Ep 26. Chicago: A Second Bite

In Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations season 6 episode 26, viewers are taken on a culinary journey through the city of Chicago. Host Andrew Zimmern returns to the Windy City to revisit some of his favorite food spots and try some new dishes.

First up is a visit to Gene & Jude's, a classic Chicago hot dog stand that's been serving up their famous hot dogs since 1946. Andrew chats with the owner and samples their famous hot dog, which features a natural-casing beef frankfurter, mustard, relish, onions, and a pickle spear – all on a poppy seed bun. He also tries their fresh-cut fries, which are cooked twice for extra crispiness.

Next, Andrew heads to 90 Miles Cuban Cafe, a family-owned restaurant that serves up authentic Cuban cuisine. He samples their Lechon Asado, a slow-roasted pork shoulder with a citrusy marinade, as well as their Tostones, crispy fried plantain slices that are the perfect vehicle for their fresh avocado and garlic sauce.

At Hot Doug's, a beloved Chicago institution that sadly closed in 2014, Andrew reminisces about the unique gourmet sausages and hot dogs they used to serve up. He talks to owner Doug Sohn about the inspiration behind his creations, which included everything from wild game to foie gras. Although Hot Doug's is no longer open, its legacy lives on in the hearts of Chicagoans and food lovers everywhere.

Andrew also visits XOCO, chef Rick Bayless's casual Mexican eatery that specializes in tortas, or Mexican sandwiches. He tries their Woodland Mushroom Torta, which features roasted mushrooms, goat cheese, and a smoky chipotle sauce, all on a freshly baked telera roll. He also samples their house-made churros, which are dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a dark chocolate dipping sauce.

Finally, Andrew stops by one of Chicago's most famous food landmarks, the Italian beef stand Al's #1 Italian Beef. He talks to the owner about the history of Italian beef in Chicago and samples their classic sandwich, which features thinly sliced roast beef soaked in au jus and served on a crusty Italian roll with sweet or hot peppers.

Throughout the episode, Andrew reflects on the diverse culinary scene in Chicago and the unique flavors that make it such a delicious destination. From classic hot dogs to contemporary Mexican cuisine, there's something for everyone in the Windy City.