Ep 11. Takeout: Bringing Comfort Home

In season 36 episode 11 of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, titled "Takeout: Bringing Comfort Home," host Guy Fieri ventures out to explore the world of takeout dining. With the pandemic forcing people to stay home, restaurants have had to adapt their business models to offer takeout and delivery options. Guy visits three restaurants that have managed to perfect the art of takeout by bringing comfort food straight to people's homes.

The first stop is in Middletown, Connecticut, where Guy visits O'Rourke's Diner. This classic diner has been a staple in the community since 1941 and has managed to thrive during the pandemic by offering takeout to its loyal patrons. Guy tries some of their signature dishes, including their famous corned beef hash and their Irish Benedict, which features house-made corned beef and house-made hollandaise sauce.

Next, Guy heads to Chicago, Illinois, to visit Smoque BBQ. This restaurant has been serving up award-winning BBQ since 2006, and their takeout game is strong. Guy tries their signature brisket, which is slow-cooked for over 14 hours and is served with a house-made BBQ sauce. He also samples their pulled pork, which is smoked for 12 hours and served with a tangy mustard sauce.

The final stop is in San Francisco, California, where Guy visits Bi-Rite Market. This grocery store turned takeout spot is known for its homemade ice cream and its commitment to sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. Guy tries their fried chicken, which is brined overnight and coated in a secret blend of spices. He also samples their seasonal vegetable dish, which features roasted vegetables in a flavorful herb sauce.

Throughout the episode, Guy not only indulges in delicious food but also learns about the challenges that restaurants face in the era of takeout dining. He talks to the restaurant owners and chefs about how they have had to adapt their menus and operations to meet the needs of their customers. He also highlights how takeout has become a lifeline for many restaurants struggling to stay afloat during the pandemic.

Overall, "Takeout: Bringing Comfort Home" is a heartwarming episode that showcases the ingenuity and resilience of the restaurant industry. It is a reminder that food can not only nourish our bodies but also bring us together, even when we are physically apart.