Quest for the Best Podcast

Jaksot

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  Episode 224: Pub Burgers 11.09.2026 18min

  Pub burgers are all the rage lately. So let’s try out some fast food pub burgers!Which burgers are we trying today?* Culver’s Fried Pickle Pub Burger* Wendy’s Pretzel Bacon Pub BurgerWho is on this pub burger Quest?* Kris, much happy* Matt, a 10/10* Amy, no cheese pleaseAnd of course, our subscribers! Thanks to our small, yet coveted group. We appreciate the support. You too can join us on this food journey. All you need to do is… SUBSCRIBE!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!The History of Culver’sAs you may have guessed by the many references to the state on their menu… but Culver’s began in Sauk City, Wisconsin. It is a family restaurant through and through, being opened by Craig and Lea Culver and Craig’s parents George and Ruth in 1984. Though Culver’s was not their first go at the restaurant game. George and Ruth owned an A&W drive-in, located in Sauk Prairie, in 1961, and after getting their feet wet, so to speak, sold the A&W and purchased a business called Farm Kitchen Resort located in Baraboo, which they operated for another 6 years. Then, you may think they started Culver’s next. You’d be wrong! They bought back the original A&W, stayed for 6 years, and sold it again. What next? Back to Baraboo to a little supper club called the Ritz. Shortly after… careful now, you are going to get whiplash… it was back to Baraboo and back to that original A&W. But as they say, third time’s the charm. They disenfranchised and that A&W was to become Culver’s Frozen Custard and Butter Burgers.The first year was a struggle. People did not know what butter burgers were. They didn’t know what custard was. Not to mention that the restaurant was located right across from a Hardee’s, the fastest-growing burger chain at the time. But by 1987, the restaurant caught on and a second restaurant would open in Reedsburg and a third in Wisconsin Dells. In 1990 a Culver’s franchise opened in Baraboo and the business boomed.And a direct quote from Craig Culver… “Something my dad told me a long time ago: It’s not important how many restaurants we have. What’s important is how many good restaurants we have, and the only way you get good restaurants or good business or good organization, it’s leadership surrounding themselves with people who care.” And that is what they do. The company has purposely taken a slower approach to their expansion. For many years, Craig Culver personally trained all the new franchisees, scouted locations that had at least 10,000 cars to pass by daily, and to this day personally inspects each location. This approach has made the franchise one of the most successful to own. In 2009, the national franchise failure rate was approximately 17 percent across the restaurant board. Culver’s franchise failure rate was only 1.7 percent.Another thing that keeps them successful? Their delicious menu items, with ingredients sourced locally. The cheese for the curds and burgers comes from La Grander Hillside Dairy in Stanley, Wisconsin. Their root beer? They make it themselves. They always use fresh beef. The dairy for the custard is sourced from over 100 family farms in Wisconsin. They don’t cut corners and it shows.Today there are 867 locations in 26 states.History of Wendy’sToday we head back to November 15, 1969 where Dave Thomas opened his very first Wendy’s restaurant in Columbus, Ohio. Why open a fast food burger restaurant? Well, the man was obsessed with burgers. In fact, it is said he would visit any and every hamburger stand he could find. So when a friend mentioned that it was hard to get a good lunch in downtown Columbus, Dave saw it as his chance. He opened the restaurant, using his daughter’s nickname Wendy. He felt that the logo of a smiling, wholesome girl with the name “Wendy’s Old-Fashioned Hamburgers” would be the first place you went for a hamburger the way you used to get them, with fresh beef.The original menu included hot ‘n juicy hamburgers, rich ‘n meaty chili, French fries, soft drinks and a Frosty Dairy Dessert. And to top it off, this place did not cut corners on quality, or on their hamburger patties, which is how and why it became known for serving square burgers.In 1970 Wendy’s was another restaurant to claim that they introduced the Drive-Through window, a term Dave Thomas coined the “Pick-Up Window” so he could attract cruisers and joyriders to the restaurants. And by March 1978, the franchise was booming, with 1,000 restaurants and counting.Some other notable dates include…* The first Canadian restaurant opened in Ontario in September of 1975.* In November 1979, Wendy’s introduced the Salad Bar, which was very popular in the 70’s and 80’s, but wouldn’t last forever, phasing out in 2006.* In 1980, store number 2,000 opened up.* In 1983 Baked Potatoes were added to the menu* 1984, “Where’s the Beef?” (copyright) commercial aired, leading to a 31% boost in annual revenue.* In February 1985, the 3,000th restaurant opened.* In December 1992, the 4,000th restaurant opened.* In December of 1995, Wendy’s Acquired Canadian chain Tim Hortons.* In March of 1997, The 5,000th restaurant opened in Columbus, Ohio as a Wendy’s/Tim Hortons combo.* In October of 2001, the 6,000th restaurant opened in Tijuana, Mexico. It was a two-story restaurant that could hold 224 customers.* In August of 2006, Wendy’s added the Vanilla Frosty.* The following year they would add the Baconator.* In September of 2008, Wendy’s and Arby’s merged but a short three years later, they decided to go their separate ways in 2011.Today there are over 7,000 Wendy’s world wide.The States with the most Wendy’s are…* Florida - 536* Texas - 454* Ohio - 405* And in the state of Iowa we have 40.The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Culver’s Fried Pickle Pub Burger* Amy - “It could use more sauce.”* Kris - “I like that Culver’s burger flavor.”* Matt - “It does get a little bready.”Wendy’s Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger* Amy - “The bun isn’t giving pretzel.”* Kris - “The crispy onions are a nice touch.”* Matt - “The honey mustard is doing the heavy lifting.”There you have it. Culver’s Fried Pickle Pub Burger gets the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Thank you all for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried these burgers? Which one was your favorite? We would love to hear your rating as well.Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.And of course, remember to subscribe to hear the latest episodes. Additionally, donate! We could use your support!Show Notes:https://www.culvers.com/https://www.mashed.com/121017/untold-truth-culvers/https://www.wpr.org/whats-scoop-origin-culvers-franchisehttps://www.scrapehero.com/location-reports/Culver’s-USA/https://www.wendys.com/wendys-storyhttps://www.wendys.com/who-we-are-daves-legacy-founding-wendyshttps://www.statista.com/statistics/221967/number-of-wendy-s-restaurants/#:~:text=Number%20of%20Wendy’s%20restaurants%20worldwide%202011%2D2022%2C%20by%20mode%20of%20operation&text=Quick%20service%20restaurant%20(QSR)%20chain,7%2C095%20restaurants%20worldwide%20in%202022.https://www.zippia.com/advice/wendys-statistics/#:~:text=In%20North%20America%2C%20it%20is,Wendy’s%20in%20the%20United%20States. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 223: Summer Carnival Oreos 04.09.2026 28min

