Olive Garden's Culinary Institute of Tuscany is located at Riserva di Fizzano, a restored 11th century village in the heart of Italy's Tuscany region. Since its opening in 1999, many Olive Garden chefs have traveled to this special place to learn about and be inspired by the Italian culture.

At the Culinary Institute, Olive Garden chefs work closely with Head Chef Romana Neri to learn firsthand about traditional Italian cooking techniques. Our chefs are taught the importance of using only the freshest ingredients and how to "build flavor" by layering ingredients one at a time - the true art of Italian cooking. They also learn to prepare perfect pasta and all about wine and how it brings out the flavor of great Italian food.

Our chefs learn every detail of a genuine Italian dining experience at our Culinary Institute and are immersed in Italian food and culture by:
Head Chef Romana Neri
teaching Italian cooking
  • Shopping for fresh herbs and vegetables in the markets of Florence
  • Tasting wines at the Rocca delle Macie Winery and local wine bars
  • Learning about the history and evolution of the traditional Italian meal
  • Experiencing firsthand Italian hospitality at numerous restaurants, including Olive Garden Riserva di Fizzano
Olive Garden chefs learning about wine & Italian culture
The Culinary Institute of Tuscany has been the inspiration for many Olive Garden Italian specialties offered on our menu like Spaghetti delle Rocca and our Mixed Grill entrées.

With great pride, our chefs return from Italy eager to share these flavorful Italian dishes with you to enjoy at Olive Garden.