This July, the misty highlands of Payangan set the stage for an immersive culinary journey through Italy as Amerta Restaurant at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort launches its exclusive Four Hands Culinary Series. Bringing together three accomplished Italian chefs with deep roots in their homeland’s gastronomic traditions, the month-long collaboration promises a celebration of regional flavours, artisanal techniques, and the timeless joy of gathering around the table.
Held every Friday throughout July 2026, the limited-edition dining series will see Executive Chef Gianni Stargiotti welcoming two acclaimed guest chefs, Alessandro De Boni and Gianluca Visciglia, for a succession of six-course dinners inspired by Italy’s diverse culinary landscapes.
At the heart of the series is Chef Gianni’s philosophy of honouring tradition while embracing contemporary expression. With more than three decades of international experience across Europe and Asia, he has cultivated a culinary approach that bridges heritage and innovation, creating memorable dining experiences that reflect both place and culture.
For the first three Fridays of the month – 3, 10, and 17 July – Chef Gianni will collaborate with Chef Alessandro De Boni, whose culinary career has spanned Italy, Spain, Switzerland, England, and Indonesia. Renowned for his commitment to artisan craftsmanship and honest flavours, Chef Alessandro’s cooking is rooted in a profound respect for ingredients and the regional traditions that have shaped Italian cuisine for generations.
The final two dinners, taking place on 24 and 31 July, will showcase the culinary artistry of Chef Gianluca Visciglia. Drawing inspiration from Northern Italy, Tuscany, and his family’s Southern Italian heritage, Chef Gianluca brings more than two decades of experience working with luxury hospitality brands and alongside Michelin-starred chefs. His menus are known for highlighting Italy’s remarkable regional diversity through refined yet deeply authentic dishes.
Guests attending the series can expect a carefully curated menu that journeys through some of Italy’s most beloved flavours. Signature dishes include Burrata di Melanzana, Raviolini alla Carbonara, and Tagliatelle all’Agnello Ubriaco, followed by a choice between a 15-day dry-aged Australian grass-fed rib eye or Dentice, Mozzarella e Pomodoro. The evening concludes on a sweet note with Panna Cotta alla Nutella e Lamponi, offering a nostalgic tribute to Italian dessert traditions.
Beyond the food itself, the Four Hands Culinary Series reflects Anantara’s commitment to meaningful travel experiences. Set against the serene backdrop of Ubud’s lush jungle landscape, each dinner is designed to transport guests across Italy’s regions while remaining deeply connected to the tranquil surroundings of Payangan.
“Italian cuisine is deeply connected to memories, generosity and a sense of place,” says Chef Gianni Stargiotti. “This series is an opportunity to share the flavours of our homeland and invite guests to discover the stories, traditions and regional influences that make Italian cuisine so special.”
The Four Hands Culinary Series takes place every Friday in July from 6pm to 9pm at Amerta Restaurant. The six-course dining experience is priced at IDR 900,000++ per person, with limited seating available.
For food enthusiasts seeking one of the most distinctive dining events in Ubud this season, the Four Hands Culinary Series offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Italian gastronomy interpreted by three chefs united by heritage, craftsmanship, and a passion for storytelling through food.
For more information and reservation, visit anantara.com/ubud-bali.
