When you think of a quintessential beach town filled with character, Ocean Beach, San Diego probably fits the bill. But nestled within this community is a place that not only serves up a storm of good vibes and great beer but also dishes out what patrons call “the absolute best wings” they’ve ever had. Welcome to the culinary adventure of the OB Noodle House, a stop on Guy’s iconic road trip show, “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.”
In the episode featuring OB Noodle House, the excitement kicks off with a fiery start—literally. The preparation of the notorious spicy garlic wings, the restaurant’s pièce de résistance, requires a hot pan and even hotter ingredients. The process begins with a sauté of ground ginger, garlic, and brown lemongrass followed by onions, simmered down for a good 40 minutes. “You stand here for 40 minutes and stir this dish?” Guy asks incredulously, as much in disbelief as the viewers probably are.
But the magic really starts when the OB Noodle House’s own chili paste and chili flakes are added to the mix, followed by an ingredient that takes everyone by surprise—peanut butter. Yes, you heard that right. This unique addition brings a subtle sweetness to the sauce, balancing the heat with a hint of sugar that Guy finds intriguing.
After an hour of cooking down and a day of letting the flavors meld, it’s time to marinate the wings themselves. With a generous amount of chili oil sauté and a sprinkle of sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper, the wings are left to soak in the flavors overnight.
Cooking the wings is an art in itself. After frying, they come out crispy and ready for the final touch—a toss in the wok with fresh garlic, pepper, and a sprinkle of seasonings, crowned with a scatter of green onions. “It’s going to be a little spicy,” Guy warns, but he’s more than ready for the heat.
The result? A sensational bite of wing that has Guy raving, “Oh my God.” The blend of spices reaches the perfect equilibrium with just the right amount of heat, complemented by a touch of sweetness and the wonderful crispness of the skin. “A lot of flavor, a lot of depth of flavor,” he notes, impressed by the complex yet harmonious taste profile.
For those eager to brave the heat, Guy’s testimonial of the wings not being “too spicy on the outside” is an inviting promise of a fiery delight that’s manageable even for the more timid spice enthusiasts. And from what we’ve heard, the experience at OB Noodle House is not just about the wings—it’s about the entire story, the atmosphere, and the embodiment of Ocean Beach’s unique spirit.