Host John Catucci and His Culinary Adventures

Comedian and food enthusiast John Catucci takes center stage in Big Food Bucket List Season 2, guiding viewers through a vibrant culinary journey. Known for his humor and passion for food, John explores North America’s diverse dining scene, from iconic eateries to local favorites. He immerses himself in each restaurant’s story, often joining chefs in the kitchen to uncover the secrets behind their signature dishes. Whether sampling unique creations or revisiting comfort classics, John’s adventures highlight the creativity and regional flavors that define modern cuisine. His engaging personality and genuine love for food make every episode a delightful and mouthwatering experience for audiences.

Top Restaurants Featured in Season 2

From iconic eateries to hidden gems, Big Food Bucket List Season 2 showcases a diverse array of restaurants across North America, each offering unique dishes and unforgettable flavors. These culinary hotspots highlight regional specialties, innovative creations, and must-try eats that define the season’s gastronomic journey.

Iconic Eateries Across North America

Season 2 of Big Food Bucket List spotlights iconic eateries that define North America’s culinary landscape. From the famous pizzerias of Chicago, serving up deep-dish perfection, to New York’s legendary delis offering mouthwatering pastrami sandwiches, these restaurants are landmarks of flavor. In Detroit, the show highlights a beloved diner known for its square, caramelized-crusted pizza, while a Montreal café famous for its smoked meat and hand-rolled bagels showcases Canadian classics. Halifax’s buzzing burger joint, with its signature donut-bun creations, proves innovation thrives alongside tradition. Each iconic eatery blends heritage with creativity, offering dishes that resonate with locals and travelers alike. John Catucci’s kitchen collaborations reveal the stories behind these culinary gems, making them a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Season 2 of Big Food Bucket List uncovers the hidden culinary treasures that locals cherish. From Pittsburgh’s ultra-thin crust pizzas topped with rooftop garden veggies to Victoria’s indulgent duck confit waffles, these eateries offer one-of-a-kind experiences. Montreal’s Haitian griot and Cleveland’s goat cheese guacamole showcase the diversity of local flavors. John Catucci dives into these lesser-known spots, revealing the stories and passion behind their dishes. These restaurants, often overlooked by tourists, are where locals gather to savor authentic, innovative cuisine. Each hidden gem highlights the unique character of its city, proving that some of the best food lies off the beaten path. By exploring these local favorites, John inspires viewers to venture beyond iconic eateries and discover the heart of North America’s food culture.

Restaurants with Unique Dishes

Season 2 of Big Food Bucket List spotlights restaurants that push culinary boundaries with innovative creations. From Halifax’s pitch-black bun boar burger to Vancouver’s Japanese hot dogs topped with shrimp tempura, these eateries redefine modern cuisine. Cleveland’s goat cheese guacamole and Detroit’s Vietnamese pho offer bold twists on classic flavors. Each dish tells a story of creativity and cultural fusion, showcasing chefs’ passion for experimentation. John Catucci’s journey highlights how these unique dishes become landmarks in their cities, attracting food enthusiasts eager to try something extraordinary. These restaurants prove that innovation and tradition can coexist, creating unforgettable culinary experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Season 2 Episode Guide

• Episode 1: Love You a Latke
• Episode 2: PB and John
• Episode 3: All in a Donut’s Work
• Episode 4: In Pizza We Crust
• Episode 5: May the Fork Be With You
• Episode 6: Don’t Crab My Style
• Episode 7: Stand by Meat

Episode 1: Love You a Latke

Season 2 of Big Food Bucket List kicks off with “Love You a Latke,” where host John Catucci dives into the heart of New York City’s vibrant food scene. He explores a classic Jewish deli, indulging in crispy, golden latkes and other traditional dishes that highlight the city’s rich culinary heritage. John also visits a iconic soda fountain, where he discovers the art of crafting the perfect egg cream, a nostalgic New York treat. This episode is a celebration of comfort food and cultural traditions, setting the tone for the season’s culinary adventures. From savory bites to sweet surprises, John’s journey in Episode 1 is a delicious ode to the flavors of the Big Apple.

