Alba Accademia Alberghiera recently hosted renowned American chef and television host Mary Ann Esposito for an exclusive masterclass and episode filming of her long-running public television series, Ciao Italia.

The filming took place in the academy’s state-of-the-art kitchen as part of Esposito’s annual culinary tour dedicated to exploring regional Italian food traditions at the source.

Esposito—creator and host of the longest-running Italian cooking show in American public television history—has spent over 30 years sharing Italy’s regional heritage with millions of viewers. Joined by academy Chef Instructor Paolo Taricco, Esposito demonstrated a traditional Piedmontese menu featuring stradette pasta with leek and cheese cream sauce, classic vitello tonnato, and stuffed bell peppers.

Following the kitchen session, students from the academy’s culinary and hospitality programs managed table service in the dining room under the direction of instructor and maître d' Elena Berruti.

Hosting globally recognized culinary leaders like Mary Ann Esposito highlights the Academy's international mission, providing hands-on professional growth for students while promoting Piedmont’s rich gastronomic heritage to the world.