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Weird History Food (2022)
Season 4 • Episode 134 • How Margaritaville Became The Weirdest Business Empire In America
Weird History Food Season 4, Episode 134: How Margaritaville Became The Weirdest Business Empire In America
It started as a laid-back anthem about wasting away on the beach with a salty rimmed cocktail. But Jimmy Buffett’s *Margaritaville* didn’t stay a song for long. It transformed into a sprawling empire including things like restaurants, resorts, and yes… even pickleball sponsorships. Watch Weird History Food Season 4, Episode 134 How Margaritaville Became The Weirdest Business Empire In America in HD free online. Enjoy high-quality streaming of Weird History Food Season 4, Episode 134 and share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Episodes
152 episodes
Death Of The Fast Food Salad Bar
Once upon a time, almost every fast food place in America had a bar. A salad bar, that is. Heck, a bunch of them even had full on all-you-can-eat buffets, which feels a little more in line with cheeseburger culture. But then, without warning, those bars and buffets started vanishing just as quickly as they had appeared.
11 min
Why Nothing Else Tastes Like McDonalds Fries
Whether you’re headed to McDonald’s for a Big Mac, a box of Chicken McNuggets, or a Filet o’Fish, odds are… you’re probably gonna have some fries with that. And that’s because -- all over the world -- pretty much everyone loves the taste of McDonald’s french fries. So what’s the secret?
12 min
How Bad Is Red Meat For You, Really?
Grilled, fried, or rare. Whole, sliced, or massaged and beer-fed… Americans love a good steak. But with a red meat scare on the rise, many steakhouse regulars face grave concerns. Is chowing down on all that beef truly unhealthy, or has steak simply been slandered for the last few decades?
13 min
Is There Actually Fruit In A Fruit Roll-Up?
If you were alive in the 1980s and '90s, then you remember the glory days of fruit snacks. Some of them were gummy. Some of them gushed. And some of them were oddly stringy. But the undisputed champion of fruity deliciousness was the snack that rolled. General Mills' legendary fruit roll-ups have been a part of kids' lunches and snack times since 1983, and over the years, they've had their sticky fingers on all sorts of triumphs and controversies. But how were they invented? And exactly how much "fruit" is rolled into that cellophane wrapper?
11 min
How Kevin Hart Tried (And Failed) To Make Fast Food Healthy
They say “you’ve gotta have heart.” But whoever they were, they clearly weren’t talking about Hart House, a Vegan Fast Food Restaurant founded by comedian Kevin Hart. Despite the best intentions, the chain was so short lived it’s likely you never even heard of it before it blinked out of existence forever. So what went wrong?
10 min
Why Did We Stop Snapping Into Slim Jims?
Unless you’ve been living on Mars, odds are you've heard the phrase “Snap into a Slim Jim!”. Probably from a professional wrestler. Slim Jims are a “meat snack” that is similar to, but legally distinct from beef jerky, and in the 1990s, they were everywhere. But all of a sudden, this once-dominant salty treat seemingly blinked out of existence, as if Thanos snapped into one. So, what happened?
11 min
How Fruity Pebbles Kept The Flintstones Alive
The Flintstones was a sitcom that ran on A-B-C from 1960 to 1966, making history as the first animated show to air in primetime. While the show has been off the air for decades, the Flintstones are still a regular fixture in many of our lives thanks to the continued success of a certain brand of breakfast cereals. In fact, it’s possible some people only know them as grocery store mascots, and have no idea the show ever existed.
10 min
The Incredible Rise And Disastrous Fall Of TGI Friday's
Picture it: you’re out to eat and the smell of loaded potato skins is strong. The walls are adorned with an attic’s worth of knick-knacks, the wait staff is cheery in their white and red striped uniforms, and you’re mesmerized by the tricks the bartender is performing in the background, because in here, it’s always Friday night.
11 min
Why Cool Whip Isn't Really Whipped Cream
Is dessert really dessert without Cool Whip? It’s practically against the law to serve pie or ice cream without a dollop of the light, fluffy spread - or an entire tub, if it’s your birthday. But while it feels as though it's always been there for us, Cool Whip is a fairly recent invention. And we’ve never really been sure what it actually is.
9 min
Secret Spin-Off Restaurants You Never Knew Existed
When it comes to casual dining, we all know the biggest players in the game. Fast food franchises like McDonald's and Taco Bell, or sit-down restaurants like Denny's and Cracker Barrel have dominated America for decades. But you can't hold onto market domination without a little market innovation, which is why many of these giants have tried to duplicate their success with spin-off restaurants!
11 min
Everything That Went Wrong With Subway
Subway is one of the most well known submarine sandwich chain of all time. And for a while, they were cruising along like a train. But somewhere along the way, the ride got a little bumpy, and eventually the franchise all but derailed. So what happened, like , ASIDE from that whole fiasco with Jared Fogel?
11 min
How A Domino's Pizza Mascot Caused A Hostage Situation
Back in the 1980s, Domino’s Pizza encouraged their customers to “avoid the Noid” -- a strange claymation creature who starred in a series of popular ads for the chain. But the ads turned out to be a little too popular, leading to a dramatic crime that no one could have predicted. How did an animated mascot cause so much havoc?
9 min
How The Creators Of South Park Saved Their Favorite Restaurant
Back in 2003, South Park premiered an episode about an outlandish Mexican restaurant with cliff diving, puppet shows and even a full-on cave system. For most people outside the Colorado area, it was their introduction to Lakewood local legend, Casa Bonita. The real-life, kid-focused plaza de comida has been lovingly described as “so bad, it's good,” and for 50 years has dazzled families with live entertainment, charming attractions and even fire breathers, before it became a violation of fire code. About the only thing people do not remember fondly was the food - that is, until South Park stepped in and saved it!
12 min
The Well-Deserved Death Of The Ice Cream Truck
Ice cream trucks are a cornerstone of classic, nostalgic Americana… but where did they come from? How do they pick their routes? Don’t those drivers get sick of hearing “Pop Goes the Weasel” over and over again all day? And why are they more dangerous than you thought? Let us know in the comments of your most memorable Ice Cream truck experience growing up!
12 min
Does Anyone Still Wanta Fanta?
In the history of fruit flavored sodas, the almighty Fanta might just reign supreme. With a massive worldwide following and a long history of international production, this orange beverage has become a favorite for just about everyone on the planet…Unless you’re an American that is. As beloved as Fanta is by its diehard fans, U.S. sales for the citrus pop can’t even crack the top five. So what gives?
11 min
What Actually Is Blue Raspberry?
Everyone has a favorite flavor. Strawberry, or grape, or Pina Colada if you were the weird kid. However, there’s an unspoken agreement that every flavor is based on something you’d eat in the real world, and nothing throws a funky monkey wrench into the works like blue raspberry. This Frankenstein's Monster of sugary creations with its distinct electric color can’t be based on anything found in nature… can it?
9 min
Is 7-11 Food Really That Bad?
When you’re on a road trip, late for work or just feeling the vibes and looking to chow down on some munchies, the green, orange and white glow of the 7-Eleven sign is ready to accept your rumbly tummy 24 hours a day. And we know it's not good for us, but how bad is it really?
12 min
How America Ruined Sushi
From the overloaded cones of a crunchy temaki roll, to the sparse and delicately sliced slabs of nigiri, sushi comes in a variety of forms. While these bite-sized bundles of rice have been saddled with fresh fish for over two thousand years, sushi’s popularity in the West is a relatively recent phenomenon. But like many Japanese art forms, the craft of sushi requires immense skill and comes with a long list of strict rules. And when Americans first started taking a dip in the soy sauce, everything went to hell in a handroll.
