The People, The Places, The Food

The food and people of Italy are a big part of its enduring appeal. My favourite memories of travelling through La Bella Italia are of remarkable characters and superb meals, and my strongest recollections are of the two combined.

My books present a series of portraits of the most interesting characters behind some of the best gastronomy in the north, centre and south of Italy. Be they chefs, restaurant owners, sommeliers or producers, their stories reveal the human side of current cooking, whether it’s tradition-based or progressive. And they make getting to know a region a delicious experience.

Christine Smallwood