Ep 2. French Alps

In the second episode of the tenth season of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, the late, great chef and storyteller travels to the French Alps to explore the region's unique cuisine, culture, and landscape. Bourdain begins his adventure in Chamonix, a picturesque town nestled in the shadow of Mont Blanc, the tallest peak in the Alps. Here, he takes in the stunning vistas and meets with local guides who offer him a glimpse into the world of mountaineering and extreme skiing. Along the way, they stop at a rustic mountain refuge called La Flégère, where Bourdain indulges in a classic Savoyard dish called tartiflette, made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, and lardons.

From there, Bourdain heads to Grenoble, the capital city of the Alps region, where he meets with a local chef who takes him on a tour of the city's bustling markets and specialty food shops. They sample local cheeses, cured meats, and wines, before preparing a traditional dish of trout with almonds and butter. Bourdain remarks on the distinction between the mountain cuisine of Chamonix and the urban food scene of Grenoble, noting that both are reflective of the unique cultures of the region.

Back in Chamonix, Bourdain continues to explore the local cuisine, visiting a family-owned bakery where they specialize in making the region's signature bread, pain de campagne. He also tries the famous Genepi liqueur, made from an herb that grows wild in the mountains. Along the way, Bourdain reflects on the history and the beauty of the French Alps, noting that they have served as a crossroads of cultures and a source of inspiration for artists and philosophers for centuries.

The episode is an ode to the alpine way of life, emphasizing the connection between the people, the food, and the landscape of this breathtaking region. Bourdain's trademark humor and insight are on full display as he shares meals with locals and takes in the sights and sounds of the French Alps. Overall, this episode is a mouth-watering exploration of one of the world's most stunning natural wonders, with food and storytelling as the perfect accompaniment.