Despite Italy's sights and shopping being inarguably spectacular, we all secretly know what we're here for: the food. Nowadays you'll find that Italian cuisine has evolved from traditional to trendy with the emergence of talented local chefs and dynamic new dining experiences. One of the season's most exciting gastronomic appointments, Dining with the Stars, consists of a series of five gourmet weekend excursions to some of Italy's most beautiful settings. Organized by luxury hotelier Orient-Express, this exclusive package includes weekend accommodation in a luxury suite, two gourmet dinners consisting of a degustation menu prepared by a Michelin-starred chef (or chefs) and one special course, created especially for the evening. A one-of-a-kind excursion to a nearby sight is also planned. Following the success of the first event at Hotel Cipriani in Venice, the next scheduled itineraries are set to take place in Portofino, Taormina, Ravello and Florence. An experience not to be missed by foodies with a taste for the finer things, choose from the following itineraries: Check form below for reservation.

September 29th and 30th

Dine on a vegetarian degustation menu prepared by culinary master Pietro Leemann, owner of the first-ever vegetarian restaurant to earn a Michelin star. The following evening, Heinz Beck's meal will pay tribute to Taormina's most prized crop: the tomato. As part of this weekend, you will visit Catania's fish market and attend a puppet-making workshop, learning about its role and history in Sicilian culture.

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October 20th and 21st

The town of Ravello on the Amalfi Coast provides an idyllic backdrop for the culinary genius of Norbert Niederkofler, founder of the Chef's Cup in Italy, and Niko Romito. Expect cheeses from the region of Abruzzo and extra virgin olive oil to be front-and-centre on the menu. After dinner, guests will waltz the night away to the classic tunes of Wagner.

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November 3rd and 4th

The final installment of Dining with the Stars sees chefs Gennaro Esposito and Mauro Uliassi serve up a Michelin-starred storm of fine Italian gastronomy. The weekend includes a truffle-hunting excursion around the hilltop village of San Miniato.

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