Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations Season 1 Episode 6 Barcelona

In the sixth episode of Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations season 1, host Andrew Zimmern takes us to the vibrant and colorful city of Barcelona, Spain, known for its rich cultural heritage and the famous Catalan cuisine.

Zimmern starts his culinary exploration at the Boqueria Market, one of the oldest and most famous markets in Europe, where he tries an array of traditional Catalan dishes like tripe stew, razor clam ceviche, and tiny octopus cooked in its own ink. He also samples different types of cured meats like chorizo, cecina, and fuet, and learns about their history and preparation methods from the local vendors.

Next, Zimmern heads to Can Paixano, a family-owned restaurant that serves some of the best cava and tapas in the city. He indulges in a plate of seared lamb brains, a local delicacy that is surprisingly delicious, and pairs it with a glass of crisp, bubbly cava. He also tries some of the classic Spanish tapas like jamón ibérico, anchovies with green peppers, and grilled squid with garlic and parsley, complemented by the lively atmosphere and buzzing crowds of the restaurant.

Moving on, Zimmern visits Quimet i Quimet, a tiny bar that has been around since 1914 and is famous for its inventive and creative tapas. He has a chance to meet the owner, Juanjo Martínez, who shows him how to make one of their signature dishes, a layered masterpiece of goat cheese, artichokes, and smoked salmon, served on a slice of bread. He also tries some of their other unique tapas like cod tripe with chickpeas, pickled mussels with caviar, and fried eggplant with honey and rosemary, all washed down with a glass of vermouth on tap.

Finally, Zimmern heads to Els Quatre Gats, a historic restaurant that was a hub of the Modernist movement in the early 20th century and frequented by celebrated artists like Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Joan Miró. He tries some of their classic dishes like oxtail stew with truffles, and roasted lamb with potatoes and garlic, accompanied by a glass of red wine. He also learns about the history and legacy of the restaurant from the current owner, who shares some anecdotes and stories about the famous patrons who once dined there.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern showcases the diversity and richness of Catalan cuisine, which combines elements of Spanish, French, Italian, and North African cooking. He also highlights the importance of tradition and innovation in the local food scene, and how the city's vibrant culture and history continue to shape its gastronomy. Whether you're a foodie or a traveler, this episode is sure to whet your appetite and inspire you to explore the amazing culinary treasures of Barcelona.