Have you ever wondered about the hidden gems that Guy Fieri uncovers on his culinary road trips? In Season 8, Episode 4 of “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” Guy takes viewers on a mouth-watering adventure to three unforgettable eateries. This episode is packed with savory discoveries as Guy samples extraordinary dishes and explores the unique characters and stories behind these kitchens. From savory sandwiches to finger-licking mains, let’s take a look at the highlights.
Joe’s Farm Grill
Address: 3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ
A Farm-to-Table Delight
Joe’s Farm Grill isn’t your average diner—it’s a farm-to-table experience nestled in the vibrant community of Gilbert, Arizona. Originally a family-owned property, this sweet spot stands out with its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They’ve cultivated this ethos since Joe Johnston transformed the family homestead into a retro modern dining experience.
Walking into Joe’s, visitors feel like they’ve been transported into a 1960s paradise, complete with picnic tables under a grove of pecan trees. What catches most eyes, though, is their dedication to cooking food that comes directly from the farm just a stone’s throw away. Now, that’s farm-to-table at its finest.
Dishes Tried:
- Fontina Burger: An elevated twist on a classic. Topped with smoked bacon and charred red onions, it delivers a juicy, flavorful punch that’s utterly unforgettable.
- Grilled Pizza: Featuring a cracker-thin crust, this pie is filled with fresh produce and savory cheeses that make it a true standout on the menu.
- Ahi Tuna Sandwich: A delicate balance of spice and freshness, the seared Ahi tuna is paired with a wasabi mayo and Asian slaw that packed an exotic yet harmonious flavor.
Status: Open
The Smoke Joint
Address: 87 S Elliott Pl, Brooklyn, NY
BBQ Crafted with Brooklyn Love
Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, The Smoke Joint brings authentic barbecue to eager locals and tourists alike. With pitmasters Craig Samuel and Ben Grossman at the helm, the joint is renowned for its mouth-watering slow-cooked meats that embody the essence of comfort food.
Visitors to The Smoke Joint will remember the cozy, inviting space filled with the rich aroma of smoked meat, the kind that warms the soul and lingers, in the best of ways, long after leaving. Their dedication to barbecue heritage and bold flavors is evident in every bite, with dishes that turn simple ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Dishes Tried:
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: Slathered in their signature tangy sauce, this sandwich is a textural delight, perfect for those who crave something hearty.
- BBQ Beef Ribs: These ribs are a carnivore’s dream, tender off-the-bone goodness, rubbed with a blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection.
- Mac & Cheese: Not your ordinary cheesy side, it’s creamy, dreamy, and sprinkled with a breadcrumb topping that provides an irresistible crunch.
Status: Open
The Iron Barley
Address: 5510 Virginia Ave, St. Louis, MO
A Unique Blend of Flavors
The Iron Barley of St. Louis, Missouri is rumored to be an intersection of unexpected pairings and creativity. Tom Coghill was inspired to combine the charm of a neighborhood bar with a menu that boasts some of the most inventive dishes on the scene.
The atmosphere is low-key yet heartwarming, welcoming with its rustic wooden furnishings and eclectic decor—it’s a place that wears its culinary eccentricity on its sleeve. Of all the treasures they serve, most dishes are crafted with a touch of Southern spirit and personalized flair, ensuring diners never face a dull moment.
Dishes Tried:
- Schnitzel and Waffles: A playful nod to a classic breakfast dish. The schnitzel is crusted and fried to golden perfection, alongside waffles that add just the right amount of sweetness.
- Southwestern Chicken Stew: Full of bold spices, this stew warms diners to the core, featuring tender chicken and an array of veggies that burst with flavor.
- BBQ Spareribs: These are fall-off-the-bone greatness with a spicy seasoning that’s signature to The Iron Barley, ensuring you’ll need extra napkins.
Status: Closed (Closed in 2017)