Ep 11. Santa Monica

In the latest episode of Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers to the sunny beach town of Santa Monica, California. This coastal city is known for its laid-back vibe, stunning ocean views, and an eclectic food scene that blends numerous culinary traditions.

Zimmern starts his journey by exploring the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has been an iconic landmark since its opening in 1909. He checks out the various shops and vendors on the pier, including classic carnival games and vendors selling irresistible snacks like fresh churros and funnel cakes.

Moving further inland, Zimmern visits some of Santa Monica's trendiest restaurants, where chefs are pushing the boundaries of culinary experimentation. He samples dishes that are both daring and delicious, such as bone marrow tacos topped with hibiscus-pickled onions and grilled octopus with fermented black garlic aioli.

But Santa Monica isn't all about haute cuisine - it's also home to a vibrant street food scene. Zimmern visits a local food truck festival, where he tries dishes inspired by various cultures from around the world. From Caribbean jerk shrimp to Filipino-style skewers, the food here is as diverse as the people who make it.

Of course, no visit to Santa Monica is complete without a trip to the beach. Zimmern joins in on a classic California pastime by learning how to surf, but not before stopping at a nearby taco stand for a quick bite. He chats with locals and fellow beachgoers about their favorite food spots in the area, adding to his ever-growing list of must-try eats.

Next, Zimmern heads to Santa Monica Farmers Market, one of the largest in the country. Here, he meets with farmers and vendors who are passionate about bringing fresh, organic produce to the community. He tries samples of juicy heirloom tomatoes, honeycomb straight from the hive, and even edible flowers.

Finally, Zimmern ends his trip with a unique dining experience at a restaurant that cooks exclusively with fire. He watches as the chefs use various techniques such as smoking, charring, and grilling to create dishes that are both rustic and refined. As he savors the flavors of the carefully cooked meat, Zimmern reflects on his journey through Santa Monica and the incredible variety of food that this coastal town has to offer.

Overall, this episode of Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations is a celebration of Santa Monica's culinary diversity and the unique personalities who bring it to life. From street food to fine dining, this coastal city's food scene offers something for every taste and budget.