Episode 2: PB and John

In “PB and John,” host John Catucci embarks on a peanut butter-filled adventure, exploring creamy, nutty creations that redefine this classic ingredient. He visits a cozy bakery in Pittsburgh, where he indulges in handcrafted doughnuts, including a unique PB&J doughnut that blends childhood nostalgia with modern flavors. John then heads to Philadelphia to try a giant peanut butter and jelly sandwich, loaded with crispy bacon and served on thick brioche toast. This episode highlights the versatility of peanut butter in both sweet and savory dishes, showcasing how chefs are innovating with this beloved spread. From indulgent treats to creative twists, John’s journey in Episode 2 is a must-watch for anyone with a love for rich, nutty flavors.

Episode 3: All in a Donut’s Work

In “All in a Donut’s Work,” John Catucci dives into the sweet and indulgent world of donuts, exploring creative and mouthwatering variations. He visits a trendy bakery in Portland, where he samples a maple bacon donut, combining smoky and sweet flavors. John also stops by a family-owned shop in Chicago, famous for its giant, stuffed donuts, such as the “Nutella Dream,” filled with rich chocolate-hazelnut cream. The episode highlights the craftsmanship behind these treats, as John learns the art of donut-making firsthand. From classic glazed to innovative flavors, this episode is a must-watch for anyone with a sweet tooth, showcasing how donuts have evolved into a culinary sensation.

Episode 4: In Pizza We Crust

In “In Pizza We Crust,” John Catucci delves into the world of pizza perfection, exploring iconic and innovative pies across North America. He visits a Pittsburgh pizzeria where the chef tops ultra-thin crusts with fresh vegetables from the rooftop garden, creating a farm-to-table masterpiece. John also heads to Chicago to learn the art of deep-dish pizza, crafting a mile-high pie loaded with cheese, meats, and a flaky crust. This episode highlights the diversity of pizza, from classic styles to modern twists, showcasing how this beloved dish continues to evolve while maintaining its timeless appeal.

Episode 5: May the Fork Be With You

In “May the Fork Be With You,” John Catucci explores the diverse culinary landscape of North America, focusing on unique dining experiences. He visits a New York City eatery for an authentic soda fountain experience, savoring a classic egg cream. John then heads to Toronto, where he indulges in a fusion feast at a Jamaican-Chinese restaurant, featuring a burger with a sweet pineapple bun and jerk lobster. This episode highlights the blending of cultural flavors and the creativity of modern cuisine, showcasing dishes that redefine tradition while maintaining bold, exciting tastes.

Episode 6: Don’t Crab My Style

In “Don’t Crab My Style,” John Catucci dives into the world of seafood sensations, starting in New York City, where he indulges in a wild crab and shrimp steampot infused with Caribbean flavors. This episode highlights the city’s diverse culinary offerings, blending seafood with bold, tropical twists. John also ventures to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to explore a local favorite known for its ultra-thin crust pizzas topped with fresh vegetables from the chef’s rooftop garden. This episode showcases the perfect balance between hearty seafood and innovative, farm-to-table dishes, proving that even the simplest ingredients can create unforgettable flavors.

Episode 7: Stand by Meat

In “Stand by Meat,” John Catucci explores the heart of American cuisine through iconic meat dishes. He visits Chicago, Illinois, to experience the original deep-dish pizza, learning the art of crafting a mile-high pizza pie. Next, he heads to Toronto, Ontario, where he indulges in a unique Jamaican-Chinese fusion feast. The episode highlights a burger featuring a sweet pineapple bun and jerk lobster, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary scene. John also discovers the richness of a slow-cooked prime rib sandwich in another stop, emphasizing the importance of quality ingredients and timeless recipes. This episode is a celebration of bold flavors and the art of elevating classic dishes into unforgettable meals.

Signature Dishes from Season 2

Season 2 highlights iconic dishes like the boar burger with a pitch-black bun, goat cheese guacamole, and Japanese hot dogs with shrimp tempura, showcasing bold flavors and creativity.

Boar Burger with a Pitch-Black Bun

One of Season 2’s standout dishes, the boar burger with a pitch-black bun, captivates food enthusiasts with its striking appearance and rich flavors. Featured in Halifax, NS, this unique burger combines tender boar meat with a mysterious, pitch-black bun, creating a visually intriguing and delicious experience. The bun, made with activated charcoal, adds a subtle earthy note without overpowering the savory boar patty. Topped with fresh ingredients, this dish showcases the creativity of local chefs and their ability to merge tradition with innovation; Host John Catucci dives into the story behind this culinary masterpiece, highlighting the chef’s passion and the restaurant’s commitment to quality. This burger is a must-try for adventurous eaters and a testament to the diverse culinary offerings explored in Season 2.

