Shows
"Fine" DiningFirehouse Subs: Steamed Meats, Pickle Buckets, & Titanic Talk🚒 Firehouse Subs 🥒 This week, we head into Firehouse Subs to see what the fuss is about. Emmy Award-winning guest and cohost of On Brand with Jon & Marisa Jon Glover joins me to talk steaming meats, charity pickle buckets, Titanic lore, and why being put on hold too long might just drive you insane. Along the way, Jon invents his dream restaurant “Capades” (an ice-themed wonderland), brushes shoulders with James Cameron (not to brag), and gets hot and bothered for firemen. 🚫 Steamed Meats That Don’t Quite Work 🥒 Pickle Buckets & Firehouse’s Community Spirit 🎬 Jon Worked with “Jim” Ca...
2025-08-2052 min
"Fine" DiningGino's East of Chicago: Graffiti, Deep Dish, & a Biscuit Crust🍕 Gino’s East of Chicago: Graffiti, Deep Dish, & Biscuit Crust 🧱 This week, we take a bite out of the legacy of Gino’s East of Chicago — a deep dish pizza joint started by cabbies and made famous by its buttery biscuit crust and graffiti-covered walls. With a flavor profile heavy on cornmeal and sausage (sometimes too much sausage), it’s one of Chicago’s big four pizza spots — but is it the GOAT? Joining me is actor and comedian Jacquis Neal (Dropout, Last Week Tonight) as we dig into this crusty cornerstone of Chicago culture, debate sausage aut...
2025-08-0658 min
"Fine" DiningTrying Jollibee for the First Time🍑 Better Than Chili’s? We Finally Taste Jollibee 🍗 This week, we're putting Jollibee through the Chili’s Test. From sweet pies that taste like vacation to spaghetti that... didn’t, we finally try the food and decide whether this beloved Filipino chain lives up to its reputation. With special guest Jason Patrick Galit (JPG) guiding the way, we get the full experience, even if we have to be Sweaty Little Boys in the process. It’s juicy fried chicken, a peach mango hand pie that has haunted my dreams (in a good way though), and one very loud...
2025-07-161h 16
"Fine" DiningJollibee Is a Filipino Treasure🍗 Jollibee Is a Filipino Treasure 🍗 This week, we dive into the sweet, crunchy, culturally iconic legacy of Jollibee, the Filipino fast food chain with a bee mascot, a cult following, and a spaghetti recipe that would confuse most Americans. But to millions of Filipinos, it’s more than just a restaurant—it’s home. Joining me is Jason Patrick Galit (JPG) from InterMyth, who grew up with Jollibee and has the love to prove it. From his first spaghetti to a fried chicken hand towel, this episode is deeply personal as he offers a lot of amazing i...
2025-07-091h 07
Scene ThisFriendship Movie DraftIn this episode, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about friendship-themed movies, culminating in a fun draft where they select their favorite films across various categories. They explore childhood friendships, unexpected bonds, road trip adventures, tearjerkers, squad dynamics, and wild card picks, while also sharing personal anecdotes and insights about the films. The conversation is filled with humor, nostalgia, and a few friendly debates about the nature of friendship in cinema.Chapters00:00 Friendship Movie Draft Introduction03:28 Wheel of Cinema (Draft Order)04:32 Adrian's 1st Pick
2025-06-0553 min
"Fine" DiningChili's IS the Most Mediocre Restaurant in America🌶️ Chili’s IS the Most Mediocre Restaurant in America (Part 2) 🌶️ After 100 restaurant reviews, this was it. Chili’s officially earned the perfect 5.00 out of 10, making it the most mediocre restaurant in America — the ultimate point of comparison for every meal to come. In this episode, I’m joined by returning guest VyVy Nguyen as we review the Encino location in full detail. From booth battles and dry wings to nostalgic chips and a molten dessert that hides its magic in the middle, we break down the exact moment Chili’s became the standard of mid. 🍔 The Sliders That Carrie...
2025-05-071h 15
Scene ThisThe 420 Movie DraftIn this special 420 draft episode, hosts Michael, Erica, and Adrian engage in a lively discussion about their favorite weed-related movies. They explore various categories including best weed movie, best visuals, and thought-provoking films, while sharing personal anecdotes and insights about the films they choose. The conversation is filled with humor, nostalgia, and a deep appreciation for stoner culture, making it a fun and engaging listen for fans of cannabis and cinema alike. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the world of stoner movies, exploring iconic characters, philosophical themes, and visual masterpieces. They discuss the humor inherent in...
2025-04-201h 02
Scene ThisThe 1987 Movie DraftIn this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss their personal updates, delve into the intricacies of drafting movies from 1987, and share their thoughts on iconic films from that year. They explore the cultural impact of these movies, the dynamics of family voting in their draft, and reflect on the significance of their selections. The conversation is filled with humor, nostalgia, and insightful commentary on the films that shaped their childhoods. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into their favorite films across various genres, highlighting the impact of iconic actors like Robin Williams, Patrick Swayze, and Cher. They share personal...
2025-03-281h 00
Scene ThisS1E8 - 1990's Oscars Movie DraftIn this episode, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about the upcoming Academy Awards, share quick news about Hollywood, and dive into a special draft focused on 90s Oscar winners. They explore various categories, make their picks, and debate the merits of iconic performances from that decade. The conversation is filled with humor, insights, and a deep appreciation for cinema, culminating in a recap of their selections and a call for audience engagement.Make sure to go vote for the best team on our Instagram. IG link down below 👇🏽Chap...
2025-02-2455 min
Scene ThisAstrology Movie Draft: PiscesIn this bonus episode, Michael, Erica & Adrian engage in a lively draft centered around the theme of Pisces, exploring various categories such as movies that make you cry, films featuring fish, and those with psychic elements. The conversation delves into the traits associated with Pisces, the significance of lead roles in films, and the emotional impact of certain movies. The hosts share their personal favorites and engage in playful debates about the validity of their picks, all while celebrating the unique qualities of Pisces in cinema. In this lively conversation, the hosts engage in a spirited debate...
2025-02-211h 07
Scene ThisValentine's Day Movie DraftIn this bonus episode, the hosts engage in a lively draft of Valentine's Day movies, exploring various categories such as true love, love triangles, toxic relationships, and romantic comedies. Each participant shares their top picks, leading to discussions about classic films and personal favorites. The conversation highlights the significance of love in its many forms, from romantic to platonic, and culminates in a recap of their selections and honorable mentions.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Valentine's Day Movie Draft02:52 Erica's 1st Pick04:56 Adrian's 1st Pick
2025-02-1444 min
"Fine" DiningAmerica's Largest IKEA feat. Chris Grace [Part Two]"I don't have a lot of respect for a meatball!" IKEA Swedish Bistro has a tough battle if it wants to be taken seriously on its culinary merits. Does it stake its claim as a contender in the pantheon of viable restaurants? Dropout's Chris Grace joins me to evaluate! The Good: The cafeteria set up (for Chris), the garlic bread, many of the desserts, the scenic vista of Griffith Park, and the place is clean The Not Good: The grimy hallway of tray return, the fries, the "fake" feeling made me dissociate, lack of variety, and the ci...
2025-01-151h 24
"Fine" DiningIKEA's Meatballs Aren't Actually Even Swedish feat. Chris GraceFood from a furniture store? I'm joined by Chris Grace from NBC's Superstore to tackle the largest furniture retailer in the world IKEA and their fabled Swedish Bistro which happens to be the 6th-largest food chain internationally! "Coffee and a biscuit" was where it all began in Sweden Despite being what they're known for, the Swedish Meatball (which isn't even actually Swedish) didn't hit the menu until the 80s, almost 30 years after open There were plans for a viking themed restaurant originally! A nightmare green hot dog and food made of mealworms?? A Yelper writes with whimsy and th...
