Quest for the Best Podcast

Episod

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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
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  Episode 204: Twigs and Bawls 06.02.2026 40min

  If you have a maturity level higher than a 5th grader, I apologize ahead of time.Which sodas are we trying today?* Twigs* BawlsWho is on this quest?* Randi, too mature for this episode.* Matt, ribbed for her pleasure.* Nate, getting kicked out.* Amy, not mature enough for this episode.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 203: Bit Brewery Chili Cook Off 30.01.2026 1j 5min

  Join us at Bit Brewery in Central City, Iowa for a Chili Cook Off! And then go to Bit Brewery and try some of their amazing beer and pizza, and stay around for the events they have all year long. Check out their website here!https://www.bitbrew3.com/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 202: Strange Frozen Pizza 23.01.2026 43min

  Frozen pizza is a staple in most freezers across the US. But today we are trying out some strange strange pizza that popped up in the grocery store.If you have it in your heart, consider becoming a producer of our wonderful Quest for the Best podcast! By becoming a producer, you are helping us with the production costs of our show (this doesn’t happen with nothing!). We really appreciate your support!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!Which Frozen Pizzas are we trying today?* Tombstone Chili Cheese French Fry Crust Pizza* Tombstone Loaded Bacon Cheddar French Fry Crust Pizza* DiGiorno Thanksgiving PizzaWho is on this seasonal quest?* Randi, did not consent to cannibalism.* Nate, did someone say beans?* Matt, hold me!* Amy, in a fugue state.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!The History of Frozen PizzaThe simple act of turning on the oven, grabbing a frozen pizza out of the freezer, and baking it until the cheese melts, the toppings are hot, and the crust has a nice crunch, is actually something that has not been around very long. Sure, pizza made it’s way to the United States in the early 1900s thanks to Italian immigrants, but there wasn’t even the ability to preserve a pizza until freezers were made and home freezers became a regular thing, which wasn’t until the 40s and 50s.But with the popularity of pizza taking off after World War II, pizza restaurant owners in the U.S. started offering take-and-bake pizzas, and soon after, frozen pizzas were common in the grocery store. In the 50s, frozen pizza started taking off, with many regional companies raking in the dough. But it wasn’t until the 1960s that a brand rose to national fame. Rose and Jim Totino began mass-producing frozen pizzas in St. Louis Park, Minnesota in 1962 and by the 1970s, Totino’s became the country’s top-selling frozen pizza, with sales reaching $50 million by 1974.Totino’s was not a the only company reaching great pizza heights, however. In the 1960’s, Mama Celeste came onto the scene. Also, in 1966, the Simek brothers went from selling pizza in their bar, called The Tombstone Tap, to selling their frozen pizzas to other taverns. And by 1984, Tombstone Pizza was one of the top frozen pizza distributors.Who rolls on the scene next? Schwan’s of course, with the purchase of Kansas-based pizza manufacturer Tony’s. And in 1976, Schwan’s expanded their pizza business further by launching Red Baron, which is now one of the country’s leading pizza brands.By the 1980s, the market was worth $1 billionToday the top frozen pizza brands in the U.S. are…* Di Giorno - $319.28 million in annual sales* Red Baron - $255.73 million in annual sales* Totino’s Party Pizza - 104.22 million in annual sales* Jack’s - 91.48 million in annual sales* Tombstone - 57.43 million in annual salesThe Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Tombstone Loaded Bacon Cheddar French Fry Crust Pizza* Randi - It tastes like a loaded baked potato. - 7* Nate - I was expecting to be underwhelmed. I’m slightly whelmed. - 7* Matt - It’s not bad - it’s just really salty. - 5* Amy - It’s giving me a Casey’s pizza breakfast pizza sauce vibe. - 5Tombstone Chili Cheese French Fry Crust Pizza* Randi - Reminds me of chili cheese Fritos. - 5* Nate - I’m not getting too much of the potato element. - 6* Matt - It was okay. - 5* Amy - This reminds me of a frozen burrito. - 6DiGiorno Thanksgiving Pizza* Randi - I hate it so much. - 3* Nate - There is too much gravy. - 4* Matt - The turkey is somehow moist. - 5* Amy - This is a very good crust. - 5There you have it. Tombstone Pizza receives 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. Which is your favorite frozen pizza? We would love to hear your rating!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. And chip in on the podcast! Whatever value you get out of this entertainment, send it back our way. We thank you for the support!Show Notes:https://www.cnbc.com/2020/05/02/the-history-of-frozen-pizza-from-totinos-to-digiorno.htmlhttps://www.statista.com/statistics/915572/leading-frozen-pizza-brands-us-dollar-sales/ 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 201: Salt Water Taffy 09.01.2026 34min

