Beefsteak
You know you are in for a rare treat when your outdoor dining host is cited by the Financial Times as "a Michelangelo among Italian butchers" and described by Jamie Oliver as "one of the best butchers in Italy". Dario Cecchini makes an art out of his love of meat, particularly the local Tuscan "bistecca Panzanese" named after the village Panzano where he entertains customers from behind the counter in his modestly sized butcher's shop (which he calls his 'temple'). Watching Dario prepare his meat is pure theatre, with opera music blaring from speakers and free wine and nibbles for his customers. This art and passion also lends itself to a performance in Dario's work be it in his shop or at an outdoor BBQ grill, stirring the guests' hunger and turning it into an emotional desire. With his colleagues and friends at his side he sets about preparing a feast, for which the joy of watching is only matched by the joy of eagerly tasting... "Trust in what I suggest " he says with a disarming smile.
For an authentic celebration of the joy of outdoor Mediterranean cuisine (and of beefsteak), let this master entertain you and your reception guests for a taste of Tuscany with a talented twist!
An audience with beef's Michelangelo - Financial Times Article
Dario's sushi del chianti recipe - taken from Jamie Oliver's book - Jamies Italy