2025-01-0844 min
"Fine" DiningSnitching on Santa at Arctic Circle feat. Santa Claus [Part Two]We come bearing gifts! Arctic Circle seemed like the best place to review with Santa Claus in tow, so we took a road trip out to southern Utah to try it! The Good: the mini corn dogs were genuinely great, and Santa brightened a few patrons' days by having gifts for the children! The Not Good: Someone complained to management about aforementioned gift-giving, and we had to cease, also not all the food was great The Just There: To be honest, this whole chain was pretty mediocre What We Ate: Three burgers (standard, bacon, and pastrami), pumpkin pi...
2024-12-2555 min
"Fine" DiningWho Invented Fry Sauce? feat. Santa ClausRoad trip to Utah! What a get! This week, I had the honor of taking Santa Claus himself to the restaurant that makes the absolute most sense to review with Kris Kringle: Arctic Circle. If you don't know it, think Dairy Queen Grill & Chill. They do the dipped cone thing but more importantly, they claim to have invented fry sauce Not only do we get the history of this chain and fry sauce itself, but there's a lot of genuinely fascinating Santa Claus lore that I didn't know! Is Santa Claus technically a cryptid? A Yelper does no...
2024-12-1832 min
"Fine" DiningBest Chain Salad? California Pizza Kitchen Review feat. Holly Brown [Part Two]I love CPK, but not for the pizza! California Pizza Kitchen is such a favorite of mine, I'm surprised it took 70 episodes to get to it! My guest, comedian Holly Brown is just as passionate about this chain as I am, so this was a great time The Good includes my favorite salad ever, Holly & my pasta dishes, & the vibes The Not Good: The BBQ Chicken Pizza, the pasta plate real estate, the complimentary bread portions The Just There: This location didn't smell like a septic tank for once! What we ate: White Corn Guac & Chips, Bread & Oi...
2024-12-1153 min
"Fine" DiningCalifornia Pizza Kitchen Was Pasta First? feat. Holly BrownViola Davis' favorite chain? California Pizza Kitchen has some truly fascinating claims - from pizzas innovated in their kitchen to being the first chain to outlaw smoking in their restaurants - I dive into all of it with comedian Holly Brown Holly used to work at CPK, which makes her the first former employee of the restaurant-of-the-week I've had as a guest on the show The Eat Deets will teach you about how CPK was originally a pasta concept A baffling viral mishap regarding mac & cheese The Secret Menu: Legal Eats Not only is CPK Viola Davis' favorite...
2024-12-0438 min
"Fine" DiningNo Nips for Us! Strip Club Review feat. Ryan Keely & Dana Scarborough [Episode 69 Special Part Two]No Nut November + the 69th Restaurant! Nice! Note: One of the mics wasn't working properly. It should sound fine, but Dana is a little quieter than I would've liked. Apologies in advance. Note #2: This was also recorded before the decision was made to shake up the show's format this season, so it's the final episode to contain "This Is Way Too Much," "What's Going On Over There?" and no super awesome cold opens. Sam's Hofbrau is technically a strip club, but not based on what we experienced! I brought adult film star Ryan Keely a...
2024-11-271h 02
"Fine" DiningStrip Club Eats feat. Ryan Keely & Dana Scarborough [Episode 69 Special Part One]My 69th Restaurant! Nice! Note: One of the mics wasn't working properly. It should sound fine, but Dana is a little quieter than I would've liked. Apologies in advance. Sam's Hofbrau is a strip club in Los Angeles that serves food, and I went with adult film star Ryan Keely and Dana Scarborough of the I Seduce the Dragon podcast to celebrate the 69th restaurant review on the main feed of the podcast! The history of serving food at strip clubs How to run your strip club kitchen Tales from the road as Ryan has been...
2024-11-2039 min
"Fine" DiningCasa Bonita Is My New Favorite Restaurant feat. Ify Nwadiwe [Part Two]10 months on the waitlist, and well worth it! Casa Bonita is the definition of a dining "experience" with its hodgepodge collection of oddball acts and entertainment, but is it worth flying out of state to grab dinner? I break down this kitschy paradise with my guest, the hilarious Ify Nwadiwe (Dropout TV, Um Actually, Maximum Film) in this week's review episode! The Good: Cliff divers are tremendous fun, the puppet show is expertly entertaining, the magician is a pro, the merch is unrivaled, the food is way better than its reputation would have you believe, a Love T...
2024-11-131h 27
"Fine" DiningThe Story of Casa Bonita feat. Ify NwadiweAs seen on South Park! Casa Bonita, an institution near Denver, Colorado blends the kitsch of a sprawling indoor theme park with Mexican food, and Ify Nwadiwe (Dropout TV, Um Actually, Maximum Film) is here to learn all about it with me The location that everyone knows and loves isn't the original Casa Bonita, which used to have locations in four different states The Secret Menu: Edible TV Shows I name the winner of the Septemburger $500 giveaway The South Park creators buy Casa Bonita and find themselves hemorrhaging money to the tune of $42 million to restore it A...
2024-11-0658 min
"Fine" DiningSeason 3 Trailer!Season 3 is coming next week! Follow along for season 3 as I'm headed to a lot of fun restaurants! 11/6-11/13 Casa Bonita with Ify Nwadiwe 11/20-11/27 Strip Club Food with Ryan Keely & Dana Scarborough 12/4-12/11 California Pizza Kitchen with Holly Brown 12/18-12/25 Arctic Circle with Santa Claus  On top of that, I've got some new music to freshen things up, including a brand new opening theme song! "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to my YouTube to watch this episode!
2024-10-3001 min
"Fine" DiningSeason Finale: A Nightmare on WingStreet Review feat. Rachel Bryant (Actor) [Part Two]The End of Season 2! WingStreet is Pizza Hut's wing brand, and I hit one with my guest this week, actor Rachel Bryant while we both dressed head-to-toe as horror icon Freddy Krueger What's Going On Over There with the pizza boxes replacing the glass on the broken door? Some kids at the Popeyes next door come out to threaten us (some might say it's Way Too Much) The employee had fun putting our order in for "Freddies" The Secret Menu Category: Delicious Hassles What we ate: Wings (4 flavors), Chocolate Donut Bites Rachel talks about dining on t...
2024-10-2346 min
"Fine" DiningA Nightmare on WingStreet: History feat. Rachel Bryant (Actor, "A Hard Place") [Part One]Part 1 of the season 2 finale! It's A Nightmare on WingStreet as I cover the history of when Pizza Hut & YUM brands incorporated wings into their menu, and I'm joined by prolific horror actor Rachel Bryant We spend the entire finale fully cosplayed as horror icon Freddy Krueger Rachel's primary experience with wings is watching other people eat them at Super Bowl parties Hear the history of Buffalo Wings as a dish in general A Yelper needs relationship counseling, but regardless, likes his wife's suggestion of WingStreet despite his opposition to Pizza Hut as a whole "Fine"...
2024-10-1639 min
"Fine" DiningCook Out Review feat. Scott Philbrook (Astonishing Legends Podcast) [Part Two]Maybe the best milkshakes in the game! Cook Out is a staple of North Carolina, and I got to sit with host of the Astonishing Legends podcast, Scott Philbrook and try the burgers, hush puppies, and milkshakes that make them famous The Secret Menu Category: Spooky Restaurants A liminal space with Cheerwine decor What's Going On Over There with the handwashing station on the customer side of the ordering station? There's back of house and front of house, and never the two shall meet What we ate: Onion Rings, Hush Puppies, Cajun Fries, Cook Out Style Burger, Ou...
2024-10-0957 min
"Fine" DiningCook Out History feat. Scott Philbrook (Astonishing Legends Podcast) [Part One]Coming to you from Greensboro, North Carolina this week! I'm cross-country again as this week I'm covering the beloved Southern burger chain Cook Out with host of the Astonishing Legends podcast, Scott Philbrook Scott talks his history with Cook Out from back when he was in college, as most locations are open until 3 in the morning Learn the history of Cook Out and their expansive menu that sells at a fraction of the cost of most fast food brands' offerings A couple incidents at Cook Out got managers and employees fired for either refusing or giving poor se...
