Ep 5. The Best Pizza in the World

In season 1 episode 5 of "Eat the World with Emeril Lagasse," titled "The Best Pizza in the World," renowned chef Emeril Lagasse embarks on a delightful culinary journey to explore the world of pizza. From its humble origins in Italy to its diverse and beloved iterations found across the globe, Emeril takes viewers on a mouthwatering adventure to discover what truly makes the perfect pizza.

The episode kicks off in Naples, Italy, widely regarded as the birthplace of pizza. Emeril visits local pizzerias and uncovers the secrets behind the traditional Neapolitan pizza. He learns about its thin, wood-fired crust, the perfect balance of San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil, and olive oil, and the strict adherence to tradition that defines this classic pizza style.

Moving beyond Naples, Emeril travels to New York, the city renowned for its iconic take on pizza. In the bustling streets of Manhattan and Brooklyn, he visits famous pizzerias and meets with longtime pizza makers who have dedicated their lives to mastering the art of New York-style pizza. Emeril immerses himself in the lively atmosphere and irresistible aromas of these establishments, learning about the city's unique pizza culture and tasting the quintessential slices that have made New York a pizza lover's paradise.

Next, Emeril takes a flight across the Atlantic to explore the intriguing world of pizza in Istanbul, Turkey. In this vibrant city where East meets West, he delves into the fusion of flavors and techniques that have shaped Turkish-style pizza. Emeril discovers Turkish pide, a boat-shaped pizza topped with an array of delicious ingredients and baked until golden and bubbling. He unravels the fascinating history and cultural significance of this Turkish specialty, all while indulging in its irresistible taste.

Continuing his global pizza quest, Emeril heads to Chicago, the beloved home of deep-dish pizza. Deep-dish is a style renowned for its thick, buttery crust, chunky tomato sauce, and generous layers of cheese and toppings. In the Windy City, Emeril visits legendary pizzerias and chats with local pizza enthusiasts who debate over the best deep-dish joint in town. Through lively discussions and mouthwatering tastings, he uncovers the secrets to creating a truly satisfying deep-dish pizza.

Finally, Emeril travels south to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he encounters a unique pizza culture heavily influenced by Italian immigrants. In this vibrant city, he explores the world of Argentinian-style pizza, which often features a thick, fluffy crust and is known for its generous use of cheese and variety of toppings. Emeril visits bustling pizzerias and meets with passionate Argentinian chefs who merge traditions from both Italy and Argentina to create flavorsome pizzas that have become an integral part of the local culinary scene.

Throughout the episode, Emeril's infectious enthusiasm and genuine love for pizza shine through as he meets with passionate pizza makers, explores diverse pizza styles, and indulges in mouthwatering slices across the globe. "The Best Pizza in the World" takes viewers on an exciting and flavorful journey through the rich history, cultural significance, and endless variations of this beloved comfort food. Whether you're a die-hard pizza lover or simply a curious foodie, this episode promises to ignite your cravings and inspire you to seek out the very best pizza experiences wherever you go.