Highway on my plates

Highway on my Plate is an Indian television show that combines the love of travel with the passion for exploring regional cuisines, aired on GOODTiMES, formerly known as NDTV Good Times. The show is a culinary adventure that takes viewers on a mouth-watering journey through India's vast landscapes and introduces them to a variety of local dishes, eateries, and the cultural significance of the food in each region.

Hosted by food enthusiasts Rocky Singh and Mayur Sharma, the show reaches into the heart of India's gastronomic heritage. Each episode of Highway on my Plate sees the affable duo hit the road, traveling to different parts of the country in pursuit of hidden culinary gems, from bustling city streets to picturesque countryside. The show’s charm is significantly enhanced by the chemistry and banter between Rocky and Mayur, who, through their distinct personalities and humor, engage with the audience and the people they meet along the way.

With India's rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, the show taps into a broad spectrum of flavors and food practices. The hosts sample an array of food items, from street food staples to heritage dishes served in age-old establishments and modern fusion delicacies in chic cafes. As they traverse highways and byways, they also unravel stories behind the food by interacting with local chefs, proprietors, and patrons of the places they visit. These interactions reveal not just the ingredients and methods involved in creating these culinary delights, but also anecdotes and folklore associated with them.

Highway on my Plate doesn't restrict itself to upper-crust restaurants or popular food chains; it delves deep into the local culture, often uncovering family-run dhabas (roadside eateries), unassuming food stalls, and seasonal specialties that are integral to the local community's way of life. Viewers get insights into unique cooking techniques passed down through generations and the seasonal and regional variations that influence the cuisine.

The show has a very down-to-earth and accessible feel to it. The hosts focus on the authenticity and taste of the food rather than its presentation or the ambiance of the establishment, thus resonating with an audience that values genuine culinary experiences. Sometimes humorous and always informative, Rocky and Mayur often indulge in light-hearted competitions to see who can handle the spiciest street snack or who can eat the most of a particular local delicacy, adding a layer of entertainment to the educational experience of the show.

Through its run, Highway on my Plate has not only popularized certain lesser-known dishes but has also contributed to the recognition and appreciation of the people who make them. The show has inspired many viewers to embark on their own food trails, using the episodes as a guide to explore India's diverse culinary culture. The show often ends its segments with the hosts providing a "Highway on my Plate" verdict, which encapsulates their experience at each location in a concise and relatable manner.

Alongside the food, the show does a commendable job of highlighting the scenic beauty and architectural grandeur of the places visited. The cameras capture the essence of each locale, showcasing the natural and manmade landmarks that make each destination unique. The travelogue aspect of Highway on my Plate thus complements the food journey, giving viewers a holistic sense of the region's culture.

One of the key strengths of Highway on my Plate is how it translates the sensory experiences of taste and aroma through the screen, making viewers almost feel as if they can smell and taste the delicacies themselves. It accomplishes this through crisp, inviting visuals of food being cooked and served, coupled with descriptive narratives that paint a vivid picture of the taste, texture, and history of each dish.

Over its lifespan, Highway on my Plate has built a loyal fan base and has gained critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Indian food culture. It has opened a window to a world where highways are not just roads connecting places, but also a route to discovering the heart and soul of India through its food. The show emboldens travelers and food enthusiasts to go beyond their comfort zone and to embrace the diverse and rich culinary landscape that India has to offer.

In essence, Highway on my Plate stands as a testament to the country's adoration of food and acts as an ambassador for the unsung heroes of India's culinary world, from the street-side vendors to the home cooks, all of whom contribute to the extraordinary tapestry of Indian cuisine. It's an adventurous, comforting, and rewarding watch for anyone interested in gastronomy, travel, and the cultural stories that food can tell.