What is the taste of summer? I think that any berry qualifies. Served fresh or cooked, warm or frozen, berries mean summer to me – a summer that delights the taste buds and nourishes the soul.
Lemon seems to be the quintessential summery flavor on the Amalfi Coast, and I came to this realization upon checking out the inaugural event in Eataly’s 2025 Summer Saturdays series. Held at the Chicago location, this was a a marvelous excursion through the most exciting tastings and sips of the Amalfi Coast and its picturesque fishing villages, whose authentic treasures of nature and architecture surrounded by crystal-clear seas have long been major tourist attractions.
I am a big fan of Italian ingredients and cuisine (you are welcome to check out a few of my posts here, here, here, here, here, here and here) and I couldn’t wait for this event 🙂 The menu included an abundance of sunny Southern Italian fare, small bites ranging from savory pasta to seafood dishes. From Fritto Misto (mixed seafood and summer vegetables with lemon aioli)… 
… to Focaccia Limone (Genovese-style focaccia topped with lemon, thyme, and sea salt, bursting with luscious lemon-flavored gourmet EVOO)…
… and Insalata Di Mare (seafood salad with octopus, squid, shrimp, garbanzo beans, celery and carrots dressed with a lemon vinaigrette)…
…all of the dishes I tried were cooked to perfection and were showcased beautifully.
I must make a special mention about the Pasta Al Limone E Gamberi (pasta tossed in lemon-infused cream sauce with shrimp, topped with chives and Parmigiano Reggiano), whose flavor and texture were phenomenal! Vibrant and luscious without being overpowering, the lemon taste delighted my palate and was one of the highlights of my virtual trip to Italy.
A dreamy dish!
For dessert, I had Baba Al Limoncello (small cakes soaked in Limoncello syrup, topped with Chantilly cream and candied lemon)…
…and Lemon Panna Cotta topped with fresh fruit. The flawless creaminess of the latter was a scrumptious finale to an impressive tour de force through some of Italy’s most famous culinary treasures.
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Eataly Chicago, and I think this series is perfect for showcasing Italy’s cuisine in a relaxed fashion, packed with vacation vibes. I love shopping at Eataly, and knowing that they host culinary experiences adds to my overall understanding and appreciation of this iconic place.
The next event in the Summer Saturdays series will highlight gourmet specialties from Capri. More delicious traveling without leaving Chicago? Yes, please 🙂
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