Vegetarian Holiday Menu from Quisi on Capri

Yes, Christmas is over, but it's always the season for a festive meal. L'Espresso's food blog, Cucina, has a great holiday menu for vegetarians. Stefano Mazzone, the chef at Quisi (at the Grand Hotel Quisisana on Capri), has prepared a special menu using regional ingredients and traditions. All the courses would be appropriate at any time of year (except the Neapolitan cake, Struffoli, which should really only be enjoyed at Christmas). The menu begins with a vegetable and cheese bruschetta, moves on to a simple onion pasta, and for the main course Eggplant Parmigiana. Try Google's Translator for the recipes in English. The Italians celebrate Christmas until January 6th, so feel free to serve the Struffoli until then!

Rome Wins a Coffee Contest

At the beginning of 2008 the Italian magazine Altrocosumo held a contest between the coffee shops of Rome and Milan. The coffee testers of the Istituto internazionale assaggiatori caffè tried coffees in both cities. Rome won and nine of its coffee shops were designated winners. Who will win in 2009? Below is a list of the best coffee shops in Rome. Caffe Colonna nella Galleria Sordi was given the top rating. Receiving honorable mentions were Caffe Maneschi (via del Corso), and Tazza d'oro (via degli Orfani), l'Antico Caffe Greco (Via Condotti), Giolitti (Via offici Vicariate) Sant'Eustachio (Piazza Sant ' Eustachio), Rosati (Piazza del Popolo), Baby Bar (via del Corso), Castroni Caffè (Via Flaminia) and Bar Centralissimo (Via S. Maria). Buon Gusto!

Zingaro is Paradise

On the eastern side of Sicily, not too far from Palermo, is a lovely national seashore untouched and out of the way. Zingaro is a preserve that will have nature enthusiasts singing its praises. The waters are pristine, the beaches and cliffs are not too crowded in summer (although weekends can be pretty busy) and there are unlimited hiking trails. Every inch of the preserve is covered in wildflowers and protected plants. For the diving enthusiasts, there are reefs and coves to explore. One day is not enough to appreciate Zingaro-you will want to come back again and again.

Mario Batali's Amalfi Coast Picks

Star chef Mario Batali knows Italian food and admits that the Amalfi Coast is his favorite foodie spot. Don't miss the alici marinate (marinated anchovies, a specialty of the region) and be sure to visit these restaurants in Positano, Amalfi and Massa Lubrense. In Amalfi he recommends da Gemma and la Caravella.
In Positano be sure to try Il Capitano, Chez Black and La Sponda at Le Sirenuse.In Massa Lubrense, out of the way and hard to find, he loves Taverna del Capitano and Quattro Passi.

Antique Prints of Rome On-Line

If you didn't get a chance to visit the Piazza Fontanella Borghese to buy antique prints when you were in Rome, relax. You can get them on-line through philographikon.com. You will be amazed at the selection of historical and architectural prints depicting Rome (and other cities and countries). Prices range from around $40 to over $1000 and Philographikon actually carries much more than they have on-line. If there's something that you want and they don't have it, you can contact them. Chances are they have what you are looking for.

Ustica-The Black Pearl of the Mediterranean

The tiny island of Ustica off the coast of Sicily has definitely not been discovered by tourists yet-well, maybe some Sicilian tourists. Just a short ferry boat ride from Palermo (take the aliscafi-hydrofoil), Ustica offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Everything about the island is pristine, including its little town. Ustica even boasts its own Blue Grotto, almost as impressive as the one on Capri. Hotel La Grotta Azzurra is named for this cave and offers a great pool to relax seaside. Most hotels on the island are very simple (and quite affordable!). Profondo Blu can help you find a boat and captain to take you out on the sea for exploring, swimming and diving.

Hotel Palumbo in Ravello

Originally built in the 12th century, the Hotel Palumbo was a private palazzo until 1875, when its owners turned it into a hotel. The great composer Richard Wagner stayed there and even composed many pieces on the piano which is still in use at the hotel. The public rooms were decorated in the 1600s and incorporate intricately frescoed ceilings and Greek and Roman columns from Paestum and around the Amalfi Coast. The hotel's restaurant, Confalone, makes use of these grand rooms and includes a terrace overlooking one of the most spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast. The hotel is an exquisite marvel, worth visiting even if the high room rates (600 Euros for a double in the summer!) make a stay out of the question. Stop in during the evening to truly make the most of this romantic place.

