Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Guy Fieri, cruising through the culinary highways and byways of America? In season 9, episode 9 of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Guy embarks on a flavorful adventure that’s nothing short of an epicurean tour de force. This episode takes viewers into the heart of three unique eateries that showcase incredible flavors, unexpected twists, and the passionate people behind America’s favorite comfort foods. Guy’s journey is more than just a gastronomic excursion; it’s a celebration of the diverse culinary landscape found in every corner of the United States. Whether it’s comfort food classics or inventive new dishes, each destination offers something tantalizingly unique, making them a must-visit for food aficionados everywhere.

Hot Suppa

Address: 703 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102

When Hot Suppa opened its doors, it aimed to bring a taste of Southern comfort to the heart of the Northeast, and it has done so with flair. Nestled in Portland, Maine, Hot Suppa is the brainchild of brothers Moses and Alec Sabina, who focus on farm-to-table ingredients to whip up Southern culinary classics with a modern twist. The eatery has a warm and rustic atmosphere, the kind where you feel you could spend hours chatting over a cup of coffee… or something stronger.

When Guy Fieri rolled up, he was keen on sampling dishes that screamed comfort. True to its Southern roots, Hot Suppa lives up to its name with standout creations that don’t shy away from bold flavors and generous portions.

Dishes Tried:

• Fried Green Tomato BLT: This sandwich marries crispy fried green tomatoes with smoky bacon and fresh lettuce, all tucked between slices of homemade bread. It’s the Southern classic everyone needs, especially in the crisp northern air.
• Shrimp and Grits: An exemplar of creamy perfection, their grits serve as the fluffy bed for shrimp sautéed with bacon, giving you a piping hot bowl of delight. It’s smooth, hearty, and sticks to your ribs in the best way possible.
• Corned Beef Hash (If applicable): A classic breakfast staple, but Hot Suppa elevates it with their homemade corned beef, roasted until it practically sings harmony with the potatoes.

Status: Open

The Brick Pit

Address: 5456 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, AL 36608

Set amidst the smoky hickory of Mobile, Alabama, The Brick Pit stands as a testament to the magic of traditional barbecue. Known for his no-frills approach to smoking meats, owner Bill Armbrecht lets the quality of the ‘cue do the talking. The wafting aromas alone guide patrons toward this haven for smoked meat lovers from miles away, enticing even the non-barbecue-enthusiast to grab a plate.

Guy was on a quest for flavor, and The Brick Pit delivered in spades. It’s a place where hours of slow smoking create a kind of art that’s both simple and transformative, hitting you with flavor upon flavorful layers.

Dishes Tried:

• Pulled Pork: Cooked low and slow for over 30 hours, the pulled pork is moist and full-bodied with the subtle spice of the bark creating a thin, crispy texture outside. Its smoky flavor is a culinary hug.
• Smoked Turkey: Not your typical turkey; smoked to perfection until it’s tender, juicy, and brimming with an irresistible smoky aroma that makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about the bird.
• Ribs (If applicable): Fall-off-the-bone ribs carry a glaze that balances sweet and spicy delicately. The sauce is a family secret, creating a mass craving among the locals and tourists.

Status: Open

Grinders

Address: 417 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108

Kansas City might be known for its jazz and barbecue, but Grinders carves out its niche by marrying these two cultural pursuits. Created by eclectic owner Stretch, this joint is a marriage of art and food, serving up unlikely combinations in a vibrant space that feels like a gallery as much as it does a diner. He infuses Italian-American influences throughout the eclectic menu, garnering a lot of attention for his fearless culinary creativity.

During his visit, Guy unearthed a treasure trove of mouthwatering pizzas and more, each plate offering an explosion of flavors that rival any great jam session in the city.

Dishes Tried:

• Chili Bomb Pie Pizza: This Spicy pie thanks to its spaghetti-like sauce layered over a crispy base, topped with mozzarella and pepperoni- produced what might appropriately be called a harmonic convergence.
• Wings: These are no ordinary wings. Offered with a variety of sauces, from mild to mouth-meltingly hot, these wings are tossed and cooked to a crispy delight, giving a nod both to classic flavors and heat seekers.
• Cheesesteak Sandwich (If applicable): An homage to Philly, this sandwich smacks of authenticity with its thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and just the right amount of melted cheese, all on a fresh hoagie roll.

Status: Open

In conclusion, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives season 9 episode 9 takes us on a stimulating culinary journey across the American landscape. Each restaurant visited by Guy Fieri displays its charms, creativity, and palatable pleasures well worth savoring. So why not set your own itinerary based on this lineup and discover these amazing dining experiences across the U.S. for yourself? Each stop promises a hearty welcome and meals that assure you’ll leave with a full belly and a happy heart.