Milan and Food Traditions: A Culinary Love Story with Laura Benitti
Regular price $36.50 Save $-36.50
No matter where you are in the world, food and culinary traditions reveal a story. In this seminar, we will take a trip back in time: we’ll follow the monks and farmers who worked the fields around Milan and we’ll sit at the table at Sforza Castle with the Renaissance Dukes of Milan. Through these introductions we will begin to understand the reasons for many modern recipes and culinary specialties.
Gastronomy has always played an integral role in the culture and identity of Lombardy in Northern Italy. The area is rife with both fertile territories and cold winters: over the centuries, farmers and monks have developed increased cultivation skills to deal with the climate. From the cultivation of rice introduced by Milanese Dukes in the late 15th century to the abundance of year-round cured meats, especially pork, we will begin to better understand the Milanese food story. We’ll learn stories and legends related to famous recipes such as 'risotto alla milanese', Milanese cutlet and tiramisù, and discover. We’ll even discuss Leonardo da Vinci’s role in Milan’s culinary scene. (Hint: ovens).
In the latter part of our seminar, we will talk about restaurants and deli shops in Milan today, from Peck to Savini or the restaurant Boeucc. Led by an expert on art and local history, Laura Benitti, this interactive seminar will be dedicated to the history of food and local specialties. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with an increased knowledge and curiosity about the culinary traditions of Northern Italy.
Laura was born in Turin, where she studied history of art, but moved to Milan in 2002. Since her graduation, she has accumulated a long experience as an art consultant and registrar in a few museums in Turin, as well as expertise as a local Milan guide. She loves to be both an experienced and friendly local ambassador of Milan and Como area for her travelers.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
If you like history, food and Italian culture, this conversation blends all three in a very satisfying and engaging way.
Loved everything about it and only wish I could be there this year, except not during the heat.
Laura was very difficult to u derstand and rattled papers during her presentation. I’m certain that she would be a great guide but I’ve found on other talks with your company and the British I statute, the delivery is very important.
I found the title misleading. The talk was based on the food depicted in art from the 14th and 15th centuries. Thus the title could be the historical origins of Milan cuisine. I thought the differences between the cuisine of Milan/Lombardy would be contrasted with other regions in Italy. What makes it unique with more emphasis on the current cuisine that visitors will experience.