Alton Brown On Life On The Road, 'Doctor Who,' And His Favorite Monty Python Sketch

The renowned foodist and television personality may best be known as the host of Food Network's now-legendary Good Eats, as well as Iron Chef America and Cutthroat Kitchen, but since November 7 he's been back out on the road with the latest iteration of his super-popular stage show, "Alton Brown Live! The Edible Inevitable." Just like on Good Eats, the family-friendly show is a combination of food, science, and fun, and audience members can expect comedy, a multimedia lecture, puppets, talk show antics, live music, and some "extreme" food. The tour wraps in Houston on April 4, but there are plenty of stops before then; to see if he'll be coming to a city near you, visit the tour's website.

The Daily Meal: How is life on the road compared to how you expected it to be? Lots of folks have a "rock star" view of it, but I have a feeling it's not always as glamorous as it's cracked up to be.
Alton Brown: I did a fair amount of theater when I was younger, so I know that whole rock star thing is actually for rock stars. Me, I'm a cook.  

What do you enjoy the most about being on the road? 
Discovering little food joints that Guy Fieri hasn't been to yet.  

Have you had the opportunity to sample any of the local eats while out and about? I'm sure this is also a good opportunity to partake in some culinary tourism.
I've been doing a social media program called #ABRoadEats that brings in suggestions from the fans. I only eat from those recommendations. We can usually hit 5 or 6 a day before I have to get back for sound check.  

If Steven Moffat were to offer to write a role for you on Doctor Who, what would you like it to be?
I'm thinking I'd be an excellent 13.

What's your favorite Monty Python sketch?
Cheese Shop. Hands down.  

Any plans to revive Feasting on Asphalt?
Man, wouldn't that be fun. I'm in.

Do you ever worry about running out of diabolical twists on Cutthroat Kitchen?
No. I just worry about running out of cooks.  

Who rocks a better bow tie, you or Bill Nye?
I'm not even worthy to answer that.  

Congratulations on being chosen as host of the James Beard Awards! How does it feel to be chosen? Think you'll be channeling more of Johnny Carson, Bob Hope, or Billy Crystal?
It'll be my third time, and I tried Carson the first time and Crystal the second, so I guess it's time to give Hope a go.