  Things are about to get weird here.Would you ever crave a dill flavored cookie? Because we are headed down that road… Oreo has released a special edition Summer Carnival Oreo tin. Help us sustain our podcast with a donation. Please and thanks!Who are our Questers today?* Kris, a goat?!?* Matt, bio engineered.* Amy, struggling hard.A History of OreosSo the first Oreo cookie was produced in 1912 at the Chelsea Market in Manhattan. As everyone knows, an Oreo is basically a sandwich cookie made from two chocolate cookies sandwiching a disc of vanilla frosting. Oreos are actually sort of a knock off. Hydrox cookies were already on the market. These kosher cookies were introduced in 1908 as two chocolate shortbread cookies with a vanilla fondant center. These cookies had a scalloped edge and a design on the top of the cookie. Oreos and Hydrox are supposed to be very similar and Hydrox cookies are still sold today.So the original Oreo was introduced in 1912. It wouldn’t be until 1974 that the Double Stuf was introduced. In 1992 the Oreo Minis came to stores. In 2013 minds were blown by the Oreo Mega Stuf. And if Mega Stuf was not enough, the Most Stuf was introduced in 2019 which has 4x the amount of frosting as the original.The 2010s is when Oreo started releasing limited edition runs on their flavors, which is why we have the pleasure of trying out these Neapolitan cookies today.Oreo is the best-selling cookie of the 20th century. Approximately 34 billion Oreo cookies are sold each year, 92 million cookies per day - with 10 billion of those cookies sold in the US annually. An estimated 500 billion Oreo cookies have been sold since the Oreo biscuit was introduced.The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Lemonade* Amy: “That’s delicious.” 6/10* Kris: “I like that this isn’t super tart.” 6/10* Matt: “It’s good.” 7/10TOTAL: 19/30Hot Honey* Amy: “That isn’t too bad, but I don’t want my cookies to be spicy.” 4/10* Kris: “That’s a gradual heat.” 5/10* Matt: “There are some good flavors and some not so good flavors.” 6/10TOTAL: 15/30Dill Pickle* Amy: “This is so odd.” 3/10* Kris: “That is gross… No thank you.” 2/10* Matt: “It’s like a Dill Pickle scratch and sniff sticker.” 4/10TOTAL: 9/30Chocolate Milkshake and Fries* Amy: “I think I prefer the dill pickle.” 2/10* Kris: “That initial taste is real bad.” 2/10* Matt: “It starts out as fry and then chemical.” 4/10TOTAL: 8/30Cotton Candy* Amy: “It just tastes sweet.” 4/10* Kris: “The back of my throat has a texture with this one.” 5/10* Matt: “This one’s okay!” 5/10TOTAL: 14/30Strawberry Shortcake* Amy: “I want the strawberry to be more punchy.” 5/10* Kris: “That’s pleasant!” 7/10* Matt: “Eh.” 6/10TOTAL: 18/30There you have it. We give the Lemonade Flavor of Summer Carnival Oreo Sandwich Cookies the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Maybe you want to give it a try? Check out their website for more information on where to find some.https://www.oreo.com/Thank you for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried these Oreos? What were your thoughts?Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.Help us sustain our podcast by donating! We appreciate the support!Show Notes:https://www.rd.com/article/dunking-cookies-in-milk/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 222: Chips Smorgasbord 28.08.2026 27min

