Ep 1. Belly Up To Barcelona

Belly Up To Barcelona, the first episode of season 26 of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, takes us on a culinary adventure through Barcelona-inspired dishes in California. Host Guy Fieri explores three different restaurants that pay tribute to the vibrant flavors of Barcelona.

The first restaurant is Lola’s Kitchen, a cozy spot in Sacramento that serves up a fusion of Spanish and Filipino cuisine. Guy meets with owners Joel and Maritza, who show him how to make their signature dish: paella. As they cook, Joel explains the intricacies of this traditional Spanish dish and the unique Filipino twist they add to it. Guy also samples some of their other dishes, including a pork belly dish that he raves about.

Next up is Boqueria, a bustling tapas bar in Washington, D.C. that serves up colorful and flavorful small plates inspired by Barcelona’s famous La Boqueria market. Guy sits down with chef Marc Vidal, who shows him how to make a traditional Spanish tortilla with a twist. Marc explains how they use a secret ingredient to make their tortilla stand out from the rest. Guy also samples some of Boqueria’s other popular dishes, including crispy eggplant and grilled octopus.

The final stop is Bazaar Meat, a meat lover’s paradise in Las Vegas that puts a modern twist on traditional Spanish dishes. Guy meets with chef José Andrés, who takes him on a culinary journey through the restaurant’s unique menu. They start with cocktails made with liquid nitrogen and edible flowers, before moving on to a hanger steak dish that is served tableside on a sizzling hot plate. Guy also tries some of the restaurant’s more adventurous offerings, including foie gras cotton candy and wagyu beef sushi.

Throughout the episode, Guy is in awe of the culinary creativity and expertise of each of the chefs he meets. He marvels at the unique flavor combinations and the attention to detail in each dish. He emphasizes the importance of honoring traditional flavors while also pushing the boundaries and trying new things.

Belly Up To Barcelona is a mouthwatering journey through Spanish-inspired cuisine, showcasing the diverse and delicious flavors that can be found at restaurants across the country. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Spanish dishes or looking to try something new, this episode is sure to inspire your taste buds and leave you hungry for more.