top of page

Search Results

234 results found with an empty search

  • A unique Valentine’s day activity this 2026

    This Valentine’s Day, skip the usual dinner plans and join us for a one-of-a-kind pasta-making experience! We’re bringing the love to New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Orange County , with hands-on classes led by our authentic Italian chefs. Perfect for couples, friends, or anyone who loves pasta, our classes offer a fun and delicious way to celebrate the day of love. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect moment to plan an experience that truly stands out. Whether it’s your first February 14th together, a special way to connect with your loves or a fun celebration with a friend, choosing the right plan makes all the difference. This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love in a simple and meaningful way: make the pasta of love, with IMPASTIAMO . Join a hands-on maritati pasta class , enjoy an Italian dinner, sip Italian wine and beer, and share great vibes in NYC, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orange County. What to expect This Valentine’s Day, share a 2.5-hour hands-on Italian dinner experience made for connection and good vibes. 💘 Make fresh maritati pasta from scratch Wine pairing + beer open bar included Sit down to enjoy an Italian dinner you created Hands-on, social, and beginner-friendly Vegan options available 🌱 Maritati is a traditional pasta from Puglia  and its name means “ married ,” because it brings two shapes together into one. It is the perfect pasta to celebrate connection and togetherness. Where you can find our Cooking Classes You can find our cooking classes in: New York City Manhattan Brooklyn Los Angeles Westside LA Downtown LA (DTLA) San Francisco & Orange County Class duration and time slots Each Valentine’s Day pasta class  lasts 2.5 hours  and is offered in different locations and in two time slots: Slot 1:  3:30–6:00 PM Slot 2:  7:00–9:30 PM Perfect whether you prefer an afternoon experience or a romantic evening dinner. What to bring comfortable outfit comfortable shoes Wine and beer included. Feel free to bring something special if you’d like 🍷 Ticket Policy Classes are non refundable. If you can’t make it, you may change the date or time of your booking up to 72 hours before the event. This includes switching to a different time slot, subject to availability. You may also transfer your ticket to a friend. After 72 hours, no refunds or changes are accepted. Ticket Categories This event is offered in two time slots. Please make sure to select the correct slot when booking. All tickets are per person . Regular Ticket : includes access to the hands-on maritati pasta class, wine pairing, beer open bar, all ingredients and equipment, and a sit-down Italian dinner. Premium Ticket : includes everything in Regular Ticket , plus an IMPASTIAMO tote bag with a pasta tool and a selection of high quality, authentic Italian ingredients to take home. Perfect if you’re gifting this experience 🎁 Reserve your spot at this link. Can't wait to see you there!

