Ep 7. Lower East Side

In the twelfth season of the iconic travel and food show Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, the episode 7 showcases the Lower East Side of Manhattan, NY. The episode takes its viewers on a journey to the Lower East Side, one of the most historically significant and culturally vibrant neighborhoods of the city. Anthony Bourdain, known for his distinctive storytelling style and culinary expertise, introduces the viewers to the neighborhood's past and present as he explores the vibrant food scene.

The episode starts with the iconic Tenement Museum, which serves as the setting to learn about the neighborhood's history. Bourdain talks to the museum's staff and immigrants' descendants to showcase the struggles and sacrifices that families had to make to establish themselves in America. Bourdain pays tribute to the early immigrants who created a new culture and shaped the American identity. He visits The Museum of Chinese in America, which highlights the Chinese immigrants' contribution to the neighborhood, such as the Manhattan Chinatown and the Easter Day Parade.

Next, Bourdain heads to Russ & Daughters, a legendary Jewish deli that has been a fixture of the neighborhood for over 100 years, to sample some smoked salmon. Bourdain discusses the evolution of the Jewish cuisine in this neighborhood, highlighting the influences from Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean.

Bourdain then visits Roberta's, a pizzeria that has been at the forefront of the Brooklyn food scene for years. The restaurant has a unique approach to making pizza, which represents the neighborhood's Brooklyn culture. Bourdain shares a pizza with the two owners, who discuss how they built the restaurant from scratch and made it an icon in the food world.

In another segment, Bourdain visits a bar in Alphabet City that is famous for its funk and soul music scene. While enjoying a beer, he talks to some locals about the history of the neighborhood and how it has changed over the years. He then stops at the Abrons Arts Center to attend a performance that is a tribute to the Lower East Side's music legends, such as Lou Reed and Iggy Pop.

Lastly, Bourdain visits Mission Chinese, a restaurant that serves a unique style of Sichuan food. Mission Chinese is a symbol of globalization and fusion of cuisines in the Lower East Side. Bourdain sits down with the chef and founder of Mission Chinese, Danny Bowien, who talks about his unconventional approach to cooking Chinese food and opening an award-winning restaurant in one of the most challenging neighborhoods of New York City.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain celebrates the Lower East Side's diversity and the melting pot of cultures that make the neighborhood unique. He emphasizes the importance of cultural exploration and understanding to break down barriers and build connections between people from different backgrounds.

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown season 12 episode 7 delivers an enlightening and personal look at one of the most culturally dynamic neighborhoods in America. The episode's narrative, along with Bourdain's insight and humor, provides an engaging and thought-provoking journey into the Lower East Side's heart and soul.