Ep 18. Chicago Street Food

The Sandwich King season 2 episode 18 titled "Chicago Street Food" takes viewers on a mouth-watering tour of some of the Windy City's most iconic and delicious street food offerings. Hosted by Jeff Mauro, the show highlights some of the diverse and flavorful fare that can be found on the city's bustling streets.

From classic hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches to innovative fusion dishes, viewers will get a taste of the creativity and passion that goes into crafting these timeless and beloved street food staples. Along the way, Jeff is joined by local culinary experts, artisanal food vendors, and home cooks, each offering their own unique take on Chicago's rich food culture.

The episode kicks off with a visit to one of the city's most famous hot dog stands, where Jeff samples the menu's iconic Chicago-style dog, complete with all the classic toppings and a pickle spear. From there, the show turns its attention to another Chicago institution: the Italian beef sandwich. Jeff visits a local favorite spot to dig into a juicy, succulent beef sandwich, covered in serious jus and bursting with flavor.

As the tour continues, Jeff introduces viewers to some of the city's newer, up-and-coming food vendors, who are putting their own twist on classic street food. One stop takes viewers to a food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant, known for its creative fusion cuisine, which blends elements of Mexican, Korean, and other regional cooking styles to create bold and unique flavor profiles.

Of course, no food tour of Chicago would be complete without a visit to one of the city's famous deep-dish pizza joints. Jeff heads to a rustic pizzeria to sink his teeth into one of the city's signature pies, piled high with gooey melted cheese, chunky sauce, and a crispy, buttery crust.

Throughout the episode, Jeff also shares some of his own favorite recipes for creating Chicago-style street food at home, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a little help from his signature blend of spices and seasonings. From saucy Italian beef sandwiches to crispy, golden corn dogs and more, viewers will get a behind-the-scenes look at how these classic dishes are made, as well as plenty of tips and tricks for making them their own.

With its vibrant energy, rich food culture, and endless array of delicious eats, Chicago is an icon of American street food. "Chicago Street Food" celebrates the flavors and traditions that make this city so unique, and showcases the hardworking individuals who continue to make its culinary scene one of the best in the world. So grab a napkin and a hearty appetite, and join Jeff on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Chicago's street food scene.