Share and Enjoy

And two more for fun...

Although I am big fan of Anthony Bourdin, and also watch Top Chef from time to time, I can readily admit to watching two other shows that are a bit more...well...crass?

1) Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern

Although this show can be somewhat gut-wrenching (particularly for an animal lover like me), it does do a great job illustrating how other people around the world eat.  How that guy keeps some of that stuff down is beyond me.

2) Man vs. Food

OK, I know I shouldn't even admit to watching this, but it is entertaining!  Some of the eating challenges Adam Richman puts himself through are just brutal.  Five 24-oz. milkshakes in thirty minutes?  I don't think so.

Five best cooking shows on TV

I'm not much of a cook, but I do love cooking shows. Here's a list of my personal favorites:

1) America's Test Kitchen
Does what few other shows do: tells you why as well as how. It also makes everything seem easy and straightforward. And they tell you which products and tools to buy. Absolutely the best!

2) Top Chef
While not a how-to show, Top Chef does help you understand what being a restaurant chef is all about. Top Chef drinking game: take a shot every time someone says "flavor profile."

3) Good Eats
Alton Brown is both entertaining and informational. He also makes cooking seem really fun and accessible. The show does get too silly at times.

4) Mexico One Plate at a Time with Rick Bayless
Rick Bayless really helps you understand the culture as well as the food. I just wish his daughter wasn't such a big part of the more recent shows -- it seems forced.

5) No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain
While just as much about travel as it is about food, Bourdain is really entertaining no matter whether he's eating at a Michelin 3-star restaurant or a food stall.

An honorable mention to Jamie Oliver, who's original Naked Chef series was fantastic. However, I've never really enjoyed any of his subsequent shows.

Bonus pro tip: avoid anything with Paula Dean. :)