The search for authentic Italian cuisine beyond Italy’s borders is the focus of “Little Massive Italy,” a television program returning for its third season. Hosted by Francesco Panella, the show follows Panella as he travels throughout North and Central America—from Hollywood to Panama—to discover hidden gems of Italian cooking and celebrate the expat communities that keep those traditions alive. The program, originally created by Banijay Italia, aims to identify restaurants that truly capture the essence of Italian culinary heritage.
Panella’s journey isn’t simply a restaurant review show. It’s a personal exploration rooted in his own family’s history. He brings with him the legacy of Antica Pesa, a Roman restaurant founded in 1922, which he has extended to New York City with his restaurant Feroce in Manhattan. Antica Pesa, as described on its website, has been “paying homage to their homeland by celebrating Rome’s culture and the beauty of the tradition” for over a century. This commitment to preserving culinary heritage is central to the premise of “Little Big Italy.”
A Culinary Challenge with Local Experts
In each city visited, Panella relies on the expertise of three Italian expats who act as local guides. These expats each nominate their favorite Italian restaurant, a place where they find a taste of home. The restaurants then compete in a three-part challenge. Judges will evaluate “the expat’s choice,” the chef’s signature dish, and a surprise dish selected by Panella himself.
The judging process involves a unique scoring system. Each dish receives a rating from 1 to 5 “gettoni” (tokens) from the judges. Panella adds a crucial fifth vote, weighted towards the “italianità” – the authenticity and spirit of Italy – that he believes can make the difference in determining the winner. The winning expat receives a bonus card offering a year of free meals at their chosen restaurant.
Beyond the Plate: Exploring Italian Life Abroad
“Little Big Italy” extends beyond simply identifying the best Italian restaurants. A new segment, “Italians love it,” offers viewers a glimpse into the lives of Italian expats. This segment features mini-guides created by the expats themselves, highlighting their favorite places to visit, things to do, and other culinary experiences within each city. The goal is to showcase the cultural enclaves where Italians have built communities and maintain their traditions abroad.
The program’s itinerary includes stops in a diverse range of locations: Hollywood, New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, Queens, San Diego, Panama, Porto Rico, Santo Domingo, Cartagena, and New York. This broad geographic scope suggests an effort to represent the varied experiences of Italian communities throughout the Americas. The show aims to answer the question posed in the program’s introduction: with so many Italian restaurants worldwide, how many are truly authentic?
The Panella Family Legacy
Francesco Panella’s involvement in “Little Big Italy” is deeply connected to his family’s culinary history. He is described as a partner at Antica Pesa, alongside his brother Simone Panella and cousin Lorenzo Panella. According to the restaurant’s website, Simone Panella serves as executive chef, focusing on respecting and renewing tradition through modern techniques. Lorenzo Panella represents the fourth generation of the family’s leadership, bringing a lifelong immersion in Italian hospitality and cuisine.
Francesco Panella himself is described as an international restaurateur and entrepreneur, inspired by the stories and traditions honored through food. His success with Feroce in Manhattan demonstrates his ability to translate the family’s culinary heritage to a new audience. The program, isn’t just a search for good food; it’s a continuation of a family legacy.
As “Little Big Italy” embarks on its third season, it promises a compelling blend of culinary exploration, cultural immersion, and personal storytelling. The program’s focus on authenticity and the experiences of Italian expats offers a unique perspective on the global reach of Italian cuisine and the enduring power of “home” – a concept often defined by the flavors of tradition.
Further updates on the show’s progress and featured restaurants will be available through Banijay Italia’s official channels. Viewers interested in learning more about Antica Pesa and Feroce can visit the restaurant’s website at www.anticapesa.it.
Have your own favorite Italian restaurant abroad? Share your recommendations in the comments below.