2024-10-0252 min
"Fine" DiningShake Shack feat. Jen Kober (Stand-Up Comedian)Septemburger 2024's final stop! I cap off a jetsetting Septemburger with the spot I barely had to go a mile to get to, Shake Shack. One of my go-tos in this this bracket, and I was graced with the presence of hilarious comedian Jen Kober The origins of the place were unclear at the time of filming, but I ultimately learned that the original Shake Shack was called I
2024-09-251h 12
"Fine" DiningWhite Castle feat. Coyal Harrison (Visit Vegas Places Podcast)Septemburger 2024's most upsetting stop! I'm in Las Vegas this week to hit the nearest White Castle to me with Vegas native (and host of the Visit Vegas Places podcast) Coyal Harrison and is not a good meal Apparently the White Castle slider was literally created in a moment of frustration when the founder couldn't quite figure out how to do meatballs, so he squashed it, put it on a bun, and called it edible The Secret Menu Mini-Game: Comedy Restaurants This White Castle is attached to a casino, so the vibes are nightmarish and should never be...
2024-09-181h 03
"Fine" DiningIn-N-Out Burger (vs. Whataburger for Septemburger) feat. Raj Rawal (Tastemade)Septemburger rolls on! Formerly of Tastemade, producer Raj Rawal joins me to talk about a restaurant he's very passionate about: In-N-Out Burger The Eat Deets tackle everything from the founder's untimely passing in a plane crash and the struggles with substance abuse of the sons, to In-N-Out's brand loyalty with 7-Up surviving a rift with Pepsi The Secret Menu Mini-Game: Vehicular Goodies An injured employee is helped out of the restaurant by a manager mid-lunch rush in a noteworthy show of human decency What's Going On Over There with the overly competitive drivers in the parking lot? Th...
2024-09-111h 13
"Fine" DiningSeptemburger 2024 Kick-Off Spectacular: Steak 'n Shake vs. Rally's, Freddy's vs. Culver's, Whataburger ReviewYour chance at $500 is here! Septemburger is once again upon us, and this time I've scoured the nation for 8 fast food burger chains to compete in the annual contest I'm joined by a slew of guests: my own Dad, I Think You Should Leave's Steve Moulton, and my friends Kellie Baldwin, Herbert Amaya, and Ashley Robinson Click here for a direct link to the Septemburger 2024 Bracket Google Form (due by end of day September 10th, 2024)! Septemburger Rules explained: 24 burgers across 8 fast food/fast casual restaurants are sampled First round matches pit basic burgers against basic burgers (the...
2024-09-0437 min
"Fine" DiningPerkins Review feat. Andrew Canada (Two in the Cooler Podcast) [Part Two]Even the name sounds mediocre! I'm joined once again by Two in the Cooler podcast host Andrew Canada to hit up a chain that was a staple of his childhood: Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Perkins has a dingy atmosphere that acknowledges you'd rather be elsewhere What's Going on Over There with advertising the arrival of Dr. Pepper to your menu, and then only serving Mr. Pibb? (This one really upset Michael) Our server was emotionally affected by me not loving my burger Andrew eats his pancakes in a real crazy way What we ate: Orange Juice Mr. Pibb C...
2024-08-281h 06
"Fine" DiningPerkins History feat. Andrew Canada (Two in the Cooler Podcast) [Part One]I traveled to New York, New York for this one! From the Two in the Cooler podcast, host Andrew Canada joins me this week to check out Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, a chain that I flew across the country to New York City to try, and he flew down from Buffalo to meet me there Originally "Smithy's Pancake House" before changing their name and expanding across the region, Perkins' backstory is one of ups and downs The Secret Menu: Sci-Fi Foods Andrew's friends sound 100% made up A Yelper gives Perkins 5 stars while continually dunking on Staten Island in pre...
2024-08-2140 min
"Fine" DiningHouston's Restaurant Review feat. Adam Macias (That Was Wild Podcast) [Part Two]The sushi at Houston's is an unexpected masterpiece! Houston's Restaurant aka Hillstone is one of the higher-end experiences I've had for the podcast, and That Was Wild podcast's Adam Macias joined me on his own birthday to dine there with me The art choices in here were bold (arguably Way Too Much) and their light fixtures straight up looked like a certain Pokémon I straight up misinterpreted the meaning of the phrase "I'm Going to Hit the Head" What's Going On Over There with falsely advertising their artichokes on the menu? Manager gaslighting What we ate: D...
2024-08-141h 03
"Fine" DiningHouston's Restaurant History feat. Adam Macias (That Was Wild Podcast) [Part One]A chain with 15 different names! Houston's Restaurant aka Hillstone aka 13 other things is one of the more upscale chains, and Adam Macias from the That Was Wild podcast joins me to learn interesting facts about this restaurant Houston's will let you BYOB without charging a corkage fee, and they are very proud of this The Secret Menu: Bougier Restaurants Houston's is currently embroiled in a lawsuit over price-gouging during the pandemic My new favorite review of all-time: an unfashionable Yelper dressed terribly, and then complained that staff let him know he was breaking the dress code in this wee...
2024-08-0740 min
"Fine" DiningPopeyes Review feat. Sierra Katow (Stand-Up Comedian, TV Chef Fantasy League) [Part Two]We eat the chicken sandwich that caused chaos upon launch! Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen makes it clear that you're not supposed eat it there. But I powered through with my guest, stand-up comedian Sierra Katow Popeyes goes overboard on the signage in the store, outside the restaurant, and on the door What's Going On Over There with the complete silence inside the establishment? The chicken sandwich: is it really that good? Sierra opens up about a stressful Denny's experience What we ate: Strawberry Lemonade Sweet Tea Biscuits Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Cole Slaw Signature Fried Chicken Honey Lem...
2024-07-311h 01
"Fine" DiningPopeyes History feat. Sierra Katow (Stand-Up Comedian, TV Chef Fantasy League) [Part One]The stories from the sandwich launch are wild! I went to Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen with stand-up comedian Sierra Katow, but before reviewing the place we have to go over the franchise history The Eat Deets unveil founder Al Copeland's master plan to charge the company a "spice royalty" after he was ousted from leadership The Secret Menu: Villainous Treats Beyoncé has a "free Popeyes for life" situation going, but she's too embarrassed to use it A chronicling of the abject chaos that erupted upon the release of Popeyes chicken sandwich A Yelper expresses grave concern over a manager i...
2024-07-2447 min
"Fine" DiningShoney's Review feat. Dad [Part Two]A new Worst Restaurant in America is crowned! A restaurant so bad, I don't think my Dad (my guest this week) will ever let me live it down: Shoney's Buffet soups shouldn't have such a thick skin over them that the ladle rests on top...right?? What's Going On Over There with Shoney's thinking they deserve their own food truck? The service team surprises me with a little extra cook time on my steak, despite my wishes to the contrary Fan of the show Travis recounts the story of when Scott Steiner threw him out of a Shoney's! Se...
2024-07-1754 min
"Fine" DiningShoney's History feat. Dad [Part One]Traveled across the country for this! Coming to you from the mountains of North Carolina, I bring you the Eat Deets for Shoney's with my very own Dad Shoney's has undergone a few name changes, including being a part of the Big Boy franchise A brand that once grew to over 1,800 restaurants is dwindling in the post-pandemic restaurant landscape, now down to 81 (as of 2024) Racist hiring practices landed Shoney's on the receiving end of the largest discrimination settlement ever (at the time) A Yelper literally dumps all over the whole town in this week's Yelp from Strangers "Fine"...