11 min
Are These Hollywood Hot Dogs Worth Over $10?
Hot dogs are synonymous with America’s favorite pastime: baseball. But the delicious and savory treat is also commonly associated with a particular shade of pink in the heart of Hollywood. Pink’s Hot Dogs have been a Los Angeles institution for decades. So why do they have to cost as much as a trip to the west coast?
10 min
The Insanely Rapid Rise Of Raising Cane's
If you’re lucky enough to live near one, then you’ve probably heard that Raising Cane’s chicken is so good, it could make the Colonel fly the coop. The upstart chicken finger eatery with a youthful, fun vibe seemingly came out of nowhere to challenge KFC for the cluckin’ throne. But is there really one tender to rule them all?
10 min
What Really Happened To McDonald's Fried Apple Pie
The McDonald’s apple pie isn’t just a fast-food dessert—it’s a piece of pop culture history. Since its debut in 1968, this crispy, golden treat has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of customers worldwide, evolving over the decades from its beloved fried form to the controversial baked version. But how did it become such an iconic menu item? And why is it so damn lip-scorching?
11 min
Which Ginger Ale Is The Definitive Ginger Ale?
Since the 1850s, this sweet, golden, bubbly beverage with a spicy kick has been refreshing soda lovers around the world. Ginger Ale is beloved as both the perfect drink mixer and upset tummy soother. Over the years, dozens of brands have put their own spin on the original formula. But which brand is the tastiest? The fizziest? The ginger-est? And which is YOUR favorite? Let us know in the comments!
10 min
How Is AriZona Iced Tea So Cheap?
It’s been said that the only things you can count on in this life are death and taxes. But whoever said that clearly didn’t realize that after all these years, a tall boy of Arizona Iced Tea still costs less than a dollar. How is that possible?
11 min
The Real Reason Eggs Are In EVERYTHING We Eat
Hard-boiled. Soft-boiled. Poached. Raw. Over Easy. Sunny Side Up. Over Medium. No, these aren’t the names of award-winning Huskies. They are different ways you can prepare an egg. Eggs have been enjoyed on their own or in countless different recipes for centuries. So how did we end up eating these weird little orbs in the first place?
10 min
Why Are Eggs So Expensive Right Now?
If you’re the kind of person who eats omelets for breakfast - or the kind of person who enjoys adventurous juggling - then you’ve probably noticed that eggs have gotten pretty pricey lately. It’s tempting to blame that cost increase on greedy chickens, but as it turns out, it’s actually the work of some vast and mysterious macro-economic forces that can be hard to predict and even harder to budget for.
11 min
Why Did We All Start Hating Guy Fieri?
Guy Fieri, the self-proclaimed "Mayor of Flavortown," is one of the most recognizable figures in American media. With his spiked blonde hair, flame shirt, and famous catchphrases, he has built a food empire that spans television, restaurants, and all of pop culture. Yet despite his success, Guy Fieri has experienced the ups and downs of public opinion, rising to fame as a beloved Food Network star before falling out of favor with the American public and becoming a punchline.
11 min
Why Does Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Keep Disappearing?
You probably know exactly when and where you first fell in love with Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza - a marvel of fast-food engineering so beloved that it's almost a cultural icon. But how did this crispy, cheesy, tomato-y masterpiece come to be? Why did it disappear? And is it back for good, or is it just back long enough to make us fall in love again before breaking out hearts like a store bought taco shell?
9 min
Every Fast Food Secret Menu Item We Could Find
If you’ve ever ordered a burger and asked them to hold the pickles, you’ve technically committed a “Menu Hack.” So-called secret menus have become increasingly popular in the social media age, with excited customers posting hours of content about how to access items that are “hidden” from the regular menu by altering dishes or inventing new ones entirely using the ingredients a restaurant has on-hand. Every so often, these hacks will be popular enough to become a legend in the kitchen, accessible only to a select few who know how to order them.
12 min
Why A&W Is Still The #1 Root Beer After 100 Years
Root beer is a timeless American beverage. Its cold snap and delicious taste have engendered millions of devotees over the past 100 years. From coal mines to baseball diamonds, root beer has been beloved by people from basically every walk of life. And yet, there’s one brand that stands above the rest when it comes to this liquid confection. A&W. So how did one brand rise above all the others to remain at the top of the heap for more than a century?
8 min
Who Is the Mike in Jersey Mike’s?
New Jersey: The Garden State. Home to the first ever organized baseball game, the first boardwalk in the world, the first saltwater taffy, the first drive-in movie theater, the first brewery. They even cooked the first can of condensed soup! But the best thing New Jersey came out with, second only to Nicole ‘Snooki’ Polizzi, is the first submarine sandwich shop: Mike’s Subs. This little shop eventually grew into a national chain you know as Jersey Mike’s. So how did this humble sandwich artist become an icon?
12 min
Mochi Donuts Are Secretly American
Mister Donut is Japan’s biggest donut franchise; so big in fact, they ran Dunkin Donuts right out of the whole country back in the nineteen-nineties. It’s ok, Dunkies; you’ll always be welcome with Ben Affleck. Trouncing the biggest player in America’s donut industry at their own game is pretty impressive for a Japanese upstart, but turns out, Mister Donut isn’t actually Japanese.
11 min
Why Does Cap’n Crunch Destroy Your Mouth?
Following in the footsteps of other great military leaders like General Tso and Colonel Sanders, Cap’n Crunch made himself a fortune in the food business. But despite the brand’s storied history and dedicated fanbase, even the Captain’s biggest supporters are willing to admit that his cereal is murder on the roof of your mouth. So why are we all OK with it? Have YOU ever ripped your mouth up with a bowl of Cap'n Crunch? Let us know in the comments!
11 min
Can McDonald's Make A Good Chicken Sandwich?
McDonald’s is world famous for their fries, burgers and McNuggets. But when it comes to chicken sandwiches, Ronald McDonald has come off like a bit of a clown until very recently. How is it possible that the world’s most famous fast food franchise can get so many things so incredibly right while getting chicken sammies so incredibly wrong? Have you ever had a chicken sandwich from McDonald's? What Did you think about it? Let us know in the comments!
10 min
Is Taco Bell's Meat Really Meat?
Whether it’s your go-to spot for a quick and easy bite, or if you’re having their noteworthy “Fourth” meal of the day, Taco Bell has a reputation of being quick, cheap, and delicious… as well as one of the worst things you could possibly put inside your body. Jokes about the quality of the food became so pervasive that the brand was actually sued in 2011 over claims of faking their beef. But is it truly bad enough to make you run from the border? And let us know in the comments wht you think of the 'meat'!
9 min
Why Nearly Everyone In Korea Drinks The Same Liquor
Soju, literally translating to “burned liquor”, is Korea’s most popular spirit. The clear, colorless beverage traditionally brewed from rice has experienced a boom in the U.S. in recent years, thanks in part to the popularity of Korean entertainment like the Netflix series Squid Game and K-pop groups like BTS. Unlike Scotch or bourbon, there are no specific legal rules for producing soju and there’s no precise definition of what soju is or has to be, but if you want to order a traditional round, there ARE rules to how you drink it. So… what is it?
10 min
What Exactly Is An Airhead?
