Ep 3. Dark Matter

James May: Our Man in Italy season 1 episode 3, titled Dark Matter, sees James May continuing his journey across Italy, exploring the culture, landscapes, and history of the country. In this episode, he delves into the mysterious world of the Italian cuisine and investigates the science behind the perfect coffee and pizza.

The episode begins with James May visiting a coffee plantation in the northern region of Italy, where he learns about the intricate process of growing and harvesting coffee beans. He interacts with the farmers and discovers their passion for producing high-quality coffee. He then heads to a cafe to taste some espresso and discovers the art of barista, the person who prepares and serves the perfect coffee.

Next, James May travels to Naples, the home of pizza, to explore the secrets of making a great Neapolitan pizza. He meets with chefs, who open up to him about their traditional methods of preparing pizza dough and the various toppings that make a delicious pizza. James May even visits a laboratory where scientists are studying the microbiology of pizza, and he learns about the science behind a perfect crust.

Outside the culinary sphere, James May ventures into the world of astrophysics, and he visits a facility in the Abruzzo region that has the strongest telescope on earth. He gets an in-depth explanation of the universe, black holes, and dark matter. James May asks questions that many of us wonder, such as is there life on other planets, and when will humans travel to the stars?

This episode also showcases breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. James May drives along the stunning coastline of Puglia, which many consider to be the Italian Maldives. He takes a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic sea and savours the beauty of a region that few visitors know about.

In conclusion, James May: Our Man in Italy season 1 episode 3 is a captivating exploration of Italian cuisine, the universe, and natural beauty. It combines science, food, and travel to provide a unique experience for the viewer. James May's wit and humour are ever-present in this episode as he dives into the complexities of pizza-making and the enigmatic universe.