Ep 6. Return to the Dockyard

In A Taste of History season 11 episode 6, titled "Return to the Dockyard," the show follows chef Walter Staib on a journey through historic Philadelphia as he explores the city's early maritime history and its impact on food.

Staib begins his journey at the Independence Seaport Museum, where he explores an 1892 steamship called the Cruiser Olympia. He learns about the ship's history and the important role it played during the Spanish-American War. Staib explores the ship's dining room, which was designed to accommodate hundreds of sailors, and he marvels at the intricate galley where sailors prepared meals.

From there, Staib visits the historic John Wanamaker building, which was once a bustling department store in the heart of Philadelphia. The building's eighth floor was home to the famous and luxurious Crystal Tea Room, where high society Philadelphians gathered for elegant meals. Staib explores the history of the Crystal Tea Room and its connection to Philadelphia's maritime past.

Next, Staib heads to a local restaurant called Dock Street Brewery, where he learns about the history of beer in Philadelphia and the important role it played in the city's early economy. He speaks with the brewmaster and learns about their unique brewing process, which involves using a wood-fired oven to roast the malt.

Staib then visits another historic site, the Betsy Ross House, where he learns about the history of the American flag and the role it played during the Revolutionary War. He explores the house and demonstrates how to make a colonial-era dessert called syllabub.

Finally, Staib visits the City Tavern, a historic landmark that once served as a gathering place for some of America's founding fathers. He speaks with the tavern's chef and learns about the history of colonial-era cuisine, including the use of local ingredients and the influence of British cooking styles. Staib prepares a traditional seafood dish and shares it with the tavern's patrons, who are dressed in colonial-era clothing.

Throughout the episode, Staib explores the connection between Philadelphia's maritime history and its food culture, showcasing the unique flavors and ingredients that have shaped the city's culinary traditions.