Ep 9. Outer Boroughs

In the 9th episode of the 7th season of Anthony Bourdain No Reservations, the viewers are taken on a gastronomic journey through the outer boroughs of New York City. Bourdain sets out to explore the diverse and vibrant food culture that thrives in the neighborhoods that are often overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of Manhattan. The episode starts with a focus on Astoria, a neighborhood in Queens known for its significant Greek population. Bourdain visits a local bakery and indulges in some authentic Greek pastries and then heads to a traditional Greek coffee house to try out some strong coffee and have a chat with some locals. He also visits a local Greek restaurant to try out some classic Greek favorites like moussaka and lamb kebabs. Next up on the tour, Bourdain heads to Brighton Beach, a neighborhood in Brooklyn also called "Little Odessa" due to its high concentration of Russian immigrants. He visits a Russian grocery store and tries out some unique and authentic Russian delicacies like pickled herring, black bread, and caviar. He also visits a traditional Russian restaurant and tries out some hearty and filling dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and beef stroganoff. The next stop on the tour is Jackson Heights, another neighborhood in Queens known for its diverse food scene. Bourdain takes the viewers on a culinary adventure to try out some of the best Indian street food like samosas, chaat, and dosas. He also visits a local Nepalese restaurant and tries out some momos and a local Colombian café to have some arepas and empanadas. The final stop on this outer boroughs food tour is the Bronx, where Bourdain visits a local barbecue joint to try out some of the best southern-style barbecue outside of the south. He also visits a local seafood market and tries out some classic seafood dishes like clam chowder and lobster rolls. Throughout the episode, Bourdain not only highlights the unique and diverse food cultures that thrive in these neighborhoods but also takes the viewers on a journey of exploring the history and culture that has shaped these communities. He also sits down and has candid conversations with locals, food vendors, and restaurant owners to learn about their lives, struggles, and contributions to their communities. Overall, this episode of Anthony Bourdain No Reservations is a must-watch for any food lover looking for a unique and authentic culinary experience outside of the typical tourist hotspots. The episode is a showcase of the incredible food cultures that thrive in the outer boroughs of New York City and the people who keep these traditions alive.