  • Valentine’s Day Date Ideas 2026

    February is the month of love, and every year the same question comes back: what should we do for Valentine’s Day? Many people end up buying last-minute gifts that don’t really last. Chocolates, flowers, small objects; nice, but gone in a moment. This Valentine’s Day 2026, why not choose something different? Something meaningful, fun, and shared, like a Pasta Making experience and an Italian dinner. A unique Valentine’s Day experience for 2026 If there is one thing you should know about us, it’s that food is the heart of everything we do. Food is not just something to eat, it’s something that brings people together, creates memories, and turns simple moments into special occasions. That’s why this year we invite you to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a pasta making experience and Italian dinner in New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Orange County . Pasta making with authentic Italian chefs Our company has strong Italian roots and a deep love for Italian culture and traditions. During our Valentine’s Day cooking classes, you will be guided by authentic Italian chefs and learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch. For Valentine’s Day 2026, the class focuses on a symbolic pasta from Southern Italy: Maritati pasta. What is Maritati pasta? Maritati  means “married” in Italian. This traditional pasta comes from Puglia and is made by combining two different pasta shapes: Orecchiette Maccheroni In the past, Maritati pasta was often served at weddings, because it represents union, balance, and love.That’s why it’s the perfect pasta for Valentine’s Day. Why this Valentine’s Day experience is special During the dinner, the pasta you make will be paired with Italian wine, and Italian beer will be available throughout the evening. Both the wine and the beer are 100% Italian, and this is not a case! You know how much we care about the quality of the products we offer. This is not just a class, it’s a full Italian Valentine’s Day dinner experience. In particular, you can find our Pasta Making Experience in: New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Orange County. Class duration and time slots Each Valentine’s Day pasta class lasts 2.5 hours and is offered in different locations and in two time slots: Slot 1: 3:30–6:00 PM Slot 2: 7:00–9:30 PM Perfect whether you prefer an afternoon experience or a romantic evening dinner. What’s included in the experience This Valentine’s Day experience also includes: A pasta speed competition A pesto competition (yes, this experience is also vegan-friendly) Dinner with the pasta you made yourself Italian wine pairings and Italian beer Tickets options There are two types of tickets available: Regular Ticket Access to the pasta making class and dinner Premium Ticket Access to the class A free IMPASTIAMO tote bag A pasta tool A selection of high-quality Italian ingredients You can find all our venues for the classes at the dedicated link on our website . The perfect Valentine’s Day date idea for 2026 So, to recap: If you’re tired of the usual, boring Valentine’s Day plans, a pasta cooking class with Italian dinner is the perfect choice. Especially when you eat the pasta you created yourself, paired with great Italian wine and beer. This Valentine’s Day 2026, don’t choose a gift that disappears. Choose an experience you’ll remember. So, what are you waiting for? See you there? ❤️🍝🍷

  • Scandi-style Cafès are trending in 2026

    Across major cities in the U.S. and Europe, a new kind of café vibe is gaining ground in 2026: Scandi-style, minimalist coffee shops. But why is this Scandinavian-inspired simplicity capturing so much attention in 2026? What makes Scandi‑Style Cafés unique Danish‑inspired cafés are defined by minimalist design, intentional simplicity, and a focus on quality over clutter. Interiors often feature clean lines, natural materials like wood and concrete, neutral color palettes, and abundant natural light, all design choices that help create a feeling of calm and comfort. This aesthetic seems to be thoughtful, with every detail curated to make people feel present in the moment rather than overwhelmed by sensory noise. In many Scandinavian coffee houses, the minimalist atmosphere goes hand in hand with the coffee culture itself. Shops like La Cabra embrace this relaxed vibe with bare, functional design and a focus on fresh, quality coffee and simple food. La Cabra - © La Cabra A response to a busy world? One of the possible reasons this style is resonating so strongly is that it answers a collective need: an antidote to the clutter and distraction of modern life. People are craving moments of calm and intentionality, especially at the beginning of the day. A Scandi‑style café provides a space where customers can slow down, enjoy their coffee, and mentally reset. This aligns with wider cultural trends rooted in Scandinavian lifestyle concepts like hygge , which embraces coziness, comfort, and presence in everyday moments.  The coffee and community connection Minimalist cafés also foster a sense of community in ways that differ from mainstream coffee chains. The design encourages conversation, not distraction; lingering, not rushing. Seating is thoughtful, acoustics are serene, and the overall environment invites people to stay, connect, and enjoy, not just grab a drink and go. These Scandi-style cafés are spaces where locals and travelers alike meet, work, and socialize in a relaxed setting. This reflects a broader Scandinavian view of coffee culture as both social ritual and daily pleasure, something that goes beyond mere caffeine consumption to become a meaningful part of daily life. Minimalism beyond cafés Interestingly, the minimalist trend isn’t confined to coffee shops. It’s becoming increasingly visible in fashion and beauty as well. Consider the latest collections from Prada: some designs don’t even carry the brand’s logo, relying instead on clean lines and understated elegance. Similarly, the beauty industry is moving toward “clean” make-up, with products emphasizing natural skin, subtle tones, and simplicity. This crossover shows that minimalism in 2026 isn’t just a design choice, because it seems a cultural statement. People want spaces, outfits, and routines that feel intentional and uncluttered, reflecting a broader desire for calm and control. © Prada A new cafès revolution In a world that often feels overstimulated, these cafés offer something valuable: a moment of peace. They are places where simplicity it’s intentional. Where the start of the day isn’t rushed.  And as the trend continues to spread in 2026, it’s clear that minimalist cafés are more than a style, they’re a reflection of how we want to live and experience moments of calm in an increasingly busy world.

