Ep 2. Spicin' Things Up

In episode 2 of season 38 of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, titled "Spicin' Things Up," host Guy Fieri hits the road in search of some of the spiciest dishes America has to offer. Throughout the episode, Guy travels to various restaurants across the country, each with their spin on spicy cuisine.

The first stop in the episode is in Las Vegas, where Guy visits an authentic Thai restaurant, Lotus of Siam. Despite being located in a strip mall, Lotus of Siam is a hit with both locals and tourists alike, thanks to their bold flavors and extensive menu. Guy samples their signature dish, the Nam Kao Tod, a crispy rice ball mixed with sour pork sausage, red curry paste, green onions, and peanuts. He also tries the spicy duck larb, a savory meat salad with toasted rice powder and a fiery chili dressing.

Next, Guy visits The Cinnamon Snail, a vegetarian food truck in Brooklyn, New York. Known for their vegan spin on classic dishes, The Cinnamon Snail has a cult-like following among New York City's foodies. Guy tries their Korean BBQ Seitan Sandwich, a combination of spicy seitan, kimchi, and gochujang aioli. He also samples their fiery and sweet Korean BBQ Seitan Skewers, served with a side of pickled vegetables.

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Guy visits Ajiaco Colombian Bistro. This cozy restaurant serves up Colombian classics, including their spicy and fragrant Ajiaco Soup, made with chicken, potatoes, avocado, and capers. Guy also tries their Patacon, a sandwich with crispy plantains as the bread, filled with various meats, beans, and plenty of spice.

In San Francisco, Guy stops by El Farolito, a Mexican restaurant famous for their oversized burritos and fiery salsas. Guy tries their signature Al Pastor Super Burrito, stuffed with marinated pork, rice, beans, and cheese. He also tries their famous salsa bar, with a variety of homemade salsas ranging from mild to extra hot.

Lastly, Guy visits Holy Roller in Austin, Texas, a restaurant known for their creative twists on classic diner fare. Guy tries their Fried Chicken Sandwich, a spicy concoction with pickled jalapenos and a honey butter glaze. He also samples their popular Tater Tot Poutine, a dish made with crispy tater tots, cheese curds, and plenty of spicy gravy.

Throughout the episode, Guy marvels at the creativity and boldness of these restaurants' dishes, proving that America's love affair with spicy food is still going strong.