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[singing in Italian]

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[message notification dinging]

[sighs]

You can do this, Danny.

[birds chirping]

Expand and elevate.

All I kept hearing when I was brainstorming the new menu.

That is exactly what I hear every day in my yoga class.

And you told me you were done with yoga, Owen.

I mean, I was,

but this whole invest-in- your-friend's-restaurant-

because-you-believe-in-her-and- have-the-means-to-invest stress

has pushed me back into a downward dog.

[chuckling] Okay, well,

maybe that's not such a bad thing then

the yoga part.

But I think this time,

we'll really get people's attention.

So...

[mellow music]

Cucumber... avocado...

-Goat cheese? -With a citrus twist.

Then you continue that journey to well-crafted bites

on a prix fixe menu.

So more white tablecloth? Special occasion?

It's on-trend, it's upscale yet approachable.

But I am open to all suggestions

if it means changing that sign to open. [chuckles]

So are we chasing trends or setting them?

You know, I love you, Danielle,

and not just because you made instant ramen

taste expensive in college.

You're an amazing chef,

but our first year has been a bit of a struggle.

Which is why we closed to regroup. [sighs]

We've gone through several approaches this past year

and we still haven't found a menu, a-a concept that sticks.

So not this one?

Just feels like this one is missing that old magic of yours,

the conviction we need to justify reopening.

It's already been a month, D.

I'm sorry.

[sighs] So are you pulling out?

I've been getting a lot of pressure from my dad

to cut my losses and invest in something more sensible

[Owen] with a reliable rate of return.

Like the shipping containers.

-They're not fun or sexy, but-- -They're sensible.

Look, I get it. I don't like it, but I get it.

[sighs] Okay, um, well, when do you need to decide by?

I got until the end of the month.

Wait, are you...

Are you are you giving me another chance?

-Bring the fireworks. -Okay, thank you. Thank you.

I will. I promise.

Uh, well, don't let this go to waste. Please.

[pleasant music]

[crickets chirping]

[upbeat music]

[rustling]

-[Sarah] Sis? -I'm in here.

[door closes]

I know you said you weren't hungry,

but I brought you comfort in a box.

[gasps] Amici's?

Mushroom and Peppers.

[sighs] You're the best sister ever.

Mm, I'm your only sister, but I'll happily accept the title.

Oh, I'm stuffed. [sighs]

Feeling any better?

I had it, Sarah.

My dream shot, and I lost it.

Temporarily.

-What if I can't do it? -Of course you can.

You just need to get out of these four walls

and get your mojo back.

And what a better place than Italy.

Now is definitely not the right time for me to go visit

the Italian countryside.

Now is exactly the time.

No, no, I just, I need to stay focused.

You're spent, Danny.

You need a minute to relax and recharge,

then come back and create.

I say go.

Mm, Italy has always been inspiring to me.

Yes, yes, it has.

Okay, this would not be a vacation.

This would be a mission to save my restaurant.

Win or lose. Okay?

[instrumental music]

Win or lose.

[inhales] So... what do you say?

[chuckles] I'm gonna eat so much pizza.

[laughing] Yay!

[singing in Italian]

[tires screeching]

[whirring]

[song continues]

[children chattering]

-Here you are, Little Nico. -Grazie,Giancarlo.

But I'm not little anymore.

Oh, scusa, I made something new.

Try this. Grapefruit and Raspberry.

[indistinct chatter]

No grazie.

I like the strawberry.

Why you always the strawberry?

I like strawberry.

Careful you don't turn into a strawberry.

[playful music]

Grazie.

[indistinct chatter]

[van whirring]

Uh, scusi,Bruno.

-Are we here? -Sì, signora.

Uh, a step into Rome.

but mi dispiace.

Narrow streets, no vans allowed.

Your cottage is a half-kilometer that way.

I can help with your bags if you like.

Oh, no, no, that's okay.

Uh, my bag has wheels

and it'll feel really nice to walk. [chuckles]

-Stretch your wings. -[chuckles]

[pleasant music]

-Arrivederci,Daniela. -Oh, grazie mille.

