Campania in a Calice- Fiano di Avellino, 4 September 2024, Tramonto Wine Bar Bacoli (Na)

Imagine an evening where the beauty of Italy's Campania region comes alive in every sip. Join us for an exclusive "Campania in a Calice" aperitif evening, centered around the exquisite Fiano di Avellino wines. Set against the serene backdrop of Lake Fusaro in Bacoli, at the charming Tramonto Wine Bar, this event promises a delightful blend of flavors, stories, and camaraderie.

Our casual tasting will feature four distinct Fiano di Avellino wines, each offering a unique expression of this renowned varietal. From bright, citrusy notes to richer, honeyed complexities, you'll explore the diverse profiles that make Fiano di Avellino a standout among Italian wines. To complement your tasting experience, a selection of carefully curated appetizers will be served, designed to enhance the flavors of the wines and showcase the culinary heritage of Campania.
In addition to the wines and appetizers, every guest will receive an Andiamotrips ebook. This ebook will not only enrich your understanding of the wines you're tasting but also inspire future adventures in this beautiful part of the world.

All of this is available for just 35 euros, making it an accessible and enriching evening for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

For details on how to sign up write me at andiamotrips@gmail.com or visit the website here https://www.andiamotrips.it/andiamotrips-toursevents

Ischia Safari 2024: A Culinary Journey into Taste, September 15 to 17, 2024

Mark your calendars, foodies!! The eighth edition of Ischia Safari, the celebrated gastronomic event that highlights Italian culinary excellence, is gearing up to dazzle the public from September 15 to 17, 2024.

The lush, green island of Ischia will transform into a grand stage for a "Journey into Taste," a sensory exploration that masterfully blends tradition with culinary innovation.

A Unique Experience for Food Lovers

Ischia Safari returns this year with over 300 of Italy’s finest culinary talents. What began in 2015 as a charitable dinner organized by Michelin-starred chefs and friends Nino Di Costanzo and Pasquale Palamaro, has flourished into an internationally renowned food festival. Initially envisioned as a multi-course dinner to raise funds for a good cause, the event has evolved into a grand celebration of food that attracts chefs, pastry chefs, pizza makers, producers, restaurateurs, and wineries. Thousands flock from all over Italy to savor the exceptional dishes, wines, and products on offer.

The proceeds from ticket sales will continue to support the provision of materials and scholarships for students of hotel schools, embodying the democratic spirit of Ischia Safari. This inclusiveness is evident as the event features both Michelin-starred chefs and local cooks, renowned pizza chefs and humble traditionalists, celebrated pastry chefs and young, creative innovators. The festival truly honors the great tradition of Italian cuisine, rooted deeply in family recipes and memories, making it a dive into the gastronomic heritage that forms the core of our cultural identity.

A Program Full of Events

The schedule for Ischia Safari 2024 promises a series of unmissable events that will delight the palates and senses of food lovers everywhere.

September 15: The festivities kick off with a Gala Dinner at the prestigious Hotel Regina Isabella. Around 20 Michelin-starred chefs and renowned pastry chefs will craft an exclusive tasting menu for 150 lucky guests, set in an elegant and refined atmosphere.

September 16: The celebration continues with the Festa al Negombo. This event offers a unique opportunity to sample specialties prepared by over 250 culinary stars, both Michelin-starred and non-starred. Chefs, pizza makers, pastry chefs, and artisans of taste will present their creations in a joyous, seaside party under the stars. The evening will be capped off with live music and a magnificent fireworks display.

September 17: The final day focuses on the future of gastronomy. A roundtable discussion featuring renowned experts will delve into future trends and current issues in food and wine. The event will conclude with a refined brunch and a prestigious pastry competition, where master pastry chefs will create desserts that embody the spirit of Ischia, blending tradition and innovation into masterpieces of taste.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official website: Ischia Safari.

🎉 Exciting News! 🍷 Announcing "Campania in a Calice" Series with Andiamotrips, Kuma 65, and Tramonto Wine Bar! 🎉

 

I'm thrilled to share some fantastic news! I’m teaming up with Kuma 65 and Tramonto Wine Bar for an exciting new series titled "Campania in a Calice." If you have a passion for wine or simply enjoy a good aperitif, this is the perfect series for you!