Travel and Leisure: Best Hotels in Rome

Travel and Leisure Magazine has just released its list of the top 500 hotels in the world. Rome has 5 of them, including one that is new to the list: The Hotel Majestic (pictured). Located on the Via Veneto, this hotel was built in 1889 and was the setting for Fellini's famous film, La Dolce Vita. Rates start at 465 Euros, so it certainly isn't a bargain! But can you put a price on La Dolce Vita, anyway? The other 4 hotels on Travel and Leisure's list are the Hotel d'Inghilterra, the St. Regis Grand, the Westin Excelsior and the Hotel Hassler. All are luxurious and all are worth it. Stop by for a drink if you the room rates are a little too high for you (and in this economy, they are definitely too high!).

Hiking Mt. Etna

If you would like to see an active volcano up close, be sure to take a day trip to Mt. Etna. Not only will you experience lava flows and craters but you will be able to see some of the interesting sights on the mountain itself, including villages, views and a Norman castle made entirely of lava. The Co.Ga.Sicily.Tour company is a reputable touring outfit operating from Catania. For 55 Euros per person, a vulcanologist will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Mt. Etna for the entire day (lunch not included). My sources tell me to ask for Giuseppe as your guide. Etna makes for a fantastic all-day excursion from Taormina or Catania. Have fun and wear sturdy shoes!

Travel and Leisure's Top 500 Hotels:Amalfi Coast

Every year Travel and Leisure publishes THE LIST. This year, 5 hotels on the Amalfi Coast and one in Sorrento made the coveted ranking, however none of them are new to the list. All are luxurious and all are VERY expensive. But even if you can't stay at any of these properties, stop in for lunch or a drink. The views and service are definitely a worthwhile experience. On Capri, the Capri Hotel & Spa and the Grand Hotel Quisisana are recommended. In Positano, Travel and Leisure ranks Il San Pietro di Positano and La Sirenuse as the best. In Ravello, the lovely and exclusive (43 rooms) Palazzo Sasso (pictured) is the hotel to visit. If you make it over to Sorrento, the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria overlooks the Bay of Naples and provides an excellent jumping-off point for visiting ruins, islands, and the Amalfi Coast.

Rome Is Flooding

Rome declared a state of emergency last week as the Tiber River's water level rose to an unprecedented high. Tiber Island was about to be submerged and a lake formed around the Colosseum. More rain and hail were expected to fall this weekend but the Tiber's floodwaters have subsided. Stay tuned to find out how this has affected the monuments in the city.

Rome on the Cheap

Budget Travel has some great suggestions for saving money in Rome (and in many other expensive cities). They suggest using public transportation, refilling your water bottles in the fountains (the water in Rome is pristine!) and eating pizza by the slice. 10Best.com has some great suggestions for pizzerias, many of them in Trastevere.

Ravello Festival

Every summer the hilltop town of Ravello celebrates its long association with some of the most famous artists in the world. Richard Wagner, Greta Garbo and Giovanni Boccaccio are just a few of the illustrious artists who at one time made Ravello their home. The Ravello Festival lasts from the end of June to the end of October and includes music, films and other cultural events. Each section is dedicated to a particular artist who was inspired by Ravello. The Visual Arts section is dedicated to M.C. Escher and the Musical Promenades section is dedicated to E.M. Forster. The film section (dedicated to Greta Garbo) is perhaps one of the most charming aspects of the festival, as the movies are projected on a big screen in the middle of the main piazza. So very Cinema Paradiso-and so very Italian.

The Most Beautiful Hotel in the World

Perched on a hillside overlooking Mt. Etna and the Mediterranean, the Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina is one of the most spectacular hotels in the world. Built into the foundations of the Greco-Roman theater, this hotel is luxurious, intimate, and the service is impeccable. The hotel was once the home of Sicilian nobility and to this day exudes the taste and refinement of its former residents. The rooms are elegant and almost all have views of the sea and the dining terrace where live piano plays every evening. The Grand Hotel Timeo is an excellent base for exploring Eastern Sicily and especially Taormina, one of Sicily's most charming cities. With rooms starting at 330 Euros, The Grand Hotel Timeo is not cheap, but it is an unforgettable experience worth every penny.

