Ep 5. Chi-Town

In season 6 episode 5 of Unique Eats, viewers are taken on a culinary journey through the Windy City as the show explores some of the unique and offbeat eats in Chicago. Titled Chi-Town, this episode features some of the city's best restaurants and bars that offer mouth-watering dishes that are both delicious and surprisingly unusual.

The episode kicks off with an introduction to the famous Italian beef sandwich, a Chicago staple that has been around since the 1930s. Viewers are taken to the iconic Al's Beef restaurant, which claims to have originated this classic sandwich. The host explores the history of the dish, the different ways it can be served, and the reasons why it remains a timeless favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Next, the show heads to Hot Doug's, a hotdog joint with a cult following. This tiny Chicago eatery is known for its gourmet hotdogs, sausages, and hand-cut fries. The host speaks with owner Doug Sohn about his inspiration for starting the business and the challenges he faced in making Hot Doug's one of the most talked-about restaurants in the city.

After the hotdogs, the show moves on to something a little more upscale - Mindy's Hot Chocolate, a dessert bar that serves some of the most delicious and unique sweets in the city. The host meets with owner Mindy Segal, a James Beard Award-winning pastry chef, to sample some of her famous hot chocolate drinks, truffles, and other sweet treats.

Moving on from sweets, Unique Eats takes viewers to The Purple Pig, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that serves some of the most inventive and flavorful small plates in town. The host meets with chef Jimmy Bannos Jr. to taste some of his signature dishes and to learn about the restaurant's philosophy of pairing unconventional ingredients.

Next up is the Aviary, a bar that transforms drinks into gastronomic works of art. The Aviary features cocktails that are anything but ordinary, including a drink served in a "candy" that explodes in your mouth, and another that comes with a side of popcorn.

Finally, the show visits Honey Butter Fried Chicken, a restaurant that specializes in golden-fried chicken paired with a unique twist - honey butter. The host explores this unusual flavor combination and interviews the owners about their commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable practices.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of the city, from the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago to the picturesque neighborhoods that define its character. The show offers a glimpse into the diverse culinary landscape of the city, highlighting both its classic dishes and its newer, more experimental flavors.

Overall, Unique Eats season 6 episode 5 offers a fun and informative look at the Chicago food scene, celebrating the unique and unconventional eats that make this city one of America's top culinary destinations.