The Allure of Personal Culinary Revelation
Remember that dish? The one that stopped you mid-conversation, demanded your full attention, and etched itself into your memory? Food has that power. It transports us, comforts us, and connects us to people and places. And for many, Food Network has been a constant companion in the pursuit of these culinary epiphanies. While the network boasts a roster of iconic shows, few were as consistently crave-inducing as those that celebrated the “best thing” chefs had ever eaten. This article takes a nostalgic journey back to the Food Network era of showcasing personal culinary treasures, examining why these shows resonated with audiences, revisiting some of the most memorable recommendations, and ultimately asking: do these dishes still hold up today?
The “Best Thing I Ever Ate,” and similar themed shows like “The Best Thing I Ever Made,” thrived on a simple yet brilliant premise: inviting renowned chefs and food personalities to share their most unforgettable dining experiences. It wasn’t just about the food itself, but the stories behind it. Each recommendation came with a personal anecdote, a childhood memory, or a tale of culinary discovery. This format tapped into our innate desire for connection and provided a vicarious thrill of experiencing something truly extraordinary. The format was genius. Expert’s personal picks! And, as viewers, we were allowed to take the ride with them.
The show’s success lay in its accessibility. It wasn’t just about fine dining and elaborate creations. Often, the “best thing” was a seemingly simple dish, elevated by exceptional ingredients, skillful execution, or a sentimental attachment. This made the recommendations relatable and inspiring, encouraging viewers to seek out similar experiences in their own lives. The variety of food being presented was very wide, everything from fried chicken to foie gras, and this meant there was something for everyone!
Impact on the Foodie Landscape and Restaurant Popularity
The impact of “Best Thing I Ever Ate” on the restaurant industry was undeniable. A single mention on the show could catapult a small, local eatery into the national spotlight. Restaurants that had been relatively unknown suddenly faced long lines and reservation backlogs, all thanks to the Food Network effect.
Take, for example, Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City, famed for its pastrami on rye. While already a beloved institution, its appearance on “Best Thing” undoubtedly amplified its popularity, drawing in tourists and locals alike eager to experience the sandwich deemed worthy of such high praise. Countless other establishments across the country experienced a similar surge in business, proving the show’s power to influence dining trends.
Furthermore, the show contributed to a growing awareness of regional cuisines and culinary specialties. Viewers were exposed to dishes they might never have encountered otherwise, broadening their palates and inspiring them to explore the diverse flavors of the United States and beyond. The show helped bring some of the best food the United States had to offer to our televisions.
A Culinary Time Capsule: Revisiting Iconic Recommendations
Let’s journey back in time and revisit some of the most talked-about dishes from “Best Thing I Ever Ate,” and consider whether they still live up to the hype.
The Burger at Holeman and Finch Public House (Atlanta, Georgia)
Described as a “burger for the ages” by several chefs, Holeman and Finch’s burger featured two thin patties, American cheese, shredded lettuce, pickles, and a special sauce on a perfectly toasted bun. The burger was a sensation and a real hot spot in the city of Atlanta.
The Verdict: Sadly, Holeman and Finch Public House closed its doors in 2020. While the restaurant is gone, its legacy lives on. Many chefs were inspired by the burger and opened new versions of burgers in Atlanta. The iconic image lives on!
The Lobster Roll at Red’s Eats (Wiscasset, Maine)
This Maine landmark is renowned for its overflowing lobster rolls, piled high with fresh, succulent lobster meat. Chefs raved about the simplicity and quality of the ingredients, highlighting the pure, unadulterated flavor of the lobster.
The Verdict: Red’s Eats remains a popular destination, consistently drawing crowds eager to sample its famous lobster roll. Reviews are still overwhelmingly positive, praising the freshness of the lobster and the generous portion sizes. A classic!