  You will NOT believe what we are trying today! Something that we have never done before. Something so unique and unusual… Okay. I’m lying. We are trying a smorgasbord of chips again. Chip companies are always coming out with something new and we are here to give you the low down.Which chips are we trying today?* Pringles Beer Braised Steak* Doritos Ultimate Garlic Parmesan* Fritos Spicy Dill Pickle* Sterzings Plain* Sterzings Sweet and Spicy BBQWho is on this chip smorgasbord Quest?* Kris, * Matt, call me Matthew.* Amy, in human.And of course, our subscribers! Thanks to our small, yet coveted group. We appreciate the support. You too can join us on this food journey. All you need to do is… SUBSCRIBE!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Sterzing’s Potato Chips* Amy - “There is a very nice crunch to these chips” - 3* Kris - “Not really my thing.” - 4* Matt - “They have a nice crunch to them.” - 5Sterzing’s Sweet and Spicy BBQ* Amy - “That’s not my jam.” - 3* Kris - “That BBQ is not too bad.” - 5* Matt - “I actually kinda like them.” - 6Doritos Ultimate Garlic Parm * Amy - “It is so garlicy it almost burns your mouth. ” - 4* Kris - “It could go on a ham sandwich.” - 7* Matt - “It’s like a shot of garlic butter.” - 7Pringles Beer Braised Steak* Amy - “It tastes like if you licked the bottom of a boot.” - 3* Kris - “This tastes like Temu Ramen.” - 3 * Matt - “It’s got some onion going on in that beef.” - 5Fritos Spicy Dill Pickle* Amy - “Those deliver on exactly what they say they are.” - 5* Kris - “Those are very pleasant.” - 8* Matt - “If you’re sluggish in the morning, pop one of these bad boys in your mouth.” - 6There you have it. Fritos Spicy Dill Pickle gets the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Check out the Fritos website here for all your crispy needs.https://www.fritos.comThank you all for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried all these chips? Which one was your favorite? We would love to hear your rating as well.Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.And of course, remember to subscribe to hear the latest episodes. Additionally, donate! We could use your support! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 221: Limited Edition 21.08.2026 24min

  Here we go! Time to clean out the cupboard and see what we have purchased that doesn’t fit in with any other category! But first…Without your support, this podcast would not be a thing. Thank you so much for subscribing and following our show. Whether it is on this site, or on your favorite podcast app. Thank you! Also… please share our podcast with your family, friends, enemies, whoever. Just share it on your social media accounts or by word of mouth. Help us get a bit of a following. We love doing this and are hoping it will catch on.Also, feel free to donate to our show to help us out on our growing grocery bill.Help us sustain our podcast with a donation. Please and thanks!Which foods are we trying today?* Banana Caramel Cherrios* Pepperidge Farms Maggie’s Apple PieWho are our Questers today?* Kris - Full of s**t.* Matt - Too far from the mic.* Amy - Let’s get dangerous.The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Banana Caramel Cherrios* Amy - “It definitely has the artificial banana flavor.” - 5* Kris - “I get the toddler treat vibe.” - 4* Matt - “I don’t taste banana, I don’t taste caramel. I taste Cheerio.” - 5Pepperidge Farms Maggie’s Apple Pie* Amy - “They are very very good.” - 8* Kris - “The cookie really does smell like pie.” - 7* Matt - “These are a little crust heavy but are pretty good.” - 7There you have it. We give the Pepperidge Farms Maggie’s Apple Pie the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Maybe you want to give it a try? Check out their website for more information on where to find some.https://www.pepperidgefarm.com/products/Thank you for joining us on this mini episode of Quest for the Best. Have you tried these? What were your thoughts?Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.Help us sustain our podcast by donating! We appreciate the support! And right now, maybe more importantly… SHARE! We want more people listening! SHARE! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 220: 2025 Iowa State Fair 07.08.2026 22min

  Welcome to the Iowa State Fair! At the Iowa State Fair, food is king. On a stick, deep fried, slathered in butter, and coated in sugar. When you come to the Iowa State Fair, be prepared to try the weirdest foods. Be prepared to try some delicious food. And be prepared to eat more than you expected to.This year, Matt and I are trying out the three winners of Best New Fair Foods. Which, since this is being released right before the 2026 State Fair, you should be able to go and enjoy (assuming the stand still is making the same food, which I’m sure they will be)Today we are trying…* The Bacon Chicken Ranch Eggroll from Winn & Sara’s Kitchen* Three Little Pigs from Whatcha Smoking? BBQ* The Scotcheroo Shake from Over the TopDon’t forget to donate to our show! Any amount. Whatever value you get from us, send it back.So pop in your earbuds, turn up the volume, and get ready for some snacking.Thanks for joining us! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 219: Bakery Collection M&M's 31.07.2026 31min

