Ep 12. Vegas, Baby

In the season 4 episode 12 of Food: Fact or Fiction?, titled "Vegas, Baby," viewers are taken on a journey through the culinary history of one of America's most famous cities: Las Vegas. Host Michael McKean explores the fascinating stories behind some of the city's most iconic dishes and drinks while also examining the myths and legends that have arisen around them.

First up is the ubiquitous and often-maligned cocktail, the Cosmopolitan. McKean dives into the history of this drink, originally called a "Cosmopolitan Daisy," and discovers that it has much humbler origins than one might expect. He also explores the impact that the popular TV show "Sex and the City" had on the drink's popularity, leading to a craze in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Next, McKean turns his attention to another Vegas staple: the all-you-can-eat buffet. He investigates the origins of the buffet, tracing it back to the late 19th century and the world's fairs that were popular at the time. He also explores how the cultural phenomenon of the Las Vegas buffet came to be, and how it has evolved over time to become a truly epic culinary experience.

Moving on to something a little more savory, McKean tackles the classic Vegas steakhouse. He explores the history of the city's most famous steakhouses, including the legendary Golden Steer, and delves into the science behind what makes a great steak. Along the way, he discovers some surprising facts about beef grading, wet versus dry aging, and why a good sear is so important.

Finally, McKean investigates one of the most enduring legends of Las Vegas cuisine: the shrimp cocktail. He digs into the origins of this classic dish, which can be traced all the way back to the early 20th century, and explores why it became so popular in Las Vegas in particular. He also examines the different varieties of shrimp cocktail that have arisen over the years, from the classic cocktail sauce to the more exotic versions offered in some of the city's upscale restaurants.

Throughout the episode, McKean employs his trademark humor and wit to bring these stories to life, weaving together history, science, and legend to create a truly unique culinary experience. Whether you're a seasoned Vegas veteran or a curious foodie, "Vegas, Baby" is sure to whet your appetite for all things Sin City.