Italian Food Festival at Rosewood Jeddah

Rosewood Jeddah is wrapping up preparations for one of the most exciting culinary festivals in the city, the Italian Food Festival, taking place from Jan. 14 to 28 .
Returning for the fourth time at the hotel’s popular Habsburg restaurant, the Italian Food Festival will feature the best of Italian cuisine, offering hotel guests a true culinary experience from one of the country’s most well-known food regions, Emilia Romagna.
Talented culinary expert, Chef Francesca Simoni from Bologna, Italy, is also confirmed to return to Rosewood Jeddah to treat diners to the deliciously fresh, innovative cuisine throughout the festival.
Joining Simoni will be Rosewood’s new Executive Chef, Amjad Yousef Al Ghandoor, who will help bring the authentic flavours of Italy to Jeddah, the Bride of the Red Sea.
“Last year I was the first female Italian Chef taking part in a leading festivity in Jeddah,” said Chef Francesca.
“It is such a privilege and honor to return to the Kingdom for my second experience here and I am thrilled to be back after the overwhelming success of last year’s event.
“I have been blessed with a professional and skilled team at Habsburg and I am certain this year’s festival will surpass expectations. We have prepared a diverse and rich menu for our guests including specialties from my native Bologna where we’re famous for our fresh and delicious cuisine.”
Diners can expect a variety of cuisine favorites at the festival, including Chef Francesca’s specialities, ravioli and homemade pasta, fresh seafood Fritto Misto and live cooking stations offering Habsburg guest’s mouth-watering dishes.
Hans-Peter Leitzke, managing director at Rosewood Jeddah, said: “The idea behind the Italian Food Festival is to bring one of the world’s favorite cuisines to our valued guests and treat them to a true Italian dining experience right here in Jeddah.”
He said: “Last year’s Festival was such a success we knew we had to bring Chef Francesca Simoni back. We predict this year’s festival to be bigger and better as Jeddah foodies could not get enough of the delicious dishes that Chef Francesca prepared. This year she also has our very own talented Chef Amjad to be her right hand man in the kitchen.”
The two-week event is hosted by the team at Habsburg restaurant, and sponsored by The First Group, Acqua Panna, Alam Arrajul Magazine, Arab News and Platinum Magazine.
Those eager to experience a taste of Italy will be able to dine each evening from 7:00 p.m. to midnight throughout the festival for SR210 per person, including mineral water and soft drink.