Ep 6. Senegal

In the seventh season of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, the acclaimed chef, writer, and television personality explores the food, culture, and people of Senegal. Bourdain travels to this West African country to experience its vibrant and diverse cuisine, which draws on a rich blend of African, French, and Portuguese influences. In the sixth episode of the season, Bourdain delves deeper into the heart of Senegal, investigating its fascinating history, its unique cultural traditions, and its thriving arts and music scenes.

As he begins his journey, Bourdain meets up with his friend, chef and restaurateur Pierre Thiam, who serves as his guide throughout Senegal. They start off in the bustling capital city of Dakar, a vibrant and chaotic metropolis that embodies the spirit and energy of the country. Bourdain and Thiam explore the colorful markets of Dakar, sampling everything from fresh seafood to grilled meats to spicy stews. They also visit a traditional wrestling match, a fiercely competitive sport that combines strength, skill, and showmanship.

From Dakar, Bourdain and Thiam travel to the charming town of Saint-Louis, located on the banks of the Senegal River. This picturesque colonial city is home to a thriving music scene, which Bourdain explores with the help of local musicians and performers. He samples some of Senegal's most famous dishes, like yassa, a tangy chicken stew with onions and mustard, and thieboudienne, a hearty fish and rice dish that is considered the national dish of Senegal.

As Bourdain and Thiam journey further into the Senegalese countryside, they encounter a wide variety of culinary delights, from spicy peanut sauces to tender grilled lamb to sweet desserts made with baobab fruit. They also learn about some of Senegal's most important cultural and historical sites, including the Goree Island, a former slave trade center that now serves as a powerful symbol of freedom and reconciliation.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain emphasizes the importance of Senegal's cultural diversity and its unique place in the world. He notes the country's significant contributions to art, music, literature, and philosophy, and he highlights the resilience and ingenuity of its people in the face of poverty, oppression, and conflict.

By the end of the episode, Bourdain and Thiam have experienced the full breadth and depth of Senegal's food, culture, and people. They have made new friends, tasted new flavors, and gained a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of life in this dynamic African country. In doing so, they have also shown how food can be a powerful bridge between cultures, bringing people together and inspiring a deeper understanding and respect for the diversity of our world.