A PROPOSITO

Food epitomes human life.

It is a melting pot of various elements, that, once blended together, shapes and generates newer and stronger forces. Seasons, cultures, beliefs, places, peoples, traditions - so much relies on food. Today, this incredible macrocosm still inspires the realms of art, design, writing, farming, science, and, of course, gastronomy.

During my travels to the remotest parts of the globe, I’ve experienced and explored the many diverse aspects of gastronomy and researched the cultural impacts of food, as well as its visual and perceptible aspects. Given my background in design and styling, I’ve been privy to anecdotes by chefs, as well as bestselling cookbook authors. The rich and welcoming world of cuisine has opened its arms to me and embraced me through its many diverse facets – from bespoke hospitality businesses to Michelin-starred kitchens and humble food stands.

My entire life revolves around food.

I’m a photographer, home-cook, writer, and host/producer of culinary gatherings and events. A tireless traveller, I’m also an antique hunter, and an enthusiast of all things aesthetically profound.

my background

I grew up, free as a bird, in the Italian countryside, in the stunning region of Abruzzo. For as long as I can remember, food has been an essential part of my life, and I’ve been fortunate to have always appreciated it in the most natural, and direct way possible. My family and I have travelled around the globe, and we’ve often attended cooking classes together – almost as a hobby – and somehow we’ve found our way to the kitchens of some of our favourite Michelin-starred chefs, ranging from Alain Ducasse, Niko Romito, and Heinz Beck, to Gennarino Esposito, and other such culinary masters.

I’ve also studied photography in Africa, England, and the United States, after which I completed a major in graphic design in Brussels. I’ve always loved visual arts, but my desire to dive further into the culinary world became much too compelling, and, after a while, I made the decision to move to France and work for almost two years alongside Mimi and Oddur Thorisson. I learned much during my time there – from food styling and photography to cooking courses, and so much more.

greece and italy

After that period of my life in France, I began pursuing my dream of being able to do all that I wished to in one single location – and that dream became a reality with Mèlisses, a hospitality and culinary project I run on the Greek island of Andros. Greece has always been a place dear to me and a second home to my family, and today, it is also the abode of my life’s passions.

Every year I collaborate with chefs, photographers, stylists, and bloggers to curate unique culinary gatherings; from the New York Times’ dessert columnist to the CNT’s most-awarded photographer, my experiences with all of them have allowed me to delve into the world of cuisine in increasingly deeper and meaningful ways. At the moment, I’m working on the release of four very special seasonal retreats here in Abruzzo – the stunning lands of my birth. From truffle hunting to lazy picnics by the sea and glorious al fresco meals, we’ll discover this rugged territory of untouched beauty, authenticity, and culinary heritage, together.

Take a peek here if you’d like to know more about my retreats.

Thank you for stopping by.

xx

For enquiries, or any other information, feel free to get in touch: info@allegrapomilio.com