I’ve been traveling to Calabria, Italy since I’m an embryo, literally. My parents, both from Reggio Calabria, would lug me and my siblings from Brooklyn all the way to Calabria every summer to spend time with our relatives and to understand where and what we come from. I’d spend all summer long on my family’s farms, cooking, collecting chicken eggs, frolicking on the beach with my cousins and trying to master the Italian art of gesticulation. I’d have a blast every summer in Reggio Calabria and looked forward to going back every year for summer break. I love the spicy foods and sweet citrusy-nutty desserts, granitas and gelato. OMG, THE GELATO! These trips had such a profound effect on me that it inspired me to pursue my college degree in History and create a food company City Saucery using Calabria as my muse. All my current products are inspired in some way by Calabria’s rich food history and preserving traditions. Ancient cooking techniques I learned both from my family in Calabria and my parents in Brooklyn. Calabrian cuisine, famed for pepperoncino laden dishes and sweet luscious desserts is anything but boring as are the unwaveringly hospitable people that makeup this incredibly unique place. A place that is considered Italy’s “hidden gem.” Join me.