Maria Pasquale grew up between Australia and Italy, but it was her deep cultural roots and appetite for storytelling that led her to become one of Italy’s most trusted food voices. In this episode, she shares the real reason Italians don’t eat pizza and pasta in the same meal, why regional pride shapes every plate, and what most tourists never taste when they travel to Italy.

Key Discussion Points:

The inspiration behind her bestselling book Mangia

How growing up Italian-Australian shaped her food philosophy

Why each region in Italy feels like a different country

Hidden gems: where to eat beyond the Amalfi Coast

The myth of “just pizza and pasta” in Italian cuisine

What local dining rules tourists should know

How to eat like a Roman—even if you’re just visiting

Takeaways:

Italy is not one cuisine—it’s 20+ regions of culinary identity

Locals don’t eat pizza and pasta together—and you shouldn’t either

If you want the best food, go beyond the tourist trail

Closing Thoughts:
Maria Pasquale reminds us that Italian cuisine is a living, breathing story of place, pride, and people. Through her work, she helps the world rediscover Italy—not through guidebooks, but through the flavors that define it.