Food: Fact or Fiction? Season 4 Episode 18 My Kind of Town
- March 14, 2019
In this episode of Food: Fact or Fiction?, titled "My Kind of Town", host Michael McKean explores the culinary history of cities across America.
First, McKean visits the Windy City, Chicago, to learn about the origins of the Chicago-style hot dog. He investigates the debate over whether ketchup should be allowed on this famous street food and uncovers the history of the infamous Chicago-style pizza as well.
Next, he heads to New Orleans to explore the origins of the po' boy sandwich. McKean delves into the colorful history of the sandwich, which was originally created to feed striking workers in the city's streetcar system. He also looks at the sandwich's role in the city's vibrant music scene.
McKean then travels to San Francisco to investigate the history of the fortune cookie. Contrary to popular belief, fortune cookies were not invented in China, but actually in San Francisco. McKean uncovers the surprising history behind this Americanized Chinese dessert.
Moving further down the West Coast, McKean arrives in Los Angeles to learn about the origins of the French Dip sandwich. He explores the history of two rival restaurants who both claim to have invented the sandwich, and the legal battle that ensued.
Finally, McKean visits Memphis, Tennessee to uncover the secrets of the city's famous barbecue. He explores the debate over wet versus dry ribs and delves into the origins of the city's famous dry rub.
Throughout the episode, McKean separates food fact from fiction and dispels common myths surrounding each city's iconic foods. With his trademark wit and humor, he makes learning about culinary history both educational and entertaining.
"Food: Fact or Fiction?" season 4 episode 18 provides a fascinating look into the history and culture of some of America's most iconic foods and the cities that made them famous.