2024-07-1029 min
"Fine" DiningAmerican Girl Cafe Review feat. Katie Molinaro (Eat It Katie, Comedian, & Foodie) [Part Two]Edible straws? Actress, foodie, and comedian Katie Molinaro joined me for maybe the weirdest meal yet, as we were total fish out of water at the American Girl Cafe I made an impulse buy and got a doll chihuahua named Barker Posey The stalls in the bathrooms have hooks so you can take your doll with you, and that's Way Too Much... The service team had a noteworthy amount of men on it, and one of them's name tag didn't match his employee badge which makes us wonder What's Going On Over There? What we ate this week:
2024-07-0358 min
"Fine" DiningAmerican Girl Cafe History feat. Katie Molinaro (Eat It Katie, Comedian, & Foodie) [Part One]Lunch at a restaurant for dolls!! Comedian and food influencer Katie Molinaro doesn't hesitate to join for a silly dining experience, so we hit up the American Girl Doll Store Boutique & Bistro Katie grew up with a doll she didn't vibe with This week's Secret Menu mini-game: Unfun Children's Toys American Girl was founded by a cancer-surviving textbook writer who used her royalties to make this brand explode "The first experiential dining experience" The brand forayed into movies while inspiring aspiring filmmakers to make American Girl stop-motion animations A guy fails to realize that this place just simply i...
2024-06-2636 min
"Fine" DiningCracker Barrel Review feat. Jen Liv (Stand-Up Comedian) [Part Two]I debut a music video about the new frontrunner in Mediocrity! Coming closer to mediocrity than Applebee's (who scored 5.02/10), Cracker Barrel is the life-blood of this week's guest, stand-up comedian Jen Liv The rocking chairs aren't the only thing that swings in this Cracker Barrel Country Store... This week's Secret Menu mini-game: Kinky Restaurants The hostess was desperately trying to earn her fourth star Their biscuits are GOATed What we ate this week: Hand-Rolled Buttermilk Biscuits with Apple Butter Cornbread Biscuit Beignets Fried Pickles Chicken Fried Chicken Country Fried Shrimp Sirloin Steak Macaroni n' Ch**se Fried App...
2024-06-191h 09
"Fine" DiningCracker Barrel History feat. Jen Liv (Stand-Up Comedian) [Part One]I went to Cracker Barrel with a CB Superfan! Stand-up comedian Jen Liv LOVES Cracker Barrel so much (she's been to over 40 different ones!) that she hopped my car and road tripped with me to go there In this Eat Deets episode, the history of Cracker Barrel includes the franchise's humble beginnings as a gas station restaurant before growing into what it is today Learn what a "cracker barrel" actually is Jen laments her allergy to eggs (or as Cracker Barrel calls them, "aigs") Cracker Barrel has its own Indiana Jonesesque warehouse filled with decor A woman gushes...
2024-06-1236 min
"Fine" DiningShrekfast! The Original Pancake House Review feat. Chad Opitz (Stand-Up Comedian) [Part Two]"I've got the celebrity!" Comedian and world-class cuddler Chad Opitz is here once again to talk about dining with Shrek (me, having lost a bet) at The Original Pancake House Michael gets a looooot of attention as Shrek and makes some kids' day What's Going On Over There with OPH cooking a baby? The service staff embraced me with open arms Chad orders an entree that isn't in the name of the restaurant Their bacon was incredible The Apple Pancake may be WAY TOO MUCH, but the food offerings here are delicious What we ate: Biscuits & Gravy Joe...
2024-06-0544 min
"Fine" DiningShrekfast! The Original Pancake House History feat. Chad Opitz (Stand-Up Comedian) [Part One]Get in mah swamp! Stand-up comedian Chad Opitz (recurring guest on Doug Benson's podcast "Doug Loves Movies") not only tolerates, but embraces me this week (literally) as I go to The Original Pancake House in full Shrek make-up with him to make good on the bet I lost last week We cover the history of not just this week's restaurant, but the concept of pancakes in general, going wayyyy back The Secret Menu minigame category of the week: Breakfast Cinema Chad sells Michael on injera bread from Ethiopia Michael opens up about his first kiss in 6th grade wh...
2024-05-2948 min
"Fine" DiningP.F. Chang's Review feat. Andres Simonian (Spanish Wendy's Guy, Y-List Actor) [Part Two]Scale the Great Wall of Chocolate! Andres Simonian (not from Home Economics or Mythic Quest) is back to plunge into our review of P.F. Chang's Michael thinks the atmosphere in a P.F. Chang's is "sexy" Michael tells the tale of the Cumbre Tunnel Massacre shootout that almost claimed his great-grandfather's life Andres makes a high-stakes Shrek-themed wager with Michael What's Going On Over There with the unnamed noodle crisps in the dishes? This week's Secret Menu theme:Â Tasty Tourist Traps What we ate: Dynamite Shrimp Chili-Garlic Green Beans Hand-made Dumplings Kung-Pao Dragon Roll Fire-Braised Short R...
2024-05-2251 min
"Fine" DiningP.F. Chang's History feat. Andres Simonian (Spanish Wendy's Guy, Y-List Actor) [Part One]It took 55 episodes to do Chinese food! Actor Andres Simonian (one of the Wendy's guys in the Spanish-speaking markets) joins me this week, covering the history and the Yelp reviews for P.F. Chang's The whitewashing of "P.F. Chang's" is uncovered in this week's Eat Deets Andres is called on his lie about getting stuck in "unexpected" traffic Michael & Andres try the Lettuce Wraps since they didn't order them during their meal What are Michael & Andres' fortunes? Discussion about P.F. Chang's restaurants in Asia A guy on Yelp thought a self-acknowledged Chauvinistic review would play well "Fi...
2024-05-1544 min
"Fine" DiningChipotle Review feat. Zara Mizrahi (Stand-Up, American Dad, Family Guy) [Part Two]In honor of Cinco de Mayo, let's review a restaurant as Mexican as our host is: Chipotle!! It's time to chat the Chipotle Mexican Grill dining experience, joined once again by stand-up comedian and Chipotle-lover, Zara Mizrahi What's the actual best restaurant Zara's ever experienced? The "art" on the wall is not art, no matter how badly it wants to be What's Going On Over There with the restaurant turning down the music as soon as we start talking? The number of government employees in uniform is Way Too Much We wanted to adopt our burrito-smith despite him w...
2024-05-0852 min
"Fine" DiningChipotle History feat. Zara Mizrahi (Stand-Up, American Dad, Family Guy) [Part One]The debut of a brand new game: The Secret Menu!! Michael hits a place about as Mexican as he is for Cinco de Mayo, Chipotle Mexican Grill with long-time friend and burrito enthusiast, stand-up comedian Zara Mizrahi Chipotle can't shake the stigma of having been owned by McDonald's Learn about the legendary Chipotle burrito coins in Eat Deets Zara wants to tithe her income to Chipotle Chipotle forayed into soul food, pizza, and burgers in other failed restaurant experiments The debut of The Secret Menu: this week's category is Chipotle-Borne Illnesses Corporate greed and tip culture have turned emp...
2024-05-0158 min
"Fine" DiningIHOP Review feat. Jasper Lewis (Internet Menace) & Katie Molinaro (Renowned Foodie) [Part Two]Enter for an all expenses paid trip to your local Applebee's*! Jasper Lewis, biscuit enthusiast, is back to take on IHOP, the International House of Pancakes with Michael A hyper kid listening to metal in the booth next to us is WAY TOO MUCH Michael & Jasper discuss the viral list of places that "women don't want to be taken on a first date" Jasper is all about our server's lack of vocal fry Katie Molinaro (@eatitkatie) joins us to try Lay's exclusive Rooty Tooty Fresh 'N Fruity potato chip flavor The pancakes are good! The biscuits are the w...
2024-04-2453 min
"Fine" DiningIHOP History feat. Jasper Lewis (Internet Menace) [Part One]Rooty Tooty Fresh 'N Fruity is BACK! Michael is joined by friend and "woman-of-God" Jasper Lewis to talk all things IHOP, the International House of Pancakes and chain restaurant juggernaut Poor signage/menu descriptions leave Rooty Tooty Fresh 'N Fruity a mystery What's Going On Over There with the barren Wikipedia page for IHOP? Learn the history of the franchise, from its founder's interest in coffee to its acquisition of Applebee's (which it paid for in cash) That whole "IHOB" thing A Yelper recounts the restaurant's denial that there could be hair in his food because "no one...