Starting this September, we’ll be hosting monthly wine tastings and aperitifs that celebrate the exquisite wines from the Campania region. Each month, we'll highlight a different wine variety or winery, offering you the chance to dive into the rich and vibrant flavors that make Campania wines so unique. And of course, what’s wine without the perfect pairing? Kuma 65 will be crafting a delightful array of appetizers to complement each tasting, ensuring your palate is in for an unforgettable treat.

These events will take place at the beautiful Tramonto Wine Bar, adding an extra layer of charm to our gatherings. I can't wait to share more details and dates with you soon, so stay tuned and get ready to join us on a journey through the exquisite world of Campania wines. Cheers to new experiences and unforgettable flavors! 🍷✨

The Drawbacks of Blindly Following "Top Places to Eat" Lists : A Campania Food Blogger's Perspective

 

As a food and wine blogger rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Campania, I’ve had the privilege of exploring many eateries—from quaint pizzerias to lavish Michelin starred restaurants. While it’s tempting to rely on “Top Places to Eat” lists, it’s not always the best route to discovering your next favorite spot. Here are a few compelling reasons why you might want to think twice before following these classifications blindly.

Personal Preferences Matter

Top lists often reflect the preferences of their creators, which may not align with your tastes. What one reviewer finds delightful, another might find underwhelming. You might love a rustic, homey atmosphere while the list might highlight upscale, trendy spots. Personal preferences in food, ambiance, and service play a huge role in your overall dining experience, so it's essential to consider what truly appeals to you.

Overcrowding and Long Wait Times

Popular spots featured in top lists often face the downside of their fame: overcrowding. Long wait times and packed dining areas can detract from an enjoyable meal. The charm of a cozy pizzeria or a tranquil sandwich shop can be lost amidst a flood of eager patrons. Seeking out lesser-known establishments can provide a more relaxed and intimate dining experience.

The Influence of Marketing

Sometimes, top lists are influenced by marketing efforts rather than genuine quality. Restaurants with larger advertising budgets can secure spots on these lists, overshadowing smaller, equally deserving establishments. As a food blogger, I've seen both sides of the coin and understand that a high ranking doesn’t always equate to a superior dining experience.

Recommendations Are Still Valuable

While it's important to be cautious with top lists, recommendations are still valuable. They can serve as a starting point to explore new places. However, it's crucial to balance them with your own research and preferences. Engage with local food communities, read diverse reviews, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favorite spots.

Finding What’s Best for You

To truly find the best places for you, consider the following tips:

1. Explore Local Reviews: Tap into local forums, blogs, and social media groups. They often provide more nuanced and diverse insights.
2. Trust Your Instincts: Sometimes, a place just "feels right." Trust your gut when you walk into a restaurant; the ambiance and initial impressions can be telling.
3. Try Something New: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Some of the best culinary experiences come from unexpected finds.
4. Ask for Recommendations: When in doubt, ask locals. They often know the hidden gems that don’t make it to the mainstream lists.

In summary, while “Top Places to Eat” lists can be a helpful guide, they are not the be-all and end-all. Personal preferences, authenticity, and the joy of discovering hidden gems are crucial elements of a memorable dining experience. As someone who has savored the diverse flavors of Campania, I encourage you to explore beyond the lists and find what truly delights your palate. 

Happy dining!

Lisola: The New Culinary Haven by Nino Di Costanzo, Ivano Veccia, and Federico de Majo Opens in Ischia (Na)

Nestled within a green tuff structure by the sea in Forio, Lisola is the latest venture by renowned chef Nino Di Costanzo, celebrated pizza maker Ivano Veccia, and esteemed Venetian entrepreneur Federico de Majo. This delightful venue encompasses both a restaurant and a pizzeria, offering a menu that pays homage to Mediterranean and traditional Ischian cuisine. Expect to find iconic dishes from the chef and unique pizzas crafted by Veccia, making it a must-visit dining destination.

