The culinary arts return to the spotlight in Florence. On Tuesday, November 11, and Wednesday, November 12, the city will become the capital of Italian cuisine, hosting three major events dedicated to gastronomy and female talent in the world of catering:
- the 50th anniversary of the Regional Union of Tuscan Chefs (URCT),
- the 19th edition of the ‘Caterina de’ Medici’ International Award,
- and the national assembly of Lady Chefs.
An event that combines history, innovation, and the promotion of Tuscan heritage, paying tribute to a tradition that continues to inspire the future of Italian cuisine.
The return of the “Caterina de’ Medici” Award to the Salone dei Cinquecento
The heart of the event will be the majestic Salone dei Cinquecento in Palazzo Vecchio, where on Tuesday, November 11, at 3:30 p.m., the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Unione Regionale Cuochi Toscani will begin.
After greetings from President Roberto Lodovichi, the conference “Tuscan cuisine from the Renaissance to the present” will explore the historical role of Caterina de’ Medici as an ambassador of Tuscan taste around the world.
The day, moderated by Alberto Lupini (editor-in-chief of Italia a Tavola), will be enhanced by the Renaissance ballet “Alba Novella” by the Contrada Alfiere association of Bagno a Ripoli, and will culminate in the presentation of the “Caterina de’ Medici” Award, conducted by Antonio Iacona (Il Cuoco).
Established in 1975 together with the URCT, the award returns after a forced break due to the pandemic and will be given to prominent figures in the international food and wine scene for the promotion of Tuscan products, scientific research in the food sector, tourism and food and wine promotion, and the protection of local traditions.
The evening will conclude with an exclusive gala dinner at Palazzo Borghese, prepared by masters of Tuscan cuisine.
The Lady Chefs take center stage on the second day
On Wednesday, November 12, the scene will shift to the Florence Chamber of Commerce, where the national assembly of Lady Chefs will be held.
There will be 129 professionals from all Italian regions, coordinated by national manager Alessandra Baruzzi, who will discuss the most current issues in contemporary gastronomy: innovation, sustainability, training, and female leadership.
The meeting will offer a rich program of workshops, round tables, networking, and social events, in an atmosphere of discussion and inspiration.
Lodovichi: “An anniversary that looks to the future”
“Celebrating the 50th anniversary of our Union,” comments President Roberto Lodovichi, “means recognizing the value of a journey made up of passion, professionalism, and sharing, but also looking ahead to an increasingly sustainable, innovative cuisine that is open to new generations.
The presence of the Lady Chefs gives this edition a profound meaning: Caterina de’ Medici was a woman who changed the history of gastronomy, and today it is women who continue to write it with the same strength and vision.”
A double event not to be missed
With the Caterina de’ Medici Award, the 50th anniversary of the URCT, and the Lady Chef assembly, Florence celebrates the great tradition of Tuscan cuisine and the innovative role of women in contemporary catering.
Two days that promise entertainment, culture, and haute cuisine in the city’s most prestigious setting.
📍 Where: Florence, Palazzo Vecchio and Chamber of Commerce
📅 When: Tuesday, November 11, and Wednesday, November 12, 2025
🎟️ Free admission for the opening day in the Salone dei Cinquecento
