In the heart of New York City, a gastronomic celebration unfolded as the Accademia Italiana della Cucina commemorated its 70th anniversary. The event, seamlessly fusing the New York and Soho chapters with the two delegates Roberta Marini and Berardo Paradiso, took center stage at Barbetta, the city’s oldest Italian restaurant and a revered historic landmark.
Barbetta, founded by Sebastiano Maioglio in 1906, stands as the oldest restaurant in New York still under the ownership of its original family. Nestled in the Theatre District, it boasts a unique culinary distinction and holds the esteemed title of a Historic Establishment by Locali Storici d’Italia, making it the first American restaurant to receive such an honor.
Within the confines of four townhouses, Barbetta’s expansive location served as the perfect setting for this celebration. Acquired from the Astor family, these 1874-1881 townhouses exude the opulence of their era, adorned with magnificent doors and woodwork. Under the dedicated stewardship of Laura Maioglio since 1962, Barbetta has evolved into a cherished institution, preserving its legacy in the heart of the city.
The evening began with Berardo Paradiso and Roberta Marini introducing the event, highlighting the significant work of the Accademia Italiana della Cucina in New York. They emphasized the academy’s role in protecting and promoting the Italian gastronomic tradition both in Italy and abroad. Over the years, the Accademia has established various programs, including a study center, editorial activities, and tastings.
The institution also plays a formative role by conducting in-depth studies on issues affecting Italian gastronomy and providing proposals and opinions to public offices, organizations, and institutions. Their efforts aim to promote initiatives that contribute to the understanding of the traditional values of Italian cuisine.
The distinguished gathering included notable figures such as the Nunzio Apostolico to the United Nations Gabriele Giordano Caccia, the Italian Consul General in New York Fabrizio Di Michele, the Director of the Italian Cultural Institute Fabio Finotti and the esteemed writer Dacia Maraini.
As the celebration unfolded, the menu served as a culinary ode to Italian traditions, showcasing a delightful array of dishes. The menu featured Rollatini of Piemontese Robiola in Grilled Zucchini, Gnocchetti ai formaggi Piemontesi, Charcoal-grilled wild Pacific Swordfish over a ragu of Lentils with a warm balsamic vinaigrette or Bue al Barolo (the tenderest of beef braised in red wine with Polenta), and Torta di Nocciole or Pears in red wine alla Piemontese.
The evening also featured a beautiful musical interlude, with Cristiana Pegoraro enchanting the audience as she played the piano, accompanied by Leonardo Moretti, a young and brilliant violinist. The harmony of food and music elevated the celebration to an unforgettable crescendo of Italian culture and heritage.
