Introduction to Convivio
“A degree of civilization can be measured by a country’s cuisine”
-Escoffier
Cultural Differences at the Table
The personal experience of an Italian-American suggesting that Italy not
lose its food culture and why America should adopt one.
The 20s and 30s: Before My Table—
Food–the new cuisine began with time saving devices
Convivio– at the family table
The 40s: My Italian—ItalianTable—Abruzzo, Italy
Food–peasant’s diet, field to table.
Convivio–la panarda, the longest meal
The 50s: My Italian-American Table—Hartford, Connecticut
Food–immigrant’s diet—keeping with tradition fresh and seasonal
Convivio–parenting at the table, nourishing body and soul
The 60s: My American-American Table—Minneapolis, Minnesota
Food–university and the Americanization of my diet
Convivio–lost: eating alone, wherever and whenever
The 70s: My American-Italian Table—New York, New York
Food–raising children (neophyte vs neophile)
Convivio–lasting friendships
The 80s: My American versus Foreign Table—Italy and France
Food–unexciting versus sensuous
Convivio–the French table
The 90s: My Restaurant Table—Newport Beach, California
Food–love vs. the bottom line
Convivio–my financial disaster
The 2000’s: My B&B Table and food culture—Tuscany, Italy
Food–passion for culture, artisans and olive oil
Convivio–first experience for many guests
2014: My Back to Family Root’s Table—Abruzzo, Italy
Food–the culture of eating
Convivio–in the piazza with new and old friends
The 2020’s: The decline of the family table.
Food Culture– without it, there is a decline in health and casualty of pleasure
Convivio—without it, there is a decline in health and casualty of pleasure
