The Muffuletta, An American Original
Restaurant 1: The Muffaletta Shop
Address: [123 Delicious Dr, New Orleans, LA 70116]
The Muffaletta Shop in New Orleans is more than just a sandwich hub—it’s a testament to the cultural melting pot of the city. Known for its iconic muffuletta sandwich, the shop carries a lineage that spins back to Sicilian immigrant influences. Walking into the shop is like taking a step into a cozy nook filled with the aromas of freshly baked bread and cured meats mingling with the briny fragrance of olives. Cozy chairs and vibrant decor encapsulate the soul of New Orleans.
Dishes Tried
- Classic Muffuletta: A layering of salami, ham, mortadella, provolone, and Swiss, all piled high on a sesame-seeded Italian loaf with a zesty olive salad. Guy appreciated the balance of flavors, especially the olive salad, which added a refreshing contrast.
- Crawfish Étouffée: Served with a generous helping of rice, this dish reflects the Creole side of New Orleans with its rich, creamy, and slightly spicy profile.
- Beignet Bites: A sweet end to the meal, these miniature delights dusted with powdered sugar were a hit for Guy.
Status: Open
A Slice of the Midwest
Restaurant 2: Blue Plate Diner
Address: [2041 Main St, Madison, WI 53701]
Next up, we find ourselves in the heart of Wisconsin at the Blue Plate Diner—a place that combines diner favorites with a creative twist. Known for their emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, the Blue Plate Diner serves up beautifully crafted plates in an atmosphere that feels both retro and refreshingly modern. The checker-tiled floors, jukeboxes, and neon signs transport visitors back to the heyday of American diners with a cozy Midwestern charm.
Dishes Tried
- Crispy Cheese Curds: A nod to the dairy-rich traditions of Wisconsin, these cheese curds are fried to golden perfection. Guy was thrilled with their gooey interior and crisp outside.
- Bratwurst Sliders: Made with locally sourced bratwurst, these sliders are served on pillowy potato buns. Guy couldn’t get enough of the tangy mustard sauce that elevates each bite.
- Beer-Battered Perch Tacos: Blending Wisconsin’s affinity for perch with a more international favorite, these tacos are a delightful mix of crispy fish, tangy slaw, and a spicy aioli.
Status: Open
Santa Fe’s Secret Gem
Restaurant 3: The Santa Fe Bite
Address: [235 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501]
Tucked away in the artistic enclave of Santa Fe lies The Santa Fe Bite—a place that redefines burgers in a way that you wouldn’t expect from such an unassuming place. Small but welcoming, the restaurant exudes a welcoming warmth with its Southwestern decor and friendly staff. It’s no wonder locals often tout it as having New Mexico’s best green chile burger.
Dishes Tried
- Green Chile Cheeseburger: The star of the show, this burger is loaded with roasted Hatch green chiles, bringing a heat that’s balanced out by melty American cheese. Guy found it to be the perfect combination of spicy, savory, and gooey goodness.
- Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas: Smothered in a rich, smoky chipotle sauce, these enchiladas offer a depth of flavor enhanced by the slow-cooked chicken.
- Blue Corn Pancakes: A nod to the region’s indigenous culinary traditions, these unique pancakes offer a sweeter, nutty taste and are served with piñon butter.
Status: Open
