Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Season 2009 Episode 20 Old Time Favorites

In this episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, host Guy Fieri takes viewers on a nostalgic journey to some of America's most beloved old-time eateries. From classic roadside diners to mom-and-pop cafes, each stop offers a taste of Americana with a unique spin.

The first stop on Guy's tour is a diner in Portland, Oregon that's been around since the 1940s. Despite its age, the food here is anything but ordinary. The menu boasts handmade bread, fresh seafood, and decadent milkshakes. Guy can't resist trying the house specialty: a massive open-faced beef sandwich smothered in gravy. He also samples some of the diner's famous pies, including a mouth-watering strawberry-rhubarb creation.

Next, Guy heads to a diner in Seattle that's been serving up classic comfort food for decades. The menu here is all about big portions and bold flavors. After admiring the joint's retro decor, Guy digs into a plate of chicken-fried steak with all the fixings. He also gets a lesson in milkshake-making from the diner's resident expert, who shows him how to create the perfect frothy concoction.

In Chicago, Guy visits a classic Italian deli that's been in business since the early 1900s. The deli is famous for its homemade sausage, pasta, and cheeses, all of which are made fresh on-site. Guy samples a variety of dishes, including a classic Italian beef sandwich topped with giardiniera, a spicy relish made from pickled vegetables. He also tries some homemade gelato, which is so creamy and delicious, it's hard to believe it's not straight from Italy.

Later, Guy heads to a little-known spot in Memphis that's been serving up soul food since the 1950s. The menu here is a mix of Southern classics and unexpected surprises, like fried green tomatoes and catfish po'boys. Guy can't get enough of the house specialty: a plate of tender fried chicken served with waffles and syrup. He also samples some of the restaurant's famous banana pudding, which is so good, it's rumored to have won over even the most ardent banana-haters.

Finally, Guy stops at a diner in Los Angeles that's known for its classic 1950s decor and all-American menu. The joint's specialty is burgers, and Guy can't resist trying a juicy double bacon cheeseburger with all the fixings. He also tries some of the diner's famous onion rings, which are crispy and golden on the outside and soft and sweet on the inside.

With each stop on this nostalgic culinary tour, Guy discovers that old-time favorites never go out of style. From classic comfort food to Italian specialties to Southern soul food, each dish is a reminder of America's rich culinary heritage. So, gather around the Formica table and dig in – this is a trip down memory lane you won't want to miss.