CHUG and CHOW: America's Tucked-Away Eateries and Watering Holes

Arizona's Last Frontier Saloon: 110 Years of Wild West Fun at Crown King Saloon

Join award-winning host and author Todd Newton as he navigates rugged mountain switchbacks to reach Arizona's oldest continuously operating saloon. Deep in the Bradshaw Mountains at 6,000 feet elevation, the Crown King Saloon has been serving miners, locals, and adventurous travelers since the 1890s – making it a 110-year survivor of boom-and-bust mining cycles. In this episode, Todd speaks with owner Lorrie Wyatt to uncover the incredible story of how entrepreneur Tom Anderson literally moved this two-story wooden establishment piece by piece from the ghost town of Oro Belle to Crown King in 1916. Discover how this former brothel and mining camp watering hole became the beating heart of a community that once boasted multiple saloons, Chinese restaurants, and a post office serving the lucrative Crowned King Mine. From the legendary "Burro" John Revello who ran the original establishment in the 1890s to the mysterious ghost named Leatherbelly who allegedly haunts room number 7, this episode explores how authentic Western hospitality survived Arizona's dangerous Apache territory days and Prohibition era. Learn why this mountain retreat attracts Phoenix locals fleeing 115-degree desert heat for craft beer, hearty burgers, and genuine frontier atmosphere you simply can't manufacture. What You'll Discover: * The wild story of "Murphy's Impossible Railroad" that served the area from 1904-1926 * Why this 133-person mountain community represents the last of America's authentic mining town culture * Insider tips for navigating the challenging dirt road access (high-clearance vehicles recommended!) * The role saloons played in Arizona's 1800s frontier mining boom Crown King Saloon, 7219 Main St, Crown King, AZ 86343 Subscribe to Chug & Chow for more authentic American eateries that locals rave about, and grab The Tattooed Traveler's book on Amazon for your complete guide to off-the-radar culinary adventures.

Wild West Brothel to Burger Joint: Sip n Spin in Historic Hays, Kansas

Award-winning host and author Todd Newton travels to Hays, Kansas—once home to Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill Cody, and Calamity Jane—to discover Sip n Spin, a restaurant with an incredible backstory. Owner and chef Eric Shuette shares how this historic building evolved from frontier-era rumors to laundromat to beloved local eatery, all while serving up legendary burgers and world-famous wings. Explore the fascinating dual history of Hays, from its violent Wild West days when saloons and brothels lined the streets, to its transformation by Volga German immigrants who built the beautiful limestone churches that still stand today. Discover historical artifacts uncovered in the building, learn the stories behind Eric's signature menu items, and find out why this authentic Kansas town attracts food lovers and history buffs alike. Whether you're planning a Kansas road trip, love American frontier history, or just want to hear about incredible small-town restaurants where the owner cooks your meal himself, this episode delivers unforgettable stories and mouth-watering descriptions that'll have you craving both the food and the experience. Visit chugandchow.com for more information and to order your copy of Todd's book.

Michigan Sweetness: Inside Van’s Pastry Shoppe, a Century of Flavor in Grand Rapids

In this episode, award-winning host and author Todd Newton rolls into Grand Rapids, Michigan, to visit a bakery that’s been serving up scratch-made pastries and hometown warmth since 1924—Van’s Pastry Shoppe. From Dutch krakelingen to fresh-pulled cinnamon twists, Van’s isn’t just a place to grab a coffee and donut—it’s a community cornerstone where generations have gathered, laughed, and lingered. The Tattooed Traveler explores the rich history of Grand Rapids—from its furniture-making roots to its current status as a Midwest cultural hub—before sitting down with Dawn, a longtime Van’s employee whose familiar face has become part of the daily ritual for locals. Discover what makes Van’s an enduring favorite, how its team keeps old-world traditions alive, and why some flavors never go out of style. Plus, don't miss out on how every purchase of the Chug and Chow book helps provide meals to food-insecure families across the U.S. Subscribe, share, and chow down with us—because this is one story you can practically smell through your speakers.

Pez Dispensers, Boozy Milkshakes & Pinball Machines: Hollywood Candy in Omaha, NE

Step into a wonderland where 2,000+ candy varieties meet vintage vinyl records, classic pinball machines, and authentic Hollywood memorabilia! Award-winning host and author of CHUG & CHOW Todd Newton speaks one-on-one with the King of Candy Aaron Wojtkiewicz, owner of Hollywood Candy in Omaha's historic Old Market district. Discover rare international sweets, nostalgic childhood favorites, and impossible-to-find retro candies alongside a fascinating collection of vintage arcade games and movie memorabilia. Aaron shares incredible stories about celebrity visitors, the evolution of this unique Nebraska destination, and how a simple candy store transformed into an unforgettable multi-sensory experience that combines the best of American nostalgia under one roof. From penny candies to gourmet chocolates, from 1960s pinball to modern vinyl hunting, this episode showcases why Hollywood Candy represents the ultimate roadtrip discovery – a place where every corner reveals something unexpected and delightful. Listeners can order a copy of the CHUG & CHOW book and see videos of some of these tasty destinations at chugandchow.com.

Coney Island Hot Dogs: Johnstown’s Signature Bite of History and Heart

Sink your teeth into a slice of Americana in this mouthwatering episode of CHUG & CHOW! Join award-winning host and bon vivant Todd Newton as he travels to Johnstown, Pennsylvania—a resilient city brimming with tradition—to experience Coney Island Hot Dogs, a legendary eatery known for its zesty chili dogs, nostalgic charm, and family roots. Discover the fascinating journey of the Coney dog, from its Brooklyn origins to becoming a beloved staple shaped by Greek immigrant flavor and Pennsylvania spirit. Step inside the buzzing counter on Clinton Street, savor classic recipes passed down for generations, and hear stories from owner Taylor Clark about his family keeps this cherished institution alive. Perfect for foodies, travelers, and anyone who craves the taste of local legend, this episode dishes up plenty of flavor, fun, and history in every bite. Don’t forget to subscribe and review CHUG & CHOW to never miss a delicious adventure—and remember, every purchase of the CHUG & CHOW book helps provide meals to families in need. Get ready to chow down on Johnstown’s favorite hot dog and join the journey across America’s tastiest towns. Visit chugandchow.com for more information.