Known for their chewy texture, bright colors and shiny wrappers, AirHeads candy evokes fond memories of childhood as well as the snack bar at the local public pool. Perhaps you remember the not quite sticky, not quite stretchy but 100% delicious candy treat from its prominence on candy shelves, its constantly varying line of products or those bizarre commercials where the kids' heads inflate like a balloon and float away. But what the heck are they? And how has the sweet treat stood the test of time for nearly 40 years?
10 min
The Minty Fresh History Of McDonald's Shamrock Shake
Saint Patrick’s Day was originally created to honor the death of Patrick, a fifth century Romano-British cleric who became the patron saint of Ireland. Today, however, it’s most famous for being an excuse to binge drink… Shamrock Shakes from McDonald’s, that is. But how did this minty treat become an annual favorite? And why can’t we have it year-round?
11 min
The Disastrous Fall Of Tony Roma's
Tony Roma's and their delicious ribs used to be everywhere from Times Square in New York City to Tokyo, Japan. But if you live in the United States, you might have noticed a distinct lack of Roma's ribs in your vicinity in recent years. This mysterious disappearance has led many barbecue fans to wonder what exactly happened to the once-prominent chain we all knew and loved.
11 min
What Actually Is Bubble Gum Flavor?
If you were ever a kid, then odds are, you know what bubble gum tastes like. Its flavor has been used in everything from jelly beans to ice cream to lip balm, but most of us would still be hard pressed to explain what that flavor is. Go ahead - try and describe it without using the words "bubble gum." So, what the heck is it supposed to taste like? And where did it come from anyway?
11 min
Why Is Shake Shack So Expensive? - V3
Ever felt like you needed a second mortgage just to satisfy your burger craving at a Shake Shack? The posh patty palace is one of America’s most popular fast food chains, despite charging considerably more than its competitors. And while customers have little complaints about the food, is it really worth shaking out your wallet?
9 min
The Wobbly History Of Jell-O
There’s always room for Jell-O. It’s the only food that somehow exists in equal abundance at preschools, hospitals, jails, and frat parties. But before it became a college drinking tradition or the mysterious side dish at your grandma’s Thanksgiving table, it was a simple, affordable dessert that promised elegance without the effort. So how did this tremulous treat become one of the most popular products in the history of… well, ever?
11 min
The Strange Disappearance Of Umami Burger
Umami Burger burst onto the scene in 2009, offering customers a unique fusion menu combining Japanese spices and ingredients with gourmet American burgers. The chain quickly expanded to become one of the biggest culinary success stories of the day, poised to take burgers to the next level, until it all came tumbling down like a triple stack with no toothpick. So what happened?
11 min
The Death Of The Gumball Machine
During the middle of the 20th century, it seemed you couldn’t walk into a single establishment without seeing a familiar red and chrome machine with a glass dome PACKED with colored balls in every color of the rainbow. Who was putting them there? Where did they come from? And when is the last time you remember even buying a gumball from a machine, let alone seeing one in person?
12 min
When McDonald's Tried (And Failed) To Make Pizza
When you think of pizza, you think of a hut, or a domino, possibly a little caesar, and maybe even a Shaq. What you don’t think of is McDonald’s. So it will probably surprise you to hear that not too long ago, McDonald’s tried really hard to add pizza to its menu. While it existed, did YOU ever try it? If you were able to sample this unicorn, what did you think about it? Let us know in the comments!
11 min
How The Pillsbury Doughboy Became The World’s Most Famous Mascot
If there’s one thing we all have in common, it’s that at one time or another every one of us has dreamed about poking The Pillsbury Doughboy in the belly. The friendly little mascot has been repping the Pillsbury Company for over half a century. But who is The Pillsbury Doughboy? How did he come to be one of the most recognizable mascots in America for generations?
11 min
How Jollibee Bee-came A Fast Food Titan
For the past five decades, the Filipino fast food chain Jollibee has rapidly expanded around the world to compete with the heavyweights, even toppling McDonald’s two-to-one in its home country. But how did a pair of humble ice cream stands grow big enough to snatch Ronald’s crown? Have YOU eaten at a Jollibee? What did you have? Let us know in the comments!
11 min
What Actually Is An Orange Julius?
Back when shopping malls were all the rage, you couldn’t walk through the various stores and stands without seeing at least one person carrying a clear, plastic cup of Orange Julius. Despite just about every shopping mall worth its salt boasting an Orange Julius somewhere in its twisty halls, you could rarely find someone who had ever tried one, even fewer who actually liked it, and no one who could tell you what the hell it was. Have you ever had an Orange Julius? Let us know in the comments!
10 min
How Krispy Kreme Went From Half-Baked To Hot Now
If you’ve driven anywhere in America, you’ve probably seen the neon “Hot Now!” signs hanging in the window of every Krispy Kreme. The chain is famous for its hot glazed donuts, a niche it rolled out for itself like so much pastry dough to stand out from its competitors. How did the once-struggling chain rise up to challenge Dunkin?
10 min
The Flame-Broiled Fall of Burger King
One area where Burger King has always had an edge over McDonald’s are its uniquely weird commercials; in particular, a series of ads in the mid-aughts featuring a perpetually-smiling King that briefly pushed the fast food chain into the spotlight. Despite an initial explosion in sales, and the King becoming so popular he starred in a trio of Xbox games, Burger King couldn’t deliver a dining experience that matched the fun of the character. In fact, they seem to have always had this problem. So what gives?
12 min
What Exactly Is “Cola” Flavor?
Whether it was Coke, Pepsi, or a supermarket brand, at some point or another pretty much everyone has tasted a cola flavored beverage. But have you ever tried to describe what Coke or Pepsi tastes like? Go ahead, give it a shot. It can’t be done. Despite being regularly consumed by billions of people all over the world, “cola” isn’t a flavor with a widely-accepted definition, or even one that’s widely known. So what’s the big secret?
11 min
Every Crazy McDonald's Item You Can't Get In America
No matter where you are on the planet, you’re bound to see those iconic Golden Arches. McDonald's has become a global phenomenon by adapting its menu to local tastes and preferences around the world. This tastebud localization strategy has led to a wide array of unique and sometimes shocking menu items that are very different from the stuff you’d find at a Mickey D’s in America. So what ARE they serving across the pond and beyond?
12 min
The Most EXPENSIVE Restaurant In The World
Located at the Hard Rock Hotel in Ibiza, Spain, Sublimotion lays claim to being the single priciest restaurant on the planet. And probably several OTHER planets. You're probably wondering what it feels like to eat there, and we can tell you that it feels expensive. But if you want more than that, check out this video!
11 min
How The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Saved Pizza Hut
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been kicking butt and crackin’ wise since their humble beginnings as comic book crusaders in 1983. They’re cool, rude and of course, they LOVE pizza. The Heroes in a Halfshell are about as synonymous with pizza as they are with fighting the Shredder, which lead to some pretty memorable promotions with Pizza Hut, both old and recent. In fact, it’s fair to say that the pizza delivery boom of the 80s and 90s owes a lot to these radical reptiles. So let us know what you think, and what's YOUR favorite memory of TNMT?
12 min
Is It Safe To Eat Dollar Store Food?
When you’re trying to squeeze the most out of a buck and the Walmarts and Target’s close by are a bit too luxurious, you can always count on Dollar General. For 70 years, thrifty customers have been able to buy their groceries at the one-stop-dollar shop and not break the bank in the process. But at some point, you gotta start wondering how they can sell everything for such low, low prices and not only stay in business, but seemingly open new stores as frequently as one opens a door?
