CHUG and CHOW: America's Tucked-Away Eateries and Watering Holes

Join award-winning host and author Todd Newton on this flavorful episode of Chug & Chow as he takes you to the heart of Tucson, Arizona, to visit the legendary El Charro Café. Established in 1922, El Charro Café is not only the oldest Mexican restaurant in Tucson but also a beloved institution with over a century of rich culinary history and authentic Sonoran flavors.

Todd speaks with Ray Flores, a proud member of the Flores family, who has owned and operated El Charro Café for generations. Together, they delve into the fascinating story behind this iconic restaurant, from its humble beginnings to its status as a must-visit destination for foodies and travelers alike. Discover the secrets behind El Charro’s world-famous carne seca, signature margaritas, and the vibrant atmosphere that keeps locals and visitors coming back year after year.

Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, a lover of historic restaurants, or planning your next foodie road trip, this episode is packed with mouthwatering moments, insider stories, and a true taste of Tucson’s culinary heritage.

Join award-winning host and author Todd Newton as he travels to Wheeling, West Virginia, for a taste of history at Coleman’s Fish Market—a beloved institution renowned for its legendary simple fish sandwich.

Established decades ago and now operated by third-generation owner Joe Coleman, this local favorite has been serving up fresh, lightly battered fish on a soft bun with minimal toppings, letting the flavor speak for itself.

In this episode, The Tattooed Traveler speaks with Joe to uncover the rich story behind the market, its enduring community impact, and the secret to keeping tradition alive through generations.

Whether you’re a road trip foodie or a fan of classic American eats, this episode of CHUG & CHOW will leave you craving a bite of Wheeling’s most famous sandwich.

Pull up a seat and prepare for a showstopper! On this episode of CHUG & CHOW, award-winning host and traveling foodie Todd Newton heads to the heart of Portland, Oregon, to experience the legendary Spanish Coffee at Huber’s—where every glass is a performance and every sip is steeped in tradition.

The Tattooed Traveler speaks with owner James Louie to explore the captivating history behind Portland’s oldest restaurant, from its storied beginnings to the fiery tableside ritual that’s become a citywide rite of passage.

Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or a history buff, this episode will light up your imagination and your taste buds. Tune in for a toast to the past, present, and future of Huber’s—where the story is as unforgettable as the drink itself.

Visit hubers.com for more information.

Get ready to bite into the bold flavors and creative spirit of Syracuse, NY. In this episode of CHUG & CHOW, award-winning host and bon vivant Todd Newton spotlights Funk N Waffles—an iconic eatery serving up wild waffle creations, unforgettable live music, and a vibe that’s as unique as the city itself.

Todd speaks with owner Adam Gold to uncover how a college party idea grew into Syracuse’s ultimate spot for sweet and savory cravings.

Discover the journey from campus brainstorm to local legend, and see why Funk N Waffles is the talk of upstate New York. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or a traveler seeking the next great taste adventure, this episode dishes out history, community, and a taste of what makes Syracuse unforgettable.

Don’t forget—every purchase of the Chug and Chow book helps feed families in need. Subscribe, listen, and review to help us keep celebrating the flavors and stories that fuel America’s coolest towns.

Visit chugandchow.com for more information.

Get ready for a wild ride on this episode of CHUG & CHOW with award-winning host Todd Newton. The Tattooed Traveler takes you to Asheville, North Carolina, to explore Fleetwood’s Rock n Roll Wedding Chapel—a one-of-a-kind hotspot where you can sip craft cocktails, catch live bands, shop for vintage threads, and even tie the knot, all under one legendary roof.

Todd speaks with co-owner Mary Kelley to discover how Fleetwood’s blends Asheville’s vibrant music scene, retro style, and quirky romance into an unforgettable experience for locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or just searching for the coolest wedding venue, this episode delivers the ultimate taste of Asheville’s creative spirit.

Don’t forget: every copy of the CHUG & CHOW book you order provides ten meals for a family facing food insecurity. Grab your copy today at chugandchow.com and help us make a difference—one meal (and one adventure) at a time.

Sink your teeth into the bold, juicy world of Lucy’s Big Burgers—Abilene’s local legend where classic diner vibes meet Texas-sized flavor.

In this episode, award-winning host and author of CHUG & CHOW Todd Newton speaks with owner Robert Graven to get the story behind this beloved burger joint, their secret to perfect patties, and savors every crispy fry and creamy milkshake.