2024-04-1743 min
"Fine" DiningCostco Food Court Review feat. Marisa Pinson & Jon Glover (On Brand with Jon & Marisa) [Part Two]Is the new Costco cookie as good as the churro? Michael is once again joined by Marisa Pinson & Jon Glover from On Brand with Jon & Marisa, and they're back at the Costco Food Court "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this episode! Marisa and Jon confess the ways they've gamed Costco's notoriously indiscriminate return policy What Going On Over There with people who come out of Costco with only 1-2 things in their carts? Jon details the upsetting ways he eats his food What we ate: Cold Brew Latte Freeze Co...
2024-04-1056 min
"Fine" DiningCostco Food Court History feat. Marisa Pinson & Jon Glover (On Brand with Jon & Marisa) [Part One]Learn the history of America's most iconic concession stand! Marisa Pinson & Jon Glover from On Brand with Jon & Marisa join Michael at the Costco Food Court this week and talk all things, from how many hot dogs we could fit in our mouths to the churro that was just replaced by a cookie "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this episode! How to survive the Costco parking lot Hear the humble beginnings of Costco's Food Court as a hot dog cart in San Diego International Costcos have different regional menu it...
2024-04-031h 01
"Fine" DiningCulver's Review feat. Kellie Baldwin [Part Two]Where do Butterburgers rank in the pantheon of fast food burgers? Kellie Baldwin is back to eat Culver's with Michael! And it's official: Culver's will be the #6 seed in the 2024 Septemburger tournament! March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month! Find out more at the National MS Society website, and if you want to go the extra mile, donate here to Kellie's Walk for MS team! "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this episode! The interior of the restaurant is verifiably covered with to-go bags, leading Kellie to suspect they're plotting a...
2024-03-2746 min
"Fine" DiningCulver's History feat. Kellie Baldwin [Part One]Hear how this iconic Midwestern treasure came to be! Michael is joined by friend-from-college Kellie Baldwin to try Culver's, the Wisconsin burger chain that popularized the "Butterburger" and frozen custard March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month! Find out more at the National MS Society website, and if you want to go the extra mile, donate here to Kellie's Walk for MS team! "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this episode! The First Impressions of the restaurant involves way too many pictures of babies and young children Learn how Culver's...
2024-03-2041 min
"Fine" DiningWhataburger (Part Two: Review) feat. Ashley Robinson (Fear the Walking Dead)Dive into Septemburger 2024's #4 Seed! TV Producer/all-around queen Ashley Robinson returns for part 2, covering the atmosphere/service/food of Texas' pride and joy: Whataburger "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this episode! Whataburger's selling snuggies Ashley is modding her own snuggies, and it's Way Too Much The staff brings trays full of the nationally-famous Whataburger ketchup (and spicy ketchup) Michael goes early to review the legendary Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit Ashley uses her words to transform Michael's taste buds Michael absolutely loves the Patty Melt without the ch**se (a...
2024-03-1346 min
"Fine" DiningWhataburger (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. Ashley Robinson (Fear the Walking Dead)The ban on fast food has been lifted! Michael is joined by long-time friend, TV producer Ashley Robinson, a native Texan who is all aboard the train as it takes its first stop at a fast food joint: Texas' own Whataburger "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this episode! What's Going On Over There with the lady staring down the cashier? The Eat Deets of Whataburger's plane-flying, coupon-dropping founder is almost as interesting as the franchise itself Many couples have gotten married in front of Whataburger Famous for its specialty k...
2024-03-0640 min
"Fine" DiningCh**seburger in Paradise (Part Two: Review) feat. MomA review Jimmy Buffett would be proud of! Mom joins one more time to dish on our experience eating at Ch**seburger in Paradise in Honolulu, Hawaii! "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this episode! Vintage decor meets views of the ocean, the beach, and garbage trucks Hawaii is the deepest South A discussion on the word "y'all" A server flat out refuses to bus a plate off our table: What's Going on With That? But also, it's Way Too Much The burgers aren't bad, but they're nothing to write h...
2024-02-2844 min
"Fine" DiningCh**seburger in Paradise (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. MomLots of censored words in this one... Michael's Mom is back and joins him this week to eat at the historic Ch**seburger in Paradise restaurant in Honolulu, Hawaii! "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this episode! Mom brought leis because being festive is important Hawaiian Santa Claus! These Eat Deets get spicy as Jimmy Buffett wasn't necessarily fond of the founders stealing the name from one of his most famous songs Some people have had their ashes spread at this restaurant with an ocean view A Yelper falls in lo...
2024-02-2133 min
"Fine" DiningHoots Wings (Part Two: Review) feat. VyVy Nguyen (Shaky Shivers, The Sympathizer)Time to review the PG Hooters! VyVy Nguyen returns to review fast-casual Hooters affiliate Hoots Wings Michael is finally able to give VyVy her gift, now that Harrison has been brought into custody for stealing it last week This Hoots Wings rents a counter off to the side in a Blaze Pizza, the atmosphere is dubious at best Ghost children singing Old MacDonald The restaurant quits paying its cable bill mid-meal What's Going on Over There in the women's restroom when VyVy witnesses something while going to take a number zero Everyone's pining for entrees they didn't order V...
2024-02-1452 min
"Fine" DiningHooter Bowl 2: "Hootdunnit?" Hoots Wings (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. VyVy Nguyen (Shaky Shivers)The second annual Hooter Bowl! Friend of the show VyVy Nguyen is back to celebrate Hooter Bowl 2 by joining Michael at fast casual Hooters spin-off restaurant, Hoots Wings (basically Hooters without the Hooters Girls) "Fine" Dining is now on video! Head on over to our YouTube to watch this very special film noir parody episode! Michael dares the NFL to bring on their legal team A gift for VyVy mysteriously disappears, shutting down the entire Hooter Bowl and instead launching a Hootdunnit! Dick d'Ocre tries to help Melody narrow down who could've stolen her gift This Hoots Wings loc...
2024-02-0746 min
"Fine" DiningFriendly's (Part Two: Review) feat. JUBOH HI THERE! It's your favorite sponsor JUB and I am back to help Michael review Friendly's! Step back in time to this place that feels old, classic, and filled with Depression-era clientele Octogenarians plus technology is a dangerous combination, and we like to avoid it when possible, even it if it makes us ask What's Going On Over There? An unforgivable mistake by the back-of-house workers Fribbles are thicc and delicious A separate menu just for ice cream is WAY TOO MUCH JUB knows a lot about magicians A very important announcement: starting next week, "Fine" Dining...
2024-01-3132 min
"Fine" DiningFriendly's (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. JUB...?Fine Dining: Party of...One? Michael gets stood up by his intended guest host JUB and goes this one alone, traveling to the New England area to take on one of their most historic chains, Friendly's Jonas Brother specialty ice creams! Eat Deets will teach you that Friendly's is one of the older restaurant chains in American history, with two brothers who founded an ice cream shop with nothing but a dream and $547 Hear about how Hershey's bought them out and took them to the next level Friendly's has been a part of a few ice-cream-related world records A...
2024-01-2429 min
"Fine" DiningHot Dog on a Stick (Part Two: Review) feat. Monis Rose (Restaurant Fiction Podcast)Getting in touch with our inner degenerates! Restaurant Fiction podcast host Monis Rose is here to wax romantic over the "character" of the original Hot Dog on a Stick kiosk by the Santa Monica Pier There's nowhere to sit, so the boys pick a dragon/pirate ship playground as their venue Public beachside seating has empty beer bottles and even a used Magnum love glove nearby... Military helicopters are circling us overhead and it makes us ask What's Going On Over There? Harrison Augustine 💸 Arrylius XIV talks about the recreational drug habits of the ultra-wealthy Monis has a thin...
