Picture this: I land in Napoli, my first-ever trip to Italy, jetlagged but absolutely buzzing with excitement. Napoli was our first stop, and let me tell you, it did not  disappoint. From the second my feet hit those cobblestone streets, I was head over heels in love. The history, the charm—it's like every corner is whispering an Italian love story. It was a cloudy day, the kind that promises rain but doesn’t quite deliver (yet). Did we care? Nope. Jetlag? Who’s she? We hit the streets, because there was no way I was missing out on witnessing the Miracle of San Gennaro . For those who aren’t in the know, San Gennaro is Napoli’s patron saint, and every September, his dried blood is brought out for this epic event where it liquefies. Neapolitans believe it’s a sign of good things to come, and I was ready to see that miracle firsthand. We waited outside the church, packed in with locals who were clearly just as excited as I was, even though they’ve seen it a million times. And just as the moment was approaching, bam —a massive crack of thunder shook the sky. Talk about drama! Right after that, the priest raised the vial above his head, and yes, the blood had liquefied. The crowd went wild . It was like a wave of joy just rolled through the streets, and I was right there, soaking it all in. I was standing in the middle of history, tradition, and pure faith. It gave me chills—like, full-body chills. To witness something so meaningful to this city, to these people, and to feel their energy? Unforgettable. Now, here’s the best part: I don’t have to wait until next year to feel a little piece of that magic again. Next week, the San Gennaro Feast hits my  city—NYC, baby! Sure, it's not quite the same as being in Napoli, but walking through Little Italy, grabbing some zeppole, and honoring the saint? That’s about as close as it gets to the real deal without hopping on a plane. I’ll be strolling those NYC streets, full of gratitude for both my Italian roots and my New York attitude. Whether I’m in Napoli or New York, San Gennaro reminds me that Italy is always in my heart, no matter where I am. Ciao, amici! See you at the feast.

Does adding pistachios make it Italian? No. Definitely not. But, let's pretend it does for my branding purposes. Ah, the art of storytelling before a recipe. Some foodies might have you believe that a three-act play should precede your culinary masterpiece. But let's get real. You're here to satisfy that rumbling belly – not for a Shakespearean saga. BUT, before we dive into the nitty-gritty of homemade granola, I have some quick notes. Let's keep it short and sweet: 1. Money-Saving Crunch: Ever wondered why I got into the granola-making gig? It's simple economics, my friends. DIY granola is like the thrifty superhero of your pantry, saving you bucks one batch at a time. 2. The Salty-Sweet Sensation: Seeking that perfect salty-sweet combo to top your yogurt or açaí bowls? Look no further; this homemade granola is your golden ticket to flavor town! 3. Chunky Delights: If you're a fan of big, hearty granola chunks, here's a pro tip: exercise extreme restraint for about 45 minutes when it emerges from the oven. I know, it's like trying not to eat chocolate in a chocolate factory. Good luck! 4. Trader Joe's Treasure Hunt: Want to know my secret stash? I try to buy everything organic. I get all my granola ingredients from the wonderland that is Trader Joe's. Hey, Trader Joe's, are you listening? 😉 #SponsorMe 5. Nutty Note: All nuts are raw and unsalted. OK, that's all, I promise. Lets go: INGREDIENTS • 1/3 cup shredded coconut • 1 cup raw almonds (1/2 chopped, 1/2 whole) • 1/3 cup raw cashews • 1/3 cup raw pecans • 1/3 cup raw pistachios • 3 cups old fashioned oats • 1/4 cup creamy almond butter • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt • 1 teaspoons vanilla • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup* • 1/3 cup honey* • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil Yields: 8 SERVINGS Prep: 30 MINS Cook: 30-35 MINUTES INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using food processer, chop 1/3 cup shredded coconut, 1/2 cup almonds, 1/3 cashews 1/3 cup pecans, and 1/3 cup pistachios. Pulse until largely coarsely chopped. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups oats, the coconut/nut mixture, 1 1/2 tsps cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt and 1/2 cup whole almonds. In a medium microwave safe bowl, combine 1/4 cup almond butter, 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1/3 honey* (see sweetness note at the bottom), 1/4 cup coconut oil, 1 tsp vanilla extract. