The fourth edition of the ‘Italian Creativity Capitals in the World’ competition awarded first place to the Italian Cultural Institute of Bangkok, in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy in Thailand, for the multidisciplinary project Italia Reloaded. Tradition, Aesthetics and Innovation between Taste and Memory. Within this framework, Sip of Italy presents a multidisciplinary event dedicated to the world of coffee, explored through its cultural, social, and sensory dimensions. It is in this context that the lecture Coffee Beyond the Cup: Culinary Identity & Product Development by chef, food designer, and gastronomic researcher Tomaso Mannu takes place.
LECTURE | Coffee Beyond the Cup: Culinary Identity & Product Development
Coffee is often regarded solely as a beverage, yet its aromatic complexity and cultural significance make it a powerful culinary ingredient. This lecture explores how coffee can move beyond the cup and enter the kitchen as an effective tool for product development, flavor creation, and gastronomic storytelling.
Drawing on examples from contemporary cuisine and food design, the session examines how coffee can be incorporated into dishes, sauces, ferments, and condiments, transforming it from a beverage into a versatile ingredient. Special attention is given to how culinary context, origin, and preparation influence the identity of a product or dish.
The lecture offers a practical framework for thinking about ingredients not only in terms of flavor, but also in relation to market positioning, cultural identity, and creative potential.
Participants will gain valuable insights into how chefs, food entrepreneurs, and hospitality professionals can develop distinctive dishes or products by building a coherent identity around a single ingredient.
The presented case studies will be discussed with the audience during a Q&A session. The lecture is held in English.
