The most authentic way to experience a country and its people is through its cuisine, and nowhere is this more true than in Italy. Here, every element—from the shape of the pasta to the sauce it’s paired with—tells a story, reflecting the region’s rich identity and cultural heritage.
In National Geographic’s Tucci in Italy, Stanley Tucci takes us on an unforgettable Italy food tour, uncovering the profound connections between land, people, and food. From Michelin-starred dining experiences to authentic street food, each episode reveals the essence of Italy's diverse gastronomic landscape, offering a true taste of the country's rich culinary heritage.
Photograph: National Geographic
Tuscany: The Cradle of the Renaissance
Tuscany’s historical grandeur is mirrored in its culinary masterpieces. From rolling vineyards to ancient towns, the region’s dishes are a reflection of its deep-rooted past. In Florence, Tucci explores the city’s vibrant food culture, meeting passionate chefs and artisans dedicated to preserving Italy’s culinary traditions.
A notable highlight is his visit to Dalla Lola, a cozy restaurant situated in the working-class neighborhood of Santo Spirito in Florence. Here, Chef Matilde Pettini revives traditional Tuscan "peasant recipes," offering dishes that honor the region's culinary heritage. One standout dish featured is finta trippa, a vegetarian take on the classic tripe. Instead of using actual tripe, this dish combines breadcrumbs, eggs, and Parmesan cheese - a flavorful creation passed down through generations of Florentine housewives.
Where to Stay in Tuscany…
After a day savoring the flavors of Tuscany, indulge in luxury at the Four Seasons Florence, a lavish retreat just 10-minutes away from Piazza del Duomo. This historic haven boasts exquisite frescoes, a serene Michelin-starred restaurant, Il Palagio, nestled within the city’s largest private garden, and an array of dining experiences that showcase the region’s culinary excellence. With impeccable service and refined elegance, it’s the perfect sanctuary to unwind and immerse yourself in Florence’s timeless beauty.
Or, choose the Belmond Castello di Casole in Siena, where history and luxury converge within a 1,000-year-old castle. Offering unparalleled views of the Tuscan hills, this exclusive 39-room property is a haven of rustic elegance. Go truffle hunt with an expert truffle hunter, master your culinary skills in a private cooking class, or explore the renowned Chianti Classico vineyards with a guided tasting of Italy's finest wines.
Lombardy: Innovation Meets Tradition in the Heart of Italy
After savoring Tuscany's culinary traditions, Tucci ventures into Lombardy, Italy's industrial powerhouse. Known for its economic strength, this region blends cutting-edge innovation with refined tradition, where culinary artistry reflects the forward-thinking spirit that drives its economy.
At Da Vittorio, a 3-star Michelin restaurant in Bergamo, Tucci is treated to a pesto risotto made with herbs grown on-site and a bisque crafted from violet prawn heads and salmon eggs. Founded in 1966 and awarded its third Michelin star in 2010, Da Vittorio is known for its commitment to sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients, reflecting Lombardy's pursuit of culinary excellence. This marriage of tradition and innovation is also seen in their expansive estate, which includes a boutique hotel, wine cellar, and helipad.
The commitment to sustainable ingredients exemplifies Lombardy's pursuit of excellence. But does this innovation extend into everyday life? To answer that, Tucci visits Autogrill Villoresi Ovest—a highway rest stop reimagined as a gourmet dining destination. Autogrill has transformed Italy’s dining culture, serving over 5 million meals annually—a true testament to the region’s commitment to bringing culinary innovation to everyday life.
Where to Stay in Lombardy…
Da Vittorio is not only one of Italy's finest restaurants but also a distinguished Relais & Châteaux property, nestled in the serene hills of the Lombard countryside. Guests can elevate their culinary journey with exclusive cooking classes or enjoy a peaceful stroll through the expansive 1.5-hectare vineyard, offering stunning views and a true taste of Tuscany.
For those venturing into Lombardy’s capital, no visit is complete without a stay at the Mandarin Oriental Milan. Just steps from Milan’s Fashion District, this luxury retreat offers an unparalleled experience, including the 2 Michelin-starred Seta restaurant, where contemporary Italian cuisine is elevated to an art form.
Trentino-Alto Adige: A Fusion of Cultures and Flavors
The journey continues to Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy’s northernmost region, where Italian and Austrian cultures meet amidst the Dolomites. Tucci explores the deep connection between the land and its flavors, offering a sensory experience through this wild and beautiful terrain.
A highlight is a visit to Gostner Schwaige, a rustic yet refined mountain hut-restaurant perched on the Alpe di Siusi. Here, Chef Franz Mulser serves his signature Hay Soup, a soul-warming dish crafted from 25 local herbs and flowers, presented in a loaf of homemade bread—a culinary homage to the region’s rich herbal traditions. In his alpine retreat, he offers a seasonal tasting menu that includes dishes like schlutzkrapfen—delicate pasta filled with homemade cheese and topped with stone pine pesto. These offerings reflect the deep-rooted gastronomic heritage of the Ladin people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Dolomites.
A visit to Gostner Schwaige promises not only exquisite cuisine but also a profound connection to the land and its traditions. Accessible only by foot or ski, this hidden gem offers a serene escape into the heart of South Tyrol's culinary and cultural landscape.
Where to Stay in Trentino-Alto Adige (South Tyrol)…
South Tyrol offers some of Italy’s most breathtaking year-round scenery, with majestic mountain peaks, sparkling lakes, and lush valleys adorned with wildflowers. In this idyllic setting, Forestis stands as a redefining symbol of luxury. Perched on the slopes of the Plose massif, this exceptional property invites guests to immerse themselves in nature, drawing inspiration from its stunning surroundings.
With only one restaurant, Forestis elevates every dining experience. The nightly-changing menu presents artfully crafted dishes, each a reflection of the region’s seasonal bounty. Even the freshly baked bread, varying daily, adds a unique touch to each meal, ensuring that even guests staying longer than a week will never encounter repetition. With a half-board option, you have the flexibility to dine as you please—choosing as much or as little, in any sequence, making each dinner feel like a bespoke culinary journey.
Photograph: National Geographic
Feeling Inspired to Explore Italy?
If these locations have sparked your wanderlust, let Tully Luxury Travel craft a personalized journey through the very destinations Stanley Tucci has discovered. From the rich flavors of Tuscany to the hidden gems of the Dolomites, we’ll design an exclusive itinerary that mirrors the culinary and cultural wonders Tucci explored.
Whether you’re savoring authentic Italian delicacies, uncovering the secrets of historic towns, or enjoying private tours of iconic film locations, Tully Luxury Travel will ensure every detail of your Italian escape is tailored to perfection.