Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations Season 7 Episode 7 New Jersey

On this episode of Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary tour of the Garden State, New Jersey. From the famous boardwalk cuisine of the Jersey Shore to the ethnic enclaves of Newark, this episode explores the diverse array of foods that can be found in one of America's most densely populated and culturally rich states.

Zimmern begins his journey at the iconic Jersey Shore, known for its boardwalks and amusement parks. Here, he samples classic beach favorites like funnel cake, cotton candy, and saltwater taffy. But he also discovers some more unexpected eats, like deep-fried Oreos and lobster rolls piled high with buttery goodness. It's a feast for the senses, as the sights, sounds, and smells of the boardwalk come alive.

Moving inland, Zimmern heads to Newark, one of the most diverse cities in the country. Here, he explores the culinary traditions of the many immigrant communities that call the city home. From Portuguese BBQ to Colombian empanadas, Newark is a melting pot of flavors and cultures. Zimmern samples some of the best dishes from each community, learning about the history and traditions behind each recipe.

In Jersey City, Zimmern visits one of the state's most famous diners, the White Mana. This tiny eatery has been serving up burgers, hot dogs, and fries since 1939, and has become a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Zimmern gets a behind-the-scenes look at the cooking process, trying his hand at flipping burgers on the griddle and learning the secret to the diner's famous sauce.

No trip to New Jersey would be complete without a visit to the state's capital, Trenton. Here, Zimmern samples one of the state's most iconic dishes: pork roll. This breakfast meat, similar to Canadian bacon, is a beloved New Jersey staple and is served up in diners across the state. Zimmern tries it a few different ways, from a classic sandwich with egg and cheese to a fancier version with truffle mayo and arugula.

Finally, Zimmern heads to Hoboken, the birthplace of one of America's most beloved desserts: the "mile-high" pie. This towering dessert is a mix of sweet and salty flavors, with layers of whipped cream and cream cheese frosting on top of a crispy crust. Zimmern gets a lesson from the pastry chef who invented the pie, and even tries his hand at assembling his own.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern showcases not only the delicious food of New Jersey, but also the passionate chefs and cooks behind each dish. Whether it's an old-school diner owner or a new immigrant hoping to share their family's recipes, each story adds depth and meaning to the food on our plates. By the end of the episode, viewers will have a newfound appreciation for the Garden State and its diverse and delicious cuisine.