Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations Season 1 Episode 1 Athens

In the first episode of Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations season 1, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary journey through Athens, Greece. Known for its rich history and ancient culture, Athens also boasts a diverse and unique food scene. Zimmern explores everything from traditional Greek tavernas to trendy modern restaurants, sampling some of the city's most interesting dishes along the way.

The episode starts off with Zimmern at the historic Central Market of Athens, where he marvels at the variety of locally produced food and ingredients. From fresh fish and meats to fruits and vegetables, Zimmern explains how this market has been a staple of Athenian culture for centuries. He also visits a small family-run spice shop, where he learns about the importance of herbs and spices in Greek cuisine.

Next, Zimmern visits a traditional Greek taverna, where he tries some classic dishes such as grilled octopus, stuffed grape leaves, and moussaka - a layered eggplant and ground meat casserole. He learns about the importance of the Mediterranean diet in Greek culture, with an emphasis on fresh vegetables, olive oil, and seafood.

Moving on to more modern fare, Zimmern visits a restaurant that specializes in unique takes on classic Greek dishes. Here, he tries a creative spin on spanakopita - a spinach and feta cheese pie - made with phyllo dough and a squid ink filling. He also tries an unusual dish made with smoked eel, served with pickled beets and a Greek-style yogurt sauce.

Zimmern's next stop is a restaurant that specializes in souvlaki - a popular street food in Greece. He tries a variety of skewers, including pork, chicken, and lamb, each with its distinct marinade and seasoning. He also samples some classic sides, such as tzatziki sauce and Greek salads, which add a refreshing balance to the flavorful skewers.

Returning to traditional Greek cuisine, Zimmern visits a restaurant that serves rustic dishes inspired by village life in Greece. Here, he tries a dish made with lamb chops cooked in an earthenware pot, with onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. He also tries a traditional Greek dessert called halva, made with semolina flour, honey, and nuts.

Finally, Zimmern visits a trendy rooftop bar with a stunning view of the Acropolis. Here, he tries an innovative cocktail made with ingredients inspired by traditional Greek dishes, such as a grapefruit and thyme syrup and a red wine reduction. He also samples a modern take on baklava - a sweet pastry made with phyllo dough and honey - which is served with a scoop of olive oil ice cream.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern emphasizes the importance of preserving and celebrating traditional Greek cuisine while also embracing innovation and creativity. He highlights the diversity of Athens' food scene and the pride that Greeks have in their culinary heritage. Overall, this episode is a mouthwatering introduction to the unique flavors and traditions of Greece.