A Celebration of Flavor: San Marzano Tomato Wine Dinner at Angelena’s

Angelena’s is proud to announce a one-night-only food and wine event celebrating the rich heritage and exceptional flavor of the legendary San Marzano tomato on Thursday, July 16 at 5:30 p.m., offering guests an immersive journey through Italy’s most iconic ingredient.
Renowned for their sweetness, low acidity and vibrant depth of flavor, San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, will take center stage in a multi-course tasting menu crafted by Executive Chef Ian Gillette. Each course will highlight the tomato’s versatility.
The evening will feature expertly paired wines selected by our house wine expert Matt Nichols, showcasing a range of Italian varietals chosen to complement and elevate each dish. Guests will enjoy a guided tasting experience, with insights into the history, cultivation and culinary significance of San Marzano tomatoes, as well as the artistry behind each wine pairing.
“This dinner is a tribute to one of Italy’s most treasured ingredients,” said Executive Chef Ian Gillette “San Marzano tomatoes are the foundation of so many beloved dishes and we are excited to showcase their full potential in a way that’s both authentic and innovative.”
The menus is as follows:
First Course
Hamachi Crudo
San Marzano acqua pazza, pickled green strawberries, cucumber, Calabrian chili, Maldon sea salt, Sicilian olive oil
paired with Berlucchi,’61 Extra Brut, Franciacorta DOCG
Second Course
Roasted Eggplant
Stracciatella, summer tomato sugo, pesto Genovese, toasted pine nuts
paired with Castello di Monsanto, Chianti Classico Riserva, Tuscany, 2021
Third Course
Grilled Octopus
Cannellini bean purée, smoked San Marzano conserva, preserved lemon, oregano, crispy breadcrumbs paired with Cottanera, Etna Rosso, Sicily, 2022
Fourth Course
Grilled Gulf Prawns
Saffron carnaroli risotto, charred San Marzano tomatoes, blistered cherry tomato vinaigrette
paired with Elena Walch, Schiava, Trentino- Alto Adige, 2024
Fifth Course
San Marzano & Strawberry Crostata
Basil gelato paired with Giacomo Bologna “Braida,” Brachetto d’ Acqui DOCG, Piedmont, 2024
Price for the five-course, five wine dinner is $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. As this is a special menu for the evening, there will be no substitutions. Seating for the dinner is limited, reservations are required and can be made by visiting our website www.angelenaspensacola.com or calling 850-542-8398.