Ep 2. Los Angeles

No Passport Required season 2 episode 2 explores the vibrant and diverse food culture of Los Angeles. Host Marcus Samuelsson takes viewers on a culinary journey through the city's various neighborhoods, highlighting the different cuisines and cultures that make up LA's rich culinary landscape.

In Boyle Heights, Samuelsson visits a local tortilla factory where he learns about the longstanding tradition of making the perfect tortilla. He also meets with a husband and wife team who run a popular tamale stand in the neighborhood, showcasing the community's love for Mexican food and the importance of family-run businesses.

The episode also takes a closer look at LA's traditional Jewish delis, visiting popular spots like Canter's and Langer's. Samuelsson delves into the history of these iconic establishments and explores how they continue to thrive in a city with such a diverse food scene.

In Koreatown, Samuelsson experiences the vibrant Korean cuisine that has become a big part of LA's food culture. He meets with Chef Roy Choi, a pioneer of the Korean-Mexican fusion movement, and together they explore the flavors and techniques of Korean barbecue and other traditional dishes.

No Passport Required also takes a closer look at the diverse African-American food scene in LA. Samuelsson visits a neighborhood restaurant known for its soul food and barbecue, where he gets a taste of dishes like fried chicken and mac and cheese. He also meets with local chefs who are reinventing the cuisine and putting their own twist on classic Southern dishes.

The episode concludes with a visit to a Jewish-Mexican restaurant in Boyle Heights, demonstrating how these seemingly disparate cultures have come together to create a unique fusion cuisine. Samuelsson meets with the owners and learns about the inspiration behind the restaurant's menu, which includes dishes like matzo ball soup with salsa verde and carnitas tacos with gefilte fish.

Throughout the episode, Samuelsson emphasizes the importance of food as a way to bring people together and celebrate diversity. No Passport Required season 2 episode 2 is a mouth-watering journey through LA's diverse food scene, highlighting the city's rich cultural history and the chefs and restaurateurs who are keeping traditions alive while also pushing boundaries and creating new and exciting dishes.