  The Bakery Collection. You may think we are trying delicious homemade pies and cakes… but nope, we are trying out the Bakery Collection by M&M’s.But first…Without your support, this podcast would not be a thing. Thank you so much for subscribing and following our show. Whether it is on this site, or on your favorite podcast app. Thank you! Also… please share our podcast with your family, friends, enemies, whoever. Just share it on your social media accounts or by word of mouth. Help us get a bit of a following. We love doing this and are hoping it will catch on.Also, feel free to donate to our show to help us out on our growing grocery bill.Help us sustain our podcast with a donation. Please and thanks!Which M&M’s are we trying today?* Peanut Butter Cinnamon Roll* Lemon Meringue Pie* Cherry Chocolate CupcakeWho are our Questers today?* Kris - his shells are cracked.* Matt - the Green M&M’s child.* Amy - what the heck?A History of M&M’sM&M’s got their start with Mars. Forrest Mars Sr, who managed the Mars candy company, got the idea for M&Ms while working in Europe in the 1930s. He was overseeing production of Mars candy bars as a part of army rations. Forrest discovered soldiers liked to eat sugar coated chocolate so it wouldn’t melt as fast. So upon returning to the states, Forrest Mars worked with Bruce Murrie and created M&Ms (Mars and Murrie)Some fun facts about M&Ms…* Initially M&Ms were exclusive to the US Army.* The M on the candies was added to distinguish themselves from the copycat competitors.* M&Ms were the first candy in space.* The movie ET was supposed to feature M&Ms but Mars declined and Reese’s Pieces were put in the movie instead, resulting in a 65% sales increase for Hershey.* There are over 400 million produced each day.List of past and present flavors* Almond* Banana* Birthday Cake* Café Mocha* Candy Apple* Carrot Cake* Cherry Cordial* Cherry* Chili Nut* Cinnamon* Coconut* Crispy* Crispy S’mores* Easter Sundae* Gingerbread* Honey Nut* Hot Chocolate* Peanut* Dark Chocolate* Mint* Orange* Peanut Butter* Pecan Pie* Pineapple* Pretzel* Pumpkin Spice Latte* Raspberry* Red Velvet* Strawberry* Vanilla Shake* Toffee Apple* White ChocolateThe Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Lemon Meringue Pie* Amy - “It has a sickly sweet to it.” - 4* Kris - “I don’t like these.” - 3* Matt - “That first one was horrible.” - 4Peanut Butter Cinnamon Roll* Amy - “That’s an interesting transition.” - 6* Kris - “I can’t tell if I really like these or I don’t like them at all.” - 6* Matt - “I wish it was more balanced.” - 7Cherry Chocolate Cupcake* Amy - “It’s giving cordial cherries.” - 6* Kris - “Once you get past the black licorice hit, they are pretty good.” - 5* Matt - “It gets chocolate cakey at the end.” - 6There you have it. We give the Peanut Butter Cinnamon Roll M&M’s the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Maybe you want to give it a try? Check out their website for more information on where to find some.https://www.mms.com/Thank you for joining us on this mini episode of Quest for the Best. Have you tried these? What were your thoughts?Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.Help us sustain our podcast by donating! We appreciate the support! And right now, maybe more importantly… SHARE! We want more people listening! SHARE!Show Notes:https://www.businessinsider.com/the-story-of-the-mms-characters-2016-3#after-the-super-bowl-mms-said-its-spokescandies-were-back-9https://www.mms.com/en-us/mms-candy-flavors/caramel-cold-brew-mms-905oz/ct1237-p.html This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 218: Summer Oreos 24.07.2026 25min

  Oreo is cranking out the Limited Edition Oreos again. Let’s see if these new ones are worth it.Help us sustain our podcast with a donation. Please and thanks!Which Oreos are we trying today?* BTS Oreos* Cinnamon Bun Oreos* Firecracker Pop OreosWho are our Questers today?* Kris, Amerrrrica!!!* Matt, your brown sugar pancake.* Amy, if you’re still with us. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 217: Pop Daddy Pretzels 17.07.2026 28min

