FoodNation With Bobby Flay Season 2 Episode 20 Tampa Bay, FL

FoodNation With Bobby Flay is a travel and food documentary series that explores the diverse cuisines and cultures of the United States. In season 2, episode 20, Bobby Flay visits Tampa Bay, Florida, to discover the local cuisine and meet the people behind the food.

In this episode, Bobby starts his culinary tour by visiting the historic Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, which has been serving classic Spanish and Cuban dishes for over a century. He meets the fourth-generation owners of the restaurant, who share their family recipes for dishes such as the famous 1905 Salad, the Cuban sandwich, and the paella.

Next, Bobby heads to the bustling downtown area of Tampa Bay, where he explores the vibrant food scene and meets some of the local chefs who are redefining the traditional cuisine of the region. He stops by Rooster & the Till, a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on using locally sourced, organic ingredients in their dishes. The chef takes Bobby on a tour of the nearby farms, where they pick fresh produce and goat milk for the restaurant's menu.

Bobby also visits Mise en Place, a contemporary American restaurant that blends global flavors with Southern cuisine. The chef introduces Bobby to some of their signature dishes, including the crispy Pork Belly and the Duck Cassoulet. Bobby is impressed by the creativity and skill in the kitchen, and he takes notes on the unique flavor combinations and techniques.

In addition to the high-end restaurants, Bobby also explores the casual dining spots and food trucks that offer a taste of Tampa Bay's diverse cuisine. He visits the Taco Bus, a Mexican-inspired food truck that has become a local favorite for their authentic tacos and burritos. Bobby also tries the famous cuban sandwiches from Brocato's Sandwich Shop, which has been serving the iconic sandwich since 1948.

Finally, Bobby ends his culinary tour with a visit to the Florida State Fair, where he samples some of the unusual and creative fair food offerings. He tries the Gator Burger, made with alligator meat, and the Deep-Fried Oreo, a popular fair treat.

Throughout the episode, Bobby showcases the rich food culture and traditions of Tampa Bay, and he celebrates the creativity and innovation of the local chefs and food entrepreneurs. He notes the influence of Spanish, Cuban, and Southern cuisine on the local dishes, and he appreciates the diversity of flavors and ingredients found in the area. The episode is a tribute to the unique food scene in Tampa Bay and a must-watch for foodies and travelers alike.