The Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program is thrilled to
announce the arrival of Chef Gianluca Tolla, a celebrated culinary maestro from Pietrasanta, Italy. His visit marks an exciting milestone in the program, fostering cultural collaboration and culinary creativity between Montgomery and Pietrasanta. Throughout the next five months, Chef Tolla will take over the helm at Ravello Ristorante offering new flavors while tantalizing taste buds and taking food innovation to the next level. Additionally, he will play host at a series of gastronomic events and experiences curated to delight food enthusiasts and celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Italy at various Vintage Hospitality Group properties. In partnership with the Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program, the events will include a Meet and Greet session, exclusive Chef Dinners, immersive Cooking Classes, and much more, all showcasing Chef Tolla’s exceptional talent and creativity.

“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Gianluca Tolla to Ravello as part of the Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program,” said program President and Vintage Hospitality Group Chef Eric Rivera. “This exchange is a testament to our commitment to fostering cultural exchange and promoting culinary innovation. Chef Tolla’s presence will undoubtedly enrich our local culinary scene and provide an unparalleled experience for our community.”

The Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program invites residents and visitors alike to participate in these extraordinary events and celebrate the union of diverse culinary traditions. For event details, schedules, and ticket information, please visit Ravellomgm.com. 

Event Highlights:
1. Meet and Greet Session: Join us on 10/24 at Ravello Ristorante for a Meet and Greet with Chef Tolla. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with the renowned Italian chef and learn about his culinary journey and inspirations.
2. Chef Dinners: Experience the exquisite flavors of Italian cuisine at the exclusive Chef Tolla’s Dinners. Indulge in a carefully curated menu that showcases the best of both Montgomery and Pietrasanta’s culinary traditions.
3. Cooking Classes: Enhance your culinary skills with hands-on Cooking Classes led by Chef Tolla. Participants will learn the art of crafting authentic Italian dishes under the guidance of the master chef himself.
4. Culinary Workshops and Demonstrations: Explore the nuances of Italian cooking through interactive workshops and live cooking demonstrations. Chef Tolla will share his expertise and passion, providing valuable insights into the world of gourmet cuisine.

The Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program is a unique initiative aimed at promoting cultural exchange and culinary innovation between Montgomery, Alabama, and Pietrasanta, Italy. By bringing together chefs, culinary experts, and food enthusiasts from both regions, the program seeks to create enriching experiences and foster a deeper appreciation for global cuisine. To donate to the program, click here. 

Vintage Hospitality Group operates the fine-dining flagship restaurant, Vintage Year, Vintage Café, a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store as well as Frenchie’s, a French bistro, all in Montgomery’s historic Old Cloverdale neighborhood. Ravello Ristorante is its hot Italian establishment, along with several private event spaces located downtown. The company also owns the hydroponic farm MGM Greens and Red Bluff Bar, a venue that offers live music, beer, wine and small bites along the scenic Alabama riverfront. Vintage Hospitality Group’s national press accolades include receiving coverage in the New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, Garden & Gun, PBS NewsHour, USA Today, Forbes and Newsweek Magazines. 

For interviews, photos or additional information, please contact Lorrie Dixson Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about Vintage Hospitality Group, visit www.vintagehg.com.