  • Leftover Panettone recipe ideas

    Panettone, the classic Italian Christmas dessert, is a holiday favorite across Italy and beyond. Its fluffy, sweet dough studded with candied fruits and raisins makes it irresistible during the festive season. But what happens when the holidays are over and you still have a leftover panettone sitting on the kitchen counter? Instead of letting it go stale, there are plenty of creative ways to transform it into delicious treats. 1. Panettone French Toast One of the easiest and most indulgent ways to use leftover panettone is to make French toast. Simply slice the cake into thick pieces, dip them in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and a touch of vanilla, and cook them on a buttered pan until golden brown. Top with fresh fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of chocolate or honey for a luxurious breakfast or brunch treat. 2. Panettone Bread Pudding Bread pudding is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert, and panettone makes it even better. Cut the cake into cubes and soak them in a custard made from eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and a hint of vanilla or citrus zest. Bake until golden and set, then serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This is a great way to turn a leftover panettone into a show-stopping dessert for family and friends. 3. Panettone Trifle Layered desserts like trifles are perfect for using up leftover cakes. Cube your panettone and alternate layers with mascarpone cream, custard, or even chocolate mousse. Add fresh berries or roasted nuts between layers for extra texture. Chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving, it’s visually impressive and incredibly tasty. 4. Panettone Croutons or Toasted Snacks For a simpler, crunchy option, cut panettone into small cubes and toast them in the oven until crisp. These sweet croutons are perfect for sprinkling over yogurt, ice cream, or fruit salad. They also make a charming addition to holiday-inspired salads or can be enjoyed simply as a snack with coffee or tea. 5. Panettone Truffles Panettone can also be turned into decadent bite-sized treats. Crumble the cake, mix it with cream cheese, nut butter, or chocolate ganache, then roll into balls and coat with cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or crushed nuts. Panettone truffles are fun to make, easy to share, and a perfect way to repurpose leftover slices. Leftover panettone doesn’t have to go to waste. With a little creativity, it can be transformed into breakfast delights, comforting desserts, or sweet snacks.

  • Why is Veganuary becoming so popular?

    Every January, millions of people around the world take part in Veganuary, the global challenge that encourages trying a fully plant-based diet for 31 days. What started in the UK in 2014 has now become an international movement, and its popularity is growing fast across Europe, the United States, and beyond. But what exactly is Veganuary, and why are so many people giving it a try? What is Veganuary? Veganuary is a campaign that invites people to eat vegan for the month of January. This means avoiding all animal products, including meat, fish, dairy, eggs, and honey, and focusing instead on fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. The goal is not only to promote a healthier lifestyle, but also to raise awareness about animal welfare and environmental sustainability. Why January? January is a month for fresh starts. After the indulgence of holiday feasts, people often feel a stronger urge for lightness, balance, and positive change. There are three main reasons people choose to participate in Veganuary: Health:  many join to reset their eating habits after the holidays, improve digestion, reduce cholesterol, or feel more energetic. Environment:  a plant-based diet has a lower carbon footprint and uses fewer natural resources than an animal-based one. Animals:  for some, Veganuary is a way to explore a more compassionate lifestyle and reduce animal suffering. Today, following Veganuary is easier than ever. Supermarkets, restaurants, and cafés now offer a wide range of plant-based options, from burgers and pizzas to desserts and milk alternatives. Traditional dishes can also be easily adapted using vegetables, legumes, and plant-based proteins. A well-planned vegan diet can provide all essential nutrients, including protein, iron, and calcium. It’s important to include a variety of foods such as beans, lentils, tofu, whole grains, and leafy greens. Many people discover new ingredients and recipes during Veganuary, making their diet more diverse and balanced. Veganuary: 31 days of meaningful change Veganuary is not a strict or punitive challenge, there are no failures and no need for guilt. Even gradually reducing animal products is already an important step. Many people, once the month is over, choose to continue on this path in a more conscious and flexible way, incorporating new eating habits into their daily routine. In a time when health, sustainability, and well-being are more important than ever, Veganuary offers a concrete opportunity to try a simple yet meaningful change. Thirty-one days may seem short, but they are often enough to open the door to lasting new habits.

