What makes a restaurant worthy of a spot on a popular food show? Is it the mouthwatering dishes, the rich history embedded in each corner, or perhaps it’s the charismatic chef who dances around the kitchen with the grace of a conductor leading an orchestra? In Season 5 Episode 5 of “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” the ever-entertaining Guy Fieri introduces us to a trio of culinary havens that embody the essence of good food and even greater stories. These aren’t just places to grab a bite; they are destinations that spark joy and curiosity, each with its own unique flavor and charm.
In this episode, Guy’s road trip takes us to three distinct restaurants that are all bursting with character and culinary prowess. Each one presents a tapestry of flavors that’s sure to remain etched in the memory of viewers and visitors alike. The standout dishes Guy sampled would make anyone’s taste buds do a lively jig, and the stories behind these establishments add layers of richness to every bite.
Bob’s Clam Hut
Address: 315 U.S. Route 1, Kittery, ME 03904
In the picturesque town of Kittery, Maine, Bob’s Clam Hut has been serving up sensational seafood since 1956. This spot is the ultimate paradise for seafood lovers and a testament to decades of family-run restaurant success. The founder, Bob Kraft, started the hut with a simple dream fueled by fresh seafood and an unstoppable passion for quality.
The atmosphere at Bob’s is wonderfully informal, with picnic tables placed under the warm canvas of a summer sky, inviting patrons to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. The restaurant prides itself on using local seafood and maintaining the same classics that have been loved for generations.
Dishes Tried:
Fried Clams: Guy sunk his teeth into these crunchy delights, which are fresh clams coated in a light batter, fried to perfection to offer a golden crisp.
Clam Chowder: A creamy, hearty chowder that wraps you up in warmth like a beloved seafood blanket.
Lobster Roll: The crown jewel of seaside fare, served generously stuffed inside a toasted bun.
Status: Open
Swingin’ Door BBQ
Address: 3714 Broadway Street, Houston, TX 77017
Heading to Houston, Texas, we encounter Swingin’ Door BBQ, a barbecue haven that’s been slow-smoking meats since the days when a brisket was just an inexpensive cut of beef nobody knew what to do with. Opened in the early 1970s by Jim Sliter, the Swingin’ Door is an embodiment of Texas’s rich barbecue tradition.
With a rustic smokehouse-style atmosphere, the aroma of barbecued meats hits you the moment you walk through the door, promising a feast that’s as much about the senses as it is about taste. Their dedication to the Texas BBQ craft is palpable in every smoky bite, earning this joint a loyal following of locals and visitors alike.
Dishes Tried:
Brisket: Smoked low and slow, allowing the meat to become tender and full of flavor, the brisket is served with a choice of house-made sauces that enhance its savory pleasures.
Ribs: Juicy and coated with a sweet-spicy rub, these ribs fall right off the bone and leave you licking your fingers in delight.
Sausage Links: These smoky, flavorful links bring the perfect amount of spice and character to your plate.
Status: Open
Franks Diner
Address: 508 58th Street, Kenosha, WI 53140
From a humble beginning in 1926, Franks Diner has solidified its place as a culinary institution in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Its charm lies not just in its delightful food offerings but also in its unique location—a vintage railcar. The diner’s history and its steadfast dedication to hearty breakfasts and home-cooked meals are what keeps people coming back for more.
Walking into Franks Diner is like stepping into a time machine that transports you to a simpler era, where the rich smell of coffee and bacon fills the hand-painted air. It’s a place where regulars are family and passersby are warmly welcomed with open arms.
Dishes Tried:
Garbage Plate: A medley of hash browns, eggs, and various meats all thrown together into a satisfying chaotic blend that Guy couldn’t resist.
Banana Bread French Toast: Thick slices of banana bread are coated in a rich egg batter and fried on the griddle, turning them into golden brown pieces of heaven.
Lumberjack Breakfast: As hearty as its name suggests, this breakfast features a grand assortment of Western-style protean delights, baked beans, and more.
Status: Open
Conclusion
From the crustacean delights of Bob’s Clam Hut, through the smoky scents at Swingin’ Door BBQ, to the nostalgic quirks of Franks Diner, this episode of “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” takes us on a journey that celebrates America’s culinary diversity. Each stop is not just a restaurant but a stage where the stories behind the dishes become as much a part of the meal as the food itself. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, classic BBQ, or breakfast creations served with a side of nostalgia, these eateries offer something that’s sure to tickle your taste buds and spark a wonderful sense of culinary adventure.
So, the next time the road calls upon you, consider stopping by one of these remarkable establishments to eat, savor, and experience the delectable flavors that make America’s food scene a feast for the senses.