Walking Tours of Rome Courtesy of National Geographic

As part of Traveler Magazine's Places of a Lifetime series, National Geographic has designed three detailed and fascinating walks in Rome. The walks are illustrated by maps and accompanied by pertinent information about what you will see and why it is important. The three walks are the Via Appia Antica, the Via Veneto district, and the historic sites in the heart of Rome. The website also includes what to wear in Rome, restaurant, hotel and shopping recommendations, and even books and music to get you started on your trip before you get there.

The Best of the Costiera Amalfitana

The Amalfi Coast offers unlimited opportunities for experiencing the best of Italy. For day trips, head to Paestum and Capri. Be sure to visit the 13th century cathedral in Amalfi. For spectacular views don't miss Ravello, a tiny town tucked high in the mountains. Positano offers shopping, beaches and a lively nightlife. From the Amalfi Coast you are in the perfect position to visit Pompeii, Herculaneum and Naples by car or bus. Plan to spend several days in the Costiera Amalfitana-you will fall in love.

Sicily: Where to Go, What to See in a Nutshell

Often overlooked by tourists, Sicily is Italy's hidden treasure. From beautiful beaches to elaborate ruins, Sicily has something for everyone. Don't miss the Greek temples at Agrigento and Selinunte. Taormina's Greco-Roman theater and access to Mt. Etna are truly the jewel of the island. Gorgeous beaches and seaside retreats in Zingaro and the Aeolian islands will leave you wondering why you would ever vacation anywhere else. World-class museums in Palermo and Siracusa showcase some of the most exquisite artifacts in the Mediterranean. Sicilian culture, relatively untouched by the rest of the world, offers the most delicious food and interesting traditions. Just don't expect anyone to speak English!

Italian Hand Gestures Decoded

The Italians are the most expressive people on earth. Not only is their spoken language beautiful, but they can speak an entire language with their hands. If you've ever wondered what all those signs can possibly mean, click here for a funny (and informative) video detailing all you've ever wanted to know about Italian hand gestures. The video was put together by Nada's Italy, a tour company devoted to the authentic experience of Italian language and culture.

Christmas in Rome: Where to Go, What to Eat

National Geographic's Intelligent Traveler Blog is celebrating Christmas all over the world. With recommendations from locals and experts, the most authentic ways to experience the season are now in your grasp. Among their recommendations are the Christmas market in Piazza Navona, the hundreds of nativity scenes in every church around the city (St. Peter's pictured), Christmas Mass in St. Peter's, and eating roasted chestnuts and panettone. The Modern Traveler also suggests panforte, an Italian riff on fruitcake (and naturally a thousand times better!). If you can't get to Rome to try it, Whole Foods always sells it!

David Lynch's Wine Bar Picks

Mario Batali's famous Manhattan restaurant, Babbo, is well-known not only for its terrific food, but also for its impeccable wine selection. That wine selection is thanks to David Lynch, Babbo's wine director. Lynch is an expert on Italian wines and naturally has a few favorite wine bars to visit in Rome. He includes Cul de Sac, the quintessential enoteca just off the Piazza Navona. But he recommends several more wine bars in almost every neighborhood in Rome. In the Prati (north of the Vatican) he touts Del Frate not only for its wines but also for its cheese selection. In Trastevere, trendy Ferrara is the place to visit for an "encyclopedic" wine list. If you are looking for something a little more low-key, try L'Angolo Divino just off Campo dei Fiori. Salud!

Antico Arco on the Gianicolo

Just across from the Porta San Pancrazio on the Gianicolo is Antico Arco, a little jewel of a restaurant. Four unique dining rooms in an historical building offer Roman cuisine with a little bit of Calabria, Sicily and Le Marche thrown in. One of their Roman specialties is pasta all'Amatriciana with pancetta from the Marche region. The restaurant is frequented by members of the American Academy in Rome, which is just around the corner. Antico Arco's wine bar is a lovely place to wait for your table, but be sure to make a reservation as it does get crowded. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. Piazzale Aurelio 7, Tel.065815274.

