Ep 8. Home And Away

In season 8 episode 8 of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, host Guy Fieri hits the road to explore some of the best restaurants serving up classic comfort food in both their hometowns and faraway locations. This episode, entitled "Home And Away," showcases a variety of establishments that offer up big flavors in small towns and big cities alike.

One of the restaurants Fieri visits on this episode is a homey spot in Portland, Oregon called The Country Cat. Here, the kitchen is run by a husband and wife team who specialize in hearty, home-style cooking. Fieri tries a few of their signature dishes, including a melt-in-your-mouth beef brisket with tangy house-made BBQ sauce and chili-topped cornbread that's as savory as it is satisfying. He also learns about the farm-to-table philosophy that the restaurant adheres to, using locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Next, Fieri heads to a diner in Sioux City, Iowa called The Diving Elk. This place is a local favorite for its old-school ambiance and classic comfort food dishes with a twist. Fieri tries the bacon-wrapped meatloaf, a dish that's earned the diner plenty of accolades over the years, as well as their signature house-made mac and cheese with a creamy twist.

Then, Fieri takes us to Los Angeles to visit a popular sandwich spot called Wax Paper. This hidden gem is tucked away in a nondescript strip mall, but it's worth seeking out for its creative sandwich offerings and homemade side dishes. Fieri tries the "Nasty McChicken," a spicy, crispy chicken sandwich that's piled high with slaw and pickles, as well as the wood-fired mushroom open-faced sandwich that's packed with flavor and served with a side of kale Caesar salad.

Finally, Fieri heads to a cozy spot in Mechanicsville, Virginia called Crafted. This restaurant puts a modern spin on classic Southern dishes, and Fieri is blown away by the skill and creativity of the kitchen team. He samples the chicken and waffles, a beloved Southern staple that Crafted takes to the next level by serving it with Tabasco-infused maple syrup, as well as the crispy catfish with collard greens that's bursting with flavor.

Throughout the episode, Fieri shares insights and trivia about each of the restaurants he visits, as well as the chefs and owners behind them. He also takes in the local scenery and culture, highlighting the unique charm and character of each location. Whether you're a fan of classic comfort food or something a little more adventurous, "Home And Away" offers plenty of inspiration for your next culinary adventure.