Ep 1. West Virginia

In season 11 episode 1 of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, Bourdain travels to the mountainous state of West Virginia to explore the culture and cuisine of this often-misunderstood region. From the hollers of the Appalachian Mountains to the bustling campgrounds along the New River Gorge, Bourdain tours the state with a sense of curiosity and respect for its unique history and way of life.

His journey starts in the state's capital of Charleston, where he meets up with Chef Mike Costello to sample some of the city's classic dishes, such as pepperoni rolls and fried chicken. They also visit the State Capitol building, where Bourdain learns about the role coal mining has played in shaping the state's economy and culture.

Bourdain then heads to the hills, visiting a remote farm where he learns about the state's tradition of moonshining and talks with locals about their way of life. From there, he attends a church service in an African American community, getting a glimpse into the state's rich cultural diversity.

In Fayetteville, Bourdain meets up with Chef Dale Hawkins for a taste of the local food scene. They visit a food truck park, where Bourdain samples elk burgers and other eclectic dishes. Afterwards, they hit up a local music venue, where they take in the bluegrass music scene that is so important to the area.

Bourdain's journey through West Virginia is not all about food, however. He takes time to visit the New River Gorge Bridge, which is one of the largest single-span arch bridges in the world. He also explores the state's history of political activism, visiting the border town of Harpers Ferry, which was the site of John Brown's famous raid in 1859.

Throughout his travels, Bourdain maintains a sense of humility and appreciation for the people and places he encounters. He recognizes the challenges faced by the people of West Virginia, from economic struggles to environmental concerns, and takes time to listen to their stories.

Overall, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown season 11 episode 1 is a fascinating exploration of the state of West Virginia. From the tastes and sounds of Charleston to the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, Bourdain's journey through this often-overlooked region is a celebration of the people and culture that make it so unique.