Ep 4. Pizzeria Napoletana; Floyd's Diner; Haugen's Chicken & Ribs

In the fourth episode of season one of You Gotta Eat Here, host John Catucci takes viewers on a culinary adventure through three very different restaurants in western Canada.

First up is Pizzeria Napoletana in Vancouver, where owner Faizal Kassam shows off his authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. Kassam explains the importance of using high-quality ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, to achieve the perfect pizza. Catucci tries a few of the restaurant's most popular pies, including their margherita and pepperoni pizzas. He also gets to see the restaurant's unique pizza oven, imported from Italy, in action.

Next, Catucci visits Floyd's Diner in Victoria, British Columbia. This retro-style diner has been serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner since 1948, and Catucci discovers why it's so beloved by locals and tourists alike. He digs into some of Floyd's signature dishes, like their huevos rancheros and chicken fried steak. He also gets a lesson in how to make their famous milkshakes, which come in flavors like maple bacon and Nutella.

Finally, Catucci travels to Haugen's Chicken & Ribs in Campbell River, British Columbia. This family-run restaurant has been serving up their famous slow-cooked ribs and chicken for over 30 years. Catucci meets owner Darren Haugen, who explains the secret to their delicious meat is the restaurant's custom-built smoker. Catucci tries the ribs and chicken for himself, and declares them some of the best he's ever had. He also chats with locals who have been coming to Haugen's for years and swears by their beloved dishes.

Throughout the episode, Catucci marvels at the diversity of Canada's food scene and the passion that each of these restaurateurs brings to their craft. Viewers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at each restaurant, including their kitchens, dining rooms, and unique decor. Whether they're looking for authentic Neapolitan pizza, hearty diner fare, or slow-cooked meat, there's something for everyone in this episode of You Gotta Eat Here.