Who is Viola Buitoni?
Expert in modern Italian cooking with roots in tradition
Viola Buitoni, a chef instructor and culinary writer based in San Francisco, brings six generations of culinary heritage from her birth in Rome and upbringing in Perugia to her work. Her family founded the Buitoni brand of pizzas and pastas. Her first cookbook, "Italy by Ingredient," features recipes that combine the best of local agriculture with artisanal Italian foods. Viola shares her expertise through virtual classes with the Milk Street Cooking School in Boston and in-person sessions at 18 Reasons and The Civic Kitchen in San Francisco.
Recognized for her contributions to Italian culinary culture, Viola was awarded the title of Cavaliere dell'Ordine della Stella d'Italia by the Italian President in 2020. In 2024, she was named one of the 15 most influential women in gastronomy of the year by the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera. Twice a year, she leads immersive culinary tours, guiding food enthusiasts through the hidden gastronomic treasures of Italy.