  • What is the Chinese New Year animal for 2026?

    2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse. It is a year expected to be full of action, social connections, and fast-paced changes. As January unfolds, a fresh wave of energy arrives, not just from our local traditions, but from the celebrations of the Lunar New Year. In particular, on January 17th, we officially enter the Year of the Fire Horse, a zodiac sign that embodies strength, independence, and an unbridled passion for life. Discover the symbolism of the Chinese Zodiac and the most lucky dishes of the New Chinese Year! The Symbolism of the Chinese Zodiac The Chinese Zodiac consists of 12 animals, each taking turns to rule the year. During the Spring Festival ( Chunjie ), families gather to "make" their luck, literally. The Year of the Fire Horse in 2026 brings with it energy, movement, and a strong desire for progress. Through the Chinese Zodiac, each animal and every traditional food carries a specific meaning, from success and protection to family unity and personal growth. The Horse (2026):   The Fire Horse is one of the 60-year cycle animals in the Chinese Zodiac, combining the Horse sign with the Fire element, and it carries very strong symbolism. People born under this sign, or years marked by it, like 2026, are believed to embody energy, independence, courage, and a passionate, adventurous spirit. The Fire element adds intensity, ambition, and sometimes impulsiveness to the already dynamic and free-spirited Horse. This year, festive breads and dumplings are shaped to represent "Ma Dao Cheng Gong" (instant success upon the arrival of the horse). The Dragon & Phoenix:  Often depicted in intricate braided breads to symbolize balance and a perfect marriage. The Rabbit and Tiger:  Frequently modeled into steamed buns ( Mantou ) to protect children and bring them courage. What dough-based foods bring luck in the New Year?   In China, the "Reunion Dinner" is centered around the collective making of dough-based dishes. Dumplings (Jiaozi) are the most famous, but steamed buns (Mantou) shaped like the zodiac animals and sweet rice balls (Tangyuan) are also essential for prosperity and family unity. Jiaozi (The Fortune Dumplings):  their shape resembles ancient gold ingots. Rolling out the wrappers and crimping the edges by hand is a ritual meant to "wrap in" wealth and "seal" the family’s luck for the next 12 months. Mantou   (steamed buns) : this is the perfect alternative to traditional baked bread. Mantou are typically plain, unstuffed buns. Instead of being baked in an oven, they are steamed in bamboo baskets or metal steamers. Mantou s ymbolize simplicity and purity, reflecting a fresh start or humble life. Sharing them with family represents unity, harmony, and strong family bonds. Their round, puffy shape is also associated with prosperity and good fortune, sometimes resembling coins or ingots. Nian Gao (Year Cake):  a sticky rice dough. Because "Gao" sounds like the word for "high" or "tall," eating this dough symbolizes rising higher in your career, health, or personal growth. Fa Gao (Prosperity Buns):  these are steamed cupcakes that "split" or "bloom" at the top. The wider the cracks in the dough, the better the omen for the coming year. Dumplings, steamed buns, rice cakes, and prosperity buns are not just dishes, but symbols of hope, luck, and shared wishes for the year ahead. As families gather to prepare and enjoy these foods together, the Lunar New Year becomes a moment to reconnect, celebrate tradition, and look forward to new opportunities with optimism.

