I have many passions in life, and among the top is pasta. I even honeymooned in Italy! My husband will tell you it was because we wanted to see the sights, but really it was for the pasta. Alessandro De Luca is the head chef and co-owner of Italian Kitchen (540 W. McDaniel St., Springfield), alongside his sous chef and co-owner, Jennifer Morris.

After attending culinary school in Italy, De Luca moved to the United States. Italian Kitchen originally started as a catering service. After spending time away in Italy, De Luca gained a fresh perspective on its direction. Now, he hosts weekly classes where participants learn to make pasta, focaccia and other traditional dishes.