On a recent Friday evening, King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted an exquisite black-tie dinner at their Gloucestershire estate, Highgrove. The event brought together notable figures from various fields to celebrate sustainable Italian cuisine. Among the distinguished guests were David and Victoria Beckham, Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci, and Dame Helen Mirren. The menu, crafted by renowned chef Francesco Mazzei, highlighted the principles of Slow Food, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and traditional culinary techniques. This gathering also marked a prelude to the royal couple’s upcoming state visit to Italy in April, where they will celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary.
The Star-Studded Guest List and Warm Encounters
The dinner was attended by several high-profile personalities who shared warm interactions with the royal hosts. Notably, David and Victoria Beckham, residents of the nearby Cotswolds, were among the first to engage with the King and Queen. Victoria performed an elegant curtsey upon meeting the monarch, while David expressed pride in his role as an ambassador for the King’s Foundation. Victoria praised the craftsmanship of the students involved in the foundation, highlighting the exceptional quality of their work. The Beckhams also discussed their love for the Cotswolds, where they have chickens, a topic that resonated with Queen Camilla, who shares a similar interest in poultry farming.
The evening saw vibrant conversations between the guests. David Beckham spoke fondly of the Cotswolds, mentioning how much he and his wife enjoy living there. Queen Camilla joined in, noting her own experiences with chickens. Meanwhile, Dame Helen Mirren engaged in a heartfelt discussion with Camilla about the King’s charitable endeavors, praising the spirit behind his initiatives. Stanley Tucci, known for his passion for Italian culture, shared a hug with David Beckham, adding a personal touch to the evening. These interactions underscored the warmth and camaraderie among the attendees, making the event both memorable and meaningful.
Savoring Sustainable Italian Delights
The dinner featured a meticulously curated menu that celebrated the fusion of British ingredients with Italian culinary traditions. Chef Francesco Mazzei, inspired by Stanley Tucci’s expertise in Italian cuisine, crafted dishes that embodied the principles of Slow Food—an initiative promoting sustainable and traditional cooking methods. The meal began with canapés like Rare and Pasture ‘Salumi’ and Yorkshire Pecorino cheese puffs, followed by a primi course of Westcombe Highland Ricotta ravioli paired with Isle of Wight tomato passata. For the main course, diners enjoyed Suffolk Red Porchetta with pumpkin and sage mash, accompanied by Tuscan kale. Dessert concluded the feast with Zuppa Inglese and Biscotti, perfectly complemented by Recioto della Valpolicella Classico Zenato.
Stanley Tucci paid tribute to the King’s Foundation during the dinner, commending its efforts in promoting harmony with nature through slow fashion and slow food—two of his personal passions. He emphasized the importance of sharing meals as a restorative and connective act, reinforcing the theme of sustainability and community. Drinks were prepared by Italian mixologist Alessandro Palazzi, using herbs from Charles’s beloved Highgrove Gardens. The evening not only showcased delicious food but also highlighted the values of environmental stewardship and cultural appreciation, leaving a lasting impression on all present.