Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Season 2009 Episode 31 Blast from the Past

In this episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, titled "Blast from the Past," host Guy Fieri takes viewers on a trip down memory lane as he visits some of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in America. Fieri visits one of the oldest soda fountains in the country, a family-owned diner that has been serving up classic dishes since the 1940s, and a legendary Italian restaurant that has been a staple in the community for generations.

First, Fieri heads to a historic soda fountain in St. Louis, Missouri, that has been serving up ice cream and old-fashioned sodas for over 100 years. Fieri samples a few of their classic treats, including an ice cream float and a cherry limeade, while learning about the history of the soda fountain and its importance to the community.

Next, Fieri visits a family-owned diner in Reading, Pennsylvania, that has been serving up classic dishes since the 1940s. He meets the owner, who tells him about the restaurant's history and how it has become a beloved fixture in the community. Fieri samples some of the diner's most popular dishes, including a Philly cheesesteak and a chocolate milkshake.

Finally, Fieri travels to Long Island, New York, to visit an Italian restaurant that has been a staple in the community for generations. The owner of the restaurant, who is also the head chef, tells Fieri about how he learned to cook from his grandmother and how he has kept the restaurant's classic dishes alive over the years. Fieri tries some of their most popular dishes, including a classic spaghetti and meatballs and a homemade ricotta.

Throughout the episode, Fieri emphasizes the importance of these classic restaurants and the role they play in preserving America's culinary history and traditions. As he says, "These are the places that have been around forever, and they're still going strong. They're a part of our history, our culture, and our way of life."