  • Italian Cuisine: A UNESCO treasure of love and connection

    The news is official, and our hearts are full of pride: Italian Cuisine has been formally recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.  At IMPASTIAMO , we believe this prestigious title honors much more than the perfect al dente pasta or our world-renowned olive oils. It is a global tribute to the Italian way of life, a philosophy that elevates the dining table to the very center of the human experience. Beyond the recipe, there’s the ritual When we speak of "La Cucina Italiana," we aren't just discussing ingredients; we are celebrating a symphony of social practices, rituals, and gestures handed down through centuries. UNESCO isn't just protecting a recipe for lasagna; it is protecting the art of shaping orecchiette with grandmother on a Sunday morning. It honors the passionate debates over regional ragù and the sacred, unspoken rule that a meal is never merely "fuel", it is a profound act of love. In Italy, the kitchen is the heartbeat of the home, the sanctuary where problems are solved and every great celebration begins. The "Cuisine of Affection" As Italian Minister Francesco Lollobrigida aptly noted, our cuisine speaks of our deepest roots and our unique ability to transform tradition into a universal value. It is truly a "Cuisine of Affection." It transmits memory, care, and identity, weaving the stories of families and local communities into every bite. This heritage reflects the unbreakable bond between our natural landscapes and our people. From the sun-drenched lemons of Sorrento to the earthy truffles of Piedmont, the food tells the story of the land. It is a practice rooted in cucina povera (the cooking of the poor), which teaches us a vital modern lesson: respect the seasons and eliminate waste. Why UNESCO matters for the Italian Cuisine UNESCO highlights that Italian cooking is a powerful tool for social inclusion. It promotes well-being and creates a channel for lifelong, intergenerational learning. By its very nature, it strengthens communal bonds and encourages sharing, but also fosters a deep sense of belonging and cultural identity. La cucina italiana transpends barriers, allowing people of all backgrounds to connect through the universal language of food. Cooking "all'Italiana" is a community experience that emphasizes intimacy with the ingredients and the joy of shared moments. Because roles in the kitchen are often interchangeable, it becomes an inclusive experience where everyone, regardless of age or origin, can contribute to the collective memory. IMPAS-TIAMO: kneading love into every class At Impastiamo, these values aren't just concepts; they are our DNA. Our name itself holds a secret: IMPAS- TIAMO (we knead - I love you ). This play on words captures our core mission. Our love isn't just for the flour and the flame; it’s for the people who create and share the meal. We know that the most authentic love is found in those shared moments across a table. Whether you join one of our team-building cooking events or an authentic Italian workshop, you aren't just learning a skill. You are participating in a UNESCO-protected heritage. We are proud to bring this legacy of connection, sustainability, and "cucina degli affetti" to your table, wherever you are in the world.

  • Christmas Crack Recipe: The easiest holiday treat

    If you are looking for a quick and delicious treat to make this holiday season, Christmas Crack is the answer. Also known as "saltine toffee", this sweet and salty dessert has become a Christmas favorite in homes all around the United States. It’s crispy, buttery, chocolatey, and takes less than 30 minutes to make. The name “Christmas Crack” comes from how it literally cracks into pieces once it cools, but also because it’s so good you can’t stop eating it. It’s perfect for holiday parties, gift boxes, or cozy movie nights by the fireplace. And the best part? You probably already have all the ingredients in your kitchen. Ingredients 1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup brown sugar About 40 saltine crackers (or enough to cover your baking sheet) 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate) Optional toppings: crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, or sea salt flakes Instructions to prepare the Christmas Crack Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, covering the entire pan. In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture starts to bubble. Let it boil for 3 minutes without stirring. Pour the hot caramel over the crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 5 minutes until the caramel is bubbling and golden. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. Let them melt for a minute, then spread the chocolate evenly. Add your favorite toppings: crushed candy canes for a festive look, or chopped pecans and a pinch of sea salt for a richer flavor. Let the tray cool completely, then place it in the fridge for about an hour. Once it’s firm, crack it into pieces and enjoy! PS. Store your Christmas Crack in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to a week, though it rarely lasts that long! The perfect Christmas treat Christmas Crack is a holiday tradition. The combination of sweet toffee, salty crackers and chocolate captures the feeling of Christmas. You can even keep it in the fridge and enjoy it cold, it tastes just as good. Wherever you are, this simple recipe will bring a bit of Christmas magic to your kitchen. So this year, skip the complicated desserts. Make a batch of Christmas Crack, share it with people you love, and enjoy a treat.

