Ep 37. Meltdown

Food Paradise is a show that takes viewers on a journey across America in search of the best places to eat. In season 8 episode 37, titled "Meltdown," the show explores some of the hottest, spiciest, and most fiery foods this country has to offer.

The episode starts off in Nashville, Tennessee at a place called Pepperfire Hot Chicken. This fried chicken joint serves up chicken that is coated in spices and cayenne pepper, creating a dish that is sure to make your taste buds tingle. At Pepperfire, customers can choose the level of heat they want, from mild to "XX Hot." For those who can handle the heat, the "XX Hot" chicken is not for the faint of heart, boasting a Scoville rating of over 2 million.

Next, the show takes us to Austin, Texas, where they visit a food truck called La Barbecue. This truck specializes in smoked meats, including brisket, pork ribs, and sausage. But it's their "Hot Guts" sausage that steals the show. Made with jalapenos, habaneros, and Serrano peppers, this sausage packs a serious punch. The show's host tries it with caution, but the flavor is so good she can't help but go back for more.

Moving on to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the show visits Primanti Brothers. This sandwich spot is famous for its Pittsburgh-style sandwiches, which include coleslaw, french fries, and meat all piled high between two slices of bread. But the real star of this segment is their "Roast Beef and Cheese with Hots" sandwich, which includes hot peppers that are cooked in-house. The heat from the peppers is balanced by the sweetness of the meat, creating a perfect combination of flavors.

Heading out to the West Coast, the show takes us to Los Angeles, California to try some Korean hot pot at Halmae Hot Pot. This restaurant specializes in a spicy stew called "chunggukjang," which is made with fermented soybeans, vegetables, and meats. The stew is so hot that the show's host has to take breaks in between bites to cool down her mouth, but she says it's worth it for the delicious flavor.

The show's next stop is in Louisville, Kentucky at a place called Joella's Hot Chicken. Here, they serve up chicken that is marinated in spices and then deep-fried to create a crispy exterior. Customers can choose the level of heat they want, from "Southern" to "Fire-in da-hole." The show's host tries the "Fire-in da-hole" chicken, which is made with ghost peppers, and says it's one of the spiciest things she's ever eaten.

The final stop on the episode takes us to Portland, Oregon, where we visit a Japanese restaurant called Marukin Ramen. This spot serves up a ramen dish that is so spicy, customers have to sign a waiver before they can order it. The dish is called the "Take-Mazina," and it's made with a broth that is infused with chili oil and a blend of spices. The show's host tries the dish and says it's definitely worth the risk, with a heat level that builds slowly but is ultimately satisfying.

Overall, the "Meltdown" episode of Food Paradise is sure to satisfy those who love a good spicy meal. From hot chicken in Nashville to spicy ramen in Portland, this episode takes viewers on a spicy tour of some of the best restaurants this country has to offer.