Ama.mi.Kitchen was established in May 2020, right after I received my Green Card, marking the beginning of an exciting new journey. Ama, my nickname, Mi, my roots Milano, while "Amami," meaning "love me," embodies the essence of what I do. Ama.mi.kitchen is my sanctuary, where I share my passion for cooking through pasta classes and delightful meals, bringing smiles and memorable moments to others.

 

Coming from Italy, a culture deeply intertwined with food, I cherish the conversations about dinner plans and grocery lists, with most of my fondest memories rooted in gatherings around the dining table. My mission is to infuse a taste of that Italian spirit into Knoxville, transforming meals into unforgettable experiences and sharing my love for Italian cuisine. Together, we'll enjoy the joy of cooking, filled with flour, wine, and laughter, as we embrace the vibrant colors and aromas that make cooking a true celebration. Join me in the kitchen...

 

As a home cook, I draw inspiration from my grandmothers' comforting recipes. My early days were spent in the kitchen, learning from Angelina in Milan, who inspired my focus on healthy meals, and Liliana from Turin, who instilled in me the values of Italian culinary traditions.

 

My love for food led me to attend a professional cooking program at Food Genius Academy in Milan in 2018, where I honed my skills alongside top Italian chefs and hosted dining experiences through Airbnb. In 2020, I helped launch Osteria Stella (not currently involved) with an authentic Italian menu. In 2023, alongside my friend Maya, a Natural Wine Sommelier, I co-created L'Ost, a series of wine pairing dinners exploring various Italian regions.

 

Having transitioned from the fast-paced Milan fashion scene, where I worked as a Fashion Buyer for Giorgio Armani, to the serene surroundings of Knoxville to my dreams with my partner Jace, I also embraced my passion for yoga. After over 20 years of practice, I completed a 200-hour YTT in New York and a 300-hour YTT in India, leading my first yoga retreat, Presence+Practice+Puglia, in 2024 and 2025, with my friend Kim Lomonaco. I feel incredibly fortunate that my passions have become my career, and I encourage everyone to follow their dreams!