Jun. 14, 2011 (PR Newswire) --
—http://www.altiramisu.com—
WASHINGTON, June 14, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- You've heard of people who "walk their talk" by practicing what they preach. Chef/owner Luigi Diotaiuti of Al Tiramisu, the most authentic Italian restaurant in the nation's capital, "runs his talk." The marathon-running chef is preparing for his11th full marathon, the off-road Australian Outback Marathon in July, while running a restaurant that's open seven days a week plus teaching children and adults the joys of authentic Italian cooking and healthy eating.
Like a poster child for First Lady Michelle Obama's healthy eating and exercise "Let's Move" campaign, Diotaiuti jogs regularly and five years ago added running marathons—10 full marathons and 15 half marathons to date. It's his secret to remaining fit and trim while surrounded by pasta and decadent desserts daily. As part of his goal to run marathons on every continent, he ran a marathon in China, is heading to Australia this summer, and then Africa. And, no surprise, he plans to run a marathon in his beloved Italy.
Al Tiramisu's regional Italian cooking classes for adults and new cooking classes for elementary school children are part of the restaurant's year-long celebration of Italy's 150th and its 15th anniversaries. The celebration culminates later in the year with a multicourse 15th anniversary feast with wine pairings.
To give a "flavor" of each region, cooking classes go well beyond food. Chef Luigi delves into the history, culture, people, food, and wine of each region before stepping into the kitchen and preparing three courses. In the dining room, each course is paired with three wines, with toasts to the many chefs. "It's like taking a trip throughout Italy without the cost of going abroad," smiles Chef Luigi, who is known for his good cheer and authentic Italian cooking and wine mastery.
Moving from south to north, Sicily (photos of food and blog) and Sardinia have been featured.