Ep 6. Iran

Anthony Bourdain takes his viewers on a culinary and cultural adventure to Iran in season 4 episode 6 of Parts Unknown. Bourdain sets out to explore the lesser-known aspects of Iranian culture, which is often overshadowed by the mainstream media's portrayal of the country as a dangerous and hostile place.

The episode begins with Bourdain's arrival in Tehran, the bustling capital of Iran. He is pleasantly surprised by the cosmopolitan vibe of the city, where young people share the same desires as their counterparts in any other part of the world. Bourdain is keen to delve into the everyday lives of the Iranians and explore their culture through the food they eat.

Bourdain's first stop is a traditional Iranian breakfast at a local restaurant. He indulges in dishes such as Halim, a nutritious porridge made from wheat and meat, and Kalleh Pacheh, a stew of sheep's head and feet that is considered a delicacy in Iran. Along with the food, Bourdain also discovers the unique culture of Iranian hospitality, as the restaurant staff goes out of their way to make him feel welcome.

Bourdain then visits a Tehran street food market, where he samples Iranian flatbread and various kebabs. The locals are friendly and welcoming, eager to share their love for food with Bourdain. Bourdain also takes some time to explore the rich history of Iran, visiting the tomb of Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the Azadi Tower, a symbol of Iranian modernism.

Bourdain's next stop is Esfahan, a city in central Iran known for its magnificent Islamic architecture. He visits the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses some of the most stunning buildings in Iran, including the Imam Mosque. Bourdain marvels at the intricate craftsmanship and the attention to detail that went into the construction of these buildings.

Bourdain also spends some time interacting with the locals in Esfahan, visiting a tea house and indulging in some traditional Iranian sweets. He is fascinated by the warmth and hospitality of the Iranian people and how they go out of their way to make strangers feel welcome.

Bourdain concludes his journey in the ancient city of Yazd, located in the southeast of Iran, where he explores the city's rich Zoroastrian heritage. He visits the Fire Temple, where a flame has been burning uninterrupted for over 1,500 years, making it one of the oldest continuously burning fires in the world.

Bourdain's final meal in Iran is at a local family's home, where he is treated to a lavish spread of traditional Iranian dishes such as Fesenjoon, a stew made from pomegranate paste and walnuts, and Baghali Polo, a rice dish made with dill and fava beans. Bourdain is moved by the warmth and generosity of the family, who open their hearts and homes to him.

Overall, Parts Unknown's Iran episode provides a unique and refreshing perspective on Iran, offering a glimpse into a rich and complex culture that is often misrepresented in the media. Bourdain's exploration of Iranian food and hospitality is a testament to the power of food to bring people together, even across cultural divides.