We were just in Verona last week at the Allegrini Amarone book release and we met a couple of chefs there who were involved in the project. Spiaggia was the only U.S. restaurant included in the book, so all of the other chefs were from all around the world. We became friends with a couple from Melbourne, Australia, who are of Italian origin and who operate a number of restaurants in the city.
So, if I could drop everything and head to the airport today, I would go straight to Melbourne. First, to see our new friends and tour the city with them as they showed us all of the hot spots — food, wine, and cultural. They are so passionate about all things Italian, so it would be fantastic.
Second, I’ve always wanted to visit Australia — the culture, the many Italian immigrants, the perspective on food and wine that is so different from ours. Australia’s our next trip.
Learn more about Tony Mantuano's restaurant Spiaggia.