In honor of the 9th edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World 2024, we proudly organized a series of events in collaboration with the Italian Trade Agency in Miami, the Italian Cultural Institute in Miami, the Miami Culinary Institute, and the University of South Florida in Tampa. These events showcased the excellence of Italian cuisine and the celebrated Mediterranean Diet, highlighting Italy’s rich culinary heritage and its commitment to health and tradition.
Kickoff Event: Conversational Panel with Culinary Icons
The festivities began on November 18th with a captivating conversational panel at the Italian Cultural Institute in Coral Gables, featuring:
- Chef Arcangelo Dandini, our esteemed ambassador for this edition,
- Graziano Sbroggio, Owner and President of Graspa Group,
- Executive Chef Marco Calenzo of Four Seasons Hotel Surfside.
The panel, moderated by Victoria Pesce-Elliott, a prominent food and wine writer, delved into the cultural and health connections of Italian cuisine, setting the tone for a week-long celebration.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the new book by Gerardo Antelmo, titled “Italian Gems in Florida”. This guide features the best authentic Italian restaurants across the State of Florida, serving as a tribute to establishments that uphold the traditions and excellence of Italian cuisine. As the first in a planned series of editions, the guide is a significant milestone in celebrating authentic Italian gastronomy in Florida.
Masterclass and Networking at Miami Culinary Institute
The celebrations continued with immersive experiences:
- Masterclass with Chef Arcangelo Dandini: Hosted at the Miami Culinary Institute, this exclusive session allowed rising chefs to learn from Chef Dandini’s expertise, gaining firsthand insight into his renowned techniques and flavors.
- Sold-Out Networking Event: Held at TUYO, the rooftop restaurant of the Miami Culinary Institute, this vibrant evening brought together the local culinary community, creating opportunities for connection and celebrating Italian hospitality.
Bringing Italian Excellence to Tampa
On November 20th, the festivities extended to the University of South Florida in Tampa, marking our first collaboration with the institution. The day included:
- A Masterclass with Chef Dandini, offering university students an interactive and hands-on learning experience rooted in authentic Italian culinary traditions.
- A Conversational Panel in Downtown Tampa, where the local community engaged in discussions about the heritage, health benefits, and evolution of Italian cuisine.
A Successful Celebration of Italian Cuisine
The 9th edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World 2024 concluded with resounding success. These events honored the union of culinary tradition, innovation, and community, spotlighting Italy’s gastronomic legacy and strengthening cultural ties in Miami and Tampa.
Special thanks to our partners, participants, and attendees for making this celebration truly unforgettable.
