**David Chang Unveils New CNN Series Exploring America’s Hidden Food Gems**
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David Chang, the renowned chef and founder of the Momofuku restaurant group, is set to embark on a fresh culinary adventure with his new CNN Original series, “The Detour with David Chang,” which is scheduled to premiere on September 20. This six-episode journey aims to uncover the less-explored restaurants scattered across the United States, relying on the recommendations of friends and locals rather than the oft-repeated viral trends that dominate social media.
The initial trailer for the show offers a glimpse into Chang’s mission to steer away from food fads. It opens with a montage of clips highlighting the significant influence of the Internet on food culture, including a cheeky nod to a viral Dubai chocolate bar. The trailer highlights the perils of letting algorithms dictate dining choices, prompting viewers with the message: “In a time where algorithms tell you where to eat, take a Detour with Chef David Chang.”
Throughout “The Detour,” Chang will hit the road alongside a variety of celebrity guests, including comedian Eric André, Milk Bar founder Christina Tosi, and actress Gillian Jacobs, to explore hidden culinary treasures in different regions of the country. Each episode promises an insightful peek into local food scenes—an experience steeped in spontaneity and genuine discovery devoid of the scripted nature of many contemporary food shows.
With an entertaining dynamic, the series showcases the playful banter between Chang and his companions, exemplified in scenes featuring Tosi’s humorous commentary on their sugar-filled adventures. In one particularly light-hearted exchange, she quips, “No one else would eat this much sugar with me in the middle of the day,” to which Chang responds with a chuckle, “That’s sort of a backhanded compliment, but I’ll take it.” Such interactions promise to add a layer of warmth and camaraderie to the usual culinary explorations.
Chang articulates a broader ethos behind the series, emphasising the importance of stepping away from digital screens and experiencing the world directly. “For me, this show is about getting out and experiencing the world for yourself rather than letting other people tell you what’s good,” he stated in a recent press release. He acknowledged that he has often been just as guilty of succumbing to digital distractions as anyone else, expressing a longing for the old-fashioned thrill of discovering a new eatery without the prior influence of reviews or social media buzz.
The series further challenges the notion of culinary perfection by embracing the idea that sometimes you may not end up in the “best” places. As Chang remarks in the trailer, “Sometimes you’re gonna go, and you’re gonna strike out, but that pain and the getting there is an experience that sort of moves you, that’s what you’re after.” This unfiltered approach not only sets the tone for the series, but it also resonates with viewers who crave authenticity in a landscape swamped with curated content.
Amid Chang’s explorations, guests provide unique insights into the quest for culinary gems. One guest highlights the importance of asking the right questions and engaging with locals, saying, “If you ask the right questions, and you ask the right people, you’re gonna end up in places you’ve never dreamed of.” This underpinning philosophy champions the spirit of adventure and the joys of unexpected culinary delights.
As viewers anticipate the premiere of “The Detour,” they can expect a celebration of culture, camaraderie, and adventurous eating. Chang’s series illustrates a powerful reminder of the simple joys of discovery in a fast-paced world often dictated by trends and technology.
The show will air its episodes weekly, with two new instalments released every Sunday at 9 p.m. ET on CNN. The episodes will also be available for streaming on the CNN app and website the following day, allowing viewers the chance to join Chang on his culinary escapades across America. As Chang himself puts it, the spirit of “The Detour” is rooted in experiencing life and food with an open heart and mind—an invitation to embrace spontaneity in every bite.