  The pretzel business is booming these days. It seems like ever since Dots came on the scene, everyone is trying their hand in making a new pretzel. Well, today we have Pop Daddy’s Pretzels to give a try!Also, I want to apologize for our lack of episodes! This summer has been ABSOLUTELY NUTS and we have had a hard time getting the gang together to quest! Thanks for joining us today. As always, let us know in the comments if there is a new food you really want us to try out. Also, be a pal of the show and donate!Who are our Questers today?* Kris, looking skeletal* Matt, hi! I’m Nate!* Amy, welcome back!Which Pop Daddy Pretzels are we trying?* Yellow Mustard* Beer Cheese* Garlic ParmesanA History of Pop Daddy (pulled directly from their website)We get that question a lot. With a name like Pop Daddy, people wonder about the person behind the product. Pop Daddy Snacks was founded by Mark and Erin Sarafa, who were passionate—some might say obsessed—with microwave popcorn. Seeking a healthier alternative to chemically laden options, Mark began experimenting with kernels and flavors in his basement after purchasing a large popcorn machine.Mark and Erin were thrilled by the popularity of their homemade popcorn, which they gave away for free for two years before Erin and their children, J.T. and Grace, encouraged Mark to turn it into a business. In 2013, Pop Daddy Snacks was born, built on the foundation of “Bold Snacks made with Big Heart”, and became Mark’s full-time job. They started in a small bakery in Metro Detroit, staying afloat by splitting rent with tenants found on Craigslist.While the brand continued to grow and gain traction, something new was coming. In 2018, inspired by a family gift of homemade seasoned pretzels, they launched their new product line that quickly became a hit. With the help of Mark’s son, J.T., the pretzels went viral on TikTok and have become pantry staples and top sellers in the snack market.Pop Daddy Snacks continues to add new snacks to the lineup and reinforce their commitment to bold, unique flavors. Today, Pop Daddy offers over 25 flavors of snacks, available in over 30,000 U.S retail locations and 4 countries. Through their growth, Pop Daddy continues to operate out of Michigan and further their commitment to BOLD snacks with BIG heart.The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Beer Cheese* Kris: “The beer cheese doesn’t come out very well.” 4/10* Amy: “It has a little bit of tang but no flavor.” 4/10* Matt: “It’s really salty at first and then nothing.” 5/10TOTAL: 13/30Yellow Mustard* Kris: “The very first bite is mustard tang.” 7/10* Amy: “This tastes just like mustard.” 7/10* Matt: “They probably do a good pickle one since they pulled this off.” 7/10TOTAL: 21/40Garlic Parmesan* Kris: “I would **** up a whole bag of those.” 8/10* Amy: “That’s a good pretzel.” 8/10* Matt: “This smells like crazy bread.” 8/10TOTAL: 24/40There you have it. The Garlic Parmesan Pop Daddy’s receive the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Maybe you still want to give it a try? Check out their website for more information on where to find some.https://popdaddysnacks.comThank you for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried these pretzels? What were your thoughts?Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.Thanks again for the support. Until next time, stay sane out there.Show Notes:https://popdaddysnacks.com/pages/about This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 216: Super Stuffed PopTarts 05.06.2026 19min

  Shrinkflation is real. Remember when full sized candy bars actually used to be full sized? And not $2.50 each? Remember when your bags of chips weren’t 75% air? And remember when PopTarts actually had filling in them?Today we go back to the good ol’ days… because PopTart has a “new” product… (which I would argue is just their product from years ago) Super Stuffed PopTarts! Thanks for joining us today. As always, let us know in the comments if there is a new food you really want us to try out. Also, be a pal of the show and donate!Who are our Questers today?* Kris, off the rails* Nate, off the rails* Matt, extremely off the rails* Amy, trying her bestWhich Poptarts are we trying?* Crunchy Poppers Frosted Brownie Crunch* Crunchy Poppers Frosted Strawberry Crunch* PopTarts Super Stuffed - Strawberry Blast* PopTarts Super Stuffed - Molten Lava CakeA Mini History Pop TartsIn 1963 Post Cereals adapted a process for enclosing food in foil to keep it fresh without spoiling. And with this process, they made a new toaster-prepared breakfast food. These fruit-filled pastries could be shipped and stored without having to be refrigerated. In 1964, Post unveiled this product, called Country Squares. But unfortunately, Post was slow to release the product to stores and six months later, in September of 1964, Kellogg’s swooped in, stealing the market with a new product called Fruit Scones. The first toaster pastries that were produced were all unfrosted. They came in four flavors. Apple Currant Jelly, Strawberry, Blueberry, and Brown Sugar-Cinnamon. In 1967 the first frosted Pop-Tarts hit the shelves with four flavors as well. (Any guesses on the flavors?) Dutch Apple, Concord Grape, Raspberry, and Brown Sugar Cinnamon.Today, around 2 billion Pop Tarts are sold each year in the United States. The best selling Pop Tart? Strawberry, followed by Brown Sugar Cinnamon and S’mores.The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Crunchy Poppers Frosted Strawberry Crunch* Kris: “Good for a 5 year old because they don’t know any better.” 3/10* Amy: “Weird and crunchy.” 3/10* Nate: “Nope.” 3/10* Matt: “I’m not eating this.” 4/10TOTAL: 13/40Crunchy Poppers Frosted Brownie Crunch* Kris: “It’s better because it’s chocolate...” 4/10* Amy: “That’s a bad product.” 4/10* Nate: “Huh...” 3/10* Matt: “Nobody does chocolate like PopTarts.” 3/10TOTAL: 14/40PopTarts Super Stuffed - Molten Lava Cake* Kris: “I don’t really care for the fudge flavor on that.” 5/10* Amy: “Yeah, It doesn’t need to be heated.” 6/10* Nate: “It’s super sweet.” 4/10* Matt: “I could eat this over some ice cream.” 5/10TOTAL: 20/40PopTarts Super Stuffed - Strawberry Blast* Kris: “This is better than the fudge.” 6/10* Amy: “It tastes more like a strawberry should.” 7/10* Nate: “It’s pretty decent.” 6/10* Matt: “This tastes different from the original strawberry flavor.” 5/10TOTAL: 24/40There you have it. The Super Stuffed Pop Tarts receive the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Maybe you still want to give it a try? Check out their website for more information on where to find some.https://www.poptarts.comThank you for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried these Pop Tarts? What were your thoughts?Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.Thanks again for the support. Until next time, stay sane out there.Show Notes:https://medium.com/@tonylow/the-pop-tart-story-6a5269062bb9https://www.huffpost.com/entry/best-selling-poptarts-flavors_n_5836520https://www.mashed.com/117295/untold-truth-pop-tarts/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 215: From bad to better snacks 22.05.2026 45min

