Moltissimo

Moltissimo is a captivating and indulgent culinary exploration brought to you by Viceland. Premiering in 2017, the show combines the enjoyment of food, the spirit of sharing meals, and the inspiring journey taken by food enthusiasts and celebrities to explore the charm of Italian cuisine.

The show is hosted by the irrepressible Mario Batali, a celebrated chef and restaurateur renowned for his deep-versed knowledge in Italian cuisine. With his entertaining personality and culinary expertise, Batali is an ideal guide, leading viewers into the world of gastronomic delights. His contagious passion for Italian cuisine is unmissable throughout the series, making it an inspirational journey for everyone who shares his love for food.

What sets Moltissimo apart from other food-related television programming is its emphasis on cultural immersion. The show doesn't simply present recipes or cooking techniques; it brings to life the stories behind the dishes, providing fascinating context and enriching the viewers' understanding of Italian culture, lifestyle, and culinary heritage.

Each episode involves Batali cooking for two special guests, who vary from top actors, musicians, and professional athletes, to esteemed figures in the arts and entertainment industry. They gather around an industrial kitchen situated in the former Nabisco factory in Bushwick, Brooklyn. The location itself is significant, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern style that adds a distinctive aesthetic to the show.

One of the charming aspects of Moltissimo is the unpredictability it carries in each episode. These are not formal, starched-tablecloth affairs; rather, the meals serve as the backdrop for wide-ranging and often hilarious conversations. From discussing the roots of their influences to sharing tales of their journeys, each guest brings their unique flavor to the table. Meanwhile, as Batali whisks, bakes, simmers, and serves, he imparts his vast culinary wisdom, linking food history with fresh ingredients while sharing heartwarming stories and anecdotes.

Batali's skill in the kitchen is an undeniable highlight of the show. Yet to pigeonhole Moltissimo as just a cooking show would be reductive. It's also an exploration of the power of food to connect people, to spark dialogue, and to bridge cultural divides. The ambiance created in the show is much similar to what we experience in our daily lives when sharing meals with friends and families. This strikes a chord with viewers and gives an intimate homely feel to the show.

Throughout the series, viewers get the chance to witness Batali whip up some tantalizingly authentic Italian dishes, emphasising that real Italian cooking is about simplicity and respect for quality ingredients. It’s the epitome of Batali's mantra: "Food, like most things, is best when left to its own simple beauty."

As tempting as the recipes are, Moltissimo is just as much about cherishing the company we share our meals with. It goes a long way in articulating that food is not just about survival or even just about pleasure. It is about sharing, bonding, and creating memories.

Overall, Moltissimo seamlessly combines the joy of food with insightful conversations and cultural exploration. Viewers are gradually embroiled in aromas of roasted garlic, simmering sauces, and bubbling pizzas, while getting to know more about their favorite celebrities who, when put in the seat as guests, reveal their attachments and stories related to food.

Moltissimo isn't just a show for food lovers but is an adventure for anyone who enjoys engaging conversation, compelling personalities, and learning about different cultures. It's a vibrant and heartwarming ride that promises a delectable viewing experience, where food plates function as canvases of stories begging to be told. It's a journey full of personality, warmth, superb recipes, and above all, the infectious love for creating and enjoying a hearty Italian meal. Undeniably, Moltissimo is a viewing pleasure that leaves you feeling satiated, but always eager for the next course.