  On a vacation this past fall, Matt and I visited Silver Dollar City. Today we are trying Taffy made at the park!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!Which Taffy are we trying today?* Ghirardelli Jack-o-lanterns* Mike-n-Ike Sour Spooky Treats* Albanese Apple Harvest Gummies* Sour Patch Kids Apple Harvest* Nerds Gummy Clusters SpookyWho is on this quest?* Kris, aka Marshmallow Butterfinger* Matt, aka Snickerdoodle Kit Kat* Amy, fire in the hole!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!The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Mystic River Splash (Fruit Punch)* Amy - “Not getting the fruit punch.” - 4* Matt - “It has a detergent aftertaste.” - 4* Kris - “If you are doing fruit punch, you have to go for it.” - 4Caramel Apple* Amy - “This tastes like it’s supposed to.” - 5* Matt - “Pretty darn good apple flavor.” - 6* Kris - “I want the apple to be really sour.” - 7Cookie Dough* Amy - “I’d rather have my taffy taste fruity.” - 4* Matt - “I’d rather eat cookie crisp.” - 4* Kris - “This smell is weird.” - 5Fire in the Hole (Lemonade and Cinnamon)* Amy - “I’d rather just have lemonade.” - 4* Matt - “It’s interesting.” - 4* Kris - “The lemonade really stands out.” - 4Grape* Amy - “It’s like if you chewed grape bubble gum for 3 days too long.” - 3* Matt - “I was thinking it was some nasty ass sweet potato.” - * Kris - “It does not taste like grape.” - 3Root Beer* Amy - “It hits okay for a minute.” - 3* Matt - “No.” - 4* Kris - “Black licorice… oh hellllll no.” - 2Cherry Cola* Amy - “It smells like the Bubbalicious cherry cola.” - 4* Matt - “It takes a nasty turn.” - 2* Kris - “Is that cleaning products?!” - 3There you have it. Caramel Apple receives 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. Which is your favorite? We would love to hear your rating!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. And chip in on the podcast! Whatever value you get out of this entertainment, send it back our way. We thank you for 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 200: Starbeck's vs. Cindy Lou's 19.12.2025 1j 19min

  200 Episodes!?!?! CRAZY!In honor of this amazing milestone, we have decided to do a battle between two local BBQ joints, Starbeck’s vs. Cindy Lou’s. Because who doesn’t love some good good BBQ?Which menu items will we be trying?* Brisket* Pulled Pork* Smoked Turkey* Corn Bread* Cole Slaw* Mashed Potatoes* Baked BeansWho is joining this battle?* Nate, surprise meat.* Kris, is a saucy guy.* Matt, tater guy.* Amy, too earthy.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 199: Holiday Candy 12.12.2025 29min

  Sorry Folks, Totally missed this edit. So let’s turn back time to… Halloween!Help us sustain our podcast and keep us trying foods like these!Which candies are we trying today?* Ghirardelli Jack-o-lanterns* Mike-n-Ike Sour Spooky Treats* Albanese Apple Harvest Gummies* Sour Patch Kids Apple Harvest* Nerds Gummy Clusters SpookyWho is on this quest?* Randi, the sane one.* Nate, can’t follow that up.* Matt, making his own gravy.* Amy, tickle tickle.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!The Results**SPOILER ALERT!**Listen to the episode first if you do not want the results revealed to you yet!Albanese Apple Harvest Gummies* Amy - “They are very juicy.” - 5* Matt - “They were soft and squishy.” - 6* Nate - “What an unpleasant thing to chew on.” - 3* Randi - “The Granny Smith is the best.” - 7Sour Patch Kids Apple Harvest* Amy - “The flavors were not great.” - 4* Matt - “They would have gotten a 6 if they were shaped like children.” - 5* Nate - “Obnoxiously sweet.” - 2* Randi - “I generally like Sour Patch Kids but I didn’t love the flavors.” - 5Mike and Ike Sour Spooky Treats* Amy - “That is super sour.” - 7* Matt - “I didn’t expect grape to be sour like that.” - 5* Nate - “These just hurt my teeth.” - 2* Randi - “Not a big fan of the sour or texture.” - 5Ghirardelli Jack-o-lanterns* Amy - “It’s too sweet for me.” - 5* Matt - “I’m not a big fruit and chocolate guy.” - 4* Nate - “It has a gooey center.” - 4* Randi - “That wasn’t well executed.” - 4Nerds Gummy Clusters Spooky* Amy - “These are good but not my favorite gummy cluster.” - 6* Matt - “They are alright.” - 5* Nate - “This makes sense as I chew it.” - 3* Randi - “I really like Nerd Gummy Clusters.” - 7There you have it. Nerds Gummy Clusters and Albanese Gummies receive 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. Which is your favorite? We would love to hear your rating!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. And chip in on the podcast! Whatever value you get out of this entertainment, send it back our way. We thank you for 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