Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Season 2009 Episode 26 Global Grub

In this episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, host Guy Fieri takes viewers on a culinary journey around the world, sampling global cuisine at some of America's most beloved local eateries. From Korean barbecue in Los Angeles to Greek gyros in Denver and Thai street food in Portland, Oregon, Guy explores the diverse flavors and techniques of international cooking right here in the United States.

The first stop is in Koreatown, where Guy meets up with chef Roy Choi at his restaurant, Chego. Here, Guy tries Choi's signature dish, the Chubby Pork Belly, which features succulent slices of pork belly served over rice, topped with an egg, and drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce. Guy also samples a Korean-style burrito filled with marinated beef, kimchi, and cheese, and topped with sour cream and salsa. He declares it a "flavor explosion in your mouth."

Next, Guy heads to Denver to try the authentic Greek cuisine at Pete's Kitchen, a family-owned diner that has been serving up gyros and spanakopita for over 50 years. He meets the charming owner, Pete Contos, who shares the story of how he came to America as a young man with nothing but a suitcase and a dream. Guy indulges in a massive gyro loaded with tender lamb, tangy tzatziki sauce, and crispy fries. He also tries their famous Greek omelet, filled with feta cheese, tomatoes, and olives.

In Portland, Guy explores the vibrant Thai food scene at Nong's Khao Man Gai, a food cart that has become a local institution. He meets the owner, Nong Poonsukwattana, a former clothes designer turned chef, who fell in love with the simple and comforting flavors of her native Thailand. Guy tries their signature dish, khao man gai, a traditional Thai chicken and rice dish that is deceptively simple but bursting with flavor. He also samples their spicy, tangy som tum salad, made with green papaya, tomato, and peanuts.

The final stop on Guy's global journey is to Plymouth, Massachusetts, where he visits a cozy Irish pub called Dillon's Local. Here, he meets the affable owner, Kevin Dillon, who has been serving up hearty pub fare, like shepherd's pie and fish and chips, for over 20 years. Guy tries their famous corned beef and cabbage, a tender and flavorful dish made with a secret spice blend that has been passed down through Kevin's family for generations. He also indulges in a decadent Guinness-infused chocolate cake.

Throughout the episode, Guy marvels at the variety and richness of global cuisine in America, and celebrates the local restaurants and entrepreneurs who are keeping their cultural traditions alive through food. With his trademark wit and enthusiasm, Guy invites viewers to join him on this culinary adventure, urging them to try new flavors and explore the diverse food cultures in their own communities.