The time for feasting with loved ones is upon us, and what’s feasting without a generous serving of dessert? One of our favourite spots for just that is Venchi Pacific Place, where you’ll find the Italian chocolate and gelato makers showcasing their history of creativity and culinary craft across a range of sweet treats.
For this most delicious interview, The Style Sheet talks to Venchi’s lead on Chocolate Experiences, Giovanni Battista Mantelli — also known as the ‘creative soul’ of Venchi — about a career that reminds us of the fantastical world of Willy Wonka.
The Style Sheet: How did you get into the gourmet chocolate and treats business?
Giovanni: Let’s just say I didn’t get into it, but I was born into it. My bond with chocolate began at my birth — in fact, my grandfather baptised me symbolically with a chocolate drop! My passion and desire to experiment inspire me in my mission to create chocolate in all its forms to give a moment of pleasure and conviviality to people all over the world.
Venchi's Pacific Place Store
Could you tell us a little about the heritage of Venchi and your part in keeping its traditions going?
My commitment is to carry on the legacy of Venchi. Since I was young, I’ve deepened all the history and recipes from the early 1900s to today to maintain the link between tradition and innovation.
Can you tell us a little about your day-to-day role?
I try to enrich my daily life with continuous stimuli because I’m very curious. I love to stay in touch with passionate people, always looking for a link or possible match with our recipes. We also do weekly tastings to keep up to date with our customers’ tastes. I personally love to experience cocoa in cocktails and cooking to create combinations and experiences that are original.