11 min
The Tangy Reason We All Love Cherry Coke
The story of Cherry Coke began with a whole lot of teenage flirting at the drugstore soda fountain, which might be one reason why the drink is so associated with young people. But Cherry Coke wasn’t the first cherry cola at the dance. Heck, it wasn’t even the second. So how did it become the number one soda of summers at the drive-in, and remain an enduring youthful favorite to this day?
13 min
How Man v. Food Bit Off More Than He Could Chew
Man v. Food was a glorious mix of travel, tradition, and towering stacks of meat—and it gave us one of the most oddly beloved icons in food TV: Adam Richman. But behind the 5-pound burritos and atomic hot wings is a story of internet scandals, near-death experiences, and a show that just couldn’t quit. And what was once one of the biggest Food Network shows of the 2000s suddenly disappeared like ranch dressing at a hot wings challenge. So, what happened? Did you ever watch the show? Let us know in the comments!
10 min
How Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Worked When It Absolutely Should Have Failed
The Bubba-Gump Shrimp Company seafood restaurant chain inspired by the movie 'Forrest Gump' struck most people as a quick cash-in that also wouldn’t amount to much. But much like Forrest Gump, this chain really suprised man! Have you ever eaten at one? Let us know in the comments!
12 min
The Disney Magic Behind Dole Whip
Disneyland is famous for its ridiculously long lines. And one or two other things. But some of the longest lines are for something called Dole Whip, a delicious frozen treat that - for a while - you could only get by taking a trip to the happiest place on Earth. So how did a simple drink sponsored by a fruit company become a destination icon? Have YOU ever had a Dole Whip? Ever bought Dole Whip at the grocery store? Let us know in the comments!
10 min
The Cheesy Reason The Cheesecake Factory's Menu Is That Long
Everyone knows what it’s like to be with a big group of friends who can’t agree on where to grab dinner. That’s when it’s time to head to The Cheesecake Factory. Featuring delicious desserts, strange and unique Egyptian decor and a coil-bound, 21-page Menu featuring around 250 items to choose from, you truly can’t go wrong with a trip to the Cheesecake Factory. With a menu that offers just about any food under the sun, plus a section of highly delectable cheesecakes, the mind wonders how the legendary Cheesecake Factory menu came to be, and why it’s the size of a small phone book? Have you eaten at one? What was your favorite dish there? Let us know in the comments!
11 min
How Heavy is A Quarter Pounder Really?
McDonald’s Quarter Pounder is arguably the chain’s most iconic sandwich outside of the Big Mac itself. But where did this heavyweight hero come from? And how has it stayed so popular despite being so simple? Most important of all, how many of these culinary wonders to you think you have eaten over the years? let us know in the comments!
10 min
Why Nothing Else Tastes Like Movie Popcorn
There’s a moment—somewhere between paying for your ticket and being blasted into a galaxy far far away by Dolby Surround Sound—that you catch a whiff of that smell. Buttery. Salty. Irresistible. You weren’t even hungry before, but now you’re on a mission. A mission for movie theater popcorn. Where did you have your last Movie Theater Popcorn? Let us know in the comments!
11 min
Why Do Fast Food Restaurants Sell Milkshakes?
Since the beginning of modern fast food, there has been the milkshake. Burgers and shakes are the staple at nearly every fast food restaurant you can find. But when did burgers and milkshakes become inseparable? And when did it become a requirement for every burger joint in America to put its own spin on the classic treat?
10 min
Is Whole Wheat Bread Really Healthier Than White?
"Whole wheat or white bread?" It's a question you've probably been asked while your face was pressed against a Subway sneeze guard. And if you're a health conscious consumer, chances are you opted for whole grain over white bread. And why wouldn't you?
11 min
What Actually Is Yoo-hoo?
There are some things you never outgrow: chicken nuggets, naps, and the magic of Yoo-hoo. Maybe it’s the iconic yellow label. Maybe it’s the fun-to-say name. Or maybe it’s because Yoo-hoo exists in a category of its own: part drink, part nostalgia, part “what the heck is this, actually?” Because here’s the thing: Yoo-hoo is not chocolate milk. It is a “chocolate drink.” But who made this mysterious chocolate potion, and why does it taste so good despite looking kinda like brown water?
11 min
How Din Tai Fung's Soup Dumplings Took Over The World
If you’re the kind of person who really loves your steamed Chinese soup dumplings then there’s a better than average chance you’ve heard of Din Tai Fung. Over the past few decades, the chain and its famous xiaolongbao soup dumplings have achieved semi-legendary status everywhere from Asia to Europe to the U-S. So what’s the secret sauce?
9 min
What Ever Happened To Tang?
Tang is a vitamin-enhanced, powdered breakfast drink that -- once upon a time -- was practically synonymous with NASA and the astronauts of the U-S space program. And if you’ve ever wondered how a random fruit drink mix got its name attached to one of the most prestigious endeavors in the history of science, then stick around.
12 min
The Top Pizza Chain In Every Region In America
No one has ever gotten into a fistfight over which of the big pizza chains is the best - defending the honor of Pizza Hut just isn’t worth a fist to the eye. But everyone has that one hometown pizza chain you’d go to the mat for. But which one is TRULY the best?
11 min
Why The Hell Is It Called Ruth's Chris Steak House?
Before it was a nationwide steak empire with a tongue-twister name where you go to impress your in-laws or celebrate a big raise… There was just a guy named Chris, a sizzling steak, and a tiny restaurant in New Orleans. That is until a Ruth-less and savvy business woman managed to change things forever. This is the beefy, buttery, slightly burned-at-the-edges origin story of Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a name so confusing, you’d think someone lost a bet. Turns out, the story is even more interesting than that.
10 min
Were Warheads Ever ACTUALLY Dangerous?
If you were ever a kid in a candy store, odds are you know exactly which candy to grab a handful of if you’re aiming to scratch that sour itch. A moderate sour craving could be satisfied with a pack of sour patch kids or maybe a box of lemonheads. But for those candy thrill-seekers who really wanted to pucker up, the only solution was sour Warheads. Warheads are as delicious as they are.. terrifying!
12 min
The Death Of The Ice Cream Parlor
Some of the best childhood memories happened in the ice cream parlor. Birthdays, big team victories and special occasions all seem much better when someone behind the counter is asking “one scoop or two?” or “haven’t you had enough free samples yet?” But despite all the sweet, delicious memories, when the heck was the last time you even saw an ice cream parlor, let alone stepped inside one? Do ice cream parlors even still exist?
12 min
Why Doesn't Banana Flavor Taste Like Bananas?
Banana flavoring. Just hearing those words probably triggers a specific memory. Maybe it’s that weirdly chewy piece of Laffy Taffy you made a trade for during school lunch. Maybe it’s the smell of a banana popsicle you tried once and never fully recovered from. Or maybe it’s Circus Peanuts. No, really - we’ll get there. The point is, banana is one of the most ubiquitous flavors in desserts and candy. So how come none of it actually tastes like bananas?
9 min
Are Kraft Singles Actually Cheese?
When Kraft Singles came onto the scene in the mid-20th century, they seemed too good to be true. Households across the US were delighted at a low cost cheese option that simply refused to spoil. Until the questions started coming in. What is this stuff? How can sliced cheese stay good for so long? Is it actually food?
