No Reservations Season 4 Episode 7 Jamaica
- February 18, 2008
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8.1 (61)
In season 4, episode 7 of No Reservations, Anthony Bourdain travels to the island nation of Jamaica. The episode begins with Bourdain reflecting on his perception of Jamaica as a place solely associated with Bob Marley, ganja, and reggae music. He is excited to venture beyond these stereotypes and explore Jamaica's vibrant cuisine and culture.
Bourdain kicks off his journey with a visit to Port Royal, a fishing village known for its seafood. He meets up with local fisherman who take him on a deep-sea fishing excursion, where Bourdain catches blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, and mahi-mahi. The fish are instantly cooked for him on the boat and he savors the delicious, fresh flavors of the seafood.
Next, Bourdain heads to Hellshire Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. There, he samples a range of seafood dishes, including conch soup, fried fish, and lobster. He also chats with a local fisherman about the challenges of sustaining the fishing industry in Jamaica while also keeping the environment healthy.
Bourdain then makes his way to Kingston, Jamaica's capital city. He visits Trenchtown, the birthplace of Bob Marley, where he learns about the Marley family's philanthropic initiatives and jams out to live reggae music. He also stops by Gloria's, a popular local diner, where he tries their famous dish of jerk chicken and rice and peas.
Throughout his travels in Jamaica, Bourdain makes a point to connect with the local people and understand their way of life. He visits a Rastafarian community, learning about their beliefs and way of life. He also visits a coffee farm, where he takes part in the coffee-making process and learns about the cultural significance of coffee in Jamaica.
In Negril, Bourdain takes part in a beachside cookout, where he tries goat curry, Jamaican patties, and other traditional dishes. He spends time with locals, taking part in a game of dominos and chatting over drinks. Bourdain impresses the locals with his skills in the game, earning respect and admiration from his newfound friends.
The episode concludes with Bourdain reflecting on his time in Jamaica. He feels that he has gained a deeper understanding of the country's culture, which he acknowledges is complex and multifaceted. He expresses his admiration for the kindness and warmth of the Jamaican people, their connection to their land, and their passion for good food.
Overall, No Reservations season 4, episode 7 offers a unique and insightful glimpse into the culture and cuisine of Jamaica. Bourdain's genuine curiosity and respect for the people and their way of life make this episode a must-watch for any food or travel enthusiast.