Ep 3. St. Petersburg

Bizarre Foods season 2 episode 3 takes viewers on a wild culinary adventure as host Andrew Zimmern travels to the imperial city of St. Petersburg, Russia. Known for its opulent architecture and rich history, St. Petersburg also boasts a diverse food scene that blends traditional Russian cuisine with international influences.

Zimmern begins his exploration at a bustling local market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and smoked fish. He samples some of the market's most popular offerings, including caviar-topped blinis and hearty meat-filled dumplings called pelmeni.

Next, Zimmern visits a traditional Russian banquet hall to partake in a lavish feast fit for a czar. The menu includes a variety of hearty meat dishes, such as roasted pig and beef tartare, as well as delicate seafood platters piled high with salmon, crab, and clams.

Zimmern's next stop is a cozy cafe where he tries a beloved Russian comfort food: borscht. This tangy beet soup is a staple of the local diet, and Zimmern discovers that each chef has their own unique take on the classic dish. He also samples a variety of sweet and savory pastries, including flaky meat-stuffed pirozhki and creamy cheese-filled curd cakes.

For a taste of international flair, Zimmern visits a trendy fusion restaurant that mixes Russian flavors with Asian influences. He tries a delicious salmon tataki topped with soy sauce and scallions and a refreshing chilled cucumber soup with a tangy ginger kick.

Zimmern's final culinary adventure takes him to a hidden speakeasy where he samples some of Russia's finest vodka. The bartender shares the history and technique behind crafting the perfect vodka, and Zimmern tries a variety of unique infusions, from spicy horseradish to sweet honey and lemon.

Throughout his journey, Zimmern also takes time to explore the vibrant culture and beautiful architecture that make St. Petersburg such a unique and special city. With its rich history and diverse food scene, St. Petersburg is a must-visit destination for any adventurous traveler.