

Overall, the San Diego episode of Man v. Food is a nonstop culinary adventure, taking viewers on a tour of some of the city's most delicious and iconic dishes. Adam Richman proves once again that he's a force to be reckoned with when it comes to food challenges, tackling massive portions with skill and determination. San Diego may be known for its beaches and sunshine, but after watching this episode, viewers will be hungry for a taste of the city's amazing cuisine.