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then microwave another 30 seconds until mixture melts but is not bubbling. Pour mixture over the oats mixture and stir using a rubber spatula just until moist. Spread mixture in an even layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Place into oven (top rack) and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 mins, stir/gently flip mixture. Bake another 15mins or so until golden brown. The edges may brown more so watch carefully. Burning happens VERY quickly. Trust me. I know. The key is to let this cool completely (about 45 minutes) without any kind of touching, stirring, or snacking if you like BIG chunks. Optional add-on: After mixture has cooled, add some high quality dark chocolate chips or chunks. Or maybe some peanut butter chips. The possibilities are endless. *SWEETNESS NOTE: Increase to 1/2 cup each of the maple syrup and honey if you like it VERY sweet. Or in place of that extra maple syrup and honey, if you're not opposed to fake sugars, you can add one of those "skinny" syrups. Jordan's Skinny Syrup Cinnamon Dolce or French Toast are my favs. 10 pumps does the replacement job!

🍹🇮🇹 Ciao, cocktail aficionados! 🇮🇹🍹 If you've strutted your stuff through the charming streets of Italy, chances are you've been inducted into the Amaro Appreciation Society – that secret club where flavors swirl, and tongues dance! 🕺💃 Picture this: you're just completed yet another epic meal in Italy, and out comes Amaro. It's like the James Bond of after-dinner drinks – suave, mysterious, and always leaving an impression. Let's talk flavors. Amaros flaunt a range that could make a rainbow blush. We've got earthy tones, botanicals that'll have you envisioning a walk through Nonnas garden, and spicy kicks that'll wake up your taste buds like Pavarotti hitting a high note. My journey to the Calabria region turned my sunset aperitivo into some Amaro-infused fun. That regular aperitivo hour? Pfft, who needs it when you can dive into an Amaro orchestra? It's like replacing your bicycle with a Ferrari – pure Italian indulgence. Think you've never really found "your" flavor? Well, an Amaro tasting is your passport to flavor enlightenment. It really helped me narrow down my preferences. My incredible bartender, Manuel, at the beautiful resort I was staying at (Capovaticano Resort & Spa) also gave me some high quality (obviously, it's Italy) dark chocolate to compliment the Amari. I'd suggest doing the same, and sipping slowly. Hold onto your cocktail shakers, because this is where the magic happens. What is Amaro? Amaro (translation: bitter in Italiano) is a classic Italian liqueur known as a digestif. Traditionally, it's like the pre-game to your palate, setting the stage before the main culinary spectacle or swooping in post-feast to lend a hand in digestion. How's that for multitasking? How do you drink it? Well – it's a revolutionary technique called using your mouth! Classic Amaro style demands a neat rendezvous at room temperature. Earthy, spicy, and everything nice-y, these liquid treasures bring a touch of Italy to your palate. Is it available in America? Absolutely! Apart from our trusty undercover agent, Aperol (more on that later!), many Amari can be found gracing the menus of cocktail bars and restaurants across the US. Talented mixologists have embraced the Amaro magic, conjuring up delightful concoctions that'll leave you spellbound. My favorite happens to be a cocktail called a "Paper Plane". A mix of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino and lemon juice. Ever had an Aperol Spritz? Hold onto your cocktail umbrellas – here comes the plot twist! That iconic Aperol, with its vibrant orange charm, is none other than the secret agent of the Amaro world! But don't stop at Aperol; many delightful Amari lurk in the shadows of cocktail menus, ready to surprise and delight your taste buds. What's my favorite? While I've always had a soft spot for Aperol and Campari, recent years have seen my palate venture into exciting territory. Cynar, made from artichokes, is not an Amaro beginners drink but delicious in a kind of medicinal way. Amaro Nonino and Amaro di Capo are also up there as my favs. During this particular tasting adventure in Capo Vaticano, I stumbled upon Jefferson Amaro, hailing straight from the sun-kissed Calabria region. It was like discovering a hidden treasure right under my nose! So, fellow flavor enthusiasts, embrace Amaro – the Italian artisan that elevates your sipping game.

