As a third-generation Italian American, Mark grew up in the Italian section of Bristol, Connecticut, where Sunday supper meant a big pot of sauce, meatballs, and sausage from Martino’s. Today, he’s turned those memories into a new hands-on tradition with his own family: making their own mild Italian sausage with fennel. From John picking the biggest lemon leaves in the yard to grill sausage patties, to packing links for the freezer, it’s less about the recipe and more about passing down a piece of where he came from.

Pumpkin spice is everywhere these days, but this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Oatmeal Streusel is the goodkind of pumpkin spice. This is a simple, quick fall cake our family makes on repeat, built from a recipe Mark has used as a professional pastry chef for over 30 years—even in Ritz-Carlton kitchens. It’s an easy, versatile batter you can bake as loaves, cupcakes, or a sheet cake, and the oatmeal streusel on top adds the perfect crunchy, cozy finish. This is the pumpkin cake we get “voluntold” to bring to school events every year, and it’s the one we’ll keep baking all season long.

Pasta alla Puttanesca isn’t just a dish—it’s a story simmered in Southern Italian spirit, family tradition, and a playful dose of rebellion. With a name that hints at a rather colorful past, this recipe has as many origin tales as it does bold flavors. Some say it was a quick supper thrown together in the lively backstreets of Naples, others claim its irresistible aroma was known to draw a crowd for reasons best left to the imagination, and a few believe it began as a “whatever’s-in-the-pantry” solution for hungry night owls.

In our family, we put our own twist on tradition—swapping anchovies for rich, savory sardines and adding the best Italian tuna we can find. What started as “tuna fish pasta with red sauce” on a single mom’s budget has become one of our most cherished comfort foods. Simple, briny, and bursting with Mediterranean attitude, this pasta proves that the best meals are born from a little creativity and a lot of heart.

There’s nothing quite like making pasta by hand, especially when it’s cavatelli—a family favorite in our house since John was two. This week, we brought together homemade cavatelli, a cozy lamb ragu, and golden chanterelle mushrooms for a dish that’s as comforting as it is memorable. Cooking with my son, using herbs from our garden, and sharing these traditions is what Eat Sunday Supper is all about. Dive in and discover why this simple Pugliese pasta is at the heart of so many of our best family moments.

Apple strudel is more than just a dessert—it’s a story that stretches across centuries and connects generations. My own journey with strudel began 30 years ago in pastry school, where I learned the magic of transforming a simple dough into something delicate and impressive. This year, with apples from our backyard tree, I got to share that tradition with my family, teaching my son John the art (and caution) of peeling apples and stretching dough by hand. Whether you stick to the classic apple, walnut, and rum-soaked raisin filling or get creative with what you have, apple strudel is all about togetherness, tradition, and a little bit of kitchen magic.

Experience the warmth of southern Italian cooking with our Osso Buco recipe—tender veal shanks braised in tomatoes and white wine, inspired by family tradition. In this post, I share step-by-step instructions, personal stories (including my son’s first taste of bone marrow!), and tips for serving this cozy dish over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes. Perfect for fall or any time you crave comfort food with a side of family memories.

If you’re looking for a show-stopping Italian dessert that’s naturally gluten-free, look no further than Torta Caprese al Cioccolato. This decadent flourless chocolate cake has been a family favorite in our house—especially since John’s Grammy can’t have gluten! With simple ingredients and a rich history from the beautiful island of Capri, this cake is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Whether you’re new to Italian baking or just searching for a dessert everyone can enjoy, Torta Caprese al Cioccolato is sure to become a staple at your table.

Focaccia Barese isn’t just a recipe—it’s an adventure through Puglia, family stories, and the search for the perfect bite. From Frank’s childhood memories to discovering the secret of boiled potato in the dough, our journey took us from legendary bakeries to lively family pranzos and even a focacceria where opening hours depended entirely on “when the dough is ready.” Join us as we share our favorite focaccia recipe, perfected over years and countless Sunday suppers.

Excerpt: Our 2025 Italian Road Trip Playlist

Our 2025 playlist is the soundtrack to our longest and most unforgettable family adventure—28 days exploring Italy and a magical detour to Paris. From the lively beats of Radio Kiss Kiss to inside jokes like Bonnie’s “Pink Pony Cup,” each song brings back the laughter, language, and pure joy of our journey. These tracks capture Sicilian road trips, Tuscan sunsets, and the thrill of being fully present with family. More than music, this playlist is a collection of memories and a celebration of our dream to one day call Italy home.

Contemporary Neapolitan pizza—blasphemy or brilliant evolution? Join us on a journey from Naples to your own kitchen as we explore the biga method, classic traditions, and the irresistible rise of Panuozzo. Discover the flavors, techniques, and family stories behind Italy’s most iconic pie.

There are bucket list moments… and then there are bucket list moments that leave you absolutely drenched—in sweat, in history, and in awe. Our family’s tour of the Colosseum in Rome landed squarely in all three categories. On a scorching June afternoon, with the mercury hitting 91°F outside and a blistering 104°F inside, we followed Bonnie’s perfectly laid plans straight into the heart of ancient Rome.

While John was a bit disappointed we couldn’t climb to the upper levels, the sheer scale and history of the Flavian Amphitheatre (yep, that’s its real name!) more than made up for it. From tales of gladiators and mock naval battles to the engineering marvels still standing after 2,000 years, the Colosseum delivered—heat and all. And let’s be honest, the post-tour Spritz and cold beer never tasted so good.

Curious what really happened inside those ancient walls? Keep reading for our full story, fun facts, and a few cheeky family moments you won’t want to miss.

Il Principe del Mare in Fasano, Puglia, is a seafood lover’s dream. Famous for its seasonal ricci di mare (sea urchins) and a menu brimming with crudo like mussels, tuna, and muscardini, this hidden gem offers fresh, honest flavors. Set by a serene cove, it’s the perfect spot to savor authentic Italian cuisine paired with local wine.

Nestled in the Tuscan countryside, Abbazia di San Galgano is a photographer’s dream. This 13th-century roofless abbey offers stunning light and shadow play, making it a must-visit for capturing breathtaking images. Pair your visit with a stop at Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta in Val d’Orcia for an unforgettable day of history, beauty, and photography.

Our 2024 Italian Family Playlist

2024 was a year we spent close to home, but our hearts and imaginations traveled all over Italy—thanks to the power of music. With John racing ahead in Italian at La Squala and Bonnie deep into her B1 studies, our whole family made a commitment to learning the language together. The soundtrack for our journey? Apple Music’s Pop Hits Italia—our go-to for upbeat, family-friendly tunes that kept the kitchen lively and our spirits high.

Curating this playlist became a new tradition, a way for us to connect, laugh, and share our favorite songs. Mark’s top tracks included “MALAVITA” by Coma_Cose and “Mezzo Rotto” by Alessandra Amoroso featuring Big Mama, while John couldn’t get enough of “TUTTA GOLD” by Mahmood and “Fragole” by Achille Lauro & Rose Villain. Even though we didn’t travel far, these songs brought a little Italian sunshine into every day.

This playlist is more than just music—it’s a reminder of our family’s journey, our love for Italian culture, and the small moments that make life sweet.