2024-01-1755 min
"Fine" DiningHot Dog on a Stick (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. Monis Rose (Restaurant Fiction Podcast) & Alex Borstein (Family Guy, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel)Heinz-enberg runs these streets! Restaurant Fiction's Monis Rose joins Michael to pretend to learn the Eat Deets about Hot Dog on a Stick because he already knows everything Michael does a Keyser Söze walk to hide his limp from Monis [Audiodrama segment] Turf wars over who can sell Dodger dogs on which corners Alex Borstein berates Michael's preferences in hot dog condiment Hot Dog on a Stick is also known for its lemonade, which started as a Muscle Beach health drink with honey The history of the famous employee uniform Monis raps the whitest version of an I...
2024-01-1041 min
"Fine" DiningBuca di Beppo (Part Two: Review) feat. Mike PerkinsWe're diving back into Joe's Hole! Comedian Mike Perkins is back once again to represent Italy in the case against the food at Buca di Beppo Michael & Mike are just a couple of Midfellas The breadiest love-making session ever is What's Going On Over There Buca di Beppo's decor is funny how? The portions at Buca are insane, as two men individually order a family style entree each The dessert is "diabetes in a glass" according to the boys' server Chip psychoanalyzes the characters on the Buca di Beppo kids menu in this week's Munchkin Menu Musings! Mike's In...
2024-01-031h 04
"Fine" DiningBuca di Beppo (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. Mike PerkinsI took a real Italian to Buca di Beppo! We're joined by comedian Mike Perkins to dive into inauthentic Italian slophouse, Buca di Beppo Hear all about the Pope's room, the "vulgar" decor, and the fact that Buca's founder literally intended to "poke gentle fun" at Italians in this week's Eat Deets Learn the rather interesting translation of Buca di Beppo Harrison Augustine đź’¸ Arrylius XIV is anti-work You could have bought the entire franchise for a few million dollars... The Mother's Day debacle is detailed in this week's Yelp from Strangers The full review comes next week Â
2023-12-2738 min
"Fine" DiningTexas Roadhouse (Part Two: Review) feat. Michael MooreThe Roadhouse Devil feeds at dusk! We're back with friend and magician Michael Moore to talk about the atmosphere, service, and food at Texas Roadhouse Willie's Corner, the suspicious absence of floor peanuts, hoedowns, and taxidermy galore Some concerning verbiage from the service team has the Michaels speculating the presence of an otherworldly, Lovecraftian being skulking about the area in this week's What's Going On Over There? A three-part audiodrama addressing said monster Maxwell gives his thoughts on the Texas Roadhouse Kids Menu in the return of Munchkin Menu Musings! Are the rolls at Texas Roadhouse the new be...
2023-12-2058 min
"Fine" DiningTexas Roadhouse (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. Michael MooreStay tuned to the end: new outro song!! Michael is joined by friend and powerhouse of a man, Michael Moore (no relation to the filmmaker/documentarian of the same name) to dine at Texas Roadhouse The restaurant started as a spot in a mall in Indiana, so it was neither a roadhouse nor Texan, but that didn't stop owner W. Kent Taylor from building an empire after giving up on opening a Colorado-themed restaurant Learn all about the history of the chain dubbed the "Loudest Restaurant in America" in this week's Eat Deets Harrison Augustine 💸 Arrylius XIV has had i...
2023-12-1343 min
"Fine" DiningKatz's Delicatessen (Part Two: Review) feat. JoyceNYC's legendary deli gets reviewed! We're in New York City! Michael's girlfriend Joyce joins him once again to talk about the hectic atmosphere, a hunky meat carver, and the matzo ball soup she's waited her entire life to try Katz's Delicatessen has so many lines and ordering stations that the chaos proves challenging to our duo Killer Mike walks by the table What's Going On Over There with the segration of those paying via card vs. those paying with cash? Harrison Augustine 💸 Arrylius XIV laments that Katz's doesn't have a register that accepts gold bars A review of the p...
2023-12-0648 min
"Fine" DiningKatz's Delicatessen (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. JoyceKatz's restaurant experience drops next Wednesday! Michael's girlfriend Joyce joins Michael in New York City, and they dive deep into the history of the world-famous deli that's over 100 years old in this episode of Eat Deets Katz's Delicatessen has been a staple of New York culture, amplified by its appearance in several movies and TV shows, most notably When Harry Met Sally Current owner Jake Dell has rules for how to conduct oneself at Katz's to avoid being thrown out Michael & Joyce address their anxiety over the intimidatingly complicated ordering process A truly hot take in Yelp from S...
2023-11-2929 min
"Fine" DiningGordon Biersch Brewery (Part Two: Review) feat. "Pretty" Peter Avalon (All Elite Wrestling, Ring of Honor) The review for Gordon Biersch is here! All Elite Wrestling & Ring of Honor's "Pretty" Peter Avalon joins Michael to review the restaurant of the week The Gordon Biersch Brewery that Michael & Peter hit up closed its doors just 7 days after the boys dined there Peter eulogizes the Burbank Gordon Biersch Ever wondered what it'd be like living in a Buffalo Wild Wings? Harrison Augustine 💸 Arrylius the XIV takes offense to vulgarities Michael pitches a restaurant-themed wrestling gimmick to Peter Peter discusses his relationship with chain restaurants while staying in shape for wrestling Peter details his injury history A review...
2023-11-2252 min
"Fine" DiningGordon Biersch Brewery (Part One: Eat Deets) feat. "Pretty" Peter Avalon (All Elite Wrestling, Ring of Honor)Get Part 2 next Wednesday! All Elite Wrestling & Ring of Honor's "Pretty" Peter Avalon joins Michael in Burbank to learn all about the restaurant of the week Gordon Biersch Brewery stands behind the claim that they invented garlic fries Michael dives into the Eat Deets about Gordon Biersch Gordon Biersch cost Oskar Blues Brewing approx. $32,000 from a cease & desist Michael drops knowledge about Shakey's Pizza Parlor's prominence in the Philippines An embarrassing story from 25+ years ago about Michael's dad, and his special way of saying "Gordon Biersch" Michael & Peter read the negative end of the review spectrum in this we...
2023-11-1526 min
"Fine" DiningThe Melting Pot feat. Rhyan Schwartz"Fine" Dining is back to weekly releases! The Melting Pot is in the midst of a renaissance, with ambitious expansion goals Michael details the changes moving into the new season Learn about the history of the franchise in Eat Deets (fka Resty Fact Round-Up) Guest host Rhyan Schwartz gives Michael someone to eat all the cheese that our host refuses to touch Michael rebrands cheese to ch**se Harrison Augustine 💸 Arrylius the XIV shares his wealth of knowledge to give The Melting Pot advice on their wall art The Melting Pot is sending mixed signals to platonic friends A ba...
2023-11-081h 22
"Fine" DiningSeason 2 TrailerThe search for mediocrity continues!  Join host Michael Ornelas as he gets in the trenches for more chain restaurants than his arteries can handle. Each episode, he'll be joined by a different guest host, and no eatery is off-limits. Season 2 will include fast casual and even fast food spots as the caloric floodgates have been opened. Kicking off November 8th with guest host Rhyan Schwartz, Michael pays a visit to The Melting Pot for some fondue. This season, you can also look forward to restaurants such as Buca di Beppo, Hot Do...
2023-11-0101 min
"Fine" DiningTGI Fridays the 13th: Season FinaleSeason 2 starts November 8th! TGI Fridays is dark, red, and honestly feels like a murder room. Appropriate for the season Michael is joined by friend Sandy Rose to deliver the Resty Fact Round-Up while Garrett goes to town on Michael's bidet. Learn how TGI Fridays original incarnation was drastically different from what we know it as today Michael's pineapple son Juicy Jr. dons the mask as Juice-Son Vorhees in a terrifying murder spree homage to the Friday the 13th horror film franchise JUB issues an ominous warning Frequent dining companion Herbert Amaya goes to check on the suspicious bo...