11 min
Why Nothing Else Tastes Like A McDonald’s Bun
When we’re horking down our favorite drive-thru burger, most of us aren’t thinking about the bun. But the bun is vital to the entire burger experience - it's the first thing you taste, setting the stage for the rest of the sandwich. And if everything isn’t perfect, it can throw off the whole sandwich. So how is it that a fast food place like McDonald’s seems to get it right every time?
9 min
Why Pizza Pockets Completely Owned The ’90s
For kids in the 90s, there were few better microwave meal options than the noble Hot Pocket. A simple turnover stuffed with pizza, the Hot Pocket inspired as much loyalty as fear among its fans, as its ability to burn the hell out of your mouth became the stuff of schoolyard legend. But where did they come from? Who invented this lava-filled rectangle of raditude? How many times did you scorch your moth eating these? Let us know in the comments!
11 min
Why Is Everyone Obsessed With This Gas Station?
Forget what you know about gas stations—Buc-ee’s is more than a truck stop, it’s a full-blown roadside attraction. Known for its immaculate bathrooms, smoked brisket, wall-to-wall snacks and souvenirs, and a beaver mascot with surprising star power, Buc-ee’s is a must-visit destination. People plan entire road trips around it, driving hours just to grab a T-shirt or a kolache. So how did a simple stop-and-fuel become a destination vacation?
12 min
Is Coke Zero Better For You Than Diet Coke?
It’s a hot summer day and you want a cool, tasty beverage with absolutely no sugar or carbs anywhere in sight, and water simply will not do. So you reach for a Diet Coke, but then notice the bottle of Coke Zero Sugar next to it, and that’s when the confusion sets in. Which should you get? Is one better than the other? Is there even a difference?
11 min
The REAL Reason That Tipping Became A Thing
Even to those raised in a culture where it’s the norm, the practice of tipping can often seem downright random. Why do we tip some service providers for their efforts, but not others? Why are some jobs allowed to pay so little as long as there’s the expectation that tips will cover the rest? And who exactly made all these unspoken rules?
10 min
Is Luxury Bottled Water Really Better Than Regular Bottled Water?
The average American drinks more than 45 gallons of bottled water per year. That’s a lot of water and a LOT of bottles. It seems especially jarring considering we get the same amount of water from our taps for the low, low price of our utility bill. But at some point, bottled water not only became popular, it was downright hip. So hip, in fact, that designer water became something advertising companies assured us we cannot do without. Fancy bottles, sparkling waters from the far reaches of the earth and even major bling has taken over the bottled water industry and turned it into the next top fashion. But is bougie, top-shelf bottled water actually any better for you than the stuff that comes out of your faucet? Which Do YOU Drink? Let Us Know in the comments!
10 min
What Was The Most Popular Burger Of Each Decade?
Burgers have been a staple in lunch and dinners since their inception around the turn of the 20th century. Since that time, burgers have evolved, morphed and grown over the decades to become one of the most popular and most competitive foods in the country, with new styles and trends popping up regularly to transform the entire industry. But what were all those decade-defining burgers? The ones everyone and their brother couldn’t wait to order?
13 min
Is This Soda Actually Good For You?
Walk into a grocery store today and you’ll probably find a can of something called probiotic soda, the biggest health-food hit in the soda aisle since sparkling water and Diet Coke. But what exactly is a probiotic soda supposed to do for you? And are they actually good for your health, or just another low calorie flash in the pan?
9 min
Everything That Went Wrong With Panera Bread
When your tummy is rumbling for something fancy and the local fast food joints just won’t cut it, you can do worse than stopping by your local Panera Bread. When the doors open, you’re hit with a dozen smells of fresh bread, bubbling soups and sweet treats from the bakery all cooking an upscale meal for incriminating tastebuds. While Panera has the reputation of a higher-quality, fast casual dining experience, one has to wonder just how much can you expect to pay for two slices of bread, some meat and a bowl of soup?
11 min
Everything That Was Fake About Kitchen Nightmares
Gordon Ramsay has made a career out of screaming at people, and rescuing their struggling businesses. Kitchen Nightmares remains one of the celebrity chef’s most popular shows in America, following Ramsay as he helps transform restaurants on the edge of bankruptcy into successes. But how real ARE those nightmares, and how much is played up for the cameras?
11 min
Classic Lunchbox Juices That Almost Killed Us
While most of us coasted through childhood in a veritable sugar haze, it turns out all the fruit punches, apple juices and colorful elixirs we were throwing back in the cafeteria didn’t always have our good health in mind. But how can drinks that taste vaguely like fruit be bad for us?
12 min
The Strange Reason Sour Patch Kids Are Shaped Like Children
Sour Patch Kids are gummy candies that -- for some reason -- are shaped like human children. Uh, sort of. Have you ever stopped to wonder why these sour treats look like a tiny person with a radical haircut? Who decided that was a good shape for candy?
11 min
Why Nothing Tastes As Good As A McDonald's Hash Brown
It’s 8:47 a.m. You’re running late and you’re wearing sunglasses indoors. You didn’t plan to go to McDonald’s, but somehow you’ve wound up in the drive-thru, whispering your order like it’s a confession. And then it hits you. That smell. That sizzle. That little paper sleeve holding a golden, crispy oval that absolutely did not need to go that hard. McDonald’s hash browns aren’t just good. They’re emotional support potatoes. How often do you eat them? Let us know in the comments!
9 min
What Even Is "Flamin' Hot" Flavor?
Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are more than just a snack. For years, this radioactive red chip has captivated spice-lovers, confused parents, inspired music videos, and even sent kids to the hospital. And the backstory? It has everything: a rags-to-riches janitor-turned-executive tale, a corporate mystery worthy of a Netflix docuseries, and a brand so spicy it sparked a food revolution.
12 min
Why Cream Soda Never Hit The Big Time
Cream Soda, the beverage that was designed to be a dessert in drink form, was one of the original soda recipes. Once an iconic staple of pharmacy soda shops across America, this retro beverage still keeps a dedicated fanbase, but it’s nowhere nearly as popular as Coke or Pepsi. So what happened? ...Do you drink Cream Soda? IF so, what's YOUR favorite? Let us know in the comments!
9 min
How MrBeast's Feastables Worked When it Absolutely Should Have Failed
Would you buy a feast from a beast? What if that beast were “Mister Beast” and that feast was a Feastables chocolate bar? If you said yes, you’re not alone. The Feastables snack line has been an unmitigated triumph for Mister Beast -- even though celebrity-based products have a disastrous hit rate. So how did he zig where everyone else zagged? What Do Yoy think about Feastables? Have you ever had one? Let us know in the comments!
10 min
Why Are Juice Boxes Only For Kids?
The juice is loose! Or it would be, if it weren’t contained by those miraculous contraptions we call juice boxes. The handy packages are a ubiquitous part of school lunches throughout much of the world, and we all love them for it. But how did they infiltrate our lunchboxes to become one of the biggest staples of childhood? What Were Some of YOUR Favorites? Let Us Know in the Comments!
10 min
Why The Biggest Mexican Restaurant Of The '80s Suddenly Vanished
It’s a Friday night in 1987and you’re wearing your best acid washed jeans with your Frankie Says Relax shirt. Your date’s hair has reached full Aqua Net structural integrity and you just slid into a red vinyl booth at Chi-Chi’s with a basket of free chips and a cold, syrupy margarita the size of a birdbath. Chi-Chi’s wasn’t just a restaurant. It was where Midwest families went to feel spicy.