Whether you’re a burger enthusiast or a traveler hungry for authentic eats, join us as we uncover why Lucy’s is a must-visit stop on any West Texas foodie adventure. Subscribe for more hidden culinary treasures and taste the stories that make each bite unforgettable.

lucysbigburgers.com

Join award-winning host and traveling foodie Todd Newton as he takes you on a mouthwatering journey to Nashville's legendary Silver Sands Cafe, where three generations of the Vaughn family have been serving up authentic soul food with unmatched heart and flavor for over 75 years. This hidden gem tucked away in Music City has been quietly perfecting their craft while the tourist crowds flock elsewhere—and that's exactly what makes it special.

The Tattooed Traveler speaks with third-generation owner Sophia Vaughn to uncover the family secrets behind their legendary fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and cornbread that'll make you weep with joy. Discover why this unassuming spot has locals lining up daily and how Sophia's philosophy of cooking with love transforms every single dish into something extraordinary.

Whether you're planning your next Nashville adventure or dreaming of authentic Southern comfort food, this episode will have you booking your table at Silver Sands Cafe before the credits roll.

Featured in this episode:

• Silver Sands Cafe's 75-year family legacy
• Exclusive interview with owner Sophia Vaughn
• The secret ingredient that makes everything taste like home
• Todd's top menu picks you absolutely cannot miss
• Insider tips for the best Nashville soul food experience

Perfect for food lovers, road trip enthusiasts, and anyone seeking authentic American dining experiences off the beaten path.

Order your copy of Todd's book, CHUG & CHOW, at chugandchow.com.

Discover California's sweetest century-old secret on Highway 111! Join us as we explore Shields Date Garden in Indio, CA – a family oasis serving legendary date shakes since 1924. This ultimate California road trip destination combines exotic Medjool dates, vintage roadside Americana, and the most famous fruit education film you've never heard of.

From the Coachella Valley's date farming history to quirky roadside attractions, award-winning host and author of CHUG & CHOW Todd Newton uncovers how one family turned desert dreams into America's date capital. Plus, learn about the heroic rescue that saved this iconic stop from closing forever.

Whether you're planning a Palm Springs getaway, exploring Southern California food culture, or hunting for Instagram-worthy vintage vibes, this episode delivers the insider scoop on dates (the fruit!), date shakes that locals swear by, and why this Desert Hot Springs area treasure belongs on every foodie's bucket list.

Perfect for fans of: road trip food adventures, California travel, vintage Americana, farm-to-table experiences, authentic roadside eateries, desert tourism, and family-owned restaurants with history.

Visit chugandchow.com for more episodes and videos of these sweet destinations.

In this sizzling episode of CHUG & CHOW, we hit the griddle with a Fort Wayne institution—Powers Hamburgers. Since 1940, this humble spot has been flipping mouthwatering sliders and serving up nostalgia one bite at a time.

Join award-winning host and author Todd Newton as he dives into the rich history of Fort Wayne, explores what makes Powers so beloved, and chats with owner Alex Richardson about keeping this legendary lunch counter alive.

Whether you're a burger lover, road trip foodie, or small-town history buff, this episode is a can't-miss!

👉 Subscribe for more hidden gems
🍔 Order the CHUG & CHOW book at chugandchow.com – every copy provides 10 meals to families in need!

Visit powershamburgers.com for more information.

In this mouthwatering episode of CHUG & CHOW, we take you on a road trip down the iconic Overseas Highway to the sun-soaked shores of Key Largo, Florida—the “Diving Capital of the World” and gateway to the Florida Keys. But we’re not here for tourist traps. We’re here for a legendary local landmark: Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen.

For nearly 50 years, this cozy eatery has been serving up conch chowder, Hogfish sandwiches, and the most talked-about Key lime pie in the Keys. Award-winning host and author of CHUG & CHOW Todd Newton speaks with Stephanie Figueroa, the heart and soul of Mrs. Mac’s, to share the stories, flavors, and history that make this diner a must-stop for locals and travelers alike.

Along the way, The Tattooed Traveler will uncover surprising facts about Key Largo’s history, from rum-running days to rare wildlife you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a food lover, road tripper, or Florida Keys daydreamer, this episode will leave you hungry for more.

Perfect for fans of: food travel podcasts, Florida Keys road trips, small town diners, and unique U.S. eateries.

Be sure to order your copy of the CHUG & CHOW book and see videos of more tasty destinations at chugandchow.com.