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We have been anticipating this event for weeks, and finally it’s almost here!  On July 23rd and 25th, Getty Villa will explore the culinary pleasures of the ancient Roman Empire through two evenings of lectures and tastings.  Historian Andrew Dalby and chef Sally Grainger will come to share their multitude of expertise, honed by years of research for their most recent publication, The Classical Cookbook.

CULINARY  PLEASURES  OF  THE  ROMAN  EMPIRE

Bust of Augustus, Getty Villa

Dalby will survey the flavors and smells of ancient Rome, emphasizing much of his lecture on provincial ingredients gathered from every corner of the vast empire.  Grainger will share her research on the Roman recipe text, Apicius, and its remarkable survival from antiquity.  The lectures will be followed by tastings of ancient Roman delicacies from Apicius, as well as other classical sources.

The Classical Cookbook by Andrew Dalby and Sally Grainger

This is a rare opportunity to experience such a gorgeous night at Getty Villa.  If you have never visited its breathtaking grounds, there is no better time than during this event.  Delectable eats.  Free-flowing drink.  Look to your right;  You will see rose marble staircases and gardens brimming with balmy eucalyptus and fruit.  Look to your left; You will see a reflecting pool stretching 220 feet towards the great Pacific.  There really is no other place quite like Getty Villa.  You can’t help but wonder what Roman emperors would have thought.

Reflecting Pool, Getty Villa

Outer Peristyle, Getty Villa

The aforementioned lectures and tastings will occur on Thursday, July 23rd at 7 pm, and Saturday, July 25th at 5pm.  Tickets are $35 dollars each, and guest lists are limited.  Call (310) 440-7300 to purchase.

*For more information on Getty Villa, click here.
*To read our review of the Café at Getty Villa, click here.
*Photographs courtesy of flickr user rbw2007