  It’s time to clean out the cupboard of all the foods we have collected but haven’t had a specific show to put them with! So we will call this Rando Snacks and Other Garbage. (BTW… sorry about the retching noises in this one, folks)Which randos are we trying today?* KFC Jelly Beans* Butterfinger French Toast* Harry Potter Butterbeer Kisses* Harry Potter Butterbeer Goldfish* Reeces PB&J Filled Pretzels* Dots Snack Mix - Bold and SavoryWho is on this garbage quest?* Nate, a little excitable. * Kris, OMG Hufflepuff.* Matt, smells like salmonella. * Amy, subscribe!And of course, our subscribers! Thanks to our small, yet coveted group. We appreciate the support. You too can join us on this food journey. All you need to do is… SUBSCRIBE!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!.The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!KFC Jelly Beans* Amy - retching - 1* Kris - “This is worse than jelly bean roulette.” - 1* Matt - “I don’t know what I’m eating anymore.” - 3* Nate - “For the first time ever, we might need a spit bucket.” - 1Butterfinger French Toast* Amy - “The original Butterfinger was perfection. This is not great.” - 4* Kris - “Hint of cinnamon, hint of butterscotch.” - 3* Matt - “This is imbalanced.” - 4 * Nate - “Anything is not terrible after those KFC Jellybeans.” - 3Harry Potter Butterbeer Kisses* Amy - “This is pure sugar.” - 4* Kris - “I’m not a butterscotch fan.” - 4* Matt - “It’s the best one we’ve had yet.” - 4* Nate - “It’s very creamy.” - 4Harry Potter Butterbeer Goldfish* Amy - “These just taste like graham cracker.” - 5 * Kris - “So dusty on my fingers.” - 5* Matt - “These would be alright with a cup of coffee.” - 5* Nate - “I would follow this trail into a chamber of secrets.” - 5 Reeces PB&J Filled Pretzels* Amy - “These actually smell nice.” - 5* Kris - “I had high hopes.” - 5* Matt - “The jam ruins it.” - 5* Nate - “It’s hard to do a dry jam.” - 4 Dots Snack Mix - Bold and Savory* Amy - “It tastes very Dotty, but has a kick to it.” - 5* Kris - “I’m underwhelmed by the size of the Rye chip.” - 8* Matt - “If I was really in the mood for this…. 8” - 7* Nate - “It’s good.” - 7There you have it. Dots Snack Mix - Bold and Savory gets the Quest for the Best seal of approval.Thank you all for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried these? Which one was your favorite? We would love to hear your rating as well.Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.And of course, remember to subscribe to hear the latest episodes. Additionally, donate! We could use your support! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 214: Flavor Swap Chips 15.05.2026 21min

  Have you ever eaten something where the flavor and the texture do not match up? Well, I am afraid that is what we are running into today with the Limited Edition Flavor Swap chips.Which chips are we trying today?* Sweet Southern Heat BBQ Cheetos* Cool Ranch Ruffles* Cheddar & Sour Cream DoritosWho is on this twisted quest?* Nate, needs a theme song.* Kris, hoggin’ the stank.* Matt, aka Foley Matt.* Amy, subscribe!And of course, our subscribers! Thanks to our small, yet coveted group. We appreciate the support. You too can join us on this food journey. All you need to do is… SUBSCRIBE!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!.The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Sweet Southern Heat BBQ Cheetos* Amy - “The BBQ flavor goes away fast.” - 4* Kris - “That heat takes over.” - 4* Matt - “It tastes like spicy Corn Pops.” - 4* Nate - “The aftertaste tastes like a bottom burp.” - 3Cool Ranch Ruffles* Amy - “Meh.” - 4* Kris - “I don’t know about the ranch on that.” - 3* Matt - “It’s too salty for this flavor.” - 5* Nate - “I’d call that chip for a second date.” - 7Cheddar & Sour Cream Doritos* Amy - “The flavor doesn’t last long enough.” - 4* Randi - “The tortilla hits hard.” - 5* Matt - “It’s the best one.” - 6* Nate - “It’s alright.” - 5There you have it. Cheddar and Sour Cream Doritos gets the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Thank you all for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried these flavor swaps? Which one was your favorite? We would love to hear your rating as well.Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.And of course, remember to subscribe to hear the latest episodes. Additionally, donate! We could use your support! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 213: Dirty Mountain Dew 08.05.2026 22min