The Fried Chicken at Willie Mae’s Scotch House (New Orleans, Louisiana)
Willie Mae’s fried chicken is legendary. The crispy, golden-brown skin and the juicy, flavorful meat has earned it countless accolades, including a spot on the “Best Thing I Ever Ate.”
The Verdict: Willie Mae’s Scotch House continues to thrive, serving up its iconic fried chicken to adoring fans. Despite facing challenges in recent years, including Hurricane Katrina, the restaurant has persevered, maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition. The reviews are still incredible and the restaurant has kept the same magic.
The Pastrami on Rye at Katz’s Delicatessen (New York, New York)
As mentioned earlier, Katz’s pastrami on rye is a New York City institution. The hand-carved pastrami, piled high on rye bread with mustard, is a testament to simple yet satisfying comfort food. It has continued to be the face of New York food.
The Verdict: Katz’s Delicatessen is still going strong, serving up its legendary pastrami sandwiches to throngs of hungry customers. The line may be long, but the experience is undeniably worth it, a true taste of New York history.
The Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice at Nobu (Various Locations)
Nobu Matsuhisa’s empire extends across the world and helped popularize Japanese fare with a contemporary twist. The spicy tuna crispy rice helps introduce many to Asian flavors with a bit of heat.
The Verdict: Nobu restaurants are still located all across the world. Though Nobu is an established restaurant chain, reviews are mixed depending on location. The dishes are generally well-received, but the high-price point makes it not for everyone.
The Enduring Appeal: Why Nostalgia Still Sells
The legacy of “Best Thing I Ever Ate” extends far beyond restaurant recommendations. The show tapped into something deeper – our collective nostalgia for simpler times and the joy of discovering culinary treasures.
In an era of ever-evolving food trends and social media-driven dining experiences, there’s something comforting about revisiting these classic dishes and restaurants. They represent a sense of authenticity and tradition, reminding us of the importance of quality ingredients, skillful preparation, and the stories that connect us to our food.
We love the nostalgia of going back and reliving our favorite shows and dishes. As viewers, we loved seeing our favorite chefs talk about what they loved, so we could love it too! The impact has been amazing!
So, Does the “Best Thing” Still Live Up To Its Name?
The answer, as with most things in life, is nuanced. While some of the restaurants featured on “Best Thing I Ever Ate” have closed or evolved, the underlying principles of quality, flavor, and experience remain timeless. The show’s recommendations may serve as a starting point, but the real journey is in discovering your own “best thing.” It is still worth watching if you need some new culinary inspiration.
The beauty of food lies in its ability to evoke memories, spark conversations, and create connections. Whether you’re revisiting a classic dish or embarking on a new culinary adventure, the pursuit of the “best thing” is a lifelong quest.
Finding Your Own Best Thing
So, what’s the best thing you’ve ever eaten? What dish sticks out in your mind that you still think about to this day? Maybe it was something from a restaurant or something from a family member. There is so much to unpack when talking about the best thing you have ever eaten.
Think back to that dish, close your eyes, and remember the flavors. Remember the ingredients. What stood out?
The best thing you have ever eaten might be different from the best thing I have ever eaten. It’s all subjective!
One thing that is not subjective is the popularity and power of Food Network, and the shows that they were able to create. The way that these shows are able to touch us so deeply, will always make the shows worth watching.
Food For Thought
Ultimately, “Food Network’s Best Thing I Ever Ate” was more than just a television show; it was a celebration of culinary passion, personal stories, and the enduring power of food to connect us all. As you reflect on your own culinary adventures, consider what dish stands out as your “best thing.” What makes it so special? And how has it shaped your understanding of the world around you? So many questions that get you to think about what the food means to you!
Perhaps it’s time to revisit the show, seek out some of the recommended restaurants, or simply explore new flavors and cuisines in your own backyard. The “best thing” is out there, waiting to be discovered.
The culinary scene is always changing and evolving, and Food Network continues to deliver shows, recipes, and experts to guide us on our personal food journeys.
