Ep 1. A Whole Beast of Flavor

In the first episode of Southern and Hungry season 1, named "A Whole Beast of Flavor," hosts Damaris Phillips and Rutledge Wood embark on a journey to explore the unique and mouthwatering cuisine of the American South.

The episode starts with the hosts driving to Nashville, Tennessee in a classic convertible car, on the hunt for the perfect breakfast spot. They stop by the renowned Biscuit Love restaurant and order a hearty "bonuts" dish, a hybrid between a biscuit and a doughnut. The hosts rave about the dish's combination of fluffy texture and sweetness, as they enjoy it in the warm Nashville sun.

After breakfast, Damaris and Rutledge continue their road trip to a town called Manchester, where they visit Hickory House BBQ. Here, they meet pitmaster Cliff Wilson, who shows them his impressive outdoor pit, filled with slow-roasting cuts of beef, pork, and chicken. Cliff explains to the hosts that the key to his juicy and tender meats is the combination of hickory and oak wood, which gives them a smoky and rich flavor.

Next, Damaris and Rutledge travel to Athens, Georgia to explore the town's vibrant food scene. They start by visiting Stripling's General Store, a local shop that sells a variety of Southern staples, from boiled peanuts to moonshine. Here, they meet owner Rusty Davis, who shares the history of the store and his passion for preserving traditional Southern food.

Afterward, they make their way to Athens' downtown area, where they try a unique twist on Southern cuisine at The National restaurant. Chef Peter Dale serves them a flavorful lamb dish with couscous, inspired by his travels to Morocco. The hosts praise the chef's creativity and use of fresh, local ingredients, as they savor every bite of the meal.

Lastly, Damaris and Rutledge stop by Jittery Joe's Coffee, another Athens favorite, to try their famous nitro cold brew. The hosts learn about the coffee shop's unique brewing process, which infuses the coffee with nitrogen, making it creamier and smoother than traditional cold brew.

As the episode comes to a close, Damaris and Rutledge reflect on their Southern food adventure and the diverse flavors they've encountered along the way. They express their gratitude for the warm hospitality of each restaurant they've visited, as well as their appreciation for the rich culinary traditions of the American South.

Overall, "A Whole Beast of Flavor" offers a tantalizing glimpse into the delicious and diverse world of Southern cuisine, as seen through the eyes of two passionate hosts. The episode blends mouthwatering food with engaging storytelling, making it a must-watch for foodies and adventurous travelers alike.