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Hidden Gems: Meet Christina Conte Cynthia Woodman of TIRAMISÙ CLUB CALIFORNIA – ALE GAMBINI

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Conte Cynthia Woodman

Hi Christina Conte, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
We are food and travel writers who met over 12 years ago, and bonded over our mutual belief that food should be made with real and minimally processed ingredients. From enjoying afternoon tea in Ireland to picking up a pizza in Naples, to chocolate tasting and indulging in fondue in Switzerland, Cynthia (What a Girl Eats) and Christina (Christina’s Cucina) are always ready for their next culinary adventure. In turn, they share these travel experiences on their sites along with creative and delicious recipes.

In 2021, the California chapter of the original Tiramisù Academy in Treviso, Italy was founded by Ale Gambini, Christina Conte, and Cynthia Woodman. For the last three years, the ladies have been judges at the Tiramisù World Cup in Treviso. Despite its name, the intent of the Tiramisù Academy is not solely about finding the best tiramisù, but promoting Italian culture, cuisine and tourism.

Although the California chapter is in its infancy, the aim is to seek and promote authentic Italian cuisine, including educating consumers about the best quality ingredients. Cynthia and Christina are planning cultural events in Los Angeles as well as designating restaurants and bakeries which serve authentic Italian tiramisù (using only 6 ingredients.)

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Unfortunately, the Tiramisù Club California was founded during the height of Covid. This made in person events impossible, however, we moved forward with online cooking demos. Our next challenge was the loss of our beloved leader, Ale Gambini, who waged a fierce battle with her illness, but ultimately left us in February, 2024.

NB: the Tiramisù Academy California was renamed to honor Ale Gambini in October, 2024.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The club is just getting started! With a nominal membership fee, you can join The Tiramisù Club – California, and to begin, you’ll receive a tiramisù cookbook as a welcome gift. On March 21st, 2025 (World Tiramisù Day) the new book will launch and new events will be announced later this year.

Stay tuned for more to come…

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Christina Conte and Cynthia Woodman

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