Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Season 2013 Episode 28 Aces of Authenticity

In season 2013 episode 28 of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, host Guy Fieri takes viewers on a culinary tour of establishments that offer truly authentic cuisine. Titled Aces of Authenticity, this episode features some of the best and most genuine food in the country.

First up on the tour is a family-owned Lebanese joint in Oklahoma City named Nunu's Mediterranean Cafe. Guy meets with the owner, who shares stories of his upbringing in Lebanon and explains the meaning behind many of the dishes on the menu. Guy tries the lamb shank, which is slow-cooked in a special spice blend, as well as the kibbe, which is a mixture of bulgur wheat and ground meat. He describes the food as "homey and comforting."

Next, Guy visits a Puerto Rican eatery in east Harlem called La Tropi-Canela. The owner is a native of Puerto Rico who moved to New York to pursue her dream of opening a restaurant. She serves up classic Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo (a mashed plantain dish) and lechón (roast pork), and even gives Guy a salsa dancing lesson.

The third stop on the tour is Olde Tyme Grocery in Lafayette, Louisiana. This sandwich shop has been around since the 1980s and is known for its po' boys, which are a staple of Cajun cuisine. Guy tries a variety of fillings, including oysters, roast beef, and shrimp, and raves about the bread, which is baked fresh daily.

Moving on to Los Angeles, Guy visits The Oinkster, a burger joint known for their slow-roasted pork. The owner, a former fine dining chef, explains that he wanted to create a casual spot with top-quality ingredients. Guy tries the Oinkster's famous pulled pork sandwich, which is slow-roasted for 12 hours, and their Royale burger, which has a patty made from a blend of ground chuck and brisket.

Finally, Guy heads to New Orleans to try some classic Creole fare at Mother's Restaurant. Founded in 1938, this eatery is famous for their "debris" sandwich, which is made with the leftover roast beef from the day before. Guy also tries the famous jambalaya, which is cooked with both chicken and sausage, and the red beans and rice, which is a traditional Monday meal in New Orleans.

Throughout the episode, Guy marvels at the passion and dedication of the restaurant owners and chefs he meets. He is clearly impressed by the authenticity of the food, as well as the stories behind each establishment. Aces of Authenticity is a celebration of the diversity and richness of American cuisine, as well as the hardworking people who keep these culinary traditions alive.