De Majo, Veccia, Di Costanzo

Chef Nino Di Costanzo, a two-Michelin-starred culinary artist, shares that the idea for Lisola blossomed from a longstanding friendship and mutual respect among the trio. The establishment took a year and a half to complete and resides in a historic green tuff building dating back to 1927. Situated right by the sea with Mount Epomeo as a majestic backdrop, the location boasts one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning sunsets, as described by Di Costanzo. From the terrace, guests can admire breathtaking views of Ventotene and the Soccorso Church.

Spread across 700 square meters, excluding the outdoor parking, Lisola features 150 seats mainly set outdoors. The garden terrace, adorned with an artisanal Sorrento pergola and an olive tree, offers five private rooms with exclusive sea views. The indoor area, designed for winter months, complements the space with an underground cellar, a veranda with panoramic windows, and various culinary corners including a kitchen, pizzeria, grill, and spit. The furnishings predominantly showcase Italian craftsmanship, with materials like wood, stone, and iron, all enhancing the contemporary yet earthy design. Lighting, a critical aspect, is curated by de Majo, who brings his expertise in Murano glass to create a warm and inviting atmosphere with dynamic and modern fixtures, especially in the pizzeria and grill areas.

Lisola’s menu is a tribute to the flavors of Campania, crafted with seasonal ingredients sourced mainly from Southern Italy. Signature dishes include rabbit ravioli, Ischian rabbit, spaghetti with five tomatoes, and linguine with lobster. The pizzeria, led by Ivano Veccia, features standout pizzas like "Lasagna povera" and "Provola e Pepe." Guests can enjoy a tasting path for both the cuisine and pizzas, paired with a curated wine list of nearly 300 labels, primarily from Campania and Ischia. Desserts focus on processed fruit, with traditional creations to be introduced in modern interpretations.

Lisola opens on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Via Giovanni Mazzella, 116, Forio (NA), and will welcome guests every evening from 6:30 pm for aperitifs and dinner. For reservations, call 081.18182524 or visit www.lisola.restaurant.

Photos by  Pietro La Macchia

Travel Smart: The Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Social Media Groups for Your Next Adventure

In today's world, finding travel advice is practically a breeze thanks to digital connectivity. Social media groups, especially on platforms like Facebook, are goldmines for travel lovers looking for tips, recommendations, and insights. As someone who plans small group trips focused on food and wine in the beautiful Campania region of Italy, I've spent a lot of time in these travel groups. I've seen the incredible advice they offer and noticed some potential drawbacks, too. So, let's dive into the perks and pitfalls of using these groups for travel advice, and I’ll also share some handy tips for asking questions effectively.

Why Social Media Travel Groups Rock:

Different Points of View: Travel groups bring together folks from all walks of life, each with their own travel stories and insights. This mix of perspectives can give you a well-rounded idea of a destination, helping you make smarter choices.

Up-to-the-Minute Info: Members often post the latest updates, including changes in travel conditions, local events, and new attractions. This is super helpful, especially when things are changing quickly.

Community Vibes: These groups create a sense of community where people are eager to help each other out. Whether you're hunting for hidden gems or need advice on local customs, there's always someone ready to lend a hand.

The Not-So-Great Stuff:

Too Much Info: With tons of posts and comments, it can be tough to find the info you need. Not all advice is accurate or relevant, which can make decision-making tricky.

Biased Opinions: Everyone’s travel experiences and preferences are different. What works for one person might not work for another, leading to advice that can sometimes be biased or subjective.

Privacy Issues: Sharing your travel plans and personal details in a public group can be risky. Be cautious about what you disclose.

Tips for Asking Questions in Travel Groups:

Get Specific: When asking for advice, be clear about what you need. Instead of asking for broad recommendations, mention your interests, budget, and travel dates to get more tailored advice.

Do Some Research: Before posting a question, search the group to see if it's already been answered. This shows respect for the community's time and can get you quicker answers.

Be Polite: Always be courteous and respectful. A simple "please" and "thank you" can go a long way in getting positive responses.

To wrap it up, social media travel groups can be a fantastic resource for travel advice, but it's important to use them wisely. Have you ever used social media groups for your travel planning? How did it go? Share your experiences in the comments below!