Laforgia is also well known in the United States thanks to actor Stanley Tucci and his documentary on Italian cuisine.

The evening was held at Antico Sapore, hosted by entrepreneur Cesare Zanchi, where Laforgia led a cooking show entirely dedicated to the iconic Apulian dish, famous for its crisp texture, spicy flavour and the authenticity of traditional spaghetti.

The menu for the evening included, in addition to Spaghetti all’Assassina, Apulian focacce and fava beans with chicory dressed with novello olive oil from Carpino, recently imported to Australia by Matteo Marucci’s company.

The event sold out within days of being announced, confirming strong interest in a masterclass linking Bari and Melbourne.

Joe Caputo, President of the Federation of Apulian Associations of Australia, described the initiative as a true example of “chef diplomacy”, capable of bringing Puglia to the world through its most iconic and original dishes.

Given the great success of the evening, Caputo and Zanchi announced their intention to organise a series of events dedicated to Apulian cuisine during the next Fine Food Festival in Melbourne, scheduled for spring.