Benvenuto and buon appetito as top Italian chefs converge for summit

If it seems as though there's a run on olive oil and pasta, here's the reason: an association of Italian chefs working outside Italy, the Virtual Group of Italian Chefs, is holding a summit in Hong Kong this week, and 15 top pasta, pizza and panna cotta maestros are in town for the occasion.

Some of them are flying in from Italy, others are coming from across Asia, and many are prestigious holders of Michelin stars. It will be a week-long feast of master classes, tastings, and special lunches and dinners prepared by the guest chefs at various venues.

'Since the opening of Grissini in the Grand Hyatt 20 years ago, Italian cuisine has become the most beloved Western cuisine in Asia,' said Paolo Monti, culinary supervisor for the summit and executive chef at Gaia.

'As the gateway into Asia for top Italian chefs as well as quality foods and wine coming from Italy, Hong Kong was the natural choice of location to play host to this significant celebration.'

The festivities begin tonight with a VIP dinner where it all began, with four of Grissini's previous head chefs coming together to collaborate for one big meal.

The complete summit schedule can be found at itchefs-gvci.com.