Italian Cuisine Week kicks off in Baku - News from Embassies

The 10th edition of the International Italian Cuisine Week, organized by the Italian Embassy and ITA – ICE Agency, has kicked off in Baku.


“This year’s theme,” said Ambassador Luca Di Gianfrancesco during the opening ceremony, “has a special meaning because it combines three key elements: health, culture and innovation. The candidacy of Italian cuisine to be included in UNESCO’s list of intangible heritages is based on these three elements.” The nomination has been proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture in 2023, and a decision is expected next December.


Cecilia Oliva, director of ITA – ICE Agency in Baku, stressed the growing trade and economic ties between Italy and Azerbaijan and the local market’s interest in Italian products.


The 2025 edition in Azerbaijan will see the participation of Bergamo’s Da Vittorio restaurant (three Michelin stars), one of the most prestigious testimonials of Italian cuisine worldwide. A press conference to present the various initiatives was held today at the Four Seasons hotel in the presence of chef Roberto Cerea, which was followed by a masterclass. Cerea himself will participate tomorrow in one of the most watched culinary programs on state TV AZTV, ‘GUNE DAVAM.’ Two promotional dinners are also planned for the benefit of institutional guests, representatives of the diplomatic corps and economic-trade operators to enhance the tradition of Italian cuisine and the products of the territory and Made in Italy.