On the occasion of the 11th Italian Cuisine Week in the World 2026 (SLIM) and the 120th anniversary of Mario Soldati’s birth, the Italian Cultural Institute in London presents Mario Soldati: The Art of Telling Italy Through Taste (Mario Soldati: il gusto di raccontare l’Italia), celebrating the writer and film director as an iconic figure in Italian culture and culinary heritage.
The event will explore Soldati’s legacy as a pioneer in portraying Italy’s regions, food and wine as expressions of national identity, highlighting his role as a forerunner of cultural diplomacy and Italian soft power around the world.
The discussion will focus on the humanistic dimension of food and dining, examining how seminal works such as Vino al vino and Viaggio nella valle del Po captured the soul of Italy and the social changes shaping the country.
Against the backdrop of a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, Soldati’s message remains remarkably relevant, presenting authenticity and the culture of conviviality as bridges between peoples and generations. His vision resonates with UNESCO’s recognition of Italian cuisine as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
SPECIAL GUESTS
- Fabio Cassese, Ambassador of Italy to the United Kingdom
- Francesco Bongarrà, Director of the Italian Cultural Institute in London
- Professor Beatrice Sica, Professor of Italian Studies at University College London (UCL)
- Maurizio Fazzari, Vice President and London delegate Accademia italiana della cucina
- Chiara Soldati, Cavaliere del Lavoro, entrepreneur and promoter of the initiative
Special contribution: Roberto Costa (from the audience)
Chair: Marco Varvello, journalist, La Stampa UK Correspondent
Reserve your place HERE
Part of the cultural roadshow celebrating the 120th anniversary of Mario Soldati’s birth, organised by Chiara Soldati, this event is hosted by the Italian Cultural Institute in London in collaboration with the Mario Soldati Association and the Mondadori Foundation. Media partner: La Cucina Italiana. The event is held under the patronage of MASAF (Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forestry), ITA – Italian Trade Agency and Veronafiere Vinitaly.
Important: Welcome to our new home
We are delighted to welcome you to the new home of the Italian Cultural Institute London.
To help ensure a smooth and efficient entry, please note the following:
- Each ticket must be issued in the full name of the person attending (first name, any middle names and surname), exactly as shown on their official identity document.
- A valid government-issued photo ID is required for entry.
- Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the event begins.
- We kindly ask you to read all the regulations in force at the Institute’s new premises HERE.
Checking these details before you arrive will help us welcome everyone efficiently and ensure a smooth experience without delays.
For organisational and safety reasons, admission may not be permitted.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you to our new home.