The Pizza Show

The Pizza Show, launched in 2016, is a fascinating, offbeat, and utterly mouth-watering series from Viceland that takes viewers on a gastronomic expedition exploring the beloved, universal icon of fast food - pizza. The globe-trotting culinary adventure delves into the widespread reach and varied interpretations of this humble dish, celebrating the diversity of this classic meal while revealing the rich stories behind its existence.

The first season of The Pizza Show is hosted by Frank Pinello, who is more than qualified to lead this deliciously satisfying quest given he is the proud owner of Best Pizza in Williamsburg, Brooklyn—one of New York's most renowned—and adored—pizza hotspots. A pizza enthusiast and an erudite aficionado of its culinary heritage, Pinello firmly believes that pizza is not just food, but a language of its own that's universal and relatable, irrespective of geographical boundaries and cultural differences.

The show mirrors this belief, embarking on a culinary journey that spans the globe, seeking different regions' pizza creations. Neither exotic flavors nor age-old traditions escape Pinello's interest and palate. As viewers, we accompany him, discovering and celebrating both the idiosyncratic and the traditional aspects of pizza preparation and enjoyment worldwide.

In a world fast polarizing over differences, The Pizza Show is an eclectic representation of unity as it takes us across various cities in the United States and beyond, exploring how pizza mirrors local culture while being faithful to its Italian roots. From New York, the self-proclaimed pizza capital of the world, to the old streets of Naples, where the dish can trace its origins, Pinello navigates through the cheese-topped, crispy-crusted world of pizza with gleeful enthusiasm, digging into the heart and soul of pizzaiolos everywhere.

The series isn't just a monologue of Pinello tasting and critiquing pizzas though. It's a dialogue between him and the local pizza chefs, bakers, and enthusiasts who passionately demonstrate their unique techniques and share rich anecdotes connected to their pizza. We listen as they narrate tales of how traditional recipes have been handed down generations, or how a flavorful novelty was discovered completely by chance.

Furthermore, The Pizza Show’s appeal isn’t solely directed at food enthusiasts. It manages to hook anyone appreciative of an enlightening travelogue, delving into various regions' socio-cultural aspects as it continues its pizza-centric exploration. Pinello interacts with the locals, talking about their cultures, lifestyles, and traditions that inevitably lead back to pizza. The result is a unique perspective on the world, one distinguished by the universal love for this ubiquitous dish.

Season two offers a different perspective with a new host: Mark Iacono, himself a notable individual in the pizza world as the man behind Lucali, the famed pizza spot in Brooklyn. Mark brings a fresh take, building upon the foundations of season one, and exploring new territories with his charismatic and in-depth style.

Moreover, every episode is shot impeccably, the enticing visuals acting as the perfect appetizer that cause viewers' mouths to water. The up-close shots of pizzas, with all their saucy, cheesy, crusty charm; the rhythmic movements of kneading dough and the dancing flames of brick ovens create a delightful sensory treat.

One highlight that sets The Pizza Show apart is its ability to maintain authenticity throughout its run. Despite the diverse assortment of pizzas featured in various cultural contexts, the series remains true to its core. It continues to pay tribute to the authentic spirit of traditional pizza-making that puts emphasis on quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and heartfelt passion.

The uniqueness doesn't stop there. The Pizza Show is surprisingly educational. From learning about the appeal of New York's tap water for pizza dough to the distinctive cooking techniques employed by Neapolitan pizzaiolos, viewers receive fascinating knowledge about the food’s preparation and enjoy frank, insightful conversations about pizza and its historic lineage.

In conclusion, The Pizza Show from Viceland is so much more than just a food show. Yes, it's centered around pizza, but it also somehow manages to encapsulate broader themes of global culture, food history, communal experiences, and shared passions. It is a series that not only satisfies the tastebuds but also kindles the hearts of pizza lovers and the quintessential foodie alike. This delicious journey of a show is certainly worth tuning into, whether or not you're a pizza enthusiast!