The King and Queen recently hosted an exclusive black-tie dinner at Highgrove House, bringing together celebrities and dignitaries to celebrate Italian cuisine and the “slow food” movement.
The glamorous evening saw notable figures such as David and Victoria Beckham, Dame Helen Mirren, and actor Stanley Tucci in attendance. Alongside them was Italian ambassador Inigo Lambertini, who joined the royal couple in championing a cause that has long been close to the King’s heart.
The event, set within the elegant surroundings of the King’s Gloucestershire estate, was a celebration of sustainable, high-quality food prepared with care and respect for tradition.
The “slow food” movement originated in Italy in 1986, when food writer Carlo Petrini led protests against the opening of a McDonald’s in Rome’s iconic Piazza di Spagna.
The movement, which emphasizes locally sourced, sustainable, and carefully prepared meals, has since gained worldwide recognition. King Charles has been an outspoken advocate of the philosophy for years, and during the evening, he addressed the guests, emphasizing the deep connection between food, culture, and heritage.
He expressed his belief that good food not only nourishes the body but also strengthens communities and preserves traditions, calling it “edible art” that binds generations together through the passing down of cherished recipes.
Before the formal dinner commenced, the Queen engaged in a lively conversation with David and Victoria Beckham about life in the Cotswolds, where the famous couple owns a countryside retreat.
David Beckham shared his appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of the area, to which Camilla enthusiastically responded by mentioning their shared love of raising chickens.
The lighthearted exchange between the Queen and the football icon added a warm and personal touch to the evening, underscoring the event’s relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Adding to the evening’s festivities, the King took part in an entertaining cocktail-making session with renowned Italian mixologist Alessandro Palazzi. As he prepared a classic martini under Palazzi’s guidance, laughter erupted when a lemon peel garnish nearly ended up in his nose as he attempted to take a sip.
The jovial moment was a highlight of the night, showcasing the King’s sense of humor and ability to enjoy a playful interaction even in the midst of a formal event.
The menu for the evening was crafted by celebrated Italian chef Francesco Mazzei, whose culinary expertise brought the slow food philosophy to life through a carefully curated selection of dishes.
The inspiration behind the meal was drawn in part from Stanley Tucci’s acclaimed TV series Searching for Italy, which explores the rich diversity of Italian cuisine. Tucci’s presence at the dinner underscored the theme of the night, as he has been an ardent advocate for preserving authentic Italian food traditions.
The event also came at a significant time for the royal couple, as Buckingham Palace recently confirmed their upcoming official visit to Italy and the Holy See in April. The trip will hold special significance as it coincides with their 20th wedding anniversary, making it both a diplomatic and personal milestone.
During their visit, the King and Queen are scheduled to meet with Pope Francis as part of the celebrations for the 2025 Jubilee Year, a sacred event in the Catholic Church that attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world.
Their itinerary will also include stops in Rome and the northeastern city of Ravenna, where they will explore the deep cultural and historical ties between the United Kingdom and Italy.
The visit is expected to highlight the King’s longstanding admiration for Italian heritage, architecture, and sustainable agricultural practices—values that align closely with the principles of the slow food movement. With their engagement in such meaningful cultural exchanges, the royal couple continues to reinforce their commitment to global traditions and sustainability.
