The commitment to showcasing emerging talents in Italian gastronomy finds new expression in the fourth edition of the Alma Ambrosi scholarship. This year, the prestigious award, established by Allegra Hampel Ambrosi in memory of her grandmother, has been granted to Nadia Bonomini and Giulia Berlato, two promising students from the Stimmatini professional institute in Verona. The initiative highlights the crucial importance of hospitality schools in preparing future generations of professionals in the sector and promoting excellence in vocational training.
The Current Edition and Prestigious Support
The award ceremony took place at the renowned restaurant Casa Perbellini 12 Apostoli in Verona, hosted by chef Giancarlo Perbellini. During the event, Perbellini and Pierantonio Ambrosi from Vecchia Lugana reminisced about the historical contributions of their establishments to 20th-century Italian cuisine. Edoardo Raspelli, a supporter of the initiative since its inception, emphasized “how important it is to bring the message of professionalism and love for the restaurant industry into hospitality schools through the Alma Ambrosi scholarship.” The award consists of a contribution of 5,000 euros, evenly split: 2,500 euros for the deserving student and the same amount for the prestigious restaurant that will host her for a practical training period. This year’s winners are two seventeen-year-old students from the Veronese institute.
The Purpose of the Award: Beyond Economic Value
While the amount of 5,000 euros is significant, the primary goal of the Alma Ambrosi scholarship transcends mere financial aspects. The intent is to raise awareness about the value of Italian gastronomy and, in particular, to underscore the fundamental role of hospitality schools in preparing the new generation. The aim is to highlight the most deserving students, encouraging a path of qualified vocational training and raising awareness about the importance of practical experiences in high-level establishments.
The Roots of the Initiative: A Tribute to Alma Ambrosi
The conception of the award is attributed to Pier Antonio Ambrosi, who long led the family restaurant, the famous Vecchia Lugana in Lugana di Sirmione, on the shores of Lake Garda. The scholarship is named after Alma Ambrosi, a central figure and soul of the restaurant, whose legacy has been carried on by her son Pierantonio. Today, the name of Alma Ambrosi symbolizes renewed energy, perpetuating her passion for cooking. It was her granddaughter, Allegra Hampel Ambrosi, who strongly advocated for this initiative to honor her grandmother’s memory, ensuring that her legacy continues to thrive through the educational paths promoted.
A Historical Connection in Italian Dining
The Vecchia Lugana, managed by the Ambrosi family since 1911, is recognized as one of the oldest restaurants in Italy, with evidence of its existence dating back to the 1600s, as confirmed by Vatican maps and literary references, including one by poet Heine in his “Diary of a Journey in Italy.” The establishment has been a member of the Le Soste association since its founding in 1982, leaving in 2004, the year the original activity ceased. The 12 Apostoli restaurant also boasts an illustrious history, having gained fame with chef Giorgio Gioco and serving as the place where Giancarlo Perbellini, now an award-winning chef with 3 Michelin stars, took his first steps in the restaurant industry. Throughout the 20th century, Vecchia Lugana, 12 Apostoli, and Amelia in Mestre were reference gastronomic stops.
The Educational Context: The Stimmatini Institute
The Stimmatini Institute in Verona, founded in 1957 with a focus on youth education and training, introduced the hospitality program in the 1990s. Currently, the school is led by Dr. Samuele Moretti, who collaborates with a qualified and professional teaching staff dedicated to preparing students.
Previous Editions and the Award’s Journey
The journey of the Alma Ambrosi scholarship has seen significant milestones prior to the current edition. The first edition in 2022 involved the restaurant Il Pescatore Santini in Canneto sull’Oglio (Mantova) and the Andrea Mantegna hospitality institute in Brescia, awarding Alessio Oneda, who is now a permanent member of the restaurant’s staff. In 2023, the collaboration was with Da Vittorio in Brusaporto (Bergamo) and the Cerea Academy, recognizing Giorgio Della Vite. The third edition, held in 2024, saw a partnership between Don Alfonso 1890 in Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi (Naples) and the San Paolo hospitality institute in Sorrento, with Davide Fiorentino as the awarded student. The fifth edition, scheduled for 2026, has already been announced and will take place in collaboration with chef Davide Oldani from the D’O restaurant in Cornaredo (Milan).
Italian Version