Budget Travel's Italian Menu Decoder

Confused by cavolo and caponata? Puzzled by polpo and passito? Part of the joy in dining out in Italy is trying new things (and not limiting yourself to restaurants where the menu is printed in English!). Budget Travel has a very convenient Menu Decoder that you can study before you leave or take with you when you dine out. You'll never be stymied by saltimbocca (above) again!

L'Espresso's Guide to the Best Restaurants in Italy

L'Espresso, La Repubblica's weekly cultural magazine, has published its top restaurant choices in Italy for 2009. You can search by region for the best of the best in every city. Their top pick for Lazio is La Pergola at the Rome Cavalieri Hilton. Also among their top ten are L'Altro Mastai and Il San Lorenzo, two restaurants that the Modern Traveler has reviewed. Buon Apetito!

This is Rome

Another holiday gift idea for the young romantic is the children's classic This Is Rome by Miroslav Sasek. First published in 1960, the book has been updated to reflect changes in the 21st century. Children and grownups who remember the book from their own childhoods will love the charming pictures and stories about the famous monuments of Rome.

"Loot: The Battle Over Stolen Treasures of the Ancient World"

Sharon Waxman's new book Loot: The Battle Over Stolen Treasures of the Ancient World takes readers through centuries of archaeological treasures stolen from their native lands. Many countries are now fighting back and demanding that their national heritage be returned. There is controversy over where these treasures belong and some of the most famous museums in the world are battling to keep them. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the J. Paul Getty Museum are at the center of these issues, along with the Louvre and the British Museum. Waxman devotes an entire chapter to the fate of Marion True, the former curator of the Getty Villa in Malibu. See where Sharon Waxman is speaking next or listen to a discussion with her on KQED's FORUM show.

New Train Services From Rome to Milan Threaten Alitalia

Alitalia, Italy's struggling airline, is all set to be revived-but new problems may be in store for the carrier. Easyjet is now offering 4 flights a day from Rome to Milan, one of Alitialia's most popular routes. And trains may pose even greater competition. On December 15th a section of new track between Bologna and Milan will cut out half an hour of the four hours it takes to get to Milan from Rome. And another company, the privately owned Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori, is opening a new high speed train service between major cities in Italy, including Rome and Milan. Alitalia is certainly facing some daunting competition. Read more about it in the Economist.

National Geographic's Intelligent Traveler Blog

The Modern Traveler is always looking for on-line travel resources that are interesting, thoughtful and naturally, all about Italy. National Geographic Traveler Magazine has a travel blog called the Intelligent Traveler and it offers all sorts of fun information on sites all over the world-and raises awareness about the planet. You'll find great pictures, unusual stories, and links to useful resources. Some favorite Italian stories: Walking Rome and Turning Water to Wine in Marino.

Carla Bruni Is Glad She's Not Italian

After Prime Minister Berlusconi's Obama gaffe last week, the wife of French president Nicolas Sarkozy, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, told a French newspaper that "I'm very happy that I became French!" To this former Italian president, Francesco Cossiga (who is a supporter of Berlusconi), replied "We too are indeed happy that she is no longer Italian." The Washington Post reports that tonight Nicolas Sarkozy and Silvio Berlusconi are attending a White House dinner for world leaders. Will sparks fly?

Google Earth Unearths Rome

Google Earth unveiled its latest project last night-Ancient Rome 3D-a virtual satellite view of ancient Rome. Now you can zoom in on Rome in the 4th century CE just as you would zoom in on Manhattan today. The project is in conjunction with the Institute for Advanced Technology in the Humanities at the University of Virginia and many other contributing universities. On November 20, the city of Rome will open a short movie based on the project in a theater near the Colosseum called "3D Rewind Rome" that will take viewers through the ancient city. Google is even hosting a competition for educators to design a curriculum around the model. Read more about the project in today's New York Times and have fun!

Wine Bars in Rome

If you are looking for a terrific wine selection and delicious food that is often quite reasonable, try a wine bar (or enoteca). In recent years, many of Rome's wine shops have expanded and now serve small plates and full meals to accompany wine tastings. You can often reserve a table ahead of time, which is rare in Rome. Cul de Sac is the enoteca of choice-located near Piazza Navona, it consistently gets the best ratings and has great atmosphere. For more recommendations from insiders, see Starklandcellars and katieparla.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci: Study Italian in Rome

This month's Travel and Leisure features language schools around the world. In Italy, with locations in Florence, Rome, Siena and Milan, they recommend Scuola Leonardo da Vinci. The Scuola not only offers language classes ranging from two to 24 weeks, but also offers cultural classes in music and art history, among other topics. The Scuola in Rome is located at Piazza dell'Orologio, which is not far from Piazza Navona and Campo dei Fiori.

