When I arrived in Phoenix, I had great culinary expectations with regards to Mexican Cuisine. I have to say that it has been quite challenging to find amazing Mexican food, however I have been surprised with the quality and quantity of the Italian cuisine that Phoenix offers.
Back in 2014, I celebrated Valentine’s day with my husband with a candle lit, romantic dinner in one of the most beautiful restaurants that I have ever visited: Sassi. Secluded in North Scottsdale, the drive to Sassi is just breathtaking. Overlooking the city lights and the rustic architecture of the “Italian Villa” looking restaurant, were the a perfect background for our romantic dinner.
Gardens, beautiful doors and water fountains are perfectly placed to create the Italian Villa feel at Sassi
Fast forward to 2016 I had the pleasure to visit Sassi again, this time for a media preview on their Summer Cooking Series . Be prepared to learn how to cook Italian dishes from the main regions in the country; Italy is more than pasta my friends, and be ready to impress your guests at your next gathering, because you will be able to easily replicate these dishes at home.
The smell of shallots, combined with garlic and mushrooms created a “home made” aroma that was irresistible.
Starting on June 8th, chef Christopher Nicosia will be a gastronomic tour guide that will walk you through three regions in Italy with his cooking class. The first stop of this culinary trip will be Piemonte, which is the region of Italy that borders with France and Switzerland, therefore, the menu features the “Bagna Cauda” an Italian staple which translates “hot bath”; a classic hot dip similar to a fondue.
Next destination in the itinerary is the region of Tuscany, which is probably the best known world wide. Instead of giving the spotlight to the traditional pasta, chef Nicosia turns the attention to the “Chicken Cacciatore” or “Chicken Hunter” and the Duck Liver Mousse, in this class that will be held on June 29th.
The last stop of this gastronomic trip will take you to Emilia Romagna, the heart of Italy and home of the famous Bolognesa. In this last class that takes place on July 13th, you will learn how to make Tagliatelle pasta with Ragu.
The three course meals are paired with variety of wines
Let me say you will have a dinner experience like no other. Whether you decide to get hands on cooking with chef Nicosia or you sit down, sip wine, relax and watch him cook for you. The low light and romantic environment, make of these classes a perfect date night plan, a little getaway to Italy without leaving Arizona.
Chef Nicosia working his magic in the kitchen 
Ricotta Gnocchi with Mushroom Ragu 
Amaretti cookies 
Coffee Gelato to pair with Amaretti cookies
This experience was possible thanks to Sassi. However, as stated at the beginning I absolutely adore this restaurant and have been there before this media invite.
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