Ep 7. Pie's The Limit

The Best Thing I Ever Ate is a popular culinary program that has been on air since 2009. The show invites renowned chefs and food critics to share their favorite dishes from around the world. Each episode has a specific theme such as "Street Food," "Southern Comfort," or "Crunchy." Season 11 episode 7 is titled "Pie's the Limit," and it's all about the finest desserts in town.

As the name suggests, "Pie's the Limit" is solely dedicated to pies, and it explores some of the most delectable pies from different regions of the United States. The episode features several celebrity chefs and culinary experts who share their personal stories related to pies and what makes each one unique.

The episode begins with Chef Marcela Valladolid, who takes us to her childhood in Tijuana, Mexico, where she savored the delicate sweetness of Pay de Queso. She tells us how her grandmother's homemade pie filled with cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla became her all-time favorite dessert.

Next up is Chef Jet Tila, who introduces us to his favorite haunt in Los Angeles, Philippe the Original. Known for its signature French Dip Sandwich, Philippe's pie game is equally strong. Here, Chef Tila indulges in their most popular pie, the famous Cream Cheese Pie. He tickles our taste buds by describing it as a "creamy, cheesy, and velvety" dessert. Philipe's pie is definitely a must-try for any dessert lover.

Meanwhile, Chef Monti Carlo shares a recipe for her unique creation, "Campfire Pie." She claims it's a pie that "tastes like childhood." It reminds her of the times when her family would go camping, and they would prepare pies stuffed with biscuit dough, marshmallows, and other yummy treats. Her recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to relive some childhood nostalgia.

Eddie Jackson, former NFL player turned chef, takes us to Austin, Texas, to try one of the best Key Lime Pies in the country. The pie at the Central Market is made with a graham cracker crust filled with a tangy custard filling that has the perfect blend of sweetness and tartness. The pie has become so popular that it's now sold by the slice at their numerous locations throughout Texas.

In the latter half of the episode, we're treated to a slice of "New York Style" cheesecake from Junior's. Junior's is known for their creamy cheesecake since 1950 and is a staple for anyone in Brooklyn. The legend is that Junior's recipe is so good that decades ago, cheesecake was airlifted to Frank Sinatra and Fidel Castro during diplomatic discussions.

Finally, the show wraps up with Chef Ali Khan in the Windy City, trying to track down the ultimate Chocolate Pie in town. His quest leads him to The Publican, where Chef Dana Cree whips up the richest, darkest, and most chocolaty slice of pie he has ever tasted. Chef Cree shares her family recipe that has been handed down for generations, and it's sure to satisfy the most insatiable sweet tooth.

Overall, "Pie's the Limit" is an absolute treat for all pie fanatics. Anyone who has a sweet tooth or an appreciation for the beautiful art of pie-making is sure to enjoy this episode. It highlights the best pies and celebrates the rich history and diverse culture that each one represents. This episode is an ode to the humble pie, an age-old dessert that continues to delight us with its endless possibilities.