As fall nears, Tortello in Wicker Park is inviting Chicagoans to celebrate the women it says are often the keepers of Italian cooking traditions. The restaurant has launched “Nonna Knows Best,” a video contest inspired by owner Dario Monni’s late Nonna Tina, whose Sunday lunches centered on handmade gnocchi and tagliatelle.
According to the press release, people are being asked to send in short videos of their Italian grandmothers making fresh pasta or sharing a family recipe. Tortello said the contest is meant to highlight local family traditions while bringing home-style cooking into the restaurant’s kitchen and menu.
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Dario Monni & his late Nonna Tina | Photo provided by Tortello
How to enter and what winners get
Submissions are open through Wednesday, Sept. 30, with no purchase required. Entrants can upload videos through the online submission link.
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Photo provided by Tortello
The top three Nonnas will have their dishes featured on Tortello’s menu in November and will also be highlighted on the restaurant’s social media channels. Those selected will spend a day cooking with Monni and Chef Annie Waugh, giving the winners a chance to bring their family recipes into a professional kitchen.
The grand prize includes a private event at DeSora valued at $2,500. Tortello said the campaign is designed as a tribute to Italian grandmothers and the food traditions passed down through generations.
Dining and Cooking