Anthony Bourdain - No Reservations, Vol. 3

This show makes me cry every time I see it. I spent my formative years in Sao Paulo and I have never seen anything that came nearly as close to grasping the unique culture of that crazy city than this episode of No Reservations. I remember almost every scene – from the mercado, to the waterfalls on the road to the beach at Santos where we went on weekends. From the extreme poverty, to the extreme wealth, Tony managed to grok that city in one episode. The most telling moment, was when he went outside for a moment at Claudia's house where they had feijoada and he admits to having the cynicysm ripped right out of him in that kind of environment.

Let's face it, when most people take a trip abroad, chances are they dont actually immerse themselves with the locals and their eats. Mr Bourdain however, goes to great lengths to get to know locals and eat what they eat. This is one of the best shows on TV simply because of its pure honesty, and because of Anthony Bourdain's no-nonsense approach and yet respectful narrative of local foods. Yes, he's a chef, but unlike most chefs; he's not afraid to give people a piece of his mind - a True New Yorker at heart. Every episode highlights a particular desitination - and often times you come away a little more enlightened about the local people. This is not a show about which hotels to stay at or which five star restaurant to dine in. Instead, its about the local customs, eateries, and people that Mr. Bourdain presents in his unique style which usually pulls no punches. Note: As of March 2008, Itunes only presents one of the 4 seasons of this show. There are 3 others full of amazing expereinces. When are we getting those on Itunes?

Anthony Bourdain's approach to showing the culture and accessibility of different areas of the world has inspired me to try foods I'd never normally eat and travel to places I wouldn't normally go. I appreciate the show's ability to create episode after episode of quality television that is actually interesting, funny, and pushes people to venture out of their comfort zone.

Anthony Bourdain travels all around the world and doesn't give you the typical tourist view. He delves deep into real life of the natives. Whether it's cusine, culture or passtimes, when you're done watching, you have a fantasic view of what life is really like in far away lands.

Bourdain's take on Cleveland and its idiosyncratic locals is great viewing. His interaction with legendary Cleveland native Harvey Pekar is priceless. And watch out for that 20 year old Twinkie filling!

Anthony Bourdain visits many countries that have different styles of cooking, and also different customs. His reviews are from the truth, and is also quite funny! If you like seeing different countries and epecially cooking, you will like him. Also if you watch Andrew Zimmern's Bizzare Foods, this show is for you!

Love the new seasons added.

Finally iTunes got its act together and put the new seasons No Reservations online. This season I thought was a great one, and I'm looking forward to having new episodes update after they air. Keep 'em Coming!