Andrew Zimmern, the intrepid traveler and culinary explorer, has captivated audiences for years with his willingness to try anything (and everything) on his show, “Bizarre Foods.” The show, known for its unflinching look at culinary traditions around the globe, often leaves viewers wondering: where can I watch it now? The answer, like the ingredients Zimmern often encounters, is a bit more complex than it might initially seem. This article breaks down where you can currently find episodes of “Bizarre Foods” and its spin-offs, as well as the evolution of the show and its impact on the world of food television.
The Evolution of Bizarre Foods and its Many Homes
“Bizarre Foods” premiered on the Travel Channel in 2006. Over the course of its run, the show took viewers to every corner of the world, showcasing unique, sometimes challenging, but always fascinating culinary traditions. The initial premise was simple: Zimmern would travel to a new location each episode and sample the local cuisine, regardless of how unusual it might seem to Western palates. From fermented shark in Iceland to balut in the Philippines, Zimmern’s willingness to try anything earned him a devoted following and critical acclaim.
As the show’s popularity grew, so did its various iterations. “Bizarre Foods America” focused on unique regional dishes and ingredients within the United States. This spin-off allowed Zimmern to explore the diverse culinary landscape of his own country, often highlighting the stories behind the food and the people who prepared it.
The Move to the Cooking Channel and Beyond
In 2015, “Bizarre Foods” moved from the Travel Channel to the Cooking Channel, a sister network within the Discovery family. This move marked a shift in focus, with the show placing even greater emphasis on the cooking process and the cultural significance of the dishes being featured. While the core premise of exploring unusual foods remained the same, the move to the Cooking Channel allowed for a deeper dive into the culinary techniques and traditions behind the bizarre ingredients.
Following the move, a new series titled “Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations” was launched. This version of the show focused on iconic dishes and restaurants around the world, offering a more accessible entry point for viewers who might have been intimidated by the more extreme offerings of the original “Bizarre Foods.”
End of an Era: The Conclusion of Bizarre Foods
After many successful years, “Bizarre Foods” concluded its run. While the show itself is no longer in production, the legacy of Andrew Zimmern’s culinary exploration continues through his other projects and the continued availability of past episodes.
Where Can You Watch Bizarre Foods Now?
Finding episodes of “Bizarre Foods” requires a bit of detective work. Given the show’s long run and its presence on multiple networks, the availability of episodes varies depending on your location and subscription services. Here are some of the most common places to find “Bizarre Foods” content:
Streaming Services
Many streaming services offer episodes of “Bizarre Foods” and its spin-offs. Availability often changes, so it’s best to check directly with the service to see what is currently available. Some common platforms that have carried the show in the past include:
- Discovery+: As part of the Discovery family of networks, Discovery+ is a natural home for “Bizarre Foods.” It often has a selection of episodes from various seasons.
- Hulu: Hulu’s streaming library sometimes includes episodes of “Bizarre Foods,” particularly those that aired on the Cooking Channel.
- Amazon Prime Video: You may be able to purchase individual episodes or seasons of “Bizarre Foods” through Amazon Prime Video.
- YouTube TV: If you subscribe to YouTube TV, check their on-demand library to see if any “Bizarre Foods” episodes are available.
On-Demand Cable and Satellite Services
If you have a cable or satellite subscription, check your provider’s on-demand library. Many providers offer a selection of episodes from channels like the Cooking Channel, allowing you to stream “Bizarre Foods” directly through your TV.
The Cooking Channel Website and App
The Cooking Channel’s website and app sometimes offer select episodes of “Bizarre Foods” for streaming. Check the site or app regularly to see what is currently available. You may need to log in with your cable or satellite provider credentials to access the content.
DVDs and Digital Purchases
For those who prefer to own their content, DVDs of “Bizarre Foods” seasons are sometimes available for purchase. You can also check online retailers like Amazon or iTunes to see if episodes or seasons are available for digital download.
Checking Local Listings
While the show is no longer in production, reruns may still air on the Cooking Channel or other networks. Check your local TV listings to see if “Bizarre Foods” is scheduled to air in your area.
