Muscat: The Italian Embassy in Muscat will hold the Tenth Week of Italian Cuisine from November 8 to 15, 2026. This event is held under the slogan "Italian Cuisine as UNESCO Heritage: Selected Lands and Supply Chains" and promotes Italian food culture as a living and dynamic cultural heritage.
Historical Significance of the Event
This year's edition of the event holds special significance, especially following the inscription of "Italian Cuisine, Between Sustainability and Biodiversity" on the representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO on December 10, 2025. This historical recognition presents Italian cuisine not merely as a collection of recipes or regional dishes but as a living cultural tradition that encompasses the history, identity, social values, and extraordinary diversity of Italy's lands.
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Cultural and Social Dimensions of Italian Cuisine
This UNESCO recognition emphasizes the cultural and social dimensions of Italian cuisine, including the use of high-quality ingredients, respect for seasonal variations, traditional cooking techniques, the importance of sharing meals, and the transmission of culinary knowledge from generation to generation. Additionally, values of sustainability, reduction of food waste, and the close relationship between communities, their local landscapes, and agricultural traditions are also highlighted in this context.
Against this backdrop, the 2026 edition seeks to highlight the strong connection between gastronomy, lands, and agricultural supply chains. This event demonstrates how Italy's regional products, traditional knowledge, and commitment to quality contribute to preserving the country's food heritage while promoting sustainable food practices.
The program of activities for this week in Muscat brings together the best of Italian cuisine with Omani audiences through a series of initiatives that showcase the richness of Italian food culture.
In this regard, Mr. Piero Luigi Della, the Italian Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, stated: "The Week of Italian Cuisine in the World is an important opportunity to celebrate and share the richness of Italy's food heritage with the people of Oman. This heritage represents our culture, history, and excellence. Through cuisine, we not only promote the flavors and quality products of Italy but also contribute to strengthening intercultural dialogue and enhancing friendship between Italy and Oman."
The main event of this week is a private dinner hosted by the Italian Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, in the presence of Ms. Maria Carmela Serluca, the Regional Minister of Agriculture of the Campania region of Italy, featuring a live cooking demonstration by Chef Pasquale Rea, known for his modern interpretation of traditional Campania cuisine. This event provides guests with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with Italian culinary traditions and regional specialties.
Throughout this week, several prominent Italian restaurants in Muscat – including Berza, Ozenza, Café Novikov, Robotus, Sole, Tomato, and Toscana – will also participate in the festival by offering special menus, inviting residents and visitors to discover and enjoy the unique flavors of Italian cuisine.
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