Sino-Italian Culinary Exchange Between Nanjing and Basilicata

In March 2025, the picturesque region of Basilicata in southern Italy became the stage for a unique culinary exchange that brought together the rich flavors of China and Italy. Organized by Chef Antonino Scordo, Executive Chef at the Jinling Hotel in Nanjing and a member of the Italian Chefs Federation in China (FIC), the "Sino-Italian Culinary Exchange" aimed to strengthen cultural and commercial ties between the two countries through the universal language of food.

A Culinary Journey Across Basilicata

The exchange featured a series of gala dinners held in four cities across Basilicata, including Matera, Picerno, and Potenza. Each event showcased a fusion of Huaiyang cuisine from Nanjing and traditional Italian dishes, offering guests a delightful blend of flavors. Over 150 guests attended these dinners, including local mayors, politicians, and tourism representatives, highlighting the event's significance in fostering international relations.

Culinary Workshops and Cultural Immersion

Beyond the dinners, the exchange included interactive workshops where Chinese and Italian chefs collaborated to explore each other's culinary techniques. Participants learned to prepare Chinese noodles and dumplings, Italian pasta, bread, pizza, and desserts, deepening their appreciation for each other's culinary traditions.

The delegation also visited local cooking schools and toured historical sites and museums in Matera and Picerno, enriching their cultural experience and fostering mutual understanding.

A Symbolic Cultural Bridge

Chef Scordo, originally from Basilicata, Italy, has long been an advocate for culinary diplomacy. His efforts in Nanjing have led to collaborations with renowned chefs and the establishment of a sister city relationship between Sorrento and Nanjing.

The "Sino-Italian Culinary Exchange" not only celebrated the art of cooking but also served as a testament to the potential of gastronomy in bridging cultural divides and promoting economic development.

The China-Italy Chamber of Commerce in China (CICC) has expressed its heartfelt congratulations to Chef Antonino Scordo for his unwavering commitment to fostering dialogue between Italy and China. Through initiatives like the Sino-Italian Culinary Exchange, Chef Scordo has exemplified the power of culinary arts in building bridges between cultures.