Ep 4. Medellin

In season 1 episode 4 of Andrew Zimmern's Driven by Food, viewers are taken on a journey to the beautiful city of Medellin in Colombia. This vibrant city has a complex history, from the notorious drug cartels to its current status as a cosmopolitan hub of art, culture, and incredible food.

Zimmern starts his gastronomic adventure by sampling traditional Colombian breakfast dishes at a market in the city center. He tries the ubiquitous arepas, a savory corn cake filled with cheese and other ingredients, as well as buñuelos, a fried dough ball often enjoyed with hot chocolate.

Next up, Zimmern visits a local coffee farm to learn about the process of growing and roasting some of the world's best coffee beans. He chats with the farmer about the challenges and rewards of coffee production and even gets to try his hand at roasting his own beans.

Medellin is also known for its street food scene, and Zimmern takes full advantage of this delicious and affordable option for lunch. He tries an array of local delicacies, including fried pork skin and sausage, grilled beef skewers, and a sweet and savory fried fritter filled with cheese.

Moving on to dinner, Zimmern visits a popular restaurant that serves typical Colombian dishes with a modern twist. He samples a dish of roasted pork belly with a blackberry glaze, as well as a plate of grilled octopus with a Colombian-style risotto. The chef explains his philosophy of elevating traditional flavors with innovative techniques and presentation.

Finally, Zimmern enjoys some of Medellin's famed nightlife, starting with a visit to a salsa club where he dances the night away with locals and tourists alike. He finishes his evening with a stop at a street food stall serving churros and hot chocolate, a classic Colombian late-night snack.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern showcases the rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary landscape of Medellin. From traditional dishes to modern innovations, this city offers something for every food lover.