Explore the history of Italian food on a walk around Melbourne with Dr Tania Cammarano

How did the food of widely despised and distrusted migrants become arguably Australia’s favourite cuisine? How did Renaissance architecture, wartime internment, espresso bar scandals and Sophia Loren feature in this? Dr Tania Cammarano answers these questions (and more) while guiding intrepid cultural and culinary explorers on a walk from Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building into the heart of Carlton. Drawing on her original research and some serious sleuthing, Dr Cammarano will tell the fascinating and largely overlooked story of how ideas of Italy influenced the acceptance of Italian food. Myths will be busted and mysteries uncovered as you meet some of the migrant visionaries and mavericks who paved the way for Italians and their food to become the mainstream mainstays of multiculturalism. The leisurely walk will include caffè en route, and end with vino, antipasto and a debriefing at one of Carlton’s historic cafes.