  • Candy Cane Cookies: A Christmas recipe

    There’s something special about cookies that mix two flavors in one bite: buttery vanilla and rich chocolate, twisted together like a candy cane . These candy cane cookies are soft and crumbly. Plus , they look beautiful on a holiday table (or any time you want to treat yourself). They’re definitely the kind of treat you can make as a Christmas gift idea . Pack them in a glass jar and decorate it with a red ribbon, maybe even add a little tag with the list of ingredients! It’s a simple, cute, and budget-friendly idea! Ingredients For the dough (makes about 25 cookies): 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour 100 g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened 100 g (½ cup) sugar 1 egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp baking powder A pinch of salt 1 ½ tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for the chocolate half) Optional: a little milk (if the dough feels too dry) Instructions 1. Prepare the dough base In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix again until well combined. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, it should come together easily without sticking too much to your hands. If the dough feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon or two of milk. 2. Divide and flavor   Split the dough into two equal parts. Leave one half as it is, this will be your vanilla dough. To the other half, add the cocoa powder. Mix gently until the color is even and the dough is smooth. Now you have two doughs: one vanilla, one chocolate. 3. Shape the candy cane sticks Take a small piece (about the size of a walnut) from each dough. Roll each into a thin rope, around 10–12 cm (4–5 inches) long. Place one vanilla rope and one chocolate rope side by side. Gently twist them together to create a two-tone swirl. If you want them to look like candy canes, you can curve one end slightly into a hook shape. Continue until you’ve used up all the dough. 4. Chill (optional but recommended) For best results, place the shaped cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and chill in the fridge for about 15–20 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while baking. 5. Bake Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, until they’re slightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely. Tips You can freeze the shaped cookies and bake them straight from frozen, just add 2–3 minutes to the baking time. For a festive touch, dip one end in melted chocolate or sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top. Store in an airtight container for up to a week (if they last that long!). Whether you make them for Christmas, a party, or just a rainy Sunday afternoon, they’ll fill your kitchen with the smell of butter and cocoa and probably disappear faster than you expect.

