Bourdain's "No Reservations" Visits Cleveland

To me one of the best food shows on TV is not on the Food Network, but on the Travel Channel: Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations." The irreverent, former NYC chef travels all over the globe uncovering local specialities and food customs. Recent shows have included trips to Machu Picchu, Vietnam, and Lebanon. Last night, the hour-long segment was about Cleveland.

Bourdain, an unapologetic egotist, has a love/hate competitive relationship with Cleveland food writer, Michael Ruhlman. At Ruhlman's nudging, he agreed to bring the show to the North Coast, on what looked to be one of the coldest weekends of the year.

The segment showcased Cleveland's working class roots and ethnic influences. They visited the West Side Market; ate at Hot Sauce Williams and Sokolowski's University Inn in Tremont. He toured the city with American Splendor creator, Harvey Pekar and visited the Rock Hall with inductee, Marky Ramone.

The Travel Channel repeats its broadcasts regularly. Look for the Cleveland segment to air again soon. For more about "No Reservations" in Cleveland and outtakes, see this page.

(by the way, I've met Michael Ruhlman and he's friendly, witty, and knows his food--not nearly the oddball that Bourdain portrays him to be.)

^{(photo credit: Lawrence Lucier/Getty Images)}