10 min
What ACTUALLY Happened To Fruitopia
If you grew up in the early aughts, odds are you had a Fruitopia machine in your school. They just seemed to appear one day in the 90s as if from nowhere, offering fruity nectar of the gods to anyone brave enough to gaze upon the kaleidoscope imagery of its glowing display. While many may not remember Fruitopia and even fewer have actually tried it, for a time it was on top of the world. So why did it get tossed out of paradise?
10 min
Why Are Continental Breakfasts Only At Hotels?
Road weary families looking for a quick place to lay their heads for the night want to wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day, and nothing does that quite like free orange juice and danishes in the little room next to the ice machine. Any hotel worth its weight in mini-muffins aims to please their clientele with a continental breakfast.
10 min
Are There Actual Clams In Clamato Juice?
Clamato Juice is a beverage with a name that implies it’s made from a combination of clams and tomatoes and designed to prank your friends into chugging what they think is cloudy fruit punch. But are there really shellfish in that strange, bottled elixir? And who in their right mind would drink it on purpose?
9 min
Is Annie’s Mac And Cheese Better For You Than Kraft Mac And Cheese?
If you’re a fan of macaroni and cheese, and not cooking for yourself, then there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Annie’s Homegrown. Buoyed by its health related claims, the company has managed to turn its flagship product into one of the biggest brands in the U-S. But how did they climb to the top so fast? And are their cheesy noodles truly a more health-conscious choice?
9 min
Why Is Everyone Obsessed With This Seafood Spice?
No seafood boil is complete without the right seasoning. And everyone from the Mid-Atlantic knows that the "right seasoning" is Old Bay. But how has this simple spice bland cemented itself as a seafood staple? And when did people start using it on popcorn, potato salad, and around the rim of Bloody Marys?
11 min
Is Celsius Better For You Than Red Bull?
Celsius is part of the next wave of energy drinks marketed toward fitness-minded adults, particularly women. It’s a pick-me-up in a can that’s made a name for itself by being the healthy alternative to “gamer fuel” like Monster and Red Bull. But is it really any better for you than a standard energy drink, or is it all just a bunch of red bull?
8 min
Is Gas Station Sushi Safe To Eat?
Sushi! It’s delicate. It’s delicious. It’s got raw fish in it. And for many Americans, it’s absolutely terrifying when you see it sitting next to a taquito roller at a Shell station. But is gas station sushi really the intestinal minefield it’s made out to be? Or has it been a hidden catch of the day all along?
12 min
Why Your Favorite "Health" Drink Is Not Healthy At All
“Naked Juice” may sound like something they have to mop off the floor after shooting an adult movie, but fortunately for us all, that’s not the case. It’s actually a line of fruit juices, protein smoothies, fruit smoothies and other similar beverages; and if you have any questions about the brand, you’re in luck, because today we’re going to take a look at the naked truth about Naked Juice.
10 min
How Soda Fountains Took Over America
We don’t typically drink milk or juice out of fountains, but for some reason, the soda fountain remains one of the dominant distribution systems for soft drinks. In fact, if you’ve left your house in the past fifty years, you’ve likely noticed that pretty much every fast food joint, convenience store and movie theater now has one. How did soda fountains manage to conquer virtually all of food service?
12 min
Classic Lunchbox Snacks That Almost Killed Us
When you were a kid at school, nothing beat the moment you could finally crack open your lunchbox and see what awesome treats your parents packed away for you… or which ones you snuck in there yourself when they weren’t looking. But while those lunchbox snacks were always a delight, they weren’t always healthy. In fact, several could be called delicious slow acting poisons!
9 min
The Ice Cold Death Of The Choco Taco
The Choco Taco wasn’t just an ice cream treat, it was a culinary miracle. A frozen Frankenstein’s monster of a dessert that dared to ask, “What if a taco… but ice cream?” And for nearly 40 years, the answer was always: “Yes. Absolutely.” It wasn’t fancy. It wasn’t gourmet. But the Choco Taco’s unique design was the ice cream sandwich we’d all been dreaming of.
9 min
How Long Does Beef Jerky ACTUALLY Stay Good?
On a long car ride or while pulling an all-nighter, few snacks hit like a good package of beef jerky. The tough, salty, sometimes spicy meat seems to last forever and never loses its kick. Once a necessity for our pioneer ancestors traveling across a tumultuous country, beef jerky remains a time-honored treat for anyone craving meat but not willing to cook it. So how did it become THE go-to snack of road trips throughout history?
9 min
Why Nothing Else Tastes Like Baja Blast
It’s teal. It’s tropical. It’s the only soda that somehow tastes like both summer vacation and the floor of a Taco Bell at 1 a.m. For 20 years, Baja Blast has been more than just a drink — it’s a cult, a lifestyle, and one more thing for people to argue about on social media. But what is Baja Blast, really? How did it go from a limited-time Taco Bell exclusive to a year-round grocery store staple? And why does it have more spinoffs than CSI?
9 min
The Red Hot Rise Of Nashville Hot Chicken
You hear about it on food blogs, restaurant advertisements and even in Jack Black’s Lava Chicken Song in A Minecraft Movie. Hot Chicken, forged in the fiery pits of Nashville’s hottest stovetops and available at any establishment that isn’t afraid to live life on the spicy side. Nashville Hot Chicken seemed to pop up overnight. So, where did it come from? And how did it take over our taste buds?
9 min
Everything That Went Wrong With Blimpie
These days, when most people are hungry for a sandwich they head to places like Subway, Panera Bread, Jimmy John’s, Jersey Mike’s, or maybe even Firehouse. But once upon a time, not too long ago, the first name in sandwich shops was Blimpie. It even sounds delicious, like you’re going to get a whole lot of sammie for your buck. So what made this once-giant franchise go the way of the Hindenburg?
12 min
The Secret Behind Red Lobster's Cheddar Bay Biscuits
When Red Lobster first opened its doors in 1968, it promised a “harbor for seafood lovers,” so you’d think their most popular dish would be, well… seafood. If not specifically lobster. But as anyone who’s ever sampled from their menu can tell you, the best thing on it is -- by far -- the Cheddar Bay Biscuits.
10 min
How Combos Became The Ultimate Road Trip Snack
Combos - those little pretzel rolls with an assortment of savory fillings - seemingly came out of nowhere to dominate road trip snack discussions forevermore. But despite being one of the undisputed kings of convenience store pit-stops for the past several decades, there’s surprisingly little information about Combos out there. So how did these humble tubes of dough and cheese come out of obscurity to change long car rides forever?
12 min
Why All Restaurants Suddenly Look The Same
Once upon a time, McDonald’s looked like McDonald’s, Taco Bell looked like Taco Bell, and White Castle looked like a place everyone but college kids wanted to avoid. But at some point, those chains started ditching their own styles in favor of a minimalist design that’s so samey, you can barely tell one place from the other.
12 min
Why Vanilla Coke Failed (Then Came Back)
Vanilla Coke wasn’t just a soda, it was a revelation. A sugary slap to the taste buds that whispered, “Hey, what if your Coke was just a little fancier? A little creamier? A little more vannilla-y?” It tasted like someone poured a melted Coke float into a bottle and said, “You’re welcome, America.” And for a while it was available in every movie theater, vending machine, and corner store. Then all of a sudden, it was gone. What happened? Where did it go? Is it ever coming back?
