Last week, I woke up to the news that I had won a national award for my business Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures.

“The Italian Language Foundation is thrilled to honor Francesca Montillo, founder of The Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures, as a 2025 Giambelli Culinary Awardee for her passionate dedication to preserving and sharing authentic Italian culture through immersive travel experiences.

A native of Italy, Francesca brings travelers straight to the heart of Italian life—through hands-on cooking classes, intimate food tastings, and guided adventures across the country’s most enchanting regions. From homemade pasta to personal connections with local artisans, her small-group tours are rooted in heritage, hospitality, and heart.

Brava, Francesca, for turning your love of Italy into unforgettable memories for so many!”

I’m incredibly honored and humbled to be named a 2025 Giambelli Culinary Awardee.

This recognition means the world to me—not just as a lover of Italian cuisine and culture, but as someone deeply passionate about preserving and sharing the heart of the Italian way of life through every journey, every flavor, and every story we experience together on my culinary tours.

To everyone who has joined me on this path—thank you. From the local artisans and collaborators who’ve opened their homes, kitchens and wineries, to my beloved clients who’ve embraced the richness of Italy beyond the postcards—you’ve all helped make my dream for this business, a living, breathing reality.

Here’s to keeping tradition alive, one authentic bite and unforgettable adventure at a time.