One of the best things about visiting Italy is that Giada De Laurentiis's daughter, Jade gets to spend time with her Nonna V, who lives in Rome. When Nonna V travels to Florence for a visit, Giada creates a lovely dinner to be shared as the sun goes down over the Ponte Vecchio. The menu includes Italian dishes with a twist like Burrata and Strawberry Bruschetta, Grilled Artichokes with Bagna Cauda and Pappa Al Pomodoro.
Giada De Laurentiis spends several days working at the restaurants of celebrated master Chef Fabio Picchi, where she shares her knowledge and, in turn, learns the art of Florentine cuisine. When she gets back to her apartment, she creates an Italian menu with a California spin, making dishes like Prosciutto Broth with Farro and Spinach and Branzino Puttanesca.
Giada De Laurentiis's grandfather, Dino De Laurentiis, was one of many children from a large Italian family, but his sister, Raffaella, is the only sibling still alive. Giada and her Aunt Raffy travel by train to visit Great Aunt Raffy at her home in Milan and prepare her favorite baked dish, Ziti Stufati, to enjoy for lunch.