architecture in America.” He’s so right.
Another thing we do best: Pizza. They headed to my favorite pizza spot, Pequod's, in Lincoln Park for several traditional deep-dish Chicago pies that fed the whole crew.
Phil rode along with The Urban Growers Collective on the Fresh Moves Mobile Market, serving communities that are food deserts on the south and west sides of the city. He amicably visited with shoppers and the urban farmers who made this vital program possible and showcased this hopeful program, even calling out their website where donations can be made.
He tried his hand at making ridiculously plump ravioli with the adorable Sarah Grueneberg of Monteverde in the West Loop. Phil headed south to Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream, turning on his usual charm while sampling hand-churned ice cream and peach cobbler with regulars from the neighborhood.
Chicago native and Executive Chef Erick Williams hosted Phil and his friend, famed pastry Chef Mindy Segal, at Williams' Hyde Park restaurant Virtue, where they drank whiskey and tequila and sampled Southern American dishes like sautéed salmon on succotash.
He wandered around Pritzker Pavilion, through Millennium Park and past ‘the Bean,’ then headed across the street for a cocktail at Cindy's Rooftop at the historic Chicago Athletic Association.
The final stop in this episode was to Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, the birthplace of Gospel music. Phil told the story of hearing the song ‘Amen,’ from Lilies of the Field as a child. He sings along and claps his hands with gusto, while clearly holding back tears.
“The spirit moves you,” Phil says in conclusion. “The people move you. The architecture. The food. Chicago moves you. How many places can you say all these things about?”
I had tears in my eyes as well when I watched this episode in early June, soon after the Season 3 release on Netflix.
Phil says that the promise of America is realized here in Chicago. Not completely true. Not yet.
A realistic picture of the Windy City probably lies somewhere between Bourdain and Phil’s versions. Some of us are day drinkers; we are not always sparkling. Many suffer in hidden ways, while others are protected by privilege.
It is tough to admit it, but my darling Chicago has flaws. Even the things you love dearly have room for improvement.
Bang! Bang! Pie Shop
Pequod's Pizza