About
Get to Know Me
Anna Maria
Eatalian by Anna brings the soul of authentic Italian home cooking to New Jersey through intimate cooking classes and bespoke catering for every occasion. Founded by Anna Maria Taddei—born and raised in Rome with decades of hands-on culinary experience—Eatalian by Anna invites you to experience the tastes, stories, and warmth of Italy, one dish at a time.
After moving to the U.S. with her family in 2012, Anna quickly made her mark with La Lupa di Roma, a beloved restaurant in Monmouth County that earned multiple accolades, including Best Restaurant in Neptune City three years in a row and a place among the Top 11 Pizzerias in New Jersey. Following her retirement in 2023, Anna returned to her true passion: sharing the joy and art of home-style Italian cooking.
At Eatalian by Anna, time-honored recipes, hands-on learning, and heartfelt hospitality come together. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or eager to master the craft of Italian cuisine, Anna is ready to bring the true flavors of Rome to your table. Mangiamo insieme!

“Eatalian by Anna was born from my love for simple, authentic Italian cooking and the joy of sharing it with others. I believe that food should bring people together, and that great meals don’t need to be complicated to be delicious. My philosophy is rooted in the idea that true Italian cuisine is simple, genuine, and respectful of tradition. Over the years, I’ve seen a lot of confusion about what is considered “Italian” food. Many recipes have been altered or adapted, losing the essence of our culinary culture. In Italy, simplicity is key — just a few quality ingredients can create something extraordinary. Cooking has always been a part of my life, passed down naturally from childhood, as it often is in Italian families. My mother, even though cooking wasn’t her biggest passion, put so much love into it, and her favorite creations were always desserts. My uncle was a chef, my aunt loved to cook everything imaginable, and my grandmother — despite raising many children during the hardships of war — managed to prepare delicious meals with just a few humble ingredients. These family stories and flavors shaped who I am today. From bread to pastas, meats, and pastries, I share not only recipes but also the passion, warmth, and heritage of Italy. For me, teaching Italian cooking means honoring the traditions I grew up with and passing them on, one dish at a time.”
Ready to bring a little Italy into your home?

Anna’s Favorites
THESE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVORITE Dishes:
- Spaghetti alle Telline – a traditional pasta with Mediterranean wedge clams
- Bucatini alla Amatriciana – rich tomato sauce and guanciale with bucatini pasta
- Artichoke alla Giudia – crispy Roman-style fried artichokes
- Roasted Lamb – tender lamb roasted to perfection
- Cantucci Cookies – crunchy almond cookies, perfect for dipping in Vin Santo or enjoying with coffee.
