“I have known Igor for many years,” stated Vasco Luti, owner of Simposio Ristorante, “and I consider him a good friend, and a great chef. When I decided to move my restaurant I asked him to help me update my menu. I can’t wait for you to taste our food, the flavors will transport you to the sunny hills of Tuscany!”

Rosi, age 24, was born in Montecatini, Italy, and while he learned the art of cooking from his grandfather, he learned the science of cooking at the Culinary School of Montecatini. His first paying job was at the age of fifteen, cooking for a party on New Year’s Eve. He was astonished, when at the end of the evening, he was paid 100,000 Lira, (about $60 US). To him, it was an epiphany – he could actually get paid for doing something he loved to do. It was at that moment, he decided to become a chef.

Over the years, he has perfected his tableside cooking presentation, yet his first experience remains the most memorable. At the age of seventeen, he was asked to cook for a group of US Marine brass, and while flambéing the Crepes Suzettes, he added a little to much Grand Marnier and the flames leaped to the ceiling and set off the sprinklers. He was never invited back.

Rosi, who loves his sweets, especially honey made from the flowers of cranberries, chocolate and doughnuts, says his favorite vegetable is broccoli. And for his last meal, he will order Risotto al Tartufo. For the rest of us, we can order Risotto al Tartufo any time we want, at Simposio Ristorante.