Ep 11. Chicago Neighborhoods

In Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations season 10 episode 11, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary tour of the diverse neighborhoods of Chicago. From Italian beef sandwiches and hot dogs with all the fixings in the Windy City's iconic hot dog stands to the mouth-watering deep-dish pizza that Chicago is known for, Zimmern showcases the bold flavors that make Chicago dining so unique.

The episode starts in Little Italy, where Zimmern explores the traditional Italian dishes that have been served in the neighborhood for decades. He samples classic dishes like breaded steak sandwiches, meatballs in marinara sauce, and chicken vesuvio. The area is also home to some of the best cannoli in the city, and Zimmern indulges in this delicious Italian pastry.

Moving on to Lincoln Park, Zimmern visits some of the city's best taco stands and tastes traditional Mexican street food. He tries tacos al pastor, which are marinated pork tacos with pineapple, as well as carne asada and spicy pork tacos. In Pilsen, Zimmern explores the neighborhood's vibrant Mexican culture and delicious food. He tries birria, a spicy stew made with goat meat, and tamales filled with chicken and mole sauce.

Next up is Andersonville, a neighborhood with a rich Swedish heritage. Zimmern visits a local bakery that has been serving up traditional Swedish pastries for over a century, such as princess cake and cardamom rolls. He also tries the savory side of Swedish cuisine with pickled herring and meatballs served with lingonberry sauce.

The episode wouldn't be complete without a visit to Chicago's famous hot dog stands, and Zimmern takes viewers to some of the city's most iconic spots. He tries hot dogs loaded with all the traditional toppings, as well as some with a unique Chicago twist, like the Bobak's Maxwell Street Polish.

Finally, Zimmern showcases the city's most famous culinary export: deep-dish pizza. He visits some of the most popular pizzerias in the city and samples pizzas loaded with cheese, sausage, and other toppings. He also tries some of the thinner-crusted pies that are becoming increasingly popular in the city.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern highlights the cultural influences and history behind each dish he tries, giving viewers a deeper appreciation for the food and the city itself. Whether you're a born and raised Chicagoan or just visiting for the first time, this episode is a must-see for anyone who loves good food and great stories.