The art of culinary with Puglia's finest: Chef Giovanni Vitto
09/06/24
What’s the secret to a memorable meal? At Villa Torre Bianca, it starts with fresh, local ingredients, time-honored techniques, and a passion for culinary artistry. Our talented Chef Giovanni Vitto embodies this spirit, blending his deep love for Apulian traditions with global expertise. Join us as we explore his favorite dishes and local recommendations.
Chef Giovanni Vitto began his journey in Apulia, where he trained at the Angelo Consoli Institute before honing his skills in kitchens all across Italy and even as far as the Caribbean. His passion for authentic, regional cuisine brought him back to Apulia, and we're lucky enough to enjoy his art at Villa Torre Bianca.
His menu at Villa Torre Bianca rotates with the seasons, featuring everything from fresh seafood to handcrafted pasta - each dish a tribute to the regions landscape and abundance. As autumn settles over Apulia, Chef's newest menu celebrates the region’s freshest ingredients and boldest flavors. Guests can expect a stunning selection of Antipasti, like the Scampo Imperiale, featuring tender steamed red shrimp and langoustine, paired with a vibrant salad of seasonal vegetables and berries. Primi courses take you deeper into the flavors of fall, with standout dishes like chestnut flour tagliatelle, served with porcini mushrooms, creamy burrata, and a generous shaving of fresh truffle. For the Secondi, savor Coniglio alla Moda Antica, a slow-cooked rabbit dish with potatoes and onions, while the seared Daunia lamb, paired with chestnuts and dates, offers a perfect autumnal pairing. For those seeking lighter fare, try the Millefoglie di Branzino, a delicate layering of sea bass, asparagus, carrots, and clams, or the Pavarotti-style veal fillet, draped in a balsamic reduction and paired with crispy battered vegetables.
Visit Chef in our restaurant and try Apulia's finest food, located at Contrada Scattone 916, Case Sparse - open to Villa Torre Bianca guests daily from 7:30 AM - 10:00 PM. We welcome off-site visitors for dinner from 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM (last seating at 9:00 PM).
Of course, Chef Giovanni has his own go-to spots when he's not in the kitchen. His top recommendations for guests include:
Each of these restaurants reflects the same commitment to quality and tradition that Chef Giovannni Vitto brings to the table at Villa Torre Bianca. Chef encourages guests to make the most of their stay by trying local specialties like Friselle, Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa, along with known comfort foods such as eggplant Parmigiana, Focaccia alla Barese, and Panzerotti.
Chef sets aside an hour and a half every day to teach our guests how to cook traditional Apulian food. Under his guidance, you'll learn to create everything from Taralli alla Pugliese and Orecchiette alla Barese to Cima di Rapa and Fettuccine. Appreciate the dishes you've prepared with a glass of wine in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Classes are available upon request, daily from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, except Mondays. Contact our guest services to book.
From the hills of Locorotondo to the pristine shores of Torrecanne, Chef Giovanni invites guests to experience the authentic beauty of Apulia, both in the kitchen and beyond. Chef's tips: visit Conversano, a nearby art city with historical charm, or take a scenic drive to the Castellana Caves, and for wine lovers, a tour of Terre Carsiche, Villa Torre Bianca’s wine supplier, is a must.
