What Italians really think about Ukrainian food? Chef from Naples explains
What Italians think about Ukrainian food (photo: Getty Images)
Since February 24, Ukrainian cuisine in Europe has stopped being just an interesting novelty. It has become a cultural marker, a way to show support, and even an expression of solidarity, says Mykola Oleksiv, a Ukrainian restaurateur from Naples, in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
"Since the full-scale war in Ukraine began, interest in our cuisine abroad has sharply increased. People started to perceive Ukrainian food not just as an exotic or novelty, but as an important cultural sign, a way to support the country and its people in a difficult time," the restaurateur said.
According to him, guests' tastes have also changed.
"Requests have become more conscious — guests wanted not just to taste borscht or varenyky, but to understand why exactly these dishes have such meaning for us," Oleksiv said.
He added that this gave the cuisine a new significance and encouraged the restaurant team to follow traditions even more carefully.
"Tastes have also changed: dishes with deep homemade roots, which previously could be considered 'just food,' have become more popular. The feeling of unity and support has strengthened the value of our dishes and made the cuisine a powerful cultural bridge," the Ukrainian restaurateur added.
The team of the Ukrainian restaurant in Naples (photo provided by the restaurateur)
The team of the Ukrainian restaurant in Naples (photo provided by the restaurateur)
How the image of Ukrainians has changed in Italy
Oleksiv also notes that not only has the interest in food changed, but the image of Ukrainians has also changed in the eyes of Italian society.
"Previously, we were perceived mostly through the prism of migration or tourism, but since the beginning of the war, we have become a symbol of resilience, courage, and strength of spirit," he said.
Italians have started to take a greater interest in Ukrainian culture and show support not only with words but with concrete actions. According to the restaurateur, this has brought Ukrainians "a new level of respect and empathy," as well as a feeling of unity.
Italians who come to charity dinners at Mykola's restaurant never leave indifferent.
"An elderly Italian man came to us. He didn't order anything — he just approached the donation box, put 200 euros in, and said, 'This is for the children in Kharkiv.' He didn't even want us to write down his name. In moments like these, you realize: humanity really has no nationality," Mykola recalled.
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