Ep 2. Mangia! Mangia! Italiana!

In the second episode of Sandwich King season 4 titled "Mangia! Mangia! Italiana!", host and sandwich expert Jeff Mauro takes us on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Italy. From classic Italian subs to unexpected meatball sliders and savory stuffed focaccias, Mauro explores the various ways Italy's diverse regions come together to create some of the most flavorful and beloved sandwiches in the world.

Mauro starts his adventure in Chicago's Little Italy neighborhood, where he meets up with lifelong chefs and owners of Connie's Pizza, Jim and Nikki Stolfe. He learns about the couple's deep family roots in the pizza game and how they use their Italian heritage to put their own spin on classic pizza and sandwich recipes.

Next, Mauro heads to the Nottoli Italian Foods Deli in Chicago's Old Irving Park neighborhood, which has been serving up authentic Italian meats and sandwiches since 1947. Here, he picks up some traditional Italian ingredients to help him create his own signature sandwich.

Mauro then heads to the kitchen to create his own unique sandwich creations inspired by his travels through Italy. He starts with his take on a classic Italian sub, creating a meaty masterpiece with hot ham, Genoa salami, provolone cheese, and tangy giardiniera, all served up on a freshly baked French roll.

Next, Mauro unveils his creative twist on a classic meatball sandwich, combining juicy Italian meatballs with roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella cheese, all served up on a garlic and herb ciabatta roll.

Mauro's final creation is a unique and flavorful stuffed focaccia sandwich, made with hot capicola, sweet roasted red peppers, and fresh mozzarella and arugula, all stuffed between two freshly baked squares of herb-seasoned focaccia bread.

Throughout the episode, Mauro shares his love for Italian cuisine and the creative ways he brings together classic flavors and ingredients to create unique and delicious sandwich creations. From the saucy meatball slider to the mouthwatering stuffed focaccia, he proves that the possibilities are endless when it comes to making a memorable Italian-inspired sandwich.