Madeline in Rome: The Perfect Children's Christmas Gift

If some little girl you know is a fan of the Madeline series (or you are!), the newest edition in the series is about Rome. Madeline and the Cats of Rome is the first new Madeline book in 50 years and was written by John Bemelmans Marciano, the grandson of Ludwig Bemelmans, the author of the original series. Madeline and her classmates head to Rome for a spring vacation and find all sorts of trouble-including thieves and many cats!

Quantum of Solace Premiers in Rome

The new James Bond film, Quantum of Solace, premiered in Rome at the Warner Theater in Piazza dell Repubblica on Wednesday. In an interview there, Daniel Craig, inspired by the American election, said that the world is ready for a black 007. This latest Bond movie has several scenes that take place in Siena and picks up just 20 minutes after Casino Royale ends. Reviews of Quantum of Solace claim that while Casino Royale was a hard act to follow, the new Bond flick delivers and is definitely worth seeing.

Italy Blushes about Berlusconi's "Suntan" Remark

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi put his foot in his mouth on Thursday when he commented to Russia's President Medvedev that Barack Obama was "young, handsome, and suntanned." Italian newspapers and liberals are in an uproar, but Berlusconi says they lack a sense of humor. Berlusconi is not exactly known for his tact. Among many social and political gaffes, in the past he has compared a German European Parliament member to a Nazi concentration camp guard. Some say that this latest comment is just one manifestation of the underlying racism in modern-day Italy. Let's hope that the recent Catholic-Muslim summit at the Vatican and the election of Obama in the U.S. will help to eliminate that prejudice.

Vatican Catholic-Muslim Talks End On Promising Note

A three day summit at the Vatican between Christian and Muslim leaders ended last night with a joint declaration of cooperation and intention between the two religions. After the Pope's comments in 2006 about Muslims and the violent protests over Danish cartoons depicting Muhammad, this summit was long overdue and much welcomed. There was even discussion of forming a Muslim-Catholic crisis management committee for conflict resolution. Perhaps the recent outcome of the U.S. election has inspired a few world leaders?

Eat Like a Roman with Gourmet Magazine

Major foodie Robert Sietsema's series Eat Like A Roman on Gourmet.com is all about the unusual cooking methods of the Ancient Romans and how to bring them into the modern world. Recent articles include an attempt at Roman placenta (which is not that kind of placenta-it's actually a cross between lasagna and cheesecake!), garum (a fish sauce which the Italians still use today and call colatura), and a simple cilantro, mint and feta salad that you'll want to make for your friends. If you want to attempt some Roman recipes yourself, try Mark Grant's cookbook, Roman Cookery: Ancient Recipes for Modern Kitchens.

Calling All Archaeologists: Excavate in Italy Summer 2009

If you have some experience in archaeological fieldwork, the University of Michigan may be looking for you. In June of 2009, UM will launch a six-week excavation at the urban site of Gabii, an ancient settlement of Rome's Italian allies. Gabii is located just east of Rome and excavators will be housed in nearby Frascati at the Hotel Villa Mercede. Read more about the excavation in UM's Literature, Science and Arts magazine. The Modern Traveler can't think of a better way to spend the summer-living and breathing Roman history!

Gustiamo.com For All Your Italian Cravings

Dying for a real cup of coffee? Just can't seem to get the sauce for pasta con le sarde right? Looking for that perfect holiday gift for your favorite Italophile? Check out gustiamo.com, a website devoted to bringing the absolute best products from small Italian producers to the world at large. Be sure to order coffee from Caffe Sant' Eustachio in Rome-which is actually worth flying to Italy for!

Vote Rome for the Most Romantic Place in the World at Budget Travel

In this election season, it's important that you make your choices clear! Vote for Rome as the world's most romantic foreign city. Clearly Venice and Paris have nothing on the Eternal City!

