Assaggi: The Culinary Delight of Lazio on Display in Viterbo

The Eco-Gastronomy Salon Showcases Regional Excellence

The third edition of Assaggi, the Lazio enogastronomy salon, will take place in Viterbo from May 18th to 20th, 2024. The event was presented today in Rome at the Chamber of Commerce of Rome, showcasing the rich and diverse agri-food heritage of the region. From extra virgin olive oil to cured meats, from wines to cheeses, from pasta and bakery products to jams and hazelnuts, and including fruits, vegetables, meats, honey, herbal teas, and more, Lazio’s culinary offerings are a treasure trove waiting to be discovered, promoted, and celebrated.

“The agri-food sector in Lazio boasts recognized excellence deeply rooted in a millenary tradition: oils, bread, cheeses, craft beers, wines, and meats stand out for their top-quality standards nationwide,” stated Lorenzo Tagliavanti, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Rome. “The agri-food sector in Rome and Lazio counts around 45,000 companies between agriculture and food industries, reaching over 100,000 when considering food commerce and catering. Assaggi represents a valuable opportunity to showcase our rich enogastronomic heritage, promote the encounter between quality food and tourism, and facilitate the connection between businesses and consumers. For these reasons, the Chamber of Commerce of Rome strongly supports the event.”

Domenico Merlani, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Rieti Viterbo, emphasized how Assaggi, after the success of its first two editions, brings the best gastronomic expressions of Lazio back to Palazzo dei Papi and Piazza San Lorenzo in Viterbo’s historic heart. The event aims to introduce the wide range of tastes and flavors that a region with diverse territorial and cultural characteristics has to offer. This established event focuses on promoting the region’s enogastronomic excellences and showcasing the territory from a touristic perspective.

“In a few years, Assaggi has become a reference point for our territory, an essential opportunity to highlight and discover the many excellences of Tuscia,” stated Mayor Chiara Frontini of Viterbo. “This event gains more relevance each year, becoming a must-attend event for professionals and enthusiasts to explore our enogastronomic treasures.”

The intense weekend of the salon, catering to food enthusiasts and industry professionals, is an opportunity not to be missed to fully appreciate the high-quality standards of regional products. Additionally, the event aims to increase tourism in the City of the Popes, generating economic benefits for accommodation facilities.

With over 60 participating companies at Assaggi 2024, food lovers and industry professionals will have the chance to explore both classic and innovative productions, tailored to meet the evolving market demands. The event showcases a wide array of flavors, scents, knowledge, and traditions, thanks to the best artisans of enogastronomy and virtuous companies committed to enhancing the culture of food. In addition to public access on Saturday and Sunday, Monday, May 20th, will be dedicated to Food&Beverage professionals.

The exhibition area is set up in the halls of Palazzo dei Papi, extending to the adjacent CERSAL (Center for Research on the History of Upper Lazio), where guided tastings and panels on oil and wine take place. The event also unfolds in the tent structure in Piazza San Lorenzo, hosting prestigious guests, show cooking sessions, book presentations, sensory workshops, and talks organized in collaboration with Agro Camera. Once again, educational activities for children by Slow Food Viterbo and Tuscia will also be available in Piazza San Lorenzo.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, May 18th, at 10:00 am with Max Mariola, chef and TV host. The event will conclude on Sunday, May 19th, with a show cooking session and the presentation of a book by Ruben Bondì, a young talent in Italian cuisine. In between, there will be a series of appointments with chefs, entrepreneurs, specialized journalists, and special projects.

Alongside Assaggi, Fuori Assaggi returns with collateral initiatives offering further insights into Lazio’s agri-food sector. From May 15th to 20th, local companies in Viterbo and across the province will organize a rich calendar of themed dinners, tastings, and events, all centered around the region’s culinary heritage and culture.

Assaggi is organized by the Chamber of Commerce of Rieti-Viterbo with the support of the Chamber of Commerce of Rome, the Municipality of Viterbo, and the participation of the Lazio Region.