Dining al fresco under a grapevine, in Umbria (Photo: Elizabeth Minchilli)
For food writer Elizabeth Minchilli, the greatest monuments to culture aren’t necessarily the ones on postcards, especially when the location is Italy. Food, she says, is the most authentic—and delicious—way to understand this country where fabulous cuisine is just as revered as its treasured artistic masterpieces.
The writer behind the popular Elizabeth Minchilli in Rome blog also organizes food tours of Italy, and sees culinary tourism on the rise. There’s good reason: It allows visitors to explore the culture and history of a region, celebrate the climate and environment, and support the local economy, all by following their appetites.
In a conversation with food writer and journalist Ann Mah, whose subjects often include France and its food, Minchilli discusses how to get the most out of a culinary-focused travel adventure in Italy, and offers insights into regional foods, the concept of seasonality in the country’s food and culture, and shares some of her favorite destinations for food lovers.
Both Minchilli and Mah have strong presences on social media, and they explain how geotags, hashtags, apps, and other digital tools can help travelers find undiscovered gems, from shops to museums to restaurants. They also offer guidance in finding the right people to follow online, and how to steer clear of paid promotions and content.
Minchilli’s book Eating My Way Through Italy: Heading Off the Main Roads to Discover the Hidden Treasures of the Italian Table (St. Martin’s Griffin) and Mah's book The Lost Vintage (HarperCollins) are available for sale and signing.
A tasting of Italian treats follows the program, including Italy’s finest olive oils and Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena provided by Olio2go.com.
Other Connections
Elizabeth Minchilli recalls a memorable lunch at Castello di Ama, a Chianti Classico vineyard, and shares her souvenir: the restaurant’s recipe for a Tuscan walnut tart.
