Traditions of Irpinia: A Dinner with Chef Anita

Join us for an intimate evening celebrating the flavors and traditions of Irpinia, a virtually unknown region of southern Italy where cucina povera turns simple ingredients into deeply soulful dishes. Guided by Chef Anita Di Pietro, this dinner brings the warmth of an Irpinian family table to San Francisco. The menu is rooted in seasonal, traditional recipes, from handmade pasta and slow-simmered sauces to rustic vegetable dishes that reflect everyday life in the villages at the end of the Apennines. Throughout the evening, Chef Anita and Sarah will share stories of family, heritage, and recipes passed down through generations. The night will reflect life in Irpinia as we gather around the table enjoying honest food, good wine, and the quiet joy of slowing down and eating together.

MENU

Scarola Saltata In Padella - Pan-Roasted Escarole 

Crostata Di Verdure - Vegetable Tart

Ravioli Burro, Salvia e Parmigiano - Ravioli in a Butter, Sage, Parmigiano Sauce

Tagliatelle a Ciambottella - Tagliatelle Pasta in a Tomato & Bell Pepper Sauce

Agnello al Cacciatore - Lamb in a Tomato Sauce

Coviglia al Cioccolato - Chocolate Mousse

Allergens: Dairy, Egg, Wheat. Concerns? Email info@18reasons.org.

Anita Di Pietro is a fourth-generation chef and co-owner of the award-winning Antica Trattoria Di Pietro in Melito Irpino, Irpinia, where she cooks alongside her mother, preserving and evolving her family’s culinary legacy. Formally trained in gastronomy, wine, and tourism management, Anita holds a Chef’s Diploma, a Sommelier Diploma from the Associazione Italiana Sommeliers, advanced certifications with Slow Food, and has studied Italian food history at the Università di Scienze Gastronomiche in Pollenzo. Through her cooking and teaching, Anita is dedicated to safeguarding Irpinia’s food traditions while bringing them vividly into the present through education, cultural exchange, and hands-on experience.

Sarah Pompei is the founder of The Authentic Irpinia, offering bespoke travel, food and wine experiences in the heart of one of southern Italy’s most enticing regions. Sarah works closely with Irpinia’s chefs, vintners and artisans of all kinds to curate intimate, culturally rich experiences—from hand-made pasta lessons in family cantinas to vineyard walks to visits to villages untouched by mass tourism—that introduce others to the region she loves.

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Photo courtesy of Anita Di Pietro and Sarah Pompei