Ep 12. DDD Nation: A Taste of Italy

In season 31 episode 12 of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, titled "DDD Nation: A Taste of Italy," host Guy Fieri takes viewers on a culinary journey through some of the best Italian-inspired restaurants in America. With a focus on local eateries run by passionate chefs and owners, this episode showcases the diversity and creativity of Italian cuisine in the United States.

First up, Guy visits Joe's Pizza in New York City, where he samples some of the best pizza in the country. Joe's has been a staple of the Greenwich Village neighborhood since 1975, and their classic New York-style slices are a must-try for any pizza lover. Guy talks to owner Pino "Joe" Pozzuoli about his commitment to using only the freshest, high-quality ingredients, and even gets a lesson in making pizza from the master himself.

Next, Guy travels to Chicago to visit Graziano's, a family-owned deli that specializes in Italian meats. From fresh-pulled mozzarella to house-cured prosciutto, Graziano's is a meat-lover's paradise. Guy meets the Graziano family and learns about their Italian heritage and how it influences their approach to food. He also tries some of their signature sandwiches and charcuterie boards, which are piled high with flavorful meats and cheeses.

Moving on to Austin, Texas, Guy visits Patrizi's, a food truck that serves up homemade pasta dishes and classic Italian comfort food. Owner Nic Patrizi sources his ingredients from local Texas farmers and creates dishes that are both authentic and inventive. Guy samples their famous cacio e pepe, made with handmade pasta and a rich cheese sauce, and gets a behind-the-scenes look at the food truck's unique setup.

In San Francisco, Guy visits Little Original Joe's, a family-owned Italian-American restaurant that has been serving up hearty pasta dishes and homemade meatballs since 1937. The restaurant is known for its cozy, old-school atmosphere and friendly service. Guy chats with owner John Duggan about the restaurant's history and tries some of their most popular dishes, including the spaghetti with meat sauce and the chicken piccata.

Finally, Guy heads to Portland, Oregon, to visit Grassa, a modern Italian restaurant that focuses on handmade pasta and seasonal ingredients. Chef Rick Gencarelli creates dishes that are both simple and sophisticated, like the spaghetti carbonara with pancetta and a poached egg. Guy also tries their house-made focaccia bread, which is topped with flavorful blends of herbs and spices.

Throughout the episode, Guy emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses and discovering new culinary talents in unexpected places. From classic New York-style pizza to innovative pasta dishes, "DDD Nation: A Taste of Italy" showcases the diverse and delicious world of Italian-inspired cuisine in America.