The formal recognition of Italian cuisine by UNESCO for its cultural legacy to humanity was announced just a couple of days ago. It made news around the world, and a big celebration is in order, especially during this holiday season.
As for me, there is no cuisine like the Italian! My appreciation for it has roots deep in my past, and it has the faces of extraordinary people I was fortunate to meet. The legendary diva Rosanna Dall’Osso Bewick started my education in the 1990’s, at the time when her Italian restaurants (Cocolezzone, Ciao Bella, Zelo and Bacio) began to take over Minneapolis and transformed it forever. Her attention to details, constant research, combination of tradition and innovation, and above all her passion for people - it captured me, and set me on my own path of discovery.
Later, my husband Massimo Bonavita taught me that the main ingredients of a good meal are love and patience. He and his friend chef Rocco Angarola from the iconic Osteria Michiletta in Cesena kept me always inspired and included in their circle of “buongustai” (foodies, gourmands). The rigorous discussions - and tastings that featured the best olive oil of the season, the new ricotta producer or most revered chocolates made in Italy - deeply resonated with me. They made me part of a world I did not know existed – a world where food is not merely a fuel, but a nutrient that uplifts the soul and the body, and where values, quality and flavors matter equally. In this world, a spectacular yet simple meal is never eaten alone, but always with friends and shared in an way that allows one to co-create a sense of conviviality I had never experienced before.
It became my passion to share this cultural value with others. So since 2018, we have been promoting what we love and treasure, Italian cuisine and the generous spirit of its people, through Esperienza and our trips in Romagna.
Our first and foremost partner in this labor of love has been Casa Artusi. The foundation, dedicated to Italian home cooking, has been deeply involved in the UNESCO recognition. But to us they are not an anonymous institution… they are the people we know and love: Susy Patrito, as well as the one and only Mariette, both of whom make sure the pasta we create together is as good as it gets!
Now, decades after beginning my own Italian culinary journey and discovering the beauty of life as a buongustaia, the Italian way of cooking and eating is receiving worldwide recognition. I couldn’t feel more gratified. We look forward to future adventures together at the table.