  • PASTA&CHILL - The Italian art of gathering

    There are many ways to spend an evening in Los Angeles, but few feel as warm and meaningful as gathering to cook and eat fresh pasta together. That is the spirit behind PASTA & CHILL, the new cultural experience hosted by IMPASTIAMO, where good food, drinks and good company come together. This event is inspired by a simple idea. Cooking pasta does not need to be complicated. It can be relaxing, social and fun, especially when shared with friends or with new people. At PASTA & CHILL guests learn how to make handmade pasta from scratch and enjoy a day that feels like entering a cozy Italian kitchen. One of the most special parts of PASTA & CHILL is the atmosphere. Unlike a traditional cooking class this event feels like a relaxed dinner party with new friends and - of course - music in the background. It is the kind of event that makes you forget the noise of the day. Fresh homemade pasta always tastes better, and sharing it makes it even more unforgettable. A drink completes the experience and adds to the easy going mood that defines PASTA & CHILL. When & Where: 🗓️ Sunday, December 14th, 2025 📍 The Butcher's Daughter (WeHo), Los A ngeles What's included:  – Free Pesto Genovese with a twist (contains nuts, gluten & dairy)  – Free Pasta Alla Norma with a twist (contains nuts, gluten & dairy)  – Entry into sponsor raffles, featuring:       • Di Napoli      • Partanna      • Mancini  – Watching a real Pastaio (Pasta Maker) roll fresh made pasta. What to bring An Appetite Good Conversation Maybe a date ;) Our mission is to bring people together through the love of food and drink. Come for the pasta, stay for the warmth, and leave with a taste of Italy in you r heart. You do not need any experience to join and you don't need to be Italian to attend. What to expect: At our event, you must RSVP (1) to attend and claim your free pasta. Plus, you can enjoy a VIP Pasta Making Experience (2). (1) RSVP (free entry) You must RSVP to attend and claim your free pasta. Upon entry, each guest will receive a ticket  redeemable for one complimentary plate of pasta . Your attendance will automatically enter you into the raffle. This is a first come, first serve event — seating is limited and an RSVP does not guarantee entry once we reach capacity. Free pasta will be served, but please note: one sample per person, while supplies last. (2) VIP Pasta Making Experience - Starting from 75$ ONLY 10 SPOTS AVAILABLE MAX Learn to make fresh, handmade pasta from scratch under the guidance of a Master Pastaio in an intimate group setting. Your ticket includes a Welcome Tote Bag filled with premium Italian imported ingredients, plus an authentic imported gnocchi board to continue your pasta-making journey at home. Entry Disclaimer This is a first come, first serve event — seating is limited and an RSVP does not guarantee entry  once we reach capacity. Free pasta will be served, but please note: one sample per person, while supplies last. RSVP is encouraged to help us plan — and we recommend arriving early to secure your spot . Disclosures By attending, you agree that you may be filmed, photographed, or recorded for use by Lovell Productions and their respective licensees, assignees, and affiliates (the “Released Parties”). The Released Parties have the right to use your name, picture, voice, performance, and any other likeness (collectively, “Likeness”) in any manner, in all media (including, without limitation, marketing, sponsorship, and advertisement) throughout the world, in perpetuity. You waive any right to inspect or approve materials or to receive compensation for your participation or for any use of your Likeness. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not attend the event. If you are the parent or guardian of any minor(s) in attendance, you make all of the representations, agreements, consents, releases, and waivers herein on behalf of yourself and such minor(s). So, for those who love Italian cuisine or want a break from the usual night out this event offers a warm and memorable alternative. PASTA & CHILL Vol. 2 is more than an experience. It is a small celebration of good food and good company, the kind of evening that stays with you long after the last bite. Bring a friend or come alone and let the simple act of cooking turn into a moment of connection and joy :) See you there?

  • Pappardelle Bolognese: A Traditional Italian Ragù recipe

    When people think of Bologna they imagine ancient porticos, piazzas and above all the deep and rich flavor of true Italian ragù. This is the heart of pappardelle alla bolognese made with ragù. Discover the recipe of the Italian ragù step by step! Italian ragù is not just a meat sauce. It begins with a soffritto of finely chopped onions, carrots and celery cooked until sweet. In many kitchens the next step depends on family secrets. Some add a mix of beef and pork, others include pancetta for extra depth. The meat is browned slowly to release flavor, then kissed with a splash of wine that evaporates leaving behind the richness of this italian plate. Today you can bring that spirit into your kitchen with this simple recipe for real pappardelle bolognese prepared in the style of an Italian nonna. Ingredients Fresh pappardelle Ground beef and pork Onion, carrot and celery Red wine Tomato puree Whole milk Olive oil Salt and pepper How to make the Ragù Begin by heating a pot with a gentle drizzle of olive oil. Add finely chopped onion, carrot and celery and cook them slowly until they soften and release their sweetness. This step is the soul of the ragù italiano and a good soffritto must never be rushed. Add the meat and let it brown patiently. Stir it with a wooden spoon. When the meat loses its pink color pour in a splash of wine and allow it to evaporate. This gives the sauce a deep round flavor. Now add tomato puree in a small amount. Ragù is not meant to be a tomato heavy sauce. It is meant to be rich and mellow. Lower the heat and let everything simmer. A real pappardelle bolognese needs time. The sauce should cook very slowly for at least two hours. Many families let it bubble for even longer. Halfway through the cooking add a bit of milk. This is a traditional trick from Bologna. It softens the acidity of the tomato and gives the sauce its comforting creaminess. Pappardelle pasta While the ragù cooks prepare the pappardelle. If you are making them fresh roll the dough until thin and cut wide ribbons that will catch the sauce perfectly. Boil the pappardelle in salted water until al dente. If you're wondering how to make pappardelle, we got you! Check our recipe at this link. Mix ragù and pappardelle Drain the pasta and add it directly into the pot of ragù. Let the ribbons soak in the sauce for a moment. This step makes a big difference and is often skipped outside Italy. Serve everything warm with a generous spoon of ragù on top. When the pappardelle meets the ragù on the plate you will understand why this dish has become a symbol of Italian comfort food. Prepare this dish when you want to share something truly Italian. Every bite carries the warmth of a family kitchen and the rhythm of a Sunday in Bologna.

