A Taste of Italy

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Italy’s most enchanting landscapes, A Taste of Italy is a captivating culinary exploration the of the stunning boot-shaped nation. Hosted by legendary British actress Angela Hartnett, the 2021 Acorn TV series takes viewers on a remarkable journey through the rich, diverse, and globally influential culture of Italian cuisine.

This sumptuous, mouth-watering series is an amalgamation of travelogue, cooking show, and culture guide that will transport viewers to the romantic vistas of Italy. Angela Hartnett, renowned chef and protégé of Gordon Ramsay, carries audiences across various regions of the country, right from the bustling cities to tranquil agricultural landscapes. With her unique charm and extensive culinary expertise, she reveals the secrets of traditional Italian cooking, the importance of indigenous ingredients, and the astonishing stories of the people behind these iconic dishes.

Across the show's ten memorably engaging episodes, Angela visits families, restaurants, food festivals, vineyards, and local food markets that truly reflect the gastronomic riches Italy has to offer. Each episode centers around a specific territory, allowing for a deep dive into the unique culinary flavors of regions such as Lazio, Piedmont, Tuscany, and Sicily, among others. As the series progresses, viewers will witness Angela master the art of making local delicacies with the help of seasoned Italian chefs, home cooks, family matriarchs others who have honed their skills and recipes across generations.

From the robust, savoury meat dishes of Piedmont to the heavenly flavours of the Neapolitan pizza, A Taste of Italy is a celebration of regional Italian gastronomy. Alongside, the show also highlights the quintessential, fresh produce and high-quality ingredients that form the basis of Italian fare. Angela is seen sampling revered wines, olive oils, truffles, cheeses and more, unraveling the diligent processes that go behind their creation and their irreplaceable contribution to the Italian palate.

Yet, A Taste of Italy isn't just an exploration of food. As Angela travels the nation, the show also uncovers the beautifully woven tapestry of Italian culture and history influenced by its cuisine. The audience gets an insightful look into the proud traditions, the strong sense of regional identity, the symbiotic relationship between the land and its cuisine and the quintessentially Italian belief of sharing food with loved ones. All of this comes together to create a show that is as nourishing for the soul as it is for the taste buds.

The cinematography of A Taste of Italy deserves special mention. The videography wonderfully captures Italy’s breathtaking landscapes, including rustic olive groves, lush vineyards, sparkling coastlines, aura-filled ancient streets and, bustling piazzas, offering viewers a visual treat, and heightens the immersive travel experience. There is a loving attention to detail in capturing the sizzling Italian kitchens, the delicate plating of the dishes and the vivacious, palpable emotion that goes into preparing food, making one feel like they are in a sun-soaked Italian hamlet, charting their own culinary journey.

Faithfully preserving the authenticity of Italian cuisine and proudly shining a spotlight on its unique gastronomic traditions, A Taste of Italy is a must-watch for foodies, chefs, culinary enthusiasts, or anyone who simply appreciates good food and the stories they tell. Angela Hartnett’s warm, relatable approach and evident passion for Italian cuisine makes her an ideal tour guide, and she brings a level of depth and warmth rarely seen in conventional food and travel shows.

In essence, A Taste of Italy is a love letter to a country filled with culinary magic and cultural depth. As Angela immerses herself in the flavor profiles of Italy's various regions, drawing connections between food, culture, and personal stories, viewers partake in a deliciously enriching journey that leaves an insatiable longing for a bite of Italy. If you can't visit Italy in person, this series is the next best thing.