- 8333 Rittenhouse Circle, Charlotte NC 28270
Experience
the Flavors of
Italy
Italy is a dream destination for travelers, where every corner of the country offers something unique and beautiful. From the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the historic streets of Rome, and the stunning coastline of the Amalfi Coast, Italy is all about living la dolce vita—the sweet life.
Italian food is world-famous for a reason. Each region has its own specialties, whether it’s the rich, creamy pasta dishes of the north, the wood-fired pizzas of Naples, or the fresh, flavorful seafood along the coast. You can’t go wrong with a plate of homemade pasta, a slice of perfectly crisp pizza, or a scoop of gelato on a warm afternoon.
Eating in Italy is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re dining in a family-run trattoria in a small village or a stylish restaurant in the city, the food is always fresh, full of flavor, and made with love. And, of course, everything tastes better with a glass of local wine. Italy is a place where food, culture, and history come together to create unforgettable moments at every turn.
what are others saying?
Reviews
"Our trip to Croatia with Richard was everything I had hoped for and so much more! Every detail was planned for our group, which made it so easy for us to just show up, relax, and have a wonderful time. Richard catered to our group's needs and had a very thought-out itinerary for us. We experienced so many food & beverage excursions that we would never have done ourselves or even known about. And not to mention that Croatia is absolutely stunning. It was definitely a trip of a lifetime! Our group is ready to plan our next adventure with The Gourmet Vacation!"
Morgan M
The euphoria Friends and Family Croatia Experience
"Excellent food and wine knowledge. Chef Gruica was a great guide. Chef Ricky Moore is amazing and curated a feeling of togetherness in a tour of what was primarily strangers. Over that week we became friends. Many stepped outside of their comfort zones and tried (and loved) food that they'd never before imagined. Croatia is beautiful! I look forward to the next food & wine (and Pepsi!) tour!!"
Felice G
The "Kroatia Kool" Thousand Island Food & Wine Tour w/Chef Ricky Moore
"This was not just any ordinary trip. It was a culinary adventure in a beautiful country with amazing people unlike anything we have ever experienced. Every day Chef Richard curated unique tasting experiences off the beaten path. His delicious collections blended the freshest local food from small wineries, local eateries, and farms in stunning surroundings. Every day presented unique activities exploring the real people and places that most tourists never see. I would have never imagined eating a spectacular meal in a charming winery that was prepared by the owner and his family or hunting for truffles out in the woods and having an al fresco dinner prepared right there at dusk. Day after day, the combination of food, wine, and activities was unique and different from the previous day. We absolutely will be returning for more tours with Chef Richard and definitely this Croatia tour is one of a kind and not to be missed!"
Joseph M
A 'Taste of Southern Grace' Croatia Tour w/ Chef Steven Greene
"Beyond what we had anticipated! The immersion in the local culture made this a very special trip! We would definitely travel with Richard again!"
Karen F
The Chef Chris Coleman Taste of Croatia Tour
"I will literaly remember these countless experiences for a lifetime. Richard's genuine enthusiasm for food, wine, and culture shined bright. My wife and I truly experienced what it means to be a world traveler. We would do another trip in a heartbeat. Thanks Richard!"
David W
Chef Sam Diminich Back to Roots Slovenia & Croatia Tour