2023-10-251h 14
"Fine" DiningTGI Fridays the 13th: Season Finale TrailerThe horrifying season finale is upon us! Michael's pineapple son Juicy Jr. is Juice-Son Vorhees this week as he goes on a murderous rampage in the season finale of "Fine" Dining. TGI Fridays the 13th is upon us. Special guests Sandy Rose, Herbert Amaya, and Cheese Correspondent Steven Zurita join this wild and bloody conclusion to season 1! Hear all about the TGI Fridays experience that felt like a dark murder room, get Michael & Garrett's opinions on the food, and most importantly: no one is safe.  Season 2 starts November 8th!  And...
2023-10-2300 min
"Fine" DiningMarie Callender's Restaurant & Bakery: DILF DepotDo grocery store pies taste better in their restaurant of origin? Not by much! Marie Callender's Restaurant & Bakery feels like a slice of Michael & Garrett's childhoods, a wood-paneled wonderland that feels like a dentist's office waiting room Garrett details the history of the franchise in this week's Resty Fact Round-Up, including a history of "Pie Spies" Marie Callender's proves to be a haven of "old" The winner of the Septemburger Bracket $500 Giveaway is announced! Michael falls asleep in the booth...and Garrett is wondering What's Going On Over There? Table talk centers around Garrett's obsession with trashy reality...
2023-10-1158 min
"Fine" DiningMarie Callender's (Trailer)Go back in time with a classic comfort food dining spot! Michael & Garrett drove all the way across town to get some pies from Marie Callender's Restaurant & Bakery. Hear what led them to make a skit called DILF Depot, did Michael fall asleep in the booth (spoiler: yes!), and much more. And don't forget to check out our Patreon where the Semi-Finals and the Finals of Septemburger concluded last week! A delicious burger champion was crowned - claim your 7-day free trial now! Â Download the full Marie Callender's episode this Wednesday w...
2023-10-0900 min
"Fine" DiningJohnny Rockets & the Heavy Chair HeistThe last quarterfinal match of Septemburger has arrived! Johnny Rockets is a genuine-hearted homage to the diners of the 1950s, which Michael would have been all about if this wasn't a "Sports Lounge" location Garrett details the history of the franchise in this week's Resty Fact Round-Up Septemburger match 4: Umami Burger vs. Johnny Rockets The You-Must Bowl has both Michael & Garrett crying, but insisting they're fine A CHAIR HEIST!! What's Going On with the restaurant's photographer snubbing our Fussy Little Boys? JUB's making meat frisbees. You read that right. Where did he go wrong? I blame his parents...
2023-09-271h 14"Fine" DiningJohnny Rockets (Trailer)Septemburger's #8 seed is here to finish out the first round of the bracket! Outback Steakhouse bested Red Robin. Islands rolled right over Bob's Big Boy. Applebee's upset Fuddruckers. Can Johnny Rockets follow suit and beat out the #1 seed from last week, Umami Burger? And don't forget to check out our Patreon this Thursday to hear the Semi-Finals and the Finals of Septemburger! A delicious burger champion will be crowned - claim your 7-day free trial now! Â Download the full Johnny Rockets episode this Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts! M...
2023-09-2500 min
"Fine" DiningUmami Burger's Rise & Fall & Slight Re-Rise (Septemburger #1 Seed)Septemburger's #1 seed, Umami Burger is up to bat! Michael has an axe to grind after the best burger in Los Angeles changed up their recipe a few years back Garrett outlines the rise and fall of Umami Burger in Resty Fact Round-Up, and why they have a shot at regaining respect once again Septemburger will pit Umami against Johnny Rockets next week What's Going On with Umami feeling like it's still going through the pandemic? The service staff definitely noticed they were being reviewed and changed their effort level drastically JUB's opening a day care! A bunch of p...
2023-09-201h 11"Fine" DiningUmami Burger (Trailer)Septemburger's #1 seed is up to bat, and what was once Michael's favorite burger in LA has had some temultuous times, it's time for the boys to review Umami Burger! Hear what Michael & Garrett have to say ahead of Umami's match-up with #8 seed Johnny Rockets next week!  Download the full Umami Burger episode this Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts! Music by: James McEnelly (@Ramshackle_Music) We're on Patreon! Get an extra episode every month, extended Yelp from Strangers segments every other week, merch discounts, download access to our music in...
2023-09-1800 min
"Fine" DiningRed Robin feat. John Angeli (Terror Firma)Septemburger rolls along with the #5 seed, Red Robin! Michael & Garrett are not just joined by indie horror film producer John Angeli, but they're outright sponsored by his new movie Terror Firma Garrett outlines the surnameless "Sam" who founded Red Robin by annoying the heck out of anyone who would listen with his one Red Robin song More of a deep dive on the history of the franchise in Resty Fact Round-Up Septemburger match #3: Red Robin vs. Outback Steakhouse Forget the burgers, Red Robin's got amazing desserts! What's Going On with the black specks in the hot water? John br...
2023-09-131h 32"Fine" DiningRed Robin (Trailer)Septemburger rolls along as the boys are joined by independent horror film Terror Firma's producer, John Angeli, and they stop by Red Robin! The third match in the first round of the Septemburger bracket pits Red Robin against Outback Steakhouse! Submissions are now CLOSED for the $500 Septemburger Bracket giveaway! Thanks to all who sent in a bracket, and best of luck! Download the full Red Robin episode this Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts! Music by: James McEnelly (@Ramshackle_Music) We're on Patreon! Get an extra episode every month, e...
2023-09-1101 min
"Fine" DiningSeptemburger Has Arrived!! (Fuddruckers vs. Applebee's//Islands vs. Bob's Big Boy//Outback Steakhouse)It's the burger battle of the year as Septemburger is now upon us! The tournament kicks off as the 8 entrants are announced and seeded Maybe the most badass theme song ever Garrett details the history of the hamburger in Burger Fact Round-Up #3 seed Fuddruckers faces off against the #6 seed Applebees #2 seed Islands faces off against the #7 seed Bob's Big Boy First round scoring for #4 seed Outback Steakhouse ahead of its match-up next week against the #5 seed Red Robin JUB will help you generalize your too-niche business plan Why's Outback so horned up? What's Going On Over There? ...
2023-09-0646 min"Fine" DiningSeptemburger Kicks Off! (Trailer)It's the best month of the year: It's SEPTEMBURGER! The first annual Septemburger tournament kicks off with the following match-ups: Bob's Big Boy (7) vs. Island's Fine Burgers & Drinks (2) Fuddrucker's (3) vs. Applebee's (6) Plus, the boys review Outback Steakhouse (4)'s first round burger ahead of its match-up next week against Red Robin (5). Yummmmm! Download the full episode this Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts! Music by: James McEnelly (@Ramshackle_Music) We're on Patreon! Get an extra episode every month, extended Yelp from Strangers segments every other week, merch discounts, download access t...
2023-09-0401 min
"Fine" DiningTwin Peaks: The Revenge Breastaurant feat. Emma DangerMichael & Garrett get back at Michael's niece-aged cousin Emma Danger for sending them to Hooters last time she was on the podcast! Twin Peaks is a breastaurant founded on the premise that Hooters had become "too tame," and lived up to that idea in its early years amidst scandals and indecent exposure charges Garrett fulfills his You-Must Bowl duties by donning Insane Clown Posse facepaint and consuming this meal while embodying the Juggalo lifestyle Even a little Judge Judy is more Judge Judy than expected Is there an underground fighting ring in this Twin Peaks? Find out in Wh...
2023-08-231h 17
"Fine" DiningAll Garlic Everything at The Stinking RoseMichael & Garrett are now 80% garlic-by-volume! The You-Must Bowl forces Michael to sing his table's order to the entire restaurant Garrett details the garlicky history of The Stinking Rose in Resty Fact Round-Up Cheese correspondent Steven gives his thoughts on the Garlic Crab Alfredo Fondue A cursed piece of wall decoration has Garrett reeling The boys try Garlic Ice Cream?? JUB tries his hand (or fingers) at being a stenographer A Real Doll placed right outside the restroom Garrett has the best chicken of his life Music by: James McEnelly (@Ramshackle_Music) Theme Song by:Â K...