Goat Cheese Guacamole

A standout dish from Season 2, the goat cheese guacamole showcases a creative twist on a classic favorite. Featured in Cleveland, OH, this innovative appetizer blends creamy goat cheese with fresh, vibrant avocado, creating a rich and tangy flavor profile. The dish highlights the restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality, local ingredients while pushing culinary boundaries. Host John Catucci dives into the story behind this unique creation, exploring how the chef combines traditional guacamole with the boldness of goat cheese. This dish exemplifies the show’s focus on regional flavors and chef creativity, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts seeking adventurous eats. It’s a testament to the culinary innovation explored in Season 2.

Japanese Hot Dogs with Shrimp Tempura

Featured in Vancouver, BC, the Japanese hot dogs with shrimp tempura are a culinary masterpiece blending East meets West. This unique dish combines juicy hot dogs wrapped in a lightly toasted bun, topped with crispy shrimp tempura, dried nori, and drizzled with a savory sauce. The fusion of flavors and textures creates a memorable experience, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary scene. Host John Catucci highlights this dish as a must-try, emphasizing its innovative approach to street food. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and creative techniques makes this a standout offering in Season 2. It’s a perfect example of how regional flavors and cultural influences shape modern dishes, making it a must-add to any food bucket list.

Cities Explored in Season 2

Season 2 explores New York City, Halifax, and Detroit, showcasing their unique culinary scenes with Thai cuisine, burger creations, and Vietnamese pho.

New York City: Thai Cuisine and Soda Fountain Experiences

New York City shines in Season 2 with its diverse culinary offerings. John Catucci dives into the city’s vibrant Thai cuisine, exploring bold flavors and authentic dishes that highlight the city’s cultural melting pot. From spicy curries to fresh, aromatic street food-inspired meals, NYC’s Thai restaurants deliver unforgettable tastes. Additionally, John indulges in a nostalgic soda fountain experience, savoring classic treats like the iconic New York egg cream. These stops showcase the city’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. The Big Apple’s culinary diversity is on full display, offering something for every palate and solidifying its reputation as a food lover’s paradise.

Halifax, NS: Unique Burger Creations

Halifax, Nova Scotia, stands out in Season 2 with its inventive burger creations that redefine traditional flavors. John Catucci visits a local hotspot to try the eye-catching boar burger featuring a pitch-black bun, a dish that combines savory meats with a striking visual appeal. The city’s culinary scene also impresses with unique twists, such as jerk lobster-topped burgers and sweet pineapple buns substituting traditional buns. These creations highlight Halifax’s creativity and commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. From indulgent meat combinations to unexpected flavor pairings, the city’s burger offerings are a testament to its vibrant food culture, making it a must-visit for burger enthusiasts and adventurous eaters alike.

Detroit: Vietnamese Pho and Seafood Sensations

Detroit shines in Season 2 with its dynamic culinary offerings, blending cultural flavors and fresh ingredients. John Catucci explores the city’s vibrant food scene, diving into authentic Vietnamese pho, characterized by its rich, aromatic broth and tender beef. Additionally, Detroit’s seafood sensations take center stage, with mouthwatering dishes like hearty seafood boils loaded with succulent crab, shrimp, and spices. These culinary highlights reflect the city’s diverse influences and its passion for creating bold, satisfying meals. From the comforting warmth of pho to the indulgent richness of seafood, Detroit’s restaurants showcase a blend of tradition and innovation, making it a standout destination for food enthusiasts.

Culinary Highlights and Trends

Season 2 highlights regional flavors, local ingredients, and chefs’ creativity, showcasing unique dishes that blend cultural influences with innovative techniques, defining modern cuisine’s evolving landscape.

Regional Flavors and Local Ingredients

Season 2 of Big Food Bucket List celebrates the diversity of North America’s culinary scene by highlighting regional flavors and local ingredients. From Halifax’s unique burger creations to Detroit’s authentic Vietnamese pho, each dish showcases the richness of its origin. John Catucci’s journey reveals how chefs proudly incorporate local produce and traditional techniques to create unforgettable meals. Whether it’s the bold spices of Caribbean-inspired seafood in New York City or the fresh, farm-to-table pizzas in Pittsburgh, the show emphasizes the importance of place and culture in shaping modern cuisine. This focus on regional authenticity makes every episode a testament to the power of local flavors and their ability to tell a story.

