In this episode, Guy Fieri embarks on a journey to uncover mouthwatering dishes and fascinating restaurants that serve them. He visits three amazing spots, each with its own distinct character and culinary style. From a cozy cafe known for its irresistible comfort food to a vibrant establishment dishing out international flavors, viewers are treated to an enticing array of options. Guy wastes no time in highlighting standout dishes like spicy shrimp tacos and soulful barbecue that will make anyone’s taste buds tingle. The overall theme of the episode focuses on unique, creative spins on classic comfort foods, proving that these hidden gems deserve their time in the spotlight.

Blue Ash Chili

Address: 9565 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash, OH 45242

Blue Ash Chili is no ordinary chili parlor; it has been a staple in the community since 1969. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name, and the comforting scent of simmering chili greets you as soon as you walk in. Famed for their Cincinnati-style chili, Blue Ash Chili has built a loyal following over the decades. Guy Fieri couldn’t resist diving into their hearty classics and inventive twists on the standard chili bowl.

Dishes Tried:

• 6-Way Chili: Imagine a classic 5-way chili with an added twist—a giant jalapeño popper on top. This dish is a harmony of flavors with spaghetti, refined beans, heaps of sharp cheddar, diced onions, and a sauce that packs just the right amount of heat.

• Chili Spaghetti: A comforting blend of well-seasoned chili ladled over spaghetti noodles then topped with cheese. Simple but bursting with flavor, it’s a signature dish that captivates.

• Double-Decker BLT: Not one to be outdone by chili alone, this towering sandwich layers crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, tomato, and mayo between three slices of hearty bread, making for a satisfying bite.

Status: Open

The Dining Car

Address: 7823 Forsyth Boulevard, Clayton, MO 63105

Over in Clayton, Missouri, The Dining Car serves up classic diner fare with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Its unassuming exterior hides an interior that feels like a vintage railway dining car, complete with retro décor. The down-to-earth atmosphere makes it a comfortable stop for any hungry traveler in the heartland of America. Guy Fieri visits for a taste of their timeless offerings that blend nostalgia with culinary skill, proving that you don’t have to reinvent the wheel to create an exceptional meal.

Dishes Tried:

• Diner Meatloaf: A succulent slice of meatloaf, moist and flavorful, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy. The combination of spices and perfectly cooked beef makes this a standout.

• Breakfast Hash: Packed with potatoes, sausage, peppers, and onions, this breakfast dish hits all the right notes. Topped with perfectly cooked eggs, it’s a hearty meal to start your day right.

• Crispy Fried Chicken: Cooked to golden perfection, the chicken is known for its crispy skin and juicy interior, served with a side of coleslaw that balances the richness.

Status: Open

Cafe 222

Address: 222 Island Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101

A quirky establishment located in sunny San Diego, Cafe 222 is nothing short of iconic. Known for its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a haven for food enthusiasts seeking something different. Bright-colored walls adorned with quirky art make visitors feel like they’ve stepped into a whimsical world of flavor. Guy Fieri stops by to sample the innovative and hearty options that have won over locals and visitors alike.

Dishes Tried:

• Peanut Butter and Banana Stuffed French Toast: This sweet, indulgent treat of thick-cut bread stuffed with ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter is perfectly complemented by a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s breakfast comfort food with a twist.

• Pumpkin Waffles: Light and fluffy with warm spices, these waffles capture the essence of fall in every bite. Topped with candied pecans and whipped cream, it’s a feast for the senses.

• Chorizo Benedict: Featuring spicy chorizo on a toasted English muffin, this dish is finished with hollandaise sauce and poached eggs. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that showcase the cafe’s creative edge.

Status: Open

With these phenomenal finds, Season 11, Episode 7 of Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives offers viewers a taste of diversity—blending chili classics, diner delights, and whimsical fusions that even the most discerning palate can appreciate. From Ohio to California, these eateries prove that food is not just sustenance but an experience to savor and cherish. So, why not take a culinary road trip around the country and let your taste buds be your guide?