Ep 8. The Other Florida

In season 8 episode 8 of Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, the focus is on Florida, but not the typical tourist destinations or the popular food culture that the state is known for. Instead, this episode delves into the lesser-known and more unique food experiences that can be found in the Sunshine State.

Through his travels, Andrew Zimmern discovers that Florida has its own distinct cuisine that is influenced by its diverse history and cultural makeup. This episode takes viewers on a journey to explore the flavors of the state's rural areas and small towns, where the food is often unusual and unexpected.

One of the highlights of the episode is Zimmern's visit to the town of Clewiston, located near Lake Okeechobee in South Florida. Here, he samples local delicacies such as frog legs, gator tail, and swamp cabbage, all of which are foods that are not typically found on restaurant menus. He also meets with local fishermen to learn about the sustainable practices they use to harvest tilapia and largemouth bass from the lake.

The episode also explores the cultural influences that have shaped Florida's cuisine. In the town of La Belle, which was founded by Native Americans and later settled by Spanish explorers, Zimmern tries a Seminole dish called sofkee, which is made from ground corn and water. He also visits a Vietnamese market in Tampa, where he tastes spicy noodle bowls and learns how Vietnamese immigrants have brought their culinary traditions to the area.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern emphasizes the importance of sustainability and the need to protect Florida's natural resources. He visits a small farm in the town of Alachua, where he sees how farmers are using innovative techniques to grow crops in an environmentally friendly way. He also explores the Everglades, one of Florida's most unique natural treasures, and learns about the challenges facing the area's ecosystem.

Overall, "The Other Florida" is a fascinating look at the unexpected and unconventional side of Florida's food culture. Through his travels, Andrew Zimmern showcases the diversity and complexity of the state's cuisine, and encourages viewers to appreciate the unique flavors and experiences that can be found in this often-overlooked part of the country.