Flavor of Italy podcast

Tucked away just around the corner from the bustling Piazza Navona, in the heart of Rome, lies one of the city’s most magical and often overlooked gems: the Biblioteca Angelica. Founded in 1604, this remarkable library is one of Europe’s oldest public libraries, created with a revolutionary vision for its time—free and open access to books and knowledge, regardless of social standing or class. It was a bold idea, and one that continues to resonate today. Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of the Biblioteca Angelica is its collection of books that were once deemed heretical or forbidden. With special permission from the Pope, Rocca ensured that these banned books—many of which were listed in the infamous Index Librorum Prohibitorum—were included. These works included writings by controversial thinkers like Giordano Bruno and Galileo Galilei, whose revolutionary ideas put them at odds with the Church. This is a captivating episode and a step into a magical, true hidden gem right in the bustling center of Rome!

If you've ever cracked open a sweet, succulent blue crab in the United States, you know how beloved this shellfish is across the East Coast. But in Italy, the story of the blue crab is far more complicated—and, until recently, largely untold. This invasive species, once a stranger to the Mediterranean, is now causing ecological upheaval and threatening Italy’s prized seafood industry. In this episode, I spoke with marine biologist and entrepreneur Carlotta Santolini, co-founder of BluEat and the all-women initiative Mariscadoras, to learn about the growing blue crab Italy crisis and how a creative, sustainable food supply chain may hold the solution.

The Glassmaker Exploring Venice, Murano, and the Art of Glass Beads through Tracy Chevalier’s Vision Venice, with its dreamy canals and labyrinthine streets, is a city steeped in timeless beauty. But nestled just a stone’s throw away is the island of Murano, a place with an equally rich legacy—one forged in fire, colored in precious minerals, and shaped by centuries of craftsmanship. It is here that Tracy Chevalier sets her luminous new historical novel, The Glassmaker. As the host of the Flavor of Italy podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tracy Chevalier about her latest novel, The Glassmaker, which has captured the imagination of readers worldwide. From the shimmer of molten glass to the intricate art of bead-making, Chevalier’s novel is both a sweeping saga and an ode to a vanishing world of artistry. If you're fascinated by Italy, women's history, or the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glass, this story—and the story behind the story—is for you.

In Part Two of my conversation with cookbook author and recipe developer Maria Zizka, we dig even deeper and explore her work in Americanizing recipes, and her experience teaching at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Northern Italy. Maria explains how she guides students through the many ways to write a recipe—always encouraging them to embrace their personal voice in the process. “Only you can write your version of a recipe,” she says, and that authenticity is what makes recipes truly shine. We also touch on Preserving Tradition Through Adaptation, Why Voice and Specificity Matter in Recipe Writing and the Challenges of Ingredient Translation including the complexity of ingredient substitutions when adapting international recipes for American kitchens....

How Cookbooks Travel Across Cultures, Part 1 A Conversation with Cookbook Author and Recipe Adaptor Maria Zizka When it comes to writing and publishing cookbooks, adapting recipes for different countries is far more complex than simply converting grams to ounces. In this week’s Flavor of Italy Podcast, I chatted with acclaimed cookbook author Maria Zizka, who specializes in the art and science of recipe adaptations—specifically the “Americanization” of international cookbooks. Maria is based in the Berkeley Hills of California, while I’m in Rome, Italy. So we both understand the importance—and challenge—of translating food and flavor across culinary cultures. In this first installment of our two-part conversation, we dug into everything from ingredient substitutions and baking adjustments to measurement conversions and language nuances.

Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and most picturesque lake, is not just a scenic marvel but also a hub of exceptional wines. Thanks to its unique microclimate and diverse soil composition, this region produces some of Italy’s most distinctive and celebrated wines. From refreshing whites to complex reds, Lake Garda’s wines offer something for every palate. One of the best ways to visit the enormous Lake Garda and its wineries is to ferry hop from one lakeside town to another. Nestled on the western shores of Lake Garda, the Valtènesi wine region is an enchanting destination for wine lovers looking to discover something truly special. This area, with its stunning landscapes and rich winemaking history, remains relatively unknown outside of Italy, but that is changing—thanks to ambitious winemakers like the dynamic duo behind Conti Thun Winery. This is a re-release of a 2021 episode that digs even deeper into the Valtènesi and Lake Garda wines.