Taormina is a breathtaking destination filled with life! However, for those who need a break from the bustling crowds during peak seasons, I recommend a retreat to Castelmola. Nestled just above Taormina, this charming village is easily accessible by an 8-minute car ride or public bus (since parking can be tricky). If you're up for a rewarding challenge, you can also opt for a 45-minute uphill trek along the old donkey trail. Castelmola is very quaint. There are cute bars, restaurants, and adorable boutiques showcasing locally crafted goods. The refreshing breeze and captivating vistas of the Ionian Sea, Taormina and Mt.Etna create the perfect combo for exploration too. Wandering through the ancient alleys is like stepping back in time, offering glimpses into a fascinating history. And we know, I love a good alley. While spectacular views are clearly one of Castelmola's main selling points, this tranquil Sicilian town has more to offer. Exploring the remnants of the "castle" (Castel= castle) will transport you to the summit of Mount Tauro that overlooks the village. Although there is not much left of the structure, you can only imagine how incredible it must have been perched 2,000 feet above sea level on the pinnacle of Mount Tauro. Those 360-degree panorama views make the climb unquestionably worth it. Back in the late 1800s, Castelmola and Taormina were one of the first destinations in the Mediterranean to open their arms to travelers from the LGBTQ+ community, establishing themselves as beacons of acceptance and hospitality. They were magnets for poets, artists, and writers, becoming places for those who embraced a more "bohemian lifestyle" and held progressive views on sexuality. Walking around town you will see some shops selling male nude portraits by Wilhelm von Gloeden, a 19th-century German photographer. He created a series of nude portraits that were influenced by the aesthetics of ancient Greek statues. He captured several photographs featuring local males as subjects for his work. Interestingly, I was told by some locals that some people in this area don't actively emphasize the area's history as a gay-friendly retreat, even though it remains an integral part of its past. This historical backdrop provides the foundation for the quirky penis-themed bar in town, a playful addition that works seamlessly with this legacy of openness and acceptance. Let's pause for one second before you try to find any of this offensive: The phalluses featured in the bar's decor weren't intended to be crude or vulgar. Once you grasp (enter Weiner jokes because I am incredibly immature sometimes) their perspective, you'll truly understand the reasoning behind their placement. Read on. The present theme of Bar Turrisi finds its origins in the vision of Salvatore Turrisi, a man with a deep passion for two facets of life: women and the history of Ancient Greece. Drawing inspiration from the iconography of the Priapus cult, dedicated to the Greek deity of fertility, he began decorating the restaurant with phallic symbols. It's worth noting that throughout history, the Greeks and other societies perceived this symbol not just as a crude representation, but as an emblem of power, fortitude, and even as a means of protection against malevolent forces. Men make me giggle. Over time, Salvatores collection grew and grew (oh boy), fueled by numerous additions from friends. Can you imagine what his name day or birthday looked like? haha. It's a very kitchy and fun spot to stop for a drink or a bite to eat on your way. I highly recommend trying the local almond wine, a beverage that also draws inspiration from Greek history. And, of course, it's served in a glass with a playful phallic shape, adding a touch of whimsy to the experience.

Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna, graces its streets with an array of tempting culinary treats. My heart (aka stomach) holds a special place for this Italian region, primarily due to my unyielding adoration for Tortellini en Brodo— a dish I could eat day after day – and truth be told, I did. The majority of eateries in this area proudly feature it on their menus, creating a delightful conundrum when it came to selecting a restaurant. In need of guidance, I turned to my social media community for assistance, and it was one of my foodie friends who also happens to be a chef who recommended Sfoglia Rina. The eateries namesake, Rina (the Nonna of the current owner, Lorenzo) started this legacy in 1963, as a humble spot for fresh pasta just outside the city. In 2010, they officially set up shop in Bologna. Since then, their enterprise has expanded beyond the pasta laboratory dedicated to preserving Rina's treasured recipes – they've ventured into the realm of baking as well. Moreover, they extend the opportunity for pasta aficionados to partake in pasta-making classes. My GPS lead the way. The interior is gorgeous. You have the option of choosing tables in the back rooms, grabbing a seat at the counter in the front, or even deciding to go for take-out. Every day, a meticulously handwritten menu graces a blackboard, serving as a testament to their dedication to incorporating market-fresh ingredients. Their menu undergoes weekly and seasonal transformations, showcasing traditional Bolognese classics with innovative interpretations. Given my less-than-fluent Italian, it felt quite ironic that I found myself seated adjacent to the little corner of Italian children's books. An opportunity for me to brush up on my Italian? How did they know that speaking Italian isn't my strongest linguistic forte? As I settled in, ready to attack my anticipated Tortellini en Brodo, fate intervened. Sfoglia Rina had just depleted their Brodo supply. This twist prompted me to revise my dining strategy, which turned out to be a breeze given the abundance of freshly crafted pasta varieties they offer. Instead I chose the Tortelloni with butter & sage and the Gramini with sausage. Both dishes turned out to be truly remarkable, although not surprisingly considering the impeccable taste of the person who recommended this restaurant to me. To complement lunch, I opted for very versatile Lambrusco, a local sparkling red wine hailing from Emilia-Romagna. It pairs seamlessly with nearly any dish, making it an excellent choice for those at the early stages of exploring the world of wines like myself. Of course, no meal is complete without dessert. Both the Cheesecake and a rich Chocolate Torte della Nonna were so light and airy. When you find yourself in Bologna, make sure to dine at Sfoglia Rina! You won't be disappointed.

If you ever find yourself in Manarola, Cinque Terre, an absolute must-visit is Nessun Dorma eatery. This exquisite dining destination not only provides the opportunity to partake in a delightful cooking class and craft your own piece of Ligurian history but also serves as an inspiring testament to the power of unwavering determination. Simone's personal journey, which gave birth to Nessun Dorma, deeply inspired me. It's a remarkable tale of perseverance and the belief that nothing is unattainable. Despite facing challenges and resistance from the locals due to being an outsider, he never gave up on his dreams. Even though his wife, Sarah, hailed from the area, they encountered difficulty in gaining acceptance from the community. Their love story began in Florence, where Simone was studying law. Frequent trips to the sea in Cinque Terre ignited their culinary adventure – a beautiful fusion of food and love, so synonymous with Italy. The location of Nessun Dorma, once dubbed "the desert" by locals, had seen several failed businesses, making it seem like an unlikely choice. However, the Mayor of Manarola launched a contest to manage the public space, and against all odds, Simone decided to submit his entry, driven by unwavering ambition. His entry, bearing the name of his favorite aria sung by Pavarotti, emerged victorious. Faced with a kitchen measuring a mere 9 square meters, Simone realized that to cater to the considerable number of guests the space could hold, he needed to be innovative. While others might have opted for selling frozen food, he refused to compromise his passion and culinary principles. He insisted on serving fresh ingredients and honoring the local cuisine, leading to the inception of the Pesto Experience. Due to the restaurant's immense popularity, waiting times could be substantial. In response, the owners developed a user-friendly app to aid patrons. This ingenious app informs guests about the number of people ahead of them in the queue, enabling them to arrive at the restaurant at precisely the right time, no matter where they are. Simone's journey with Nessun Dorma showcases the triumph of determination, love for food, and a commitment to upholding tradition, making it a truly inspiring tale of resilience and success.