9 min
How Homer Simpson Saved Donuts
Look, we may not want to admit it, but every one of us is guilty of doing something just because we saw it on television. But that doesn’t always mean doing suplexes in your living room or burning the house down - sometimes, that just means scarfing down your favorite characters’ favorite foods. From the Ninja Turtles and E.T., to Garfield and Homer Simpson, every major pop culture character has a major signature snack. But have these iconic snackers unknowingly convinced us all to become eaters of their favorite treats? Is our willpower truly so low?
13 min
Why Everything Tasted Better In The 90s
Not to come off like one of those old people who think everything was better back in their day, but… everything was better back in our day; our day being the nineties. Movies were better, music was better, and food was better. Not necessarily better for you; it just tasted better. And if you’re wondering why that is, you’re in luck.
11 min
Everything That Went Wrong With Sbarro
For decades, Sbarro was the beating heart of the mall food court — a brand so tied to suburban adolescence that it’s basically shorthand for “killing time before the movie starts.” But while it once reigned supreme as the undisputed king of the food court jungle, Sbarro eventually became a punchline: mocked for its quality, gutted by bankruptcies, and immortalized as the butt of an Office joke.
10 min
Why Does Some Food Taste Better As Leftovers?
Open any fridge in America and you’ll find two things: a condiment that expired in 2012, and a mysterious Tupperware you’re too scared to open. But here’s the twist — sometimes those forgotten meals actually taste better the next day.
12 min
How Peasant Food Became Fine Dining
Historically speaking, when you think about fine dining, you probably think about kings, queens, lords, ladies, and all other manner of aristocrats. What you probably don’t think of is peasants. Yet, these days, so-called “peasant food” is increasingly considered fancy.
12 min
Pepsi Blue Never Actually Went Away
There have been some major soda brands that have delighted MILLIONS over the decades! Coke, Mountain Dew, 7Up!... Many have tried variations of tried and true beloved concoctions, but, let's be honest - NOBODY saw Pepsi Blue coming. What IS Pepsi Blue, and how did it come about? What does it taste like? maybe you have had one?
11 min
Why Endless Shrimp Was The Dumbest Deal In Restaurant History
People love seafood! ...And Shrimp. LOTS of Shrimp - Garlic shrimp, breaded shrimp, dipping in shrimp cocktail or melted butter. Big restaurant chains recognized this, and many of the bigs such as Red Lobster started offering customers 'Endless shrimp' deals... What could go wrong? As time went on, they quickly found out - their financial well being got stuck in a downward spiral, with HEAVY losses. Were you ever able to part-take in endless shrimp deals while they were offered? How many do you think YOU ate?
11 min
The Deadliest Foods People Actually Eat
Some people out there like to live life EXTREME. Some folks enjoy the thrill of leaping out of an airplane. Others climb mountains or brave the wilderness for no other reason than it’s dangerous. But some decide to have their danger served to them on a platter, maybe with a side of fries and some sauce for dipping. There’s nothing exciting about a cheeseburger, but what if that cheeseburger had a 1 in 10 chance of taking you out in the most painful way possible? Isn’t that worth even a little taste?
12 min
How Chicken Took Over McDonald's
There are few items on the McDonald’s menu more classically Micky D’s than the six-piece chicken McNugget. But if you’re wondering why a place known for burgers and fries is always looking for the next big chicken sensation, then stick around.
11 min
The REAL Reason Pringles Come In A Can
With its one-of-a-kind, cardboard tube, metal bottom and plastic lid, Pringles are one of the most uniquely packaged snacks around. But it has to make you wonder: If that tube technology is really all that great, then why is Pringles the only chip makers that use it for their packaging?
11 min
How Can Costco Afford To Give Away So Many Free Samples?
It begins the way all great weekend stories do, a card check, a concrete warehouse floor, and a tiny paper cup of microwaved meatball skewered on a toothpick. This is Costco, and at Costco, the samples are free. But how does it work? Who pays for those little bites of joy? It’s a mystery, for sure.
10 min
Is Chicago Deep Dish Actually Pizza?
Pizza. It’s the number one food on the planet. Ok, maybe not literally. But, we can all agree that it’s in every human being’s top five, right? Like, who can say 'No' to pizza? Seems simple enough until you remember that according to some, pizza comes in both New York style and Chicago style. Have you ever HAD Chicago Style 'Deep Dish pizza? Which is YOUR favorite style?
9 min
How Bennigan's Tried To Be Applebee's . . . And Lost Everything
Remember after-work happy hours with neon green cocktails, the “flair” era, and a sandwich so over-the-top it came with powdered sugar and jam? Well… that was Bennigan’s — America’s mall-pub for Monte Cristos and two-for-ones. But today, you’d be hard pressed to find one.
11 min
Every Style Of Steak We Could Find
Humans have been eating beef and game since the prehistoric era, so steak has been on the dinner menu since, well… pretty much forever. From open fires to fine dining, its evolution has been shaped by economics, politics and time. So if the question is: Where’s the beef? The answer is: We found it, and then some!
12 min
Is Expired Food Actually Dangerous?
It’s 2 A-M. You’re starving. You shuffle into the kitchen like a zombie with one goal: vanilla yogurt. You find it. You cradle it. You whisper sweet nothings to it. But then… betrayal. It expired six days ago. Do you eat it? Will it kill you? Is this how your autopsy report begins?
10 min
Every Celebrity Liquor Brand We Could Find
Once upon a time, liquor was made and sold by people with names like Jim Beam and Jack Daniels. But these days, it’s more like The Rock and Ryan Reynolds. Yes, it suddenly feels like every celebrity you’ve ever heard of is out there pimping their own brand of booze.
11 min
Is "Organic" A Scam?
The organic food business is driven by a desire for healthier meals, anxieties over the environment, and nostalgia for a time before chemical pesticides and fertilizers. But does organic food actually address any of those concerns? Or are we all just a bunch of suckers.
11 min
Does $1,000 Pizza Actually Taste Better Than $1 Pizza?
From Naples street food to Michelin-level creations, pizza’s been around longer than there have been dollar bills to spend on it. So how did we get to the point where some pizza still costs just a single bill, while others pay thousands and thousands for a single slice?
12 min
Is it Safe To Eat At A C Grade Restaurant?
Food poisoning. Cross-contamination. Clandestine societies of hungry rats. These are just a few of the many pressing concerns shared by restaurant-staff and consumers alike. But, thanks to state-wide safety regulations, foodies can turn to restaurant grading systems to help decide where it’s safe to dine. But if A is excellent, and B takes a pass…What’s the risk in grabbing a bite from C?
11 min
Why Orbitz Was Too Weird To Survive
Back in the nineteen-nineties, there was one drink that dared to ask: what if your beverage looked less like soda and more like a lava lamp? That drink was Orbitz — a short-lived, jelly-bead-filled curiosity that confused shoppers and terrified dentists. Have YOU ever had an Orbitz drink? Would you ever want to taste one of those ever again?
12 min
The Strange Rise Of BuzzBallz
They look like bath bombs, taste like liquid candy, and hit like a heavyweight boxer. Whether you’ve downed one at a tailgate, or just stared at them in the liquor aisle, BuzzBallz have become impossible to ignore. But how did these party spheres take over the drinking world?
12 min
How Paul Newman Accidentally Started A Food Empire
Given that he’s one of the most iconic movie stars of all time, it’s natural to wonder why Paul Newman’s name and likeness has long been used to sell bottles of salad dressing. Was he desperate for cash? Did he owe a favor to a friend? Was he being blackmailed by some evil salad dressing baron? Well, wonder no more.