If you’re looking for a fascinating drink that combines history, craftsmanship, and a bouquet of flavors, Italian Vermouth is a must-discover gem. And if you want to understand vermouth’s origins and why it’s so closely tied to Italy—and specifically the city of Torino—you need to hear the story that global sommelier and vermouth expert Martina Doglio Cotto shared with me on today' podcast episode. So what exactly is Italian Vermouth? Martina describes vermouth as a “liquid perfume,” an aromatic, drinkable elixir infused with herbs, spices, and botanicals. It’s technically a fortified wine but vermouth is much more than just a beverage. It’s a sensory experience, deeply rooted in the history and culture of Torino, the elegant northern Italian city where it was born.

Italy and wine are inseparable. To understand Italy, you need to understand its wine — and to truly appreciate Italian wine, you have to dig deep into its rich history, ancient traditions, and deep cultural roots. This connection comes to life beautifully in Marc Millon’s latest book, Italy in a Wine Glass: The Taste of History. I had the pleasure of speaking with Marc on my Flavor of Italy Podcast, and the conversation was a treasure trove of insights about Italian wine and its fascinating backstory. Listen now!

Magical Sulmona: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Abruzzo Sulmona is a town that is often overlooked by travelers but is an absolute gem—Sulmona, in the heart of Abruzzo. Sulmona’s rich history, stunning architecture, culinary delights, and unique traditions—are the things that make this town a must-visit destination. And it's just an hour and a half drive from Rome. Listen in for all the details on what to see and do, where to eat, the culinary treasures of the town, how to get here and where to stay. This is what you listeners have been asking for… an off the beaten path hidden gem rich in history and delectable cuisine!

Italy is world-renowned for its incredible culinary heritage, from pasta and wine to olive oil and, of course, its Italian cheese. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the fascinating world of Italian cheese with Gaetano Mina di Sospiro, also known as Tano—a certified Italian cheese sommelier. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to be a cheese sommelier, how Italy’s cheese culture compares to other countries, or which cheeses you absolutely must try, this is the perfect listen for you. Head to the show notes for links, photos, and recipes!

Tucked away in the heart of northern Italy, just outside Milan, lies Cremona—a charming and historic city that remains one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. While it may not be on every traveler’s itinerary, Cremona offers a rich cultural experience, from its world-renowned violin-making tradition to its delectable local cuisine. If you’re looking for an authentic slice of Italy away from the bustling tourist crowds, Cremona is a must-visit destination.

Help Shape the Future of Flavor of Italy + Win an Italian Gourmet Gift Box! It’s a new year, and I need your help shaping the future of Flavor of Italy! I’ve created a quick survey to gather your thoughts on what you love about the podcast, newsletter, and website—and what you'd like to see more of. Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and to show my appreciation, I’m giving away a gourmet Italian gift box in a special drawing! One lucky survey respondent will win this delicious prize, so don’t miss your chance. Tune in to this episode to learn more about how you can make your voice heard and influence the exciting content coming your way in 2025. Fill out the survey at https://wpg-media.typeform.com/to/uJRF4rf3 and be sure to leave your email for a chance to win. The drawing takes place on February 20th—so don’t wait!

5 Paleo-Christian Churches: A Suggested Itinerary for the Jubilee Year, with a focus on Rome's oldest churches....and nearby tasty eateries! Rome is a city of unparalleled history, where every cobblestone whispers tales of the past. As the Eternal City gears up for the 2025 Jubilee Year, it’s already brimming with visitors. But amidst the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican, there lies another Rome—a quieter, more spiritual side that echoes the city’s earliest Christian heritage. In a recent podcast interview, I had the pleasure of chatting with David Laskin, a renowned author and NYT travel journalist, about his suggested itinerary to explore five of Rome’s oldest churches. These hidden gems offer a peaceful respite from the bustling crowds while immersing visitors in the city’s rich Paleo-Christian history.

