Heber Valley’s culinary scene takes center stage in The Road Less Eaten

HEBER VALLEY, Utah—Outside TV’s The Road Less Eaten, hosted by Chef Biju Thomas, will soon showcase Heber Valley in the coming weeks.

The episode, part of the series’ second season, celebrates Heber Valley’s rich agricultural roots, artisanal craftsmanship, and diverse cuisine. Viewers watch as Thomas explores an eclectic mix of food establishments, connecting with the people who bring these creations to life.

Hawk & Sparrow: Where Bread Meets Passion

In the episode, Chef Biju begins his journey at Hawk & Sparrow, where baker Andrew Berthrong crafts sourdough loaves from a garage-turned-bakery. “Shaping is my favorite part,” Berthron said. “It’s like reaching a flow state where your body takes over, and you create something beautiful and functional.” His bread, a cornerstone for local eateries like Lola’s Street Kitchen, embodies Heber Valley’s emphasis on collaboration.

“Andrew’s bread is incredible,” Thomas said. “It’s the kind of bread you can’t stop eating because every bite reminds you of the care that went into making it.”

Lola’s Street Kitchen: Elevated Street Food

At Lola’s Street Kitchen, we see how Chef David Medina has transformed his former food truck into a beloved local fixture. Dishes like fried chicken sandwiches on house-baked potato rolls and lamb gyros on handmade pita highlight a dedication to quality, “We’ve kept that food-truck vibe but elevated it with fresh, local ingredients,” Medina said.

“Lola’s is a perfect example of taking everyday food and making it magical,” Thomas remarked. “David’s food is approachable but full of surprises.”

Heber Valley Artisan Cheese: A Legacy in Every Bite

A visit to Heber Valley Artisan Cheese introduces viewers to Russel Kohler, a fourth-generation dairy farmer. From grazing their own cows to handcrafting award-winning cheeses, Kohler’s family embodies the farm-to-table ethos. “It’s all about improving every day, one step at a time,” Kohler said.

The visit to Heber Valley Artisan Cheese was a highlight for Thomas, who grew up on a small farm in India. “Walking into the dairy felt like coming home,” Thomas shared. “You can taste the heritage in their cheese. It’s the culmination of generations of care.”

Midway Mercantile: Mountain Charm Meets Culinary Elegance

Next Thomas visits Chef John Platt’s Midway Mercantile, where he blends mountain-town hospitality with refined dining. Signature dishes like panko-crusted halibut and the Sandra Salad, featuring locally sourced grilled cheese, highlight the valley’s offerings. “Every ingredient on these plates feels like it traveled just a block to get here,” Thomas said. “It’s amazing to see a community come together to create something so special.”

Ritual Chocolate: From Bean to Bar

And finally, Thomas lands at Ritual Chocolate with Anna Davies to showcase the meticulous process of turning ethically sourced cacao into handcrafted chocolate. “Chocolate, like wine, tells a story of its origins, and we’re honored to share that with the world,” Davies said.

Thomas was captivated by their craft. “Chocolate is universal, but seeing how Ritual brings out the unique flavors of each cacao origin is eye-opening,” he said. “This is more than dessert—it’s an experience.”

A Vibrant Community of Culinary Excellence

Beyond the food, The Road Less Eaten celebrated Heber Valley’s community spirit. “This place draws you in, not just for its incredible food but for the warmth of its people,” Thomas said. “What makes Heber Valley so special is the connection between its people, its land, and its food. This is a place where traditions are honored, but innovation thrives.”

For Thomas, the Heber Valley episode captures the essence of The Road Less Eaten: discovering the extraordinary in unexpected places. “Heber Valley reminds us that the best meals aren’t just about the food—they’re about the journey.”

Through the lens of The Road Less Eaten, Heber Valley emerges as a must-visit destination where tradition and innovation intersect, offering visitors a memorable taste of Utah’s culinary renaissance.

TownLift readers can view the episode on Outside TV and YouTube in the coming weeks.