The Pizza Show Season 1 Episode 7 Chicago - Extended Cut

The Pizza Show is a food and travel show that explores the world of pizza, its history, and the different styles and flavors that exist around the globe. In season 1 episode 7, titled Chicago - Extended Cut, the host, Frank Pinello, takes us on a journey to explore the deep-dish pizza scene in Chicago, one of America's most iconic food cities.

The episode begins with Frank heading to one of the oldest and most legendary pizzerias in Chicago, Lou Malnati's, to learn how to make authentic deep-dish pizza. He is greeted by Marc Malnati, the owner of the pizzeria and son of Lou Malnati, who takes him through the process of making a perfect deep-dish pizza. From shaping the dough to layering the mozzarella cheese and toppings, this segment gives us an inside look at the art of making a classic Chicago-style pizza.

Next, Frank visits Burt's Place, a small pizzeria in the suburb of Morton Grove. Burt Katz, the owner of the pizzeria, is known for his unconventional approach to making deep-dish pizza. Instead of using a deep dish pan, Burt uses a cast-iron pan to get a crispy crust while still maintaining the depth and texture of a traditional deep dish. Frank gets to taste Burt's signature pizza, which has a unique blend of cheese and toppings, making it one of the most delicious and distinctive deep-dish pizzas in Chicago.

In the following segment, Frank explores the neighborhood of Pilsen, a historically Mexican community that has become a hub for artists and entrepreneurs. Here, he visits the pizzeria at Punch House, a popular bar known for its craft cocktails and thin-crust pizza. The chef, Oscar, prepares a mouth-watering pizza with chorizo, cilantro, and a spicy tomato sauce that reflects the flavors and influences of the neighborhood.

Moving on, Frank visits the Southside neighborhood of Englewood, which is known for its authentic and flavorful African-American cuisine. Here, he meets with Chef Nick Jiles, the owner of Uncle Remus, a popular chicken and fish joint. Nick takes Frank on a tour of the kitchen, where he shows him the secret spices and techniques he uses to prepare his famous fried chicken. This segment is not directly related to pizza, but it helps give a broader context of the culinary scene of Chicago.

Continuing on his pizza tour, Frank heads to the West Loop neighborhood to visit the pizzeria, Bonci. Bonci is known for its Roman-style pizza, which is made with a thin, crispy crust and topped with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Frank meets with the owner, Gabriele Bonci, who explains his philosophy on pizza and how he uses the best ingredients to create a simple yet flavorful pie.

The final segment focuses on Pequod's Pizza, a pizzeria in the Lincoln Park neighborhood that is known for its caramelized crust and unique blend of cheese. The owner, Keith Jackson, gives Frank an inside look into his kitchen where he explains his signature technique for creating a crispy and caramelized crust. Frank gets to taste Pequod's famous pizza, which is piled high with toppings and has a flavor and texture that can only be found in Chicago.

Overall, episode 7 of season 1 of The Pizza Show is an exciting and informative look into the deep-dish pizza scene in Chicago. From classic deep dish to innovative thin-crust pizzas, Frank Pinello takes us on a journey through some of the best pizzerias in the city. Through the eyes of the locals, the episode shows how pizza is not just a dish but a reflection of the people, culture, and history of this great city.