Anchovies: The Tiny Fish Making Big Waves If you think anchovies are just salty fillets for pizza or Caesar salad, it’s time to reconsider. These tiny fish pack a flavorful umami punch and carry a fascinating culinary history, as revealed in Christopher Beckman’s captivating book, A Twist in the Tail. I’ve been eager to interview Christopher for four years, and I’m thrilled to share our deep dive into the world of the anchovy with you. PLUS in the blog post that accompanies this episode, find my Anchovy Collection: links to ingredients and cookbooks featuring anchovies.

The brand new Health Report on Alcohol AND the booming rise of non alcoholic wines, a sector that's reshaping the wine landscape. In a world increasingly conscious of health and wellness, few topics stir as much debate as alcohol consumption. The brand new Health Report on Alcohol, particularly the Surgeon General's recent findings, has sparked significant conversations about alcohol's role in health, culture, and industry. Adding to the mix is the booming rise in non alcoholic wines, a sector that's reshaping the wine landscape.

Missoni, the legendary Italian designer, is renowned for its vibrant and iconic zigzag patterns and innovative knitwear. Co-founders Rosita and Ottavio Missoni’s story is one of passion, creativity, and resilience. They built more than a brand; they created a family tradition that celebrates color, craftsmanship, and the joy of life. Today, their two remaining children and a dedicated team carry forward this vision, ensuring that the Italian Designer Missoni continues to exemplify innovation and elegance. Listen today for all the details on this iconic Italian family fashion brand. Head to the show notes for great photos and links to dig even deeper into Missoni.

Italy is a dream destination for all travelers, but in so many ways it holds a particularly special allure for women. Whether you're a woman exploring on your own, with a group of friends, or through a curated tour, the options for unique and enriching experiences in Italy are endless. Today I chatted with Susan Van Allen who specializes in Italian travel for women. Have a listen and head to the show notes for details on Italian travel for women programs, destinations, and unique things to do and explore.

If you’re seeking exquisite craftsmanship and timeless Italian design, Florence is a must-visit destination for art, history, and artisan treasures. Among the city’s most revered artisans is Angela Caputi, a name synonymous with bold, vibrant jewelry that transcends fashion and enters the realm of fine art. Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring Angela Caputi’s workshop in Florence with my daughter, and the experience was one of the highlights of our visit. Let me take you behind the scenes into the world of Florence jewelry and introduce you to this incredible artisan.

How to recognize true caviar, how to enjoy it, tips for serving it, and why this luxurious ingredient is perfect for your next celebration. This is Part 2 of my chat with John Giovannini, the owner of the premier Italian caviar producer, Ars Italica. This episode digs into the culinary side of caviar. Although I had no idea that Italy was the second largest producer of exquisite caviar in the world, Italian caviar will now star in my New Year's Eve menu: the one evening of the year when I really want to serve something extra special. Listen in for tips on the best recipes and way to serve this exquisite Italian caviar and head to the show notes for photos and a deeper dive!

Italian Caviar: A Culinary Treasure and a Celebration of Sustainability Caviar—a delicacy often associated with Russian or Persian origins—has a surprising and delicious counterpart in Italy, the world's third largest producer. Known for its fine wines, artisanal cheeses, and world-renowned pasta, Italy is also a significant player in the world of premium caviar. In fact, Italian caviar production, rooted in centuries-old traditions, is making waves globally for its exceptional quality and commitment to sustainability. In this deep dive with John Giovannini, owner of Ars Italica, we’ll explore the fascinating history of Italian caviar, how to recognize and enjoy it, tips for serving it, and why this luxurious ingredient is perfect for your next celebration.