Show 121, May 9, 2015: Francis Garcia and Sal Basille, “Pizza Masters”

Francis Garcia and Sal Basille“Pizza Masters” Francis Garcia and Sal Basille (also cousins) opened Artichoke Basille’s on 14th Street in Manhattan in 2008 and immediately scored glowing reviews in the New York Times, New York Post and New York Magazine. They represent the 5th generation of their families in the restaurant business.

Chef David Chang, Keith Richards, Leonardo DiCaprio, Drew Barrymore and Martin Scorsese are all fans. They’ve expanded Artichoke to six locations (in New York and Berkeley, CA), launched a frozen pizza line, and are hosts of Cooking Channel’s Pizza Masters.”

Their new cookbook is Staten Italy: Nothin’ but the Best Italian – American Classics, from Our Block to Yours. “The delicious Italian-American comfort food we all remember, love and crave, from the owners of the Legendary Artichoke Pizza.”

Fran and Sal are our guests.

Show 121, May 9, 2015: Francis Garcia and Sal Basille, “Pizza Masters” Continues…

Francis Garcia and Sal BasilleStaten Italy’s authors, Fran and Sal, are two regular guys from the neighborhood, cousins and best friends, whose DNA reads garlic oil (they’re fifth generation in the food business) and whose six hugely successful restaurants, starting with the legendary Artichoke Pizza, have impressed critics, fellow chefs and chowhounds alike. They have written a book celebrating big flavor, along with loving (and often hilarious) family stories, and rooted in the great Italian-American tradition, handed down through the generations.”

“The recipes are unfussy…simple and fast for school nights, fancier for weekends and holidays and offer readers a transporting, full-bodied take-away, rather than just a book about spaghetti and meatballs. Here you will find Eggs Pizziaola, Pork Cutlets with Hot Peppers and Vinegar, their famous Cauliflower Fritters, and many more authentic dishes served up with gusto.”

Fran and Sal, as pizza experts, are often asked what’s their favorite slice. For Sal it’s “a Sicilian slice, made with tomato sauce, asiago cheese, and lots of fresh basil, straight out of the oven and hot.” For Fran it’s their vodka sauce pizza.