Eataly

Eataly New York City September 2010

EatalyBrasilSP

Eataly is a large format/footprint Italian marketplace comprising a variety of restaurants, food and beverage counters, bakery, retail items, and a cooking school. Eataly offers an extensive array of high-quality Italian and local products in one area, including fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal foods. The concept behind Eataly is to provide consumers with not only food and drink but also an educational experience about the history, culture, and production process of Italian cuisine and its regional diversity.

History

Eataly was founded by Oscar Farinetti, an Italian entrepreneur, in Turin, Italy, in 2007. The idea was to combine elements of a lively, open environment that could offer high-quality, sustainable products at reasonable prices, including restaurants, food and beverage counters, bakery and retail items, and educational classes about food and its preparation. The first Eataly opened in a disused vermouth factory in Turin. Following its success, Eataly has expanded globally, with locations in several countries, including the United States, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, among others.

Concept and Philosophy

Eataly's concept revolves around the idea of "eating Italian," which encompasses understanding where food comes from, how it is made, and how food choices affect our health and the environment. The philosophy is deeply rooted in the Slow Food movement, which began in Italy as a reaction to the fast food culture and emphasizes the importance of knowing the story behind the food we consume. Eataly aims to promote a sustainable model of consumption that supports local farmers and artisanal producers who practice traditional and organic farming methods.

Locations

Eataly has become a global phenomenon, with more than 40 locations worldwide. Each Eataly market is designed to reflect the culture and architecture of its host city while maintaining the core Italian aesthetic and ethos. The largest Eataly in the world opened in Rome in 2012, sprawling over 17,000 square meters. The United States hosts several Eataly locations, including New York City, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, each offering a unique mix of dining options, cooking classes, and retail products.

Products and Services

Eataly's marketplaces offer a wide range of products and services, including:

• Fresh produce from local farms
• A variety of cured meats, cheeses, and fresh seafood
• A selection of pasta, rice, and other grains
• Artisanal bread and pastries baked on-site
• A comprehensive collection of Italian wines and craft beers
• Cooking classes and educational events led by chefs and food experts

Impact

Eataly has had a significant impact on the global perception of Italian cuisine and food culture. By providing an immersive experience that educates consumers about the importance of sustainability, provenance, and quality, Eataly has raised awareness about the Slow Food movement and the value of artisanal food production. Its success has also spurred the growth of similar marketplaces around the world, highlighting a growing consumer interest in food transparency and sustainability.