This episode features a lineup of distinctive restaurants that have people licking their fingers and licking their plates clean. With a mix of eclectic diners, tucked-away drive-ins, and out-of-the-box dives, every spot has its own flavor profile, pushing the boundaries of what’s served on a traditional American table.
Pat’s BBQ
Address: 155 W Commonwealth Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Nestled in the charming streets of Salt Lake City, Pat’s BBQ offers more than just a taste of Southern flavors in the heart of Utah. The warm and rustic atmosphere recreates the beloved old-school BBQ joint feel with the added bonus of mountain views. It all started when Pat, a barbecue enthusiast, decided his passion couldn’t just be a weekend affair. Years later, the restaurant has turned into a must-stop for anyone craving a hearty meal prepared with soul and love. Guy Fieri’s visit wasn’t without fanfare—the chef’s charm was matched by the restaurant’s savory aromas wafting through its doors.
Dishes Tried:
Ribs: Falling-off-the-bone tender ribs that are smoked with just the right balance of spice and sweetness, creating a truly finger-lickin’ experience.
Pulled Pork Sandwich: Piled high with juicy pork that’s been slow-cooked to perfection, topped with a tangy coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch.
Brisket: A smoky delight that melts in the mouth; it’s served with a side of homemade BBQ sauce that’s just a touch sweet and a bit spicy.
Status: Open
South 21 Drive-In
Address: 3101 E Independence Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28205
In Charlotte, North Carolina, a classic piece of Americana endures at South 21 Drive-In. This restaurant takes you back to simpler times with its retro style and the nostalgia that comes with carhop service. Since its opening decades ago, South 21 has remained a beloved icon in Charlotte, serving burgers that have been consistently praised for maintaining the right mix of nostalgia and deliciousness. Guy Fieri couldn’t resist the charm of the drive-in culture paired with the simple yet flavorful offerings.
Dishes Tried:
Super Boy Burger: A towering burger featuring two beef patties, crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a secret sauce that ties everything together like a culinary bear hug.
Fried Onion Rings: These rings rock the battered world with their crispy, golden hue enveloping a perfectly sweet onion inside.
Fish Sandwich: A delightful surprise, offering a flaky fish fillet, lightly battered and fried, served with tartar sauce—it’s like a taste of the sea between two buns.
Status: Open
Pappa’s BBQ
Address: 20001 Aldine Westfield Rd, Houston, TX 77073
Hailing from Houston, Texas, Pappa’s BBQ is a testament to what happens when dedication meets culinary excellence. Fittingly large in the land of everything big, the restaurant epitomizes Texan hospitality—a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere with a menu that could make any barbecue lover feel like they’ve stumbled upon heaven on earth. Fieri was drawn to Pappa’s by the bold flavors that take traditional BBQ fare up a notch, celebrating both the classics and the innovative spins.
Dishes Tried:
Beef Ribs: An impressive slab of meat marinated and smoked to achieve a juicy, full-bodied flavor that’s a highlight for any meat lover.
Jalapeño Cheese Sausage: A zesty creation that infuses traditional sausage with the spicy zing of jalapeños, balanced with creamy, melting cheese.
Smoked Turkey: Not to be overshadowed, the turkey at Pappa’s is succulent and moist, enriched with smokiness that makes each bite a treat.
Status: Open
In conclusion, this episode of “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” brings forth an exciting discovery of flavors and culinary traditions found across America. Guy Fieri’s charisma and palate for the extraordinary open doors to eateries that are cherished by locals yet might go unnoticed by others. Consider planning a delightful culinary road trip and savoring the scrumptious offerings at these exceptional places. Each takes you on a different journey, telling a story with every bite.