Ep 3. Terrific Italian

The Best Thing I Ever Ate has been showcasing some of the most delicious and mouth-watering dishes across America since 2009, and season 9 episode 3 is no exception. In this episode, titled Terrific Italian, some of the most renowned chefs and food critics share their all-time favorite Italian dishes. From classic pasta dishes to modern twists on traditional recipes, this episode has it all.

The first dish that steals the limelight in the episode is a Meatball Parmesan Sandwich from Publican Quality Meats in Chicago. It's a delicious combination of meatballs, Parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce, served on a crusty bread roll. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, and the melted cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to every bite. The sandwich is a perfect representation of the comfort food at its best, with expert-level craftsmanship that elevates it beyond a simple sandwich.

Next up is a classic spaghetti and meatballs dish. But what sets this dish apart is the homemade pasta and the succulent meatballs made from scratch. It's a classic recipe from Rao's restaurant in New York City, and it's prepared with the expertise that comes from decades of perfecting the art of Italian cuisine.

Then comes the Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Panini from Salumeria 104 in Miami. The Italian sausage is perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the broccoli rabe adds a tangy bitterness that perfectly balances the sandwich. The bread is toasted perfectly, and it all comes together in an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

Another classic dish that gets featured in the episode is Cannelloni, a stuffed pasta dish with a delicious meaty filling. The dish is prepared by Chef Chris Cosentino in San Francisco and is a perfect representation of traditional Italian cuisine. The filling is a combination of ground pork, veal, and beef, mixed with Parmesan cheese and a touch of spice, all wrapped up in delicate sheets of pasta. It's a rich, hearty, and indulgent dish that is sure to leave you feeling satisfied.

The episode also features a unique and modern twist on the traditional Margherita Pizza. It's prepared by Chef Kevin O'Donnell in Chicago and is made with buffalo mozzarella cheese, heirloom tomatoes, and a sprinkling of truffle oil. The dough is thin and crispy, the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey, and the truffle oil adds an earthy and luxurious flavor. It's a pizza that takes the traditional ingredients and elevates them to a whole new level.

Last but not least is the dessert, a Tiramisu from Macchialina Taverna Rustica in Miami. It's a classic Italian dessert with layers of sponge cake soaked in espresso, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder. The dessert is light, creamy, and decadent, with the perfect balance of sweet and slightly bitter flavors. It's a dessert that showcases the mastery of Italian cuisine and is a fitting end to a fantastic episode.

In conclusion, The Best Thing I Ever Ate season 9 episode 3 – Terrific Italian is a must-watch for anyone who loves Italian cuisine. The episode showcases some of the most delicious and authentic Italian dishes, from classic recipes to modern interpretations, all prepared with expert-level skill and craftsmanship. Whether you're a foodie or just love to indulge in comfort food, this episode is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and craving for more.