  Today it’s getting dirty in the podcast studio. It’s time to try some Dirty Mountain Dew.Who is on this dirty quest?* Kristopher, with a t.* Nate, with a t.* Matt, with a t.* Amy, without.And of course, our subscribers! Thanks to our small, yet coveted group. We appreciate the support. You too can join us on this food journey. All you need to do is… SUBSCRIBE!And of course, thanks to our subscribers who are helping us build this small but excellent podcast! We appreciate the support! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 212: Iowa Burritos. Who does it better? 01.05.2026 40min

  Burritos would not be the food that comes to mind when visiting Iowa. But today we have an Iowa Burrito showdown to see who does it better.Today we are trying national chain (Pancheros) vs local link (Greenhouse Kitchen).Who is joining us in this battle?* Kris, has the bottom burps.* Nate, has lots in the chamber.* Matt, aka Fresher Presser.* Amy, subscribe!And of course, thanks to our subscribers who are helping us build this small but excellent podcast! We appreciate the support!About Greenhouse KitchenGreenhouse Kitchen’s story begins with a group of friends and former co-workers. This crew all had experience in the local restaurant industry and decided they could do it themselves. And Greenhouse Kitchen was born.100% locally owned, Greenhouse Kitchen focuses on fresh culinary options using only whole, clean ingredients. There is a preset menu, but diners also have the option to create customized meals. Greenhouse Kitchen presses their own flour and gluten free tortillas, as well as offering homemade sauces and salsas.About PancherosPancheros originally started in Iowa City back in 1992, founded by Rodney Anderson. Even though this started locally, Pancheros quickly grew into one of the biggest Mexican fast-casual brands in the country. Using scratch-made dough and fresh-pressed flour burritos (brought to you by The Fresher Presser 7000) and mixing all ingredients perfectly with Bob the Tool, Pancheros has the recipe for mouthwatering flavor.Pancheros has grown over the last 30 years to 70+ restaurants in 13 states.The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Greenhouse Kitchen* Kris: “A little more of the southwest ranch would help this out.” 6/10* Nate: “Nice and tender chicken but I’m not getting anything that’s sticking out.” 5/10* Amy: “I really enjoy the flavors, but there is a little crunch to that rice.” 6/10* Matt: “It tastes like chicken and rice.” 7/10Total: 24/30Pancheros* Kris: “It’s over seasoned. It always is.” 6/10* Nate: “I don’t think it makes that great of a tortilla.” 5/10* Amy: “I really just taste the grill flavor.” 5/10* Matt: “I think this chicken is a little overdone.” 6/10Total: 22/40There you have it. Greenhouse Kitchen gets the Quest for the Best seal of approval. Check out their website to find a location near you.https://greenhousekitchen.comThank you for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried these menu items? Which one was your favorite?Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.If you were entertained today, consider donating to our podcast! Keep these episodes coming with your own treasure. We would really appreciate the support!Thanks again for the support. Until next time, stay sane out there.Show Noteshttps://pancheros.com/about/https://greenhousekitchen.com/about/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 211: Convenience vs. Inconvenience 10.04.2026 53min

  Sometimes you need something quick. You stop at one place and can pick up pizza, chips, soda, beer, cookies, and fill up your gas tank.And other times you have more time, maybe want to heat up the oven and you know, make your own food.Today we are trying Inconvenience (Papa Murphy’s) vs Convenience (Casey’s)Which pizzas are we trying?* Supreme* Pepperoni* Bonus! Casey’s WingsWho is brave enough to battle it out?* Kris, so humble.* Nate, runs hot.* Matt, one upper.* Amy, overloaded.And of course, thanks to our subscribers who are helping us build this small but excellent podcast! We appreciate the support! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 210: Snacks from Ireland 03.04.2026 39min

  Nate and Randi flew on a plane!They flew across the pond.They visited a place… Australia? Austria? No, Ireland!Saw a lot of sheep.Ate a lot of food.Brought back some snacks!Let’s see if these are any good!Help us sustain our podcast with a donation. Please and thanks!Who are our Questers today?* Matt - Doing his best.* Amy - Crikey, mate!* Nate - Light on the chunk* Randi - Lost a hubcap.Which Overseas snacks are we trying?* Cadbury Crunchie* Star Bar* Wispa* Dunnes Milk Chocolate Chunky Biscuit* Signature Caramel Chocolate Rounds* Mr. BrownieThe Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Cadbury Crunchie* Amy - “It makes my throat hot.” - 5* Matt - “This is nothing special.” - 6* Nate - “This is the best milk chocolate ive had in a long time.” - 6* Randi - “Reminds me of a whopper.” - 5TOTAL: 22/30Star Bar* Amy - “I like that the outer layer of chocolate is thin.” - 4* Matt - “The peanuts are not that crunchy.” - 5* Nate - “That is ooey gooey.” - 7* Randi - “I like it.” - 7TOTAL: 23/40Wispa* Amy - “Very light and airy - I like the textures.” - 5* Matt - “That aftertaste is very milky.” - 5* Nate - “It smells like that Nesquik powder mix.” - 5* Randi - “That is interesting.” - 5TOTAL: 20/40Dunnes Milk Chocolate Chunky Biscuit* Amy - “This is my least favorite.” - 3* Matt - “European Pocky Stick.” - 5* Nate - “It’s fine.” - 5* Randi - “They aren’t that chunky.” - 4TOTAL: 17/40Signature Caramel Chocolate Rounds* Amy - “Fancy.” - 5* Matt - “It’s like those elf cookies.” - 6* Nate - “Not bad. It’s appealing.” - 7* Randi - “I liked them.” - 8TOTAL: 26/40Mr. Brownie* Amy - “This has a bit of a rind taste to it.” - 6* Matt - “It tastes like those Terry’s Oranges.” - 5* Nate - “I like that the cake was still moist.” - 6* Randi - “I didn’t get much of an orange taste.” - 7TOTAL: 24/40There you have it. We give Signature Caramel Chocolate Rounds the Quest for the Best seal of approval.Thank you for joining us on this episode of Quest for the Best. Let us know what you thought. Have you tried this? What were your thoughts?Also, do you have any foods you would love to get the coveted seal of approval? Let us know in the comments what you want to hear next.Help us sustain our podcast by donating! We appreciate the support! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 209: Buc-ee's Potato Chips 27.03.2026 36min

