Who we are
The Tasty Guide is your invitation to discover, learn, and savor the true flavors of Italy.
We welcome you to join our journey into the heart of Italian gastronomy, one story at a time.
The Tasty Guide was born in the heart of Florence, where Renaissance architecture and the legacy of history’s greatest artists provide an inspiring backdrop. Founded by Emiliano and Marco, whose friendship dates back to lively college debates, this venture combines their years of experience in gastronomy journalism and cultural anthropology.
Our mission remains steadfast: to share the authentic essence of Italian food and culture with the world. As a magazine first and foremost, The Tasty Guide delves deep into the layers of history and humanity that flavor each local dish. Florence, with its storied piazzas and palazzos, serves as our perfect setting and launching point for broader Italian culinary explorations.
Each article invites fellow gastronomes to join us in exploring taste, tradition, and hidden gastronomic gems across Italy. We share insider knowledge, champion sustainability and diversity in dining, and celebrate the Italian way of life.
Beyond our flagship magazine, The Tasty Guide has expanded into publishing. Our carefully crafted ebooks serve as an extension of our mission, offering in-depth explorations of Italy’s culinary soul. These publications are created with the care of a local and the expertise of seasoned professionals, designed to unveil the true Italian dining experience often missed by casual visitors.
Our Values
We cut through the fluff and provide you with the essential insights you need, without overwhelming you with unnecessary details. We are passionate about editorial quality, ensuring that every text is a carefully crafted ebook.
We believe that everyone should have access to the rich tapestry of Italian food and culture. That’s why we strive to make all our content accessible to all, including people with disabilities.
Our content is written by local experts who offer insider perspectives, ensuring you get an authentic experience. We collaborate with experts, chefs, and cultural enthusiasts to deliver content that goes beyond the surface, giving you a deeper understanding of Italy’s culinary and cultural heritage.
We are committed to sustainable practices, both in our content creation and publishing processes. Supporting local communities is also a key part of our sustainability efforts. By collaborating with local experts, artisans, and businesses, we contribute to the preservation of authentic Italian culture and help bolster the local economy.
We celebrate the diverse flavors, traditions, and people of Italy, showcasing the richness of its culture. We do not fall prey to prejudices or stereotypes, and we dive into the richness and complexities of human cultures.
Team
Emiliano Wass
Co-founder and Editor-in-ChiefEmiliano blends anthropological insight with publishing and journalism experience. He would happily exchange five of his fingers for five tacos al pastor.
Valerie Tiscareno
Photographer and VideomakerValerie is a Journalism undergraduate studying at The University of Missouri with an emphasis in photojournalism and documentary. She grew up in Los Angeles, California, where her favorite thing to do was to find the best street tacos with her dad.
Amber Roldan
WriterAmber is a Journalism student at the University of Missouri with an emphasis in reporting and writing. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Amber has a sweet tooth and has enjoyed exploring Italy through dessert during her time in Florence so far.
Marco Gemelli
Co-founderMarco, one of Italy’s top culinary critics and journalists, founded Il Forchettiere in 2013. His extensive writings have made significant contributions to both national and international press. He only eats chile from his native Calabria.
Maya Echols-Albrecht
Video EditorMaya is a Journalism graduate from Missouri, the “Show Me State” and that’s probably why she is so passionate about social media and video editing. While in Florence, she has been happily immersing herself in the Italian cuisine, specifically making an attempt at trying every gelato flavor.
Sophia Lippel
Social Media ManagerSophia Lippel is an undergraduate Journalism student at the University of Missouri, studying Strategic Communication with a minor in Creative Writing. Originally from Los Angeles, California, she is a passionate music fan and has enjoyed discovering new artists and genres while studying abroad in Florence, Italy.