Andrew Zimmern’s Other Culinary Adventures
While “Bizarre Foods” may have ended its run, Andrew Zimmern remains a prominent figure in the world of food television. He has gone on to create and host several other shows, each offering a unique perspective on food and culture.
“The Zimmern List”
“The Zimmern List” sees Andrew Zimmern embarking on culinary journeys through different cities, focusing on his personal favorite restaurants and dishes. It’s a more curated and intimate look at the food scene, offering viewers a glimpse into Zimmern’s own culinary preferences.
“Family Dinner”
“Family Dinner,” streaming on Discovery+, explores the importance of family meals and the traditions surrounding them. Zimmern visits families across the country to share meals and learn about their unique culinary customs.
“What’s Eating America”
This MSNBC series takes a critical look at the American food system, exploring issues such as food waste, food insecurity, and the impact of industrial agriculture. It’s a more serious and investigative approach to food television, reflecting Zimmern’s growing interest in food policy and advocacy.
The Enduring Appeal of Bizarre Foods
“Bizarre Foods” resonated with audiences for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it offered a unique and often shocking glimpse into culinary cultures around the world. Zimmern’s willingness to try anything, no matter how strange or unappetizing it might seem, was both entertaining and educational.
The show also benefited from Zimmern’s engaging personality. He is a natural storyteller, and his passion for food and culture is infectious. He is also respectful of the traditions he encounters, never mocking or belittling the dishes he tries.
Ultimately, “Bizarre Foods” was more than just a show about eating strange things. It was a celebration of cultural diversity and a reminder that food is a powerful way to connect with people from different backgrounds. It taught viewers that what is considered “bizarre” in one culture may be a delicacy in another.
The Legacy of Bizarre Foods on Food Television
“Bizarre Foods” played a significant role in shaping the landscape of food television. It helped to popularize the travel and food genre, paving the way for other shows that explore the world through its cuisine. The show also helped to broaden viewers’ perspectives on what constitutes “food,” encouraging them to be more open-minded and adventurous in their own eating habits.
Andrew Zimmern’s influence extends beyond the realm of television. He is a passionate advocate for food sustainability and responsible food sourcing. He uses his platform to raise awareness about issues such as food waste and the importance of supporting local farmers.
While the original “Bizarre Foods” is no longer in production, its legacy lives on through its many reruns, its spin-offs, and the continued work of Andrew Zimmern. The show remains a testament to the power of food to connect us to different cultures and to challenge our own culinary assumptions. The show, in its various iterations, has become a staple for travel and food enthusiasts alike. Even though the original run of the show has come to an end, the spirit of culinary exploration lives on through new programs and streaming availability, ensuring that Andrew Zimmern’s unique brand of adventure remains accessible for years to come.
To reiterate, here’s a table summarizing where to find Andrew Zimmern’s shows:
| Platform | Shows Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery+ | Bizarre Foods, Family Dinner | Check availability as content changes. |
| Hulu | Bizarre Foods | Likely Cooking Channel era episodes. |
| Amazon Prime Video | Bizarre Foods | May require purchase of episodes/seasons. |
| YouTube TV | Bizarre Foods | Check on-demand library. |
| Cooking Channel Website/App | Bizarre Foods | Select episodes may be available. |
The Future of Culinary Exploration
Andrew Zimmern’s career demonstrates that culinary exploration is an ever-evolving field. As the world becomes more interconnected, our understanding of different cultures and cuisines will continue to grow. Shows like “Bizarre Foods” have played a vital role in fostering this understanding, and they will continue to inspire future generations of culinary adventurers. Finding “Bizarre Foods” now might require a little searching, but the payoff of discovering new and exciting culinary traditions is well worth the effort.
Where can I watch current episodes of Andrew Zimmern's shows?
Currently, you can watch Andrew Zimmern's latest show, "Family Dinner," on Magnolia Network and stream it on Discovery+. Magnolia Network is available through many cable and satellite providers, as well as streaming platforms that offer live TV. Discovery+ requires a subscription, but provides on-demand access to all episodes of "Family Dinner" and other Magnolia Network content.
