As a self-proclaimed Italian ambassador, Chef Gina Stipo seeks to increase the understanding of traditional Italian cuisine. She shares her passion for Italian travel, food and wine with her sister, Mary Potter, and the tour company they own, Ecco la Cucina – Culinary Tours to Italy. Offering week-long culinary tours, they have over 20 years experience leading small groups through the diverse regions of Italy.
Having lived and worked in Tuscany for many years, Gina has in-depth expertise in authentic Italian cuisine. She blogs about Italy and her experiences under the title “At the Italian Table.” With Ecco la Cucina’s monthly newsletter, Gina and Mary keep you up to date on what’s going on in Italy, what’s in our wine glass and what’s on the table for dinner.
Background
Gina and Mary grew up in an Italian-American family and were immersed in the cuisine of Southern Italy. They developed a strong respect for fresh ingredients by working in the family vegetable garden. Several years spent as children in Verona strengthened their love for Italy. In addition, frequent travel to Italy gave them insight into the diversity of its food and wine.
In 2000, Gina moved to Tuscany and opened the cooking school Ecco la Cucina, which means “here’s the kitchen.” After living and working in Tuscany for 13 years, she returned to the US and opened the restaurant At the Italian Table in Louisville KY. In March 2020 it permanently closed.
Gina leads workshops in the US on regional Italian cuisine and wine. She has taught classes at culinary schools, universities and private homes throughout the US. In addition, she has been the guest chef at many restaurants. With multi-course dinners that evoke the traditional Italian table, she educates guests on authentic Italian cuisine.
Chef Gina’s cuisine focuses on the simplicity and seasonality of the Italian table. While living in Italy she traveled extensively, working with both professional chefs and home cooks. Graduating from the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in New York City gave her a classical background in the culinary arts. 
She wrote the cookbook “Ecco La Cucina”, a collection of traditional recipes from her Tuscan cooking school. It is available for purchase.
For more information about Chef Gina Stipo or her culinary vacations and cooking classes, visit the website: www.EccoLaCucina.com.
Also visit Trip Advisor to read what past students say about it!