‘Restaurant Impossible’ films episode at B.R. pizzeria

Mama Della’s N.Y. City Pizzeria will have a chance at redemption this week. The pizzeria and Italian restaurant located on Jefferson Highway near Essen Lane will be the subject of an episode of the Food Network reality show Restaurant Impossible. The show’s crew is set to hit town and film the episode this week. Host/chef Robert Irvine and a number of volunteers will be giving the restaurant a two-day makeover Thursday and Friday. A grand re-opening will take place Friday night. The Mama Della’s episode is slated to premiere this fall in the show’s eighth season. Details on the episode premiere have not been announced. The reality show features Irvine helping fledgling restaurants across the country in less than 48 hours and with $10,000. Mama Della’s opened in the former Schlotzsky’s location at 8190 Jefferson Highway in February 2012. Owner Barry Kalt, a New York native, prides himself on quality ingredients and told 225 in August last year that he’s enjoyed the culinary experience in Louisiana. “I’ve learned more about cooking since I’ve been in Louisiana,” Kalt said. “Living here has been a great culinary ride for me and continues to be.” —Matthew Sigur