  A road trip is never complete without some good road food. Whether you are packing up a cooler before you leave or stopping at a gas stations on the way, your snack choice is critical to the enjoyment of the trip.Cue Buc-ee’s!If you are lucky enough to live near a Buc-ee’s, you know their snack and food selection is top notch. So today we are trying out their own branded potato chips.Let’s see if these are any good!Help us sustain our podcast with a donation. Please and thanks!Who are our Questers today?* Kris, bless you my daughter.* Nate, appreciates a clean urinal.* Matt, smells like mothballs.* Amy, this podcast is off the rails.Which Buc-ee’s Chips are we trying?* Kettle Cooked Sweet Southern Barbecue* Kettle Cooked Salt and Vinegar* Kettle Cooked Jalapeno* Kettle Cooked Sorta Spicy Dill Pickle* Original* Salt and Pepper* Bold and Blended This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 208: Mr. Pibb & Cherry Float Cokes 20.03.2026 21min

  We have had a brief hiatus from the show! And not because of something fun or cool. Our cat, Oy, who has made some appearances on this podcast, had emergency surgery. He was questing for the best piece of plastic and got it stuck in his tummy. So for two weeks we have been in recovery and comfort mode. But thankfully, Oy is doing much better and he is now roaming the house, annoying our other cat, Bumbler.Today we have a couple sodas to try… Cherry Float Coca Cola and… Mr. Pibb is back! Let’s see if these are any good!Help us sustain our podcast with a donation. Please and thanks!Who are our Questers today?* Kris, never go full retard.* Nate, never go full Beatles.* Matt, wait what?* Amy, Dr. Pepper GirlWhich sodas are we trying?* Cherry Float Coca Cola* Mr. Pibb This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 207: Sweet Snacks 27.02.2026 19min

  Welcome to Quest for the Best!Today we have another random selection from the grocery store! I am always on the lookout for some new products. If you see any you want us to try, let us know!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!Which snacks are we trying today?* Twix Bits* Chips Ahoy Chewy Cookies & Creme* Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets - Cinnamon SugarWho is on this quest?* Kris - Haaaeeey.* Nate - Will cry if he wants to.* Matt - Accurate.* Amy - Subscribe!And of course, our subscribers! Thanks to our small, yet coveted group. We appreciate the support. You too can join us on this food journey. All you need to do is… SUBSCRIBE! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 206: Smoky Pringles 20.02.2026 36min

  Smoky flavoring can be quite good when done well. Can Pringles do smoky? Let’s find out!Which Pringles are we trying today?* Smoky Cheddar* Smoky Mesquite BBQ* Smoky BaconWho is on this Newfangled Pringle Quest?* Nate, picking down.* Randi, good Lord.* Matt, putting up.* Amy, subscribe!And of course, our subscribers! Thanks to our small, yet coveted group. We appreciate the support. You too can join us on this food journey. All you need to do is… SUBSCRIBE!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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  Episode 205: Snacky Snacks 13.02.2026 26min

  Welcome to Quest for the Best!Every time I head to the grocery store, I always have my eyes peeled for something new. And usually I find something. Those new items go to the cupboard and the next time we get together, I usually have quite the collection. Well, today’s episode is a random sampling of cookies and snacks that nicely fit into a junk food category. Let’s see if any of them are good!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!Which snacks are we trying today?* Pepperidge Farm Holiday Nog Cookies* Honey Roasted Peanut M&M’s* Cookie Dough Flavor Oreos* Chips Ahoy Chewy Cinnamon Bun* Cinnabon Bakery Inspired Cinnamon Roll Frosted PretzelsWho is on this quest?* Randi - Get outta here!* Nate - Chugga Chugga!* Matt - Talking about some noggin’.* Amy - North Dakotan with a hint of anime.And of course, our subscribers! Thanks to our small, yet coveted group. We appreciate the support. You too can join us on this food journey. All you need to do is… SUBSCRIBE! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questforthebestpodcast.substack.com/subscribe