ANOTHER TASTY TLC ENTREE
Cabler picks up 'Best Food Ever'

Michael Schneider, Variety
April 2010

TLC continues its expansion into the food space, picking up the series "Best Food Ever."

Narrated by "Treme" star John Goodman, the six-episode series will air Mondays at 10 p.m. starting May 3.

"Best Food Ever" travels across the country, uncovering popular dishes and restaurants.

Debut episode focuses on the nation's best sandwiches, visiting eateries such as the Mighty Cone in Austin; Johnny O's in Chicago; Payne's BBQ in Memphis; and Ma Peche in New York.

Pickup comes as TLC, coming off the success of "Cake Boss," "BBQ Pitmasters" and "Ultimate Cake Off," preps several more food-related series. New shows on tap include "Food Buddha," "Cupcake Sisters" and "Mega Bites."

"Our three tentpole genres now are food, families and weddings," said TLC topper Eileen O'Neill. "As a genre, food is relatable. And it's having its boom time, much like the property space did a couple of years ago."

TLC's food expansion comes as other networks also get into the genre, and Scripps launches its new Cooking Channel on May 31.

"Best Food Ever" comes from Hoff Productions. Michael Hoff and Ashley Adams exec produce.

www.variety.com/article >>