Ep 1. Seattle

In the first episode of season 2 of No Passport Required, chef and host Marcus Samuelsson ventures to Seattle, Washington to explore the diverse culinary scene of the Pacific Northwest.

Samuelsson begins his journey in the vibrant neighborhood of Capitol Hill, where he meets and cooks with Chera Amlag, a Filipino chef and co-owner of Hood Famous Cafe and Bar. Together, they prepare traditional Filipino dishes such as chicken adobo and ube custard, while discussing the importance of preserving Filipino culture through food.

Next, Samuelsson visits the International District, also known as "Chinatown-International District," where he meets with local food experts and enjoys a variety of East Asian cuisine. From handmade dumplings at the renowned Dough Zone Dumpling House to a hot pot feast at Little Sheep Mongolian Hot Pot, Samuelsson samples a range of flavors and learns about the history of Chinese and Japanese immigration in the area.

Moving on to the neighborhood of Ballard, Samuelsson discovers the thriving Scandinavian community and its culinary traditions. He visits the iconic Nordic Museum and meets with chef Tarik Abdullah, who creates a modern twist on traditional Norwegian lutefisk. Samuelsson also tries his hand at making smørrebrød, an open-faced sandwich typically served on rye bread with various toppings, at the popular cafe and bakery, Cafe Besalu.

Lastly, Samuelsson heads to the Central District, a historically black neighborhood that has undergone significant gentrification in recent years. He visits Communion restaurant, which serves Southern-style comfort food with a modern twist, and meets with the chef and owner, Kristi Brown. They discuss the importance of honoring the neighborhood's cultural history and using food as a way to bring the community together.

Throughout the episode, Samuelsson not only experiences the diverse cuisine of Seattle, but also learns about the city's complex history and how food has played a vital role in its culture. He meets with chefs and food industry professionals who are passionate about preserving their cultural traditions and using food as a means to bring communities together. No Passport Required's season 2 premiere offers a multi-faceted look into the culinary and cultural landscape of a city that has become a hub for innovation and fusion.