New York Times Reviews the Rome Cavalieri

Recently redone and reopened as part of Hilton's Waldorf-Astoria collection, the Rome Cavalieri Hotel certainly delivers luxury. However, the New York Times reviews it this weekend-and is less than pleased with the experience. While the hotel is beautiful, filled with works of art, and has exceptional service, every amenity comes with a price. The gym costs 20 Euros a day, poolside chairs and towels cost 16 Euros, and room service is exorbitant. The bottom line? Nice views but not worth it.

Apollo of Mantua at Capitoline Museum

On loan to the Capitoline Museum from the Palazzo Ducale in Mantua is the famous marble sculpture of Apollo. This work of art, probably dating back to the time of Hadrian, will be exhibited in Rome until January 6th of 2009. Don't miss the opportunity to see this intriguing antiquity!

Colline Emiliane-Perfect Pasta near the Trevi Fountain

Locals and tourists love this family-run pasta spot just off the Trevi Fountain. The house specialty at Colline Emiliane is a truffle pasta made by the owner's wife and the menu, inspired by the proprietors' home region of Emilia-Romagna, will have you back again and again. The prices are a bargain (for Rome anyway!) with main courses running from 14 Euros to 18 Euros. Reservations are recommended and BE ON TIME!

Ludovico Einaudi Comes to San Francisco November 20th

Sponsored by KDFC, the Bay Area's classical music radio station, composer and pianist Ludovico Einaudi will perform at Bimbo's in San Francisco on November 20. Einaudi is famous for his "minimalist" piano compositions which are haunting and evocative (in KDFC's words). Don't miss the chance to see this world-famous Italian musician in a very intimate setting.

National Geographic Traveler's Italy Soundtrack

Every issue of National Geographic Traveler includes an iTunes playlist compiled by the writers of the magazine to accompany you and your iPod on your next trip. Their Italy playlist includes Andrea Bocelli's Con te partiro and Dean Martin's That's Amore. Download it on iTunes before you head off to Rome or when you are in the mood for a little Italian music.

Students Protest Education Reform in Piazza Navona

Education reforms passed by the right-wing parliament had students protesting and clashing all over Italy today. A conflict erupted in Piazza Navona as right-wing and liberal groups picked up cafe chairs and threw them at opponents. Four people were treated for injuries. The education reforms may include budget cuts for university programs as well as instituting codes of conduct in elementary schools.

Jessica Biel Promotes "Easy Virtue" at the Rome Film Festival

Jessica Biel was stunning in Yves Saint Laurent in Rome Monday screening her new film, Easy Virtue. The film is a remake of a 1928 Alfred Hitchcock movie based on a Noel Coward play of the same name. The movie is sure to be a hit with an excellent cast including Kristin Scott Thomas and Colin Firth.

Rene Caovilla on Sale at Gilt Groupe

Rene Caovilla, the quintessential Italian shoe designer, is on sale at Gilt Groupe, an invitation-only designer shopping website. Rene Caovilla shoes tend to run at prices over $800 (eek!) and in this economy, that's just not practical. Gilt Groupe has dozens of styles on sale for 50% off-so hurry and find yourself an invitation to join this preferred shopping site!

Festival Internazionale del Film di Roma

Rome's International Film Festival is happening right now. Stars from all over the world, like Al Pacino (who received the Marc'Aurelio Acting Award) and Willem Defoe have descended upon Rome to premier new films and participate in what has been a major cinematic event in the past. This year's festivities are a little subdued, as Rome's mayor tried to withdraw funding (La Notte Bianca suffered a similar fate this year). You can attend the films as well-in fact, the festival offers a great deal-three movies for 12 Euros. The celebration continues through October 31st.

Low Airfare to Rome from New York in November

Delta Airlines is offering a non-stop flight to Rome from JFK for $647.00 November 19-26. Just in time for your Thanksgiving vacation. Maybe instead of turkey at your in-laws this year you should enjoy a nice saltimbocca alla Romana in the Piazza Navona!

Giada de Laurentiis Comes to San Francisco

San Francisco got a taste of Italy today when Giada came to Williams-Sonoma in Union Square. The Modern Traveler braved the two hour line to meet Giada and get her newest cookbook, Giada's Kitchen, signed. Giada is just as fabulous in person as she is on television-and even more personable. Find out when Giada is coming to your town!