FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Chef Giuseppe D’Alessio Takes Italian Cuisine to New Heights.

by Kimberly Inlander

Aug 28, 2020

PHOTO: © ALBERTO BLASETTI

August 2020

At SETTIMO – Roman Cuisine & Terrace at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese, featuring a cuisine firmly rooted in Italian tradition, diners know their taste buds will be delighted under the direction of Salerno-born Chef Giuseppe D’Allessio. Italian tradition is, quite literally, in his blood.

He honed his skills while retaining his tradition in kitchens throughout Italy and the rest of Europe, including England, France and Germany. Two received Michelin stars: Orrery and Jacques Maximin. He first joined Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese as executive chef at La Terrasse Cuisine & Lounge before moving to SETTIMO.

SETTIMO is the crown jewel of the hotel, one of the highest rooftop restaurants in Rome. The cuisine rivals the incredible views of the Villa Borghese gardens, Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica.

As of press time, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese was scheduled to re-open Sept. 1.

WHICH FOOD IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? AND ON THE OPPOSITE END OF THE SPECTRUM, WHAT IS ONE INGREDIENT OR FOOD YOU HATE TO USE?
There is not an ingredient I love to use more than others or that I hate more. Each ingredient must be studied. You must know how to use it. It is similar to the fact each person is different but all-important. My job is to enhance it … in a dish, during the season, etc.

WHAT DISHES WOULD YOU SERVE AT A PRIVATE DINNER PARTY?
The dishes that never fail in private events are a stuffed pasta and special risotto.

WHAT WAS THE FIRST MEAL YOU EVER PREPARED ON YOUR OWN?
If my memory serves correctly, it was a fresh pasta. Every Sunday my mother would make fresh pasta as a ritual. It was the first thing I did alone.

IF YOU COULD DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE IN ONE DISH, WHICH DISH WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
My personal style is reflected in the dishes through a sense of simplicity with quality ingredients. A dish must touch the essentials without too many turns of words.

WHICH CULINARY TREND WOULD YOU LIKE TO DISAPPEAR?
Today, many trends reflect our way of life, but I would make the term “fast food” disappear. Food is a moment of sharing and reflection; eating is a moment of joy. You have to dedicate time to it.

SETTIMO ROMAN CUISINE & TERRACE
Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese Via Lombardia 47
00187 Rome RM
Italy
tel 39 06 478021
sofitel.accor.com

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
January 2026
Jan 15, 2026

Learn the Nuances of Negotiating International Deals

In many ways, the world is vast and wide, what with 195 United Nations-recognized countries and a global population of more than 8 billion speaking more than 7,100 languages. The advent of the internet, continuously evolving technology and the ability to connect with others around the world faster than ever make the world feel smaller, much to the benefit of international business.

TAP FORBIZ: Empowering Business Travel for Every Enterprise

In today's global business landscape, travel isn’t just movement — it’s momentum. TAP FORBIZ, TAP Air Portugal’s premium corporate travel solution, is engineered to maximize that momentum across all types of businesses — from agile SMEs to global enterprises and orchestrated events.

Daily
Jan 15, 2026

January and February Happenings at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay invites travelers to kick off the first two months of the year on the California coast with a full lineup of programming and experiences.

Daily
Jan 15, 2026

New Techo International Airport Opens in Phnom Phenh

Opened only a few months ago, the airport terminal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is already drawing raves from business and leisure travelers who have experienced the terminal’s unique interior and exterior design features, which will fit into the airport’s general master plan.

Gorilla Forest Lodge, An A&K Sanctuary, Reopens After Stunning Transformation

Gorilla Forest Lodge offers an unrivaled base for encountering mountain gorillas. The lodge's location inside Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s gates means guests are never far from these magnificent creatures, with gorillas occasionally wandering onto the property itself.

Daily
Jan 15, 2026

A New Hotel Comes to London’s Mayfair Neighborhood

The Shepherd Mayfair will open its doors this year in one of London’s most characterful enclaves, bringing boutique hospitality to the neighborhood. Part of Elegant Hotel Collection, the new hotel will feature 82 guestrooms and suites across six floors, spanning 33,600 square feet. Led by Timothy Shepherd, the hotel will serve as the gateway to historic Shepherd Market.

eFlyer Deals
Jan 14, 2026

Limited-Time Low Fares Now Available with Aer Lingus

Save on Aer Lingus flights to Ireland this season with limited-time special fares. Book tickets by Jan. 22 for travel by May 13 and get low prices from different U.S. airports.

26 Unforgettable Luxuries Across the Island of Ireland in 2026

From dramatic coastlines and ancient sites to lively festivals and hidden gems, the island of Ireland offers unforgettable experiences year-round. Whether visiting for the first time or returning for more, this list will guide you through both classic favorites and underrated treasures.

eFlyer Deals
Jan 14, 2026

Windstar Cruises Launches Most Valuable Wave Season Offer Yet

Don’t miss Windstar Cruises’ new Beyond Inclusive promotion, the brand’s most valuable offer yet. Available to book by March 31 on select voyages through the same date, this offer includes a free all-inclusive upgrade, including select drinks, gratuities and WiFi.