Guy Fieri goes the extra mile for great food, even when the cameras are off. Whether he’s running around Boston for work or popping by his Connecticut restaurant, his heart always leads him to Providence, Rhode Island. There, he loves indulging in hot dogs smothered with a special meat sauce, onions, and celery salt at the Olneyville NY System.
“My mouth waters just thinking about it,” Guy shared with Travel + Leisure at a recent event. He added, “If I’m close, we’ll make a detour to grab a dozen.”
Guy is not shy about traveling distances for the best bites, often making a joke about how it’s always worth an hour’s drive for a good meal. At 57, he has turned his passion for food and travel into a new sparkling water brand with Waterloo, featuring flavors inspired by his favorite destinations.
A significant part of Guy’s life has been spent in Colima, Mexico, where his parents provided free dental care to orphans. This experience sparked his love for the area, its vibrant culture, and, of course, the delicious food. He fondly remembers how his son Hunter introduced him to a mix of fruits enhanced by a sprinkle of Tajin, a seasoning that elevated the flavors dramatically. “That little bit brings it to the next level,” Guy said.
Inspired by this memory, he created the Spiced Mango Sorbet flavor for his sparkling water line. Other flavors include Lemon Italian Ice, capturing the essence of carefree days at the beach, and Huckleberry Cobbler, which reflects his nostalgia for family visits in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Guy’s favorite remains the Spiced Mango Sorbet, a nod to treasured moments with family. As Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives continues its 51st season, he remains on the hunt for culinary gems across the U.S. When he’s home in Santa Rosa, he often enjoys a meal from Tomi Thai, a family-run spot that resonates with him.
Despite exploring global cuisines, Guy still wants to uncover the hidden flavors of Turkey. He has trusted chef friends around the world who guide him in his culinary adventures. If he travels to Thailand, Jet Tila will show him the best spots; for Italy, Antonio La Fauci is his go-to.
Good food is a universal language for Guy Fieri, leaving lasting memories no matter where he roams. If you’ve ever spotted him on a mural at your favorite local eatery, he’ll likely shout out, “Oh, I love that place!” because every meal adds a new chapter to his flavorful journey.
For more insights on the transformative powers of food, check out the Food Network.