In addition to "Family Dinner," episodes from past seasons of "Bizarre Foods" and other Andrew Zimmern shows frequently air on channels like Travel Channel and Cooking Channel. Check your local listings or TV guide to confirm the schedule for these older episodes. Streaming services such as Hulu, YouTube TV, and Amazon Prime Video may also offer select seasons or episodes of Andrew Zimmern's programs for on-demand viewing, subject to availability.
Is "Bizarre Foods" still being produced?
While "Bizarre Foods" as a singular series is no longer being actively produced with new episodes, Andrew Zimmern has continued to explore unique culinary experiences through different iterations of the show and related programs. The original "Bizarre Foods" ran for 14 seasons on the Travel Channel, and its success led to spin-offs and evolutions within the same thematic framework.
Although new episodes under the specific title "Bizarre Foods" are unlikely, Andrew Zimmern remains active in food-related television. He has created and hosted shows like "Bizarre Foods America," "Andrew Zimmern's Driven by Food," and the aforementioned "Family Dinner," all of which share a similar adventurous spirit and a focus on diverse culinary traditions. These successor shows capture the essence of "Bizarre Foods" while exploring new themes and formats.
What happened to "Bizarre Foods" on the Travel Channel?
"Bizarre Foods" ended its run on the Travel Channel in 2018 after 14 seasons. The decision to conclude the series was likely influenced by a combination of factors, including evolving programming strategies at the Travel Channel and Andrew Zimmern's desire to explore new projects and creative avenues.
The Travel Channel has since shifted its focus towards different types of travel-related programming, including paranormal investigations and adventure travel. While reruns of "Bizarre Foods" may still occasionally appear on the channel, the network's primary emphasis has shifted away from culinary exploration. Andrew Zimmern's departure allowed him to pursue other opportunities, leading to the development of shows like "Family Dinner" and his ongoing work as a food writer and advocate.
Is Andrew Zimmern still involved in food television?
Yes, Andrew Zimmern remains very active in the food television world. He continues to create and host new shows, as well as appear as a guest on various culinary programs. His passion for exploring global cuisines and sharing unique food experiences has not diminished, and he continues to be a prominent voice in the food industry.
Beyond his television work, Andrew Zimmern is also involved in various philanthropic endeavors related to food security and sustainability. He actively uses his platform to advocate for responsible food practices and to raise awareness about important issues within the food system. This multifaceted approach to his career demonstrates his commitment to both entertainment and making a positive impact through food.
Are old episodes of "Bizarre Foods" available online?
Yes, many old episodes of "Bizarre Foods" are available to stream online, but availability can vary depending on the platform and your region. Several streaming services, including Discovery+, Hulu, YouTube TV, and Amazon Prime Video, may offer select seasons or episodes for on-demand viewing.
Availability is often subject to licensing agreements and may change over time. It's recommended to check each platform's current offerings to confirm whether specific seasons or episodes of "Bizarre Foods" are available for streaming. Additionally, purchasing episodes or seasons through digital retailers like iTunes or Google Play is another option for accessing the show.
What is Andrew Zimmern's current project, "Family Dinner"?
"Family Dinner" is Andrew Zimmern's current television project, airing on Magnolia Network and streaming on Discovery+. The show explores the cultural and emotional significance of family dinners across America, showcasing diverse traditions and recipes from different communities.
Unlike "Bizarre Foods," which focused on exotic and unusual ingredients, "Family Dinner" centers on the stories and connections forged through shared meals. Andrew Zimmern visits families across the country, participating in their dinner preparations and learning about their unique cultural backgrounds. The show highlights the importance of family, food, and the power of bringing people together around the table.
What makes "Bizarre Foods" different from other food shows?
"Bizarre Foods" distinguished itself from other food shows through its unwavering focus on exploring unusual and often unconventional culinary traditions around the world. Andrew Zimmern's willingness to sample a wide range of ingredients, many of which are considered delicacies in certain cultures but repulsive in others, set the show apart.
The show's emphasis on cultural understanding and respect for diverse foodways also contributed to its unique appeal. Rather than simply showcasing bizarre ingredients for shock value, "Bizarre Foods" aimed to educate viewers about the history, cultural significance, and preparation methods behind these dishes. This approach fostered a sense of curiosity and appreciation for the vast diversity of global cuisine.