This book is about inspiration, travel and living life. I never thought I would get to write a cookbook even though it was a dream of mine ever since I really became passionate about cooking and decided that that is what I want to do.

I was very lucky in my path as I had the best childhood; completely immersed in good food and good people cooking around me.

The way I cook is the way I think; lots of things are happening at the same time. When I think of new dishes my inspiration comes from people, travelling and imagining new combinations while learning about the old and traditional to create something new and different.

I would love this book to work in the same way. I would like it to create new ideas and experimentations. Yes, it is a cookbook with recipes but I want it to develop and grow in people’s kitchens and to act as a good beginning.

I hardly ever follow a recipe yet I own hundreds of cookbooks. I go to them for inspiration and I love spending time on the wooden floor with dozens of them opened and me feeling bombarded with ideas.

I still have a blue notebook. I am still constantly writing my thoughts in it and new ideas. That is what being a chef or a cook or whatever we want to be called is for me.  Feeling excited and wanting to create and develop my food every day.

‘A delicious evocation of place and memory from one of my favourite cooks.’

Allan Jenkins, Editor of Observer Food Monthly

‘This book is so much more than a cookbook, it’s a love song to a very special place and we are lucky to have the brilliant Marianna as our guide.’

Itamar Srulovich, co-founder of Honey & Co.

‘I want to make everything in this beautiful book. An absolute treasure.’

Rosie Birkett, author of The Joyful Home Cook

With photography from Elena Heatherwick, the Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Photographer of the Year 2020