An Italian culinary expert dedicated to educating and fostering a true understanding of authentic Italian foods and ingredients. True Italian cuisine is built with love and enjoyed with the people you care about most. From there, everything from the proper ingredients to tasteful presentation is of the highest priority. These standards are what separate Chef Mario from the rest of the herd. His abilities have been sought out by major corporations, non-profits, trade shows, women’s groups, organizations as a reflection of his expert knowledge in Italian Culture and Cuisine. He always thrives to deliver a memorable, one of a kind experience.
Chef Christian Fantoni, executive chef of Filini in Chicago, grew up in Bergamo, Italy, where his mother cooked for an Italian prince and inspired his love for Northern Italian cuisine. After graduating from culinary school in Bergamo, he moved to New York in 1994, honing his craft at acclaimed restaurants including Le Bernardin, Le Cirque, and Fiamma Osteria, where he helped maintain its Michelin star rating in 2007. Known for blending Italian tradition with American tastes, he has cooked at the James Beard House, worked alongside Mario Batali, and led kitchens in both New York and Chicago, including Bice Restaurant, RPM Italian, and Portillo Restaurant Group.
Rossella's dream is to bring her Italian background into the homes of families so they too can enjoy quality time together while eating a delicious yet healthy meal. Along with preparing high-quality dishes, she wants to share all of Italy’s rich history, art and romantic ambiance. Her cooking style is simple, colorful, and full of flavor. She only cooks with the best, freshest quality ingredients that will add nutritious value to the meal.
Check out the fun from our previous events! Guests got to experience samples from over 25 authentic Italian brands like Carbone, Gastone Lago, Buitoni, BelGioioso, Stella Rosa, and more! Plus, they got to enjoy professional, live cooking demonstrations from Italian Culinary Experts or Chefs, raffle prizes, exclusive same-day savings, and live Italian music sponsored by La Panzanella!
Shoppers stopped at our Welcome Table for coupons, freebies, and a preview of all featured brands!
A caricature artist added extra excitement with portraits for shoppers to take home!
Professional cooking demonstrations took place at every event!
Entertainers like Stevie Swing set the tone for the event with live and fitting music for shoppers to enjoy!
