Italian life style – fare una bella figura
“Bella figura” literally translates to “beautiful figure” — but it’s more idiomatic than that. The idea of maintaining a bella figura is more like the [...]
Tortellini fatti al mano – handmade Tortellini
The days are wintry grey and foggy now, even in Bologna, and even though the wonderful Christmas illumination in town provides a kind of comfort, [...]
Brisighella – olive oil and more
When I drove down the small, bending road into the Lamone valley for the very first time, I almost caused an accident: all of a [...]
Italian summer meal
This is actually not really a recipe, it’s just a reminder that meat and salad are a perfect match for a light meal in summer. [...]
Prosciutto di San Daniele versus di Parma – tasting for Foodies
On the occasion of the upcoming “Aria di Festa” (food festival of Prosciutto di San Daniele) on June 28th-30th, I have a few thoughts about [...]
Italian cooking
To start with the rough facts: yes, cooking is work, the kitchen will get dirty and you might ruin your nails, but a good meal [...]
March in Italy
The month of March can be a real show-off. Often colder than January, it sometimes brings in sunny days and pretends to be May. Everyone [...]
Venice before Carnevale
After the 8 o’clock bell of San Marco you don’t hear anything louder than the waves splashing at the Canale Grande. Two days before the “Carnevale [...]
Balsamic vinegar factory
These cold winter days are the perfect time for the Acetaio (vinegar maker) to go up to the attic where the barrels are stored and [...]
Skip the line like an Italian
You think you are good in keeping your spot in line? Would you rather skip the line than fall behind? Put yourself to the test, [...]