A simple tea cake from my grandmother's recipe box, originally made with blueberries but equally delicious with fresh summer cherries. Topped with a sweet crumb topping, this nostalgic cake is perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

I visited Viva La Mamma, one of the newest Italian restaurants in Los Angeles built around a “welcome like family” concept—and here’s what actually stood out. From a picky pizza perspective to standout homemade pasta, creative cocktails, and genuinely warm service, the experience was a mix of highs, surprises, and a few honest takes you’ll want to read before you go.

A comforting Italian wedding soup recipe passed down through generations in my family. Made with homemade meatballs, chicken broth, escarole, and pasta, with simple tips for making a low-sodium version that still tastes just like home.

New Orleans, through an Italian American lens—where a parade float, a 1,200-pound pasta service, and a city built on food and tradition reveal a side of the city you don’t plan for, but remember.

Is Eataly truly an authentic taste of Italy — or just a beautifully curated experience for tourists? I visited two NYC locations to find out, exploring the market, dining at one of its restaurants, and observing everything from the food to the people. Here’s my honest take on whether Eataly is worth it — and when it actually makes sense to go.

Inspired by a trip to San Marino, this Pomodori Gratinati recipe transforms simple tomatoes into a flavorful, crispy-topped Italian side dish. Made with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, it’s easy to prepare, perfect for entertaining, and just as delicious the next day.

These taralli are the Italian snack I grew up with — always waiting in a bowl on my grandmother’s kitchen table. Crisp, golden, and lightly flavored with anise, this Southern Italian family recipe is made the traditional way: by feel, not by strict measurements. Passed down through generations, Gram’s taralli are perfect with coffee, tea, or wine and keep beautifully for weeks. If you’re craving a nostalgic, old-world Italian snack, this is the recipe to make.

Naples isn’t a city you just see — it’s a city you taste, hear, and feel in every step. Streets buzz with food rooted in tradition, staircases lead you into hidden neighborhoods, and history isn’t behind glass — it’s layered beneath your feet. This guide is my way of sharing the Naples I experienced: the flavors that linger, the stories locals proudly tell, and the places that make this city unforgettable. Whether you’re tracing your ancestry, chasing the best pizza, or just curious about the soul of Campania, consider this your starting point.

For my birthday, I visited Divino, a cozy Italian restaurant tucked away in Brentwood — a neighborhood favorite for over 30 years. From warm greetings to comforting plates of fresh pasta, here’s why this hidden gem is worth a visit.

On my 43rd birthday, I sat on the stone wall of Cartagena watching the sunset, grateful I’d finally stopped waiting for someone to come with me. From dancing salsa with strangers and sharing secrets in hidden bars to tasting fresh fish on island beaches and sipping coffee on a mountain farm, these six days in Cartagena and Medellín reminded me what happens when you choose yourself — and stay curious enough to say yes.

When an unexpected friendship sparked a calling I couldn't ignore, I found myself on a solo journey to Greece — carrying a forgotten bag, chasing flavors, and celebrating my 42nd birthday in a place that felt like home from the moment I arrived. This is the story of how I found courage, connection, and a new sense of belonging under the Grecian sun.

What started as a solo birthday trip turned into an unforgettable Icelandic road trip with a friend—complete with hot springs, glacier hikes, tomato greenhouses, and windswept adventures. From the surreal landscapes of Reykjanes to the serene beauty of Diamond Beach, I’m sharing everything we did (and learned!) to help you plan your own epic escape.

In Italian-American homes, Easter isn’t complete without Pizza Gaina—also known as Pizza Rustica or Easter Pie. Always made on Good Friday and packed with the best meats and cheeses, this savory pie is a cherished tradition in my family. This version is the way my mom makes it, though both of my grandmothers had their own takes, proving that every family adds their own flavor to this holiday staple. The quality of your ingredients truly makes or breaks the dish. If you grew up with Pizza Gaina on your Easter table, I’d love to hear how your family made it—share your memories in the comments!

Tucked inside my grandmother Mimi’s handwritten recipe box was this fall favorite: a moist cake made with freshly picked apples. It’s simple, nostalgic, and perfect with a cup of coffee. I’m so happy to share this beloved family recipe with you.

This tender, flavorful zucchini bread was tucked away in my grandmother’s handwritten recipe box—a simple, comforting recipe that’s stood the test of time. It’s the perfect companion to a bowl of soup or a great savory appetizer for any gathering. Made with garden-fresh zucchini and a touch of love, this is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to every season.

After postponing my dream trip in 2020, I made a promise to ring in my 40th year somewhere unforgettable—and Peru checked every box. From the dunes of Paracas to the magic of Machu Picchu and the boho beauty of Lima’s Barranco neighborhood, I mapped out a 10-day adventure through South America’s most iconic spots (with a few hidden gems too). This guide is packed with tips for planning your own Peru itinerary, including what I’d do differently next time, how to book Machu Picchu tickets the smart way, and why a boutique hotel in Lima completely stole my heart.

This savory sausage bread—made with pizza dough and packed with flavor—has been a go-to for outdoor picnics, beach days, and potluck parties for as long as I can remember. Growing up, we’d serve it alongside soups at gatherings, and now I bake it for concerts, casual lunches, and anytime I need a guaranteed hit. Easy to slice and serve by hand, it’s the kind of nostalgic, no-fuss food that brings people together.

Planning a book launch without a big publisher? I’ve been there. When I released my self-published cookbook, I threw two launch parties on two coasts—with zero event planning experience. From picking meaningful venues to creating buzz with personal touches, I’m sharing everything I learned to help you launch your book with heart, intention, and impact.

Layered with rich meat sauce, gooey mozzarella, and plenty of comforting flavor, this hearty lasagna is my go-to dish for winter potlucks and big gatherings. It’s a classic Italian-American favorite—filling, nostalgic, and always a hit. Whether you're feeding a crowd or bringing a show-stopping main to a party, this lasagna brings warmth and joy to every table.

This rich, dreamy chocolate cake was a birthday staple in our family—one of those effortless masterpieces my grandmother would whip up like second nature. Even after long days at her corporate job and a full home-cooked dinner on the stove, she’d find time to bake this cake with love. It’s simple, decadent, and deeply tied to the warmth and care she poured into every meal. Now, I’m honored to share this beloved recipe with you.