  • Homemade Maccheroni: A Sicilian recipe

    During our retreat we spent a few unforgettable days in Maletto, a small village at the foot of Mount Etna where time seems to slow down. Maletto is the kind of place that makes you feel instantly at home. There is no rush, no schedule to chase, only the pleasant hurry to eat a plate of homemade maccheroni while waiting for the next dish from Nonna’s kitchen.  We were lucky enough to be hosted by Nonna Maria , in her cozy Sicilian home filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread. From the moment we stepped in, we felt like part of the family. Maria welcomed us with a generous smile and a table already set with pane cunzato , a typical Sicilian dish made with rustic bread, olive oil, tomatoes, oregano, and a sprinkle of salt. Simple, humble, yet bursting with flavor, exactly how Sicily teaches you to live and eat. After lunch, it was time to get our hands dirty. We rolled up our sleeves and started preparing maccheroni fatti in casa , homemade pasta made only with flour and water, shaped one by one by hand. In Sicily, maccheroni are not the same as the tubular pasta you find in stores. They are long, slightly twisted strands of dough rolled around a thin wooden stick called giunco .  Giunco  is a tall, flexible plant that grows near rivers, ponds, and wetlands across the Mediterranean, especially in Sicily. Its smooth green stems are harvested, dried, and used for traditional crafts such as basket weaving and chair making. You can often find it growing wild at the foot of Mount Etna , where artisans still collect and work with it by hand. Now we want to share Nonna Maria’s recipe with you. Trust us, it is worth every minute you spend making it. Ingredients for Maccheroni 500 g of semolina flour 3 eggs 250 ml of warm water A pinch of salt A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (optional) Useful Tools A clean wooden surface or large board for kneading A Giunco stick or thin skewer for shaping the pasta A kitchen towel to cover the dough while it rests Procedure Pour the flour onto your surface or a bowl and make a small well in the center. Crack 3 eggs into the center. Add the warm water and a pinch of salt. Slowly mix with your hands until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Let it rest for 20 minutes, covered with a damp towel or a bowl. Cut small pieces of dough and roll each one into a thin rope. Wrap it gently around the giunco  and roll to create the signature maccheroni shape. Slide the pasta off carefully. Let it dry on a kitchen towel. When you are done, you will have a tray full maccheroni ready to be cooked and served with your favorite sauce. How to Serve In Nonna Maria’s kitchen, maccheroni are never complete without a rich tomato and basil sauce . Once the pasta is cooked al dente, it is tossed in the sauce and finished with a generous handful of grated ricotta salata  or pecorino . Serve with a glass of local wine (we highly recommend the one from Gustinella ) and you will taste Sicily: simple ingredients, deep flavors, and a sense of community that turns every meal into a celebration.

bottom of page