Grains, legumes, and the values of cucina povera help answer the question “Who are you?”—reminding us of the beauty in simplicity.
At the heart of every dish lies a story. Our story is rooted in cucina povera, an Italian tradition that uncovers beauty and nourishment in the simplest of ingredients, finding extraordinary value in what others might overlook.
Born from necessity, cucina povera is a philosophy built on deep respect for ingredients, passed down through generations of farmers, artisans, and home cooks who understood that true flavor comes from honoring the humble. Grains and legumes, rich in history, have nourished our ancestors for centuries, evolving into the foundation of some of Italy’s most profound dishes, blending simplicity with nourishment and deep, resonant flavors.
Alain Ducasse, one of the most influential chefs of our time, revolutionized haute cuisine by embracing these same principles. With a focus on products, artisans, and farmers, he infused the essence of cucina povera into fine dining. His ‘farm-to-table’ philosophy is a celebration of simplicity. Through dishes like ‘Cream of mixed grains with puffed rice and goat milk royale’ and ‘Spiced meatballs with smoked eggplant and toasted chickpeas’, cooked at Refettorio Ambrosiano, Chef Ducasse demonstrated that when ingredients are allowed to shine in their most natural state, they can create something far more powerful than any extravagance.
Who are we?
We are those who find beauty and nourishment in simplicity, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. We honor the past while shaping the future, sharing these values to create a space where we can celebrate, together, the extraordinary within the everyday.
Warm regards,
Food for Soul
