The colours, smells and tastes of Italian cooking run through my life like a red thread.

My family originates from the Friuli region in northeast Italy. My grandparents were among the first Italian guest workers who came to the Netherlands after the Second World War as terrazzo craftsman. I am of the first generation of my family born in the Netherlands.

I have many fond memories of summer vacations spent with my family in Maniago. From the time I was a small boy, my grandmothers and mother fed me pure, honest and varied Italian cooking. I inherited their love of fresh products, and an appreciation for the time and care that goes into making a great meal.

For me, there´s nothing more beautiful than lingering with family and friends over a table with delicious food and good wine – just like it´s done in Italy.