In this episode, Guy Fieri takes viewers on a delectable journey through three extraordinary restaurants, each bursting with flavor and character. From crispy fried delights to classic homemade favorites, the episode showcases establishments that revel in simple yet unforgettable comfort foods. The common theme running through each of these dining hotspots is the loving, meticulous attention to regional and familial recipes, providing joy and sustenance in every bite. Let’s explore the standout dishes and the storied pasts of these amazing spots, promising to be as inviting to the palate as they are to the heart.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Address: 3002 W 47th Ave, Kansas City, KS 66103
Once known as Oklahoma Joe’s, this iconic eatery started in a peculiar place—inside a gas station! Don’t let the setting fool you; this isn’t typical gas station grub. Established in 1996 by Jeff and Joy Stehney, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que has become a mecca for BBQ lovers nationwide. The aroma of slowly smoked meats wafts through the air as soon as one steps inside, with an atmosphere as lively as it is laid-back. It’s a place where barbecue lovers come to pilgrimage, leaving behind their worries and calorie concerns at the door.
Guy Fieri was blown away by their enthralling meat selection, and it isn’t hard to see why. The care and discipline put into each smoked cut transform every bite into a mouthwatering melody.
Dishes Tried:
- Z-Man Sandwich: This isn’t any ordinary sandwich. Stuffed with perfectly smoked brisket, topped with provolone cheese, and crowned with crispy onion rings—all nestled within a toasted Kaiser roll—this dish is a testament to how simplicity and quality can lead to an outstanding product.
- Pulled Pork: Smoky, tender, and tantalizingly juicy, this pulled pork is everything one dreams a barbecue experience should be. Paired with their signature sauce, it’s a pulled pork you will find hard to rival elsewhere.
Status: Open
Butcher & Bee
Address: 1085 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403
Next, Guy Fieri’s culinary escapade brings him to Charleston, South Carolina, where he visits Butcher & Bee—a place that embodies the spirit of creative culinary fusion. Opened in 2011, this chic eatery is all about crafting dishes with fresh, mindful ingredients. The atmosphere artfully balances modern and rustic, welcoming guests with open spaces and vibrant energies.
The “Bee,” as it’s affectionately known by locals, is celebrated for its eclectic and ever-evolving menu that takes familiar ingredients and spins them into taste adventures. Guy had a smorgasbord of options but focused on a few menu standouts that embodied the restaurant’s playful spirit.
Dishes Tried:
- Stuffed Pita: Packed with an array of seasonal veggies and spices, the pita is a surprising journey of texture and flavor. It perfectly complements the Butcher & Bee’s dedication to fresh, farm-to-table offerings.
- Pulled Squash Sandwich: Who knew squash could be the centerpiece of a phenomenal dish? This sandwich challenges convention, replacing meat with spiced squash, delivering a hearty bite that’s both satisfying and ethical.
Status: Open
Pappy’s Smokehouse
Address: 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103
Located in the heart of St. Louis, Pappy’s Smokehouse is honored as the unofficial king of Memphis-style barbecue outside Tennessee. When Guy Fieri arrived at Pappy’s, he was greeted by a tantalizing whiff of hickory smoke, a precursor to the incredible meal that awaited. Since 2008, Pappy’s has been serving generous helpings of tender meats to enthusiastic carnivores in a colorful, no-frills setting.
Known for its ‘first come, first served’ philosophy, Pappy’s Smokehouse is a testament to the art of patience and dedication—both in its customer service and its cooking methods. Guy wasted no time diving into the wonderfully charred offerings prepared by the team at Pappy’s.
Dishes Tried:
- Ribs: Succulent and falling-off-the-bone, these ribs are a testament to smoking perfection. The signature rubs and hours of slow-smoking define their otherworldly flavor and tenderness.
- Burnt Ends: Often heralded as a delicacy, these burnt ends feature intense flavors and a satisfying crunch, perfectly encapsulating the time-honored traditions of barbecue excellence.
Status: Open
There’s something truly special about each of the restaurants Guy Fieri visited in this episode of “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” From smoking hot barbecue joints that worship pork and beef, to eateries like Butcher & Bee that redefine sandwich artistry, these places paint a colorful mural of American dining culture. One might argue Guy’s journey isn’t just about discovering good food—it’s about celebrating innovation, heritage, and the universal love of a hearty, well-crafted meal. Whether you’re on a road trip or seeking new places to satiate your cravings, the doors to these establishments are wide open, each offering its unique culinary adventure.