Tonight, July 13, at 10pm, Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations Chile episode kicks off the second half of Season Five. I will confess, this episode really kicks butt. Of course, not only because it’s Chile–I suppose I had the ultimate preview since I was privileged to work with production as the local fixer for the shoot.
Tony’s visit to Chile certainly caused a stir among his numerous local fans–storming him in any public place or yelling from high rises; and even being relentlessly trailed on the coast by a local TV station. While my intent is not to give any of the show nor behind-the-scenes secrets away, let’s just say that during his stay he explored the Santiago and dived into some of the classic haunts and dishes like Arrollado, rolled pork seasoned with cumin, chili, and paprika at El Hoyo; munched on the gargantuan Lomitos at Fuenta Alemana; knocked back the mandatory Terremotos, an alcoholic brew made of simple white wine (Pipeño) and pineapple sorbet. Of course he hit up foodie musts like the sprawling central market, La Vega where Santiaguinos head for comfort food.
On the coast, more yummy seafood in the form of crunchy empanadas at one of my favorite spots (Las Deliciosas); wolfed down a mutant completo (see video below), and then to the campo, countryside, for some Huaso fun. In the verdant south, dazzling scenery, ethereal seafood like raw sea urchins, and almost perfect weather (minus one morning). Along with Tony’s candid comments on Chile from his blog, check out the full itinerary here, if you ever come to Chile, definitely some great spots to seek out!
Tune in tonight and let me know what you thought!