Innovative Kitchen Techniques

In Season 2 of Big Food Bucket List, John Catucci highlights chefs who push culinary boundaries with innovative kitchen techniques. From crafting pitch-black buns for boar burgers to perfecting Japanese hot dogs with shrimp tempura, these chefs showcase creativity and precision. One standout technique is the use of a rooftop garden in Pittsburgh to top ultra-thin crust pizzas with fresh, locally sourced vegetables, demonstrating a farm-to-table approach. Another example is the art of making decadent goat cheese guacamole in Cleveland, blending traditional flavors with modern twists. These techniques not only elevate dishes but also reflect the passion and creativity driving contemporary cuisine.

Cultural Influences on Modern Dishes

Season 2 of Big Food Bucket List celebrates the diverse cultural influences shaping modern cuisine. From Japanese hot dogs with shrimp tempura in Vancouver to authentic Thai dishes in New York City, each episode highlights how global flavors inspire local creations. John Catucci explores the fusion of Caribbean and seafood in Brooklyn, while Detroit’s Vietnamese pho showcases Asian culinary traditions. The blending of Jamaican and Chinese flavors in Toronto’s jerk lobster burger exemplifies cultural culinary innovation. These dishes reflect North America’s cultural melting pot, where chefs draw from their heritage to create unique, modern masterpieces that captivate food enthusiasts and honor their roots.

Behind the Scenes of Season 2

John Catucci collaborates with chefs, learning their culinary secrets and sharing stories behind iconic dishes. The season offers a glimpse into the passion and creativity driving these restaurants.

John’s Kitchen Collaborations

John Catucci dives into the heart of the action, collaborating with chefs to uncover the secrets behind their signature dishes. From tossing dough in a pizzeria to perfecting Thai fried rice, John’s hands-on approach offers a unique perspective on culinary craftsmanship. These kitchen collaborations not only highlight the chefs’ creativity but also reveal the stories and techniques that make each dish unforgettable. John’s enthusiasm and humor make these segments both entertaining and educational, giving viewers a deeper appreciation for the art of cooking. Whether he’s assembling Japanese hot dogs or crafting decadent goat cheese guacamole, John’s kitchen collaborations are a testament to the passion and innovation driving North America’s food scene.

Stories Behind the Restaurants

Each restaurant in Big Food Bucket List Season 2 has a unique narrative, from family-owned eateries to innovative culinary hotspots. These stories highlight the passion and dedication of chefs and owners, offering a glimpse into the history and culture behind each dish. John Catucci’s visits reveal how these restaurants became local legends, showcasing their struggles, triumphs, and the people who bring their vision to life. Whether it’s a generations-old Thai spot in New York or a trendy Vietnamese pho house in Detroit, every restaurant’s story adds depth to the culinary journey. These tales of perseverance and creativity not only celebrate food but also the communities that make it unforgettable. The show’s storytelling bridges the gap between the plate and the people, making each restaurant more than just a dining destination.

Viewer’s Guide to Season 2

Discover where to watch Big Food Bucket List and how to plan your culinary adventures. Stream episodes on popular platforms like Trakt.tv and explore restaurant guides for inspiration.

Where to Watch Big Food Bucket List

Catch Big Food Bucket List Season 2 on popular streaming platforms like Trakt.tv, Food Network Canada, and Amazon Prime Video. Episodes are also available on-demand through
various cable providers. For food enthusiasts, the show’s official website offers a detailed guide to stream or download episodes. Whether you’re in Canada or the U.S.,
the series is easily accessible, ensuring you don’t miss John Catucci’s culinary adventures. Tune in weekly or binge-watch to explore iconic eateries, hidden gems, and
unique dishes that define North America’s food culture. The show’s availability across multiple platforms makes it simple to follow along and plan your own
culinary bucket list journey.

How to Plan Your Own Food Bucket List

Start by identifying must-try dishes and restaurants from Season 2 of Big Food Bucket List. Research regional specialties and hidden gems featured in the show. Create a checklist of iconic eateries
and unique dishes, prioritizing based on your preferences. Consider the cultural and culinary significance of each location to enrich your experience. Plan your itinerary
according to proximity or theme, whether it’s a road trip across North America or exploring local favorites. Document your journey with photos and notes to reflect on your
culinary adventures. Involve friends or family to share the excitement and make it a memorable food journey inspired by John Catucci’s discoveries.