2023-08-091h 07
"Fine" DiningShakey's Pizza Parlor Has a Crab Problem feat. Zeus Benitez (BabyGirl)Michael & Garrett tolerate a subpar lunch buffet with the super-jacked Zeus Benitez! Garrett journeys to and from the buffet on his hands and feet as the You-Must Bowl has him crab-walking his way around Shakey's Pizza Parlor Learn about the first pizza franchise in America, Shakey's, and its founder: Banjo Hall of Fame member Sherwood "Shakey" Johnson An adult film about Shakey's? We certainly wrote one! The boys evaluate Shakey's arcade JUB will sell you prizes to give away at your arcade The worst pizza score in the history of the podcast Zeus reads a children's book about Ga...
2023-07-261h 14
"Fine" DiningA Suit of Pokemon Cards: Technically Meeting the Dress Code at Mastro's Ocean ClubThe boys experience actual Fine Dining for once! The You-Must Bowl forces Michael to wear a suit made entirely of Pokémon cards to Mastro's Ocean Club Garrett details the history of Mastro's in Resty Fact Round-Up (Yeehaw!) Learn about Japanese vs. American wagyu, and the different classifications of beef grading Hands-down the greatest service experienced so far on this podcast Romantic music puts Michael and Garrett in a mood JUB will recalibrate your ratings scale Alcohol served with...interesting implements Music by: James McEnelly (@Ramshackle_Music) Theme Song by: Kyle Schieffer (@JazzyJellyfish) We...
2023-07-121h 24
"Fine" DiningASMR Spooning at Sizzler feat. VyVy Nguyen (The Sympathizer, Young Sheldon, Dogs in Space)The boys are joined by the delightful VyVy Nguyen! The You-Must Bowl forces Michael to consume his entire meal at Sizzler using only spoons Garrett plays Michael and VyVy a Sizzler commercial from 1991Â Dessert pictures are catfishing unsuspecting customers Sex eyes are the only acceptable eyes to have in a Sizzler An ASMR Sizzler birthday soundscape, performed by VyVy Garrett pulls out the Fine Dining Bylaws to address Michael cheating at his You-Must Bowl punishment JUB welched on a bet once too Shrimp. Shrimp! SHRIMP! VyVy forces Michael & Garrett to spend a lot of money for the next e...
2023-06-281h 33
"Fine" DiningBONUS EPISODE: The LA County Fair (1-Hour Patreon Preview)So much to do and only 12 hours to do it! Michael & Garrett hit up the LA County Fair for some crazy deep-fried food and a carny atmosphere They cover the history of the LA County Fairgrounds, which has an upsetting role as the site of a Japanese-American concentration camp during World War II and an Italian/German P.O.W. camp afterwards The boys get their palms read Garrett seeks out a Christian puppet show Seductive snakes bare it all at The Shed PIG RACING!
2023-06-211h 01
"Fine" DiningMedieval Times: Knights on StrikeIt's dinner and a show at Medieval Times! The boys bear two hours of L.A. traffic to drive to Medieval Times only to discover the Union cast of this location are on strike and protesting outside Strike Captain Erin Zapcic shares what the striking workers are aiming to accomplish Garrett does a deep dive on the history of the franchise Imposters fill the castle as Union scabs have been bused/flown in from other Medieval Times locations 2 full-length songs about Michael & Garrett’s night at Medieval Times: “Overture” (2:47) Music by James McEnelly Lyrics by Michael Ornelas Perform...
2023-06-141h 40
"Fine" DiningMore Margarita Than Man at Jimmy Buffett's MargaritavilleThe boys found a Boomer utopia in restaurant form! The You-Must Bowl deems Garrett must embody the essence of Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville Garrett does a deep dive on the history of the franchise Cheeseburgers in Paradise aren't very good Michael tries to enforce a "No nudity, no touching" policy on Garrett An excerpt from a steamy romance novel authored by Jimmy Buffett JUB plans to make all public spaces a spoiler-free environment Strawberry Shortcake that is somehow neither strawberry nor shortcake Mason reviews the Margaritaville kids menu in this week's Munchkin Menu Musings Michael makes a rap in...
2023-05-311h 17
"Fine" DiningThe Hooter Bowl feat. Bonnie Gordon (Star Trek: Prodigy) & Noah Gray (Kansas City Chiefs) It's the HOOTER BOWL!! Grab some chips, sit back, and put on the game as the boys talk wings, waitresses, and what day the week starts on We're on video for this one! Go to our Patreon (link below) to watch this episode in all its true glory! The Hooter Bowl is jam-packed with commercials just like the Super Bowl, but potentially more ridiculous Bonnie Gordon battles noise complaints from Michael's neighbors as she performs "Four Letters (ADHD)" off her upcoming album Con Artist for the Hooter Bowl Halftime Show Noah Gray from the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs p...
2023-02-081h 34
"Fine" DiningMichael Ruins His Alaskan King Crab at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen The fanciest restaurant yet surprises Michael & Garrett Three diary entries from His Majesty, the Alaskan King Crab A busser tries to steal a swimming pool JUB will teach you manners! 11 year-old Willa is too cool for the Pappadeaux kids menu Our waiter spills scalding hot butter on Garrett's hand  Get our 5 Survival Tips for Casual Dining at www.finediningpodcast.com!  Send us your Pappadeaux stories at finediningpodcast@gmail.com.  Follow us on TikTok and Instagram @finediningpodcast  Let us know where we should go n...
2022-12-281h 03
"Fine" DiningJoel McHale Voices Our Review of Bob's Big Boy's Famous Chili Spaghetti feat. Joel McHale & Michael's Mom Michael & Garrett annoint their friend Steven as their Cheese Correspondent Steven's jaw isn't working so Joel McHale reads Steven's review for him (around the 47 minute mark) More You-Must Bowl shenanigans ensued as Michael recruits his mom to make a painting of Bob's Big Boy Michael's mom tells her side of the story when Michael was pulled over by Officer Hot Dog (hear the original story in episode 8!) The boys have truly bad service JUB works inside of the Big Boy statue Garrett takes on Michael's mom in this week's Headline Game  Get our 5 Survival Tips for Casual D...
2022-12-141h 19
"Fine" Dining"Officer Hot Dog" Pulls Michael Over at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Michael & Garrett are immensely disappointed by the churro stand next to Bubba Gump Michael tells the story of getting pulled over in Alabama "for having California license plates" Forrest Gump narrates the boys' adventure JUB makes souvenir pennies 7 year-old Nora "hates the man on the bench" in another adorable Munchkin Menu Musings segment Michael & Garrett go HAM on Forrest Gump trivia  Get our 5 Survival Tips for Casual Dining at www.finediningpodcast.com!  Send us your Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. stories at finediningpodcast@gmail.com.  Follow us on TikTok and Ins...
2022-11-231h 14
"Fine" DiningPerfectly Adequate: Our Olive Garden MusicalWELCOME TO OUR MUSICAL EPISODE! You're reading that correctly! Michael & Garrett review Olive Garden The boys think they can top Olive Garden’s in-house soundtrack by creating one of their own! JUB gets a real job What's going on with there being SO MANY BIRTHDAYS at Olive Garden?? Former Olive Garden employee Trever Jones recounts meeting the love of his love on the job 3 year-old Yaretzi gives up on reviewing the kids menu, so her dad does it for her 7 full-length songs about Michael & Garrett’s night at Olive Garden: “We’re All Family Here” (10:15) Music by Kyle Schie...
2022-11-161h 15
6ix° DegreesWhat Women WantToday’s episodes explores the very outdated film from the year 2000, What Women Want. Guest host Gillian Murr joins Michael Ornelas as they navigate through this problematic film. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/6ixdegreespodcast/message
2021-10-261h 02