10 Shows Like Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (2007)

Description: While more educational, Good Eats shares with Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives a passion for making food approachable and fun. Both shows break down culinary concepts in entertaining ways that appeal to home cooks.

Fact: Host Alton Brown originally wanted to make a cooking show for people who don't like cooking shows. The show uses humor, science, and pop culture references. It was revived in 2018 after a 5-year hiatus.

Description: While more competition-focused, Top Chef shares with Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives a celebration of culinary skill and innovation. Both highlight how food brings people together and reflects personal stories.

Fact: Has spawned international versions in over 15 countries. Contestants often go on to open successful restaurants. The show has won multiple James Beard Awards.

Description: Like Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Chopped highlights the skill and quick thinking of chefs, though in a competition setting. Both shows celebrate the transformative power of cooking and the stories behind food professionals.

Fact: Contestants must use mystery basket ingredients. Ted Allen has hosted since the beginning. The show has raised over $1 million for charity through special episodes.

Description: Like Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, this show delves into the passion behind food creation, though with more focus on high-end chefs. Both celebrate culinary creativity and the dedication of food professionals.

Fact: Narrated by Anthony Bourdain in early seasons. Each season follows a different chef's creative process. The show blends cooking, travel, and science segments.

Description: While more global in scope, Bourdain's show shares with Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives a focus on authentic, local food experiences and the stories behind them. Both celebrate food as a window into culture and community.

Fact: Bourdain won multiple Emmy Awards for the series. The show visited over 100 countries. It was one of CNN's highest-rated programs during its run.

Description: Hosted by Guy Fieri (also of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives), this show shares his energetic personality and love for food challenges. Both programs celebrate the fun and creativity of cooking in unconventional settings.

Fact: Filmed in a real functioning supermarket. Contestants must cook while shoppers browse the aisles. The show has featured celebrity judges including other Food Network stars.

Description: This show shares with Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives an energetic celebration of food culture, though in a more theatrical, competitive format. Both showcase culinary creativity and the drama of cooking under pressure.

Fact: Based on the Japanese original Iron Chef. Alton Brown was the commentator for many seasons. The Chairman character was played by martial artist Mark Dacascos.

Description: Similar to Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Man v. Food explores local eateries and comfort food across America, focusing on the culture and passion behind regional dishes. Both shows celebrate the joy of eating and the people who create these culinary delights.

Fact: Host Adam Richman often took on food challenges, eating massive portions. The show was inspired by Richman's own travels and love for American comfort food. It originally aired on the Travel Channel.

Description: This show shares the road-trip vibe of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, as food truck teams travel to different cities, showcasing local flavors and competing in culinary challenges. Both highlight grassroots food culture and the creativity of small-scale food entrepreneurs.

Fact: Hosted by Tyler Florence in later seasons. The show has featured everything from gourmet tacos to vegan cuisine. Winning teams receive a cash prize to expand their food truck business.

Description: This show shares with Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives a focus on American eateries and the people behind them, though with more emphasis on business turnaround. Both highlight the challenges and rewards of restaurant ownership.

Fact: Host Robert Irvine typically has just $10,000 and 2 days to transform failing restaurants. The show has helped over 150 restaurants. Some featured restaurants have gone on to great success after appearing on the show.