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.

Journey to Zanesville, Ohio, where Tom's Ice Cream Bowl has been serving hand-churned perfection since 1948. In this mouthwatering episode of CHUG & CHOW, we sit down with owner Joe Baker—great-grandson of ice cream pioneer F.E. Hemmer, who started Zanesville's frozen dessert dynasty in 1887.

Discover how this family's DNA literally contains the secret to exceptional ice cream, why Joe still makes every batch by hand after 50 years, and what makes their 14% butterfat mix the gold standard of creamy perfection. From the original Hemmer Ice Cream Company's horse-drawn wagons to Tom's iconic Formica tables, this is American ice cream history served one scoop at a time.

Todd Newton, author of CHUG & CHOW, explores Zanesville's surprising role as Ohio's ice cream capital, dives deep into the science of perfect texture and flavor, and learns why locals have been lining up at this Maple Avenue institution for 75+ years. Plus, Joe shares family secrets passed down through four generations and reveals why some recipes should never change.

Perfect for road trippers, ice cream enthusiasts, food history buffs, and anyone who believes the best America has to offer is found on Main Street, not the interstate.

Order your copy of Todd's CHUG & CHOW book today at chugandchow.com. Each purchase provides ten meals to families in need.

On this delicious episode of CHUG & CHOW, award-winning host and author Todd Newton takes you to the historic town of Kimmswick, Missouri, home of the legendary Levee High Apple Pie at The Blue Owl Restaurant & Bakery. Meet owner Kim Byerly, the heart and soul behind this towering dessert sensation that’s been featured on Food Network and The Travel Channel.

Learn how a small-town bakery became a national treasure, what goes into baking a pie that stands nearly a foot tall, and why The Blue Owl is a must-stop on your next Midwest road trip.

Subscribe now and don’t forget—every copy of the CHUG & CHOW book sold provides 10 meals through Feeding America. Great eats, better stories, and a good cause? That’s what we’re all about.

Get ready to discover Portland, Maine's most divine delight! In this episode of CHUG & CHOW, we dive deep into the sweet, savory world of The Holy Donut. Join award-winning host and author Todd Newton as he uncovers the inspiring story of single mom Leigh Kellis and how her unique potato donut recipe blossomed into a beloved family business.

Learn what makes potato donuts so incredibly light and delicious, the family dynamic behind their success, and explore some of their most popular and unique flavors.

You'll hear directly from Jeff Buckwalter about the journey, the growth, and why this off-the-beaten-path eatery has become a must-visit in Portland.

Visit The Holy Donut: theholydonut.com

Order the Chug & Chow book: chugandchow.com (Every book sold provides 10 meals to families experiencing food insecurity!)