In “A Cook’s Tour”, Anthony Bourdain seeks to discover the very essence of foods. His tour across the world not only covers many countries as well as foods, but also the cultures that surround these foods. Cultures vary in terms of traditions and languages, but one constant is that we all must eat. Bourdain is able to discover the defining characteristic about each culture, which in fact is food.
America is always attacked for lacking a strong cultural tie to its nation’s food. Critics often claim that the United States can not decide which food is the “bread and butter” of the country. European countries all have unique styles in their food, as well as Asian countries and even South American countries, but America is well behind in its understanding of the value of food. Ask 10 strangers which food best defines the United States and you could very possibly get 10 different answers.
Anthony Bourdain’s book unintentionally sheds light on this chaotic cuisine tragedy that we face as he highlights the impact that culture has on food. After reading the first section of his book I ask myself if America will ever establish a food as its own. Should we be concerned with this confusion we have towards the food we eat everyday? Bourdain’s travels ignite not only his passion for food but they also put America on the burner to define its own unique style of food that can be supported by the culture.
