NBA All-Star Weekend wasn’t the only thing happening in Indy in February. Guy Fieri, host of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” and his crew slipped into town to initiate a few Indy restaurants into the Triple D Life. The first episode, featuring Argentinian street food restaurant Che Chori, will air at 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2, on the Food Network.
Situated on a busy stretch of West 16th Street, Che Chori and its fire engine-red exterior is hard to miss. The color is evocative of the restaurant’s loud personality. The place is an Argentinian meat lover’s delight rife with handheld delicacies, such as sausage sandwiches called choripan, empanadas emblazoned with their signature flavors on top, and burgers seasoned to perfection.
We talked to Che Chori founder and owner, Marcos C. Perera, to find out what it was like when Fieri — and the cameras — rolled into his restaurant.
What was your first reaction when you were contacted by the show?
I was absolutely thrilled and excited. It felt like an incredible opportunity and a moment of validation for all the hard work we’ve put into Che Chori.
[A West Indy pizzeria has thrived for 40 years. It must be the sauce.]
What was your first impression of Guy Fieri?
Guy is exactly like you see him on his show — funny, friendly and outgoing. He cares about helping small businesses. We were impressed by how quickly he distinguishes, understands and describes flavor combinations.
What dishes did you make for the show?
Sadly, we can’t reveal this before the episode airs. Tune in on Friday!
[New westside restaurant brings a fresh twist on European cuisine]
What was your favorite behind-the-scenes moment?
While we can’t share all the secrets, one memorable moment was how gracious Guy was with our kids. It was heartwarming to see his kindness off-camera.
If you had one do-over, what would you do differently while the cameras were on?
Honestly, no regrets. Every moment was a learning experience and part of our journey.
What’s one cool thing about your restaurant that people might not catch while watching the show?
In addition to being a drive-thru and carryout restaurant, we offer catering, wholesale and direct shipping of our frozen cook-at-home empanadas and sausages.
Find Che Chori’s porchetta sandwich recipe for the Food Network here.
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