IICA Hosts Michelin-Star Chef Italo Bassi for Exclusive Italian Cuisine Workshop

• An Initiative to deepen the India–Italy Culinary Exchange 

New Delhi, November 2025: The International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi hosted globally renowned Michelin-star Chef Italo Bassi for an exclusive Italian Cuisine Masterclass curated for IICA students and faculty. The workshop was a part of the 10th edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine, an initiative by the Embassy of Italy, New Delhi, with which IICA has been associated for over five years as the Culinary Institute Partner.

Chef Italo Bassi led an immersive hands-on session demonstrating advanced techniques, contemporary Italian culinary styles, and the evolution of global gastronomy. He taught students to prepare Spaghetti Alla Chitarra with Garlic, Oil, Chilli & Anchovies, a classic Italian dish showcasing balance, flavour and technique. Chef Bassi also demonstrated over 10 kinds of pasta shapes, offering students a deeper understanding of artisanal pasta craftsmanship.

He was accompanied by Chef Matteo Bonin, who works with Chef Bassi as an Executive Chef in his restaurant, adding further depth and professional insight to the workshop. Representing the Embassy of Italy, Ms. Anna Ruffino, Counselor & Head of the Economic and Innovation Department, also attended the workshop and interacted with the students.

Post-workshop, IICA hosted Chef Bassi and Chef Matteo Bonin for a South Indian lunch prepared by faculty and students, highlighting India’s regional flavours and culinary diversity. Following the lunch, IICA Chef Faculty Chef Pradeep Kumar accompanied Chef Bassi on a curated Old Delhi Food Walk, where the Michelin-star chef explored iconic local dishes, traditional cooking methods, and age-old food markets. The walk included a visit to Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market, giving Chef Bassi firsthand exposure to India’s diverse flavours, indigenous spices, and vibrant culinary heritage. This cultural immersion was aimed at deepening his understanding of India’s gastronomic landscape and strengthening cross-cultural culinary dialogue.

Chef Italo Bassi,Michelin Star Chef, expressed his appreciation for the experience: “It is a pleasure to engage with passionate young chefs at IICA. I am impressed by the institute’s commitment to global culinary education. Sharing my Italian culinary philosophy and then experiencing the vibrant flavours, colours, and spices of Old Delhi has been truly enriching. India’s food culture is remarkable and deeply inspiring.”

Chef Virender S. Datta, Founder & Chairman, IICA, shared his perspective on the collaboration: “At IICA, we aim to shape well-rounded culinary professionals who are exposed to diverse global practices. Chef Bassi’s visit reaffirms the importance of international mentorship in building the next generation of chefs. Such interactions help broaden perspectives and elevate India’s position in the global culinary community.”

“Hosting Chef Italo Bassi at IICA reflects our commitment to providing world-class exposure to our students. Our long-standing collaboration with the Embassy of Italy has enabled us to bring global culinary experiences to India. This workshop strengthens our belief that true culinary learning happens when cultures, techniques, and traditions come together.” said Arjun S. Datta, COO & Managing Director, IICA.

As part of the Week of Italian Cuisine in India, the Ambassador of Italy to India hosted a special dinner where Chef Italo Bassi prepared the menu for all invited guests. He was supported in the kitchen by Chef Sumit Gupta (Executive Chef, IICA) and a team of IICA students, who contributed to the successful execution of the evening.