11 min
Everything There Is To Know About Sushi Rolls
Over a thousand years ago in Southeast Asia, people preserved fish by wrapping it in rice and letting it ferment. The Japanese then took that idea, refined it, and turned it into one of the most desired – and Instagram worthy – foods on the planet. But few realize quite how many varieties of sushi there really are!
10 min
What's Actually In A Marshmallow
A campfire and cereal box staple that goes back a heck of a lot longer than most people realize, marshmallows are soft, squishy and rich in delicious marsh. Or is it mallow? The truth is, while most people love the taste of marshmallows on their smores, sweet potato pie, or in their cereal, few know exactly what lurks within them.
11 min
How Margaritaville Became The Weirdest Business Empire In America
It started as a laid-back anthem about wasting away on the beach with a salty rimmed cocktail. But Jimmy Buffett’s *Margaritaville* didn’t stay a song for long. It transformed into a sprawling empire including things like restaurants, resorts, and yes… even pickleball sponsorships.
11 min
The Strange Reinventions Of Slice Soda
Slice was an iconic brand… a soda for the ages! Or at least that's what Pepsi wanted their definitely-not-Sprite-clone to be. And for a hot minute, it worked. In the mid 1980’s, Slice was everywhere. It was everyone's go to drink of choice, until… it wasn’t. But once a brand name is well known, it never truly disappears. So, tell us, did you drink Slice in the '80s? Or how about the probiotic reboot? What did you think?
11 min
The Unfortunate Downfall Of Hot Dog On A Stick
Hot Dog on a Stick is not just a sentence, but the name of an iconic establishment and also a description of an article of food. And yet, this once mighty delectable treat no longer dominates the economic hierarchies of mall food courts the way that it did in the 1980s.
10 min
What Happens When All Of The Waiters Disappear?
Artificial intelligence has people everywhere wondering whose jobs are next — Writers? Developers? Maybe even yours. But one industry’s already feeling it: restaurants, where touchscreens and robot servers are quietly taking over. have YOU ever been served by a Robot? Have you taken your own order on a flatscreen at a fast food joint? Where Was it? Any hiccups in your worder?
12 min
The Street Foods That Define Every Country
In the abstract, food that’s prepared in the street might strike some as less than appetizing. But in reality, there’s something magical about street food. So in honor of all the hungry folks, standing in the road for the chance to buy something hot, fresh, and fast… What was some of the best street food you ever had? Where was it? Let us know in the comments!
10 min
How In-N-Out Ruined Their Own French Fries
With their sprawling secret menu, a cult-worthy following of fanatic foodies, and pure devotion to drive-thru craftsmanship, In-N-Out just might be the most infamous regional burger chain in America. But while these shake-slinging masters know exactly what a hamburger is all about, one fast-food essential is seriously slacking. Because when it comes to In-N-Out, does anyone actually want fries with that?
11 min
What Actually Is Wasabi?
Picture a vivid green smear next to your sushi roll. The tiny kick-in-the-nose that makes your eyes water and your date question your life choices. Yes, we’re talking about wasabi. It’s one of the world’s most misunderstood condiments, but that stops right now. So, what are your thoughts on Wasabi? Have you had the real thing? Let us know in the comments!
11 min
The Truth About Chick-fil-A
Ah, Chick-fil-A, the only place where you can order chicken nuggets and waffle fries, with a heaping side of Christian guilt. They’re known for customer service, drive-thru lines rivaling In-And-Out, and some pretty universally beloved fried chicken, but if you’re wondering how a family-owned diner turned into a billion chicken empire, stick around. So, do you love Chic-Fil-A? Do you have issues with the company? Let us know in the comments where you stand!
11 min
What Prison Meals Really Look Like
From horrifying Hollywood cliches of disgusting cafeterias, to the slightly more palatable offerings at real-world commissaries, prison meals are a hot topic for the morbidly curious. But with so many terrible true-crime dining tales, one has to wonder: is prison food really that bad?
10 min
Why Everyone's Obsessed With Mexican Birria Right Now
If you’re into online food trends, you’ve probably heard of Birria, the Mexican stew with an origin story that involves conquistadors, an army of goats, and an active volcano. But if you’re wondering what it really is about birria that’s got the internet so hyped up, stick around.
10 min
The Best Foods To Eat At Every NFL Stadium (AFC Edition)
Attending an N-F-L game means dealing with attempts from the audience to break decibel measurements, long lines out of the parking lot, and overpriced beer. But there’s one thing that makes it all worth it. No, not the actual game, you can watch that from home. We are of course talking about the food.
10 min
The Weird McDonald's Spin-Off That Failed Miserably
In 2023, McDonald’s was looking for a way to stay relevant and capture the caffeine-crazy, TikTok-scrolling crowd who’d rather sip than chew. To that end, they launched a whole new coffee chain that looked like Starbucks after a U-F-O abduction. It was called CosMc’s, which was pretty appropriate because – it wasn’t long for this world.
12 min
When Did Campbell's Get Chunky?
Whether you’re taking care of a child with the sniffles or you’re just too lazy to cook for real, soup is a household staple. But it’s one largely dominated by a single name: Campbell’s. Only thanks to their brilliant marketing, you probably know it best as “Chunky.” Do You eat Campbell's Chunky? What do you think of Campbell's?
11 min
What's The REAL Difference Between Carl's Jr. And Hardee's?
Have you ever looked at a Carl’s Jr. and a Hardee’s and thought, “Man those two franchises are a helluva lot alike”? Well… you’re not wrong. Those two chains are basically fast food siblings who share a face, but still insist they’re totally different people. Which have you eaten at? Do you prefer one over the other? Let us know in the comments!
12 min
The Soda That Had TOO MUCH Caffeine
Before energy drinks ruled the world, there was Jolt Cola. Double the caffeine, all of the sugar, and none of the subtlety. In the mid eighties, Jolt didn’t just quietly launch, it exploded onto shelves like a punch in the face. It sparked panic, rebellion, and some of the most chaotic Gen X stories told. So, let us know in the comments - Did you ever drink a Jolt Cola?
10 min
Why Your Favorite Childhood Chocolate Became Illegal
For those lucky enough to live in a world where no candy is illegal, Kinder Surprise Eggs are a popular treat for chocolate lovers, toy collectors and egg aficionados alike. But in the U-S… they’re contraband. So why does everyone else get to chow down on this toy dispensing candy while Americans are left out?
10 min
How Cinnabon Outlasted The Mall
You know that moment in a mall when you swear you’re just “cutting through” to get to something else, but then it hits you — the smell. A warm, sweet, buttery cloud that hovers like a cartoon hand beckoning you toward your fate. You weren’t hungry. You weren’t looking for dessert. And yet… resistance is futile! Have you ever eaten at Cinnabon? Give us YOUR thoughts in the comments!
11 min
The Rise And Fall Of Snapple
In the world of fast food redheads, there’s Ronald McDonald, sometimes The Burger King – depending on which version you’re looking at – and there’s Wendy.And for decades, Wendy’s held their own as the number three burger chain in the United States. But the times, they may be a-changing.
11 min
The Strange Soda Peru Chose Over Coca-Cola
When most people think of soda they think of things like Coke, Pepsi, Sprite and maybe some kind of Root Beer or Orange. What they don’t usually think of, is the Incas. Unless you’re talking about the people of Peru, who think of a local brand that did the impossible. So, have YOU ever had the pleasure of drinking this elusive soda? Where did you find it? Let us know in the comments!
10 min