Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Season 2012 Episode 2 Global Traditions

In the second episode of the 2012 season of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, host Guy Fieri explores the diverse global traditions of cooking, sampling dishes from all corners of the world.

First up is a stop at The Coffee Cup in Boulder City, Nevada, where Fieri tries out the restaurant’s unique twist on the classic breakfast burrito. Dubbed the "Crazy Waffle Burger," this dish features a waffle as the “bun” with a beef patty, egg, bacon, and cheese in between, served with a side of homemade chorizo. Fieri is impressed by the combination of sweet and savory flavors and notes the restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, local ingredients.

Next, Fieri heads to Chicago, Illinois, to visit Cemitas Puebla, a family-owned restaurant specializing in the traditional Mexican sandwich known as a cemita. Fieri tries out the restaurant’s signature cemita, which features finely sliced, breaded and fried pork known as Milanesa, avocado, cheese, and chipotle sauce on a sesame seed roll. The sandwich is huge, and Fieri has his work cut out for him trying to eat it all! He praises the restaurant’s commitment to using authentic Mexican ingredients and techniques to create truly delicious food.

Continuing his global tour, Fieri heads to Portland, Oregon, to visit T Maki House, a restaurant specializing in Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi rolls. Fieri samples a variety of the restaurant's roll creations, including a spicy crab roll and a unique eel and avocado roll topped with crunchy, crispy flakes. Fieri is impressed by the restaurant's attention to detail, using only the freshest ingredients to create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious.

Next up, Fieri heads south to New Orleans, Louisiana, to visit the infamous Mother’s Restaurant, known for its traditional, homemade Southern cooking. Fieri tries the restaurant’s roast beef Po' Boy, a New Orleans specialty featuring slow-cooked roast beef served on a crispy French bread roll with all the fixings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mustard. Fieri notes the tender, juicy beef and the restaurant’s commitment to classic Southern-style cooking.

Finally, Fieri wraps up his global journey at The Original Pancake House in Denver, Colorado, where he tries out the restaurant’s Dutch Baby pancake, a puffy, oven-baked pancake that rises to impressive heights in the oven. Served with fresh lemon juice and powdered sugar, Fieri notes the dish’s subtle sweetness and light, airy texture, and expresses his admiration for the restaurant’s longevity and dedication to classic breakfast fare.

Throughout the episode, Fieri highlights the importance of tradition and authenticity in cooking, and showcases the many global flavors and techniques that make up the diverse landscape of American cuisine. From Mexican sandwiches to Japanese sushi rolls, and from Southern-style roast beef to classic Dutch pancakes, this episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives truly celebrates the best of worldwide culinary traditions.