Need an Italian dessert idea for Christmas dinner? Try the traditional struffoli – small balls of fried dough smothered in honey and dotted with colorful sprinkles. Fun Fact: The name struffoli is derived from the Greek word strongulos – meaning…
A José Andrés Culinary Experience
Inspired by my history in public television, when I first learned about and became awed by Spanish Chef José Andrés and his series Made In Spain. When I scheduled my trip to Las Vegas, I sought out to have this…
Cinecittá: Italy’s Hollywood
Escape into classic Italian cinema with a timeless tour of Cinecittá Studios. Built in the late 30’s, Cinecittá houses the sets and costumes for Italy’s classic and popular films and TV shows. Some of the world’s greatest films were created…
In Search of Death’s Cookie
November in Italy is known as il Mese dei Morti (The Month of the Dead) – not just to honor the dead, but to officially mark the true start of the autumn season. The gloomy month begins with a celebration…
Il Leone Stregato
The Witches of Benevento Benevento is a historical city located about 70km northeast of Naples, in Italy’s Campania region. Known for its Roman ruins, Catholic church, and my mother’s childhood home, the city is also remembered for its eerie legends…
Park of Monsters in the Sacred Woods
I once trekked (literally) to the medieval town of Bomarzo located near Viterbo, north of Rome; to visit the eerie Park of Monsters, also known as the Sacred Woods. As I mentioned, it was a damn trek and a half……