For those who grew up in Italy, the phrase “Vieni a Casa!” likely conjures a wealth of happy memories. The words – which translate to “come home!” – have been called out by generations of Italian parents at mealtime, to summon their children to the table to eat.

It is in tribute to this fond nostalgia, and to the traditional cuisine that has long brought Italian families together, that The Peninsula Beijing's acclaimed Executive Chef Alessandro Fontanesi presents “Vieni a Casa: The Taste of Home”, a showcase of homestyle Italian cooking. Born in the heartland of Italian cuisine, Reggio Emilia, his skills were inspired by the enticing aromas from his grandmother's stove. With over 20 years of experience in the kitchen and having handwritten more than 2,000 recipes, he insists on using the warmth of his hands to directly and sincerely convey the taste and memory of home.

“While it is an enormous honour to have worked in prestigious kitchens around world for the past 20 years,” said Chef Alessandro, “the recipes I learned from my own grandmothers are still profoundly meaningful for me. I am thrilled to be able to share some of these preparations with guests at The Peninsula Beijing – offering them not just a taste of my cherished homeland, but also the heartfelt warmth of a home away from home.”

Diners at The Lobby will be able to enjoy “Vieni a Casa” cuisine at both lunch and dinner during the pop-up period – along with a distinctively Italian ambience featuring green-and-white checkered table linens, classically patterned plates, and Italian music. Chef Alessandro’s specialties will be offered at a bountiful homestyle Antipasti, pasta station, as well as special à la carte menus.