[engine starts]

[van whirring]

[creaking]

Three generations, our family owns the cafe,

but for the last three years, same flavors.

Giancarlo.

New flavors, that was your mom's specialty.

Bookkeeping is yours, son.

Maybe I can be good at both.

Give our customers something new,

just in time for summer, like mama used to.

If today is the same as yesterday, this is a blessing.

Maybe for some...

-Buongiorno. -Oh, buongiorno,Rana.

-Buongiorno,Giancarlo. -Buongiorno.

Giancarlo... listen to me.

One day, when you're running this cafe with a wife

and the mini Giancarlos running around,

you can bring in the taste of the world.

But what we have here is good enough.

Capisci?

[fan rattling]

[instrumental music]

[door creaking]

[indistinct chatter]

-[Aldo sighs] -[clattering]

-Oh! -[thudding]

-Hi. -Oh, hi.

Uh-uh, fette un caffe per favore?

Uh, u-u-un caffe un fette?

-Uh-uh, sliced caffe? -Slice?

-Sliced coffee, yeah? -No, uh, just coffee.

-No slice. -Forgive my father.

Fettemeans sliced in Italian. He speaks English.

He just likes to joke around with new visitors.

[laughing] Okay.

Laughter is the quickest way

to get to know someone.

I'll get that for you right away, signorina.

Oh, grazie.

-Americana? -Americano.

Oh, uh, no, no, no, uh, espresso.

Or at least I think that's what I ordered.

Americana.

I meant are you American?

Oh, yeah, yes, um, currently a very lost one.

Actually do you happen to know where 10 Via Julia is?

It's a cute little cottage.

I just didn't see many street signs out there.

That's because this town is too small to need many.

We all know your cottage, signora.

Just keep going up that street. You can't miss it.

Grazie.

-Um... -Giancarlo.

And this is La Rana. In English, it means the frog.

I'm Danielle. Sorry, why do they call you the frog?

Italians stand with their caffe,

I enjoy sitting. Ah! So they call me the frog.

Oh, okay. [chuckles]

Perhaps you sample my gelato.

-Ooh. -[chuckles]

It will go greater with your espresso.

Ooh, grazie.[chuckles]

[instrumental music]

Mm... pistachio.

This is delicious. Did you make this?

With such fine pistachios, I feel guilty taking credit.

[both laugh]

Mm, good.

-Danielle. -Mm, yeah.

A special flavor for a special American guest.

-Ooh. -Grapefruit and rosemary.

Okay.

Mm, um, interesting.

Uh, this one doesn't have a yolk base, does it?

-You don't like it? -Well, no, no, no.

Um, it's just that the pistachio,

the yolk is worked in so well.

Yolks clash with citrus.

Uh, yeah, with lemon. Yes, I'm sure.

But, um, in this one, the rosemary is just so forward

that I think the yolk might make it a little bit more subtle.

We Italians aren't known for our subtlety.

Neither are us Americans.

But, uh, flavor, it's, uh, it's universal.

Made much gelato, have you?

Uh, n-no, uh, no. Uh, but I am a chef.

Well, chef. I appreciate your feedback.

[music continues]

[indistinct chatter]

Grazie.

-Ciao. -Ciao.

[pleasant music]

[clattering]

What?

-Hi. -Hi.

[Danielle sighs] Elida, this is lovely.

Do you like?

I mean, it's even more beautiful in person.

-Make yourself at home here. -Mm, grazie.

I understand you're a chef. Let me show you the kitchen.

Okay.

[soft music]

[exhales]

-Oh, this is a gorgeous kitchen. -Grazie.

I live upstairs, but we share the kitchen.

Okay.

Is this a wood burning stove?

Rare now, I know.

And if you need more wood, Bruno is our handyman.

-He's fantastic. -Oh, grazie.

But I actually plan on eating out

more than in for the next ten days. Wait, Bruno? Bruno.

That's not the same Bruno as my van driver, right?

Well, of course it is. Yes.

And for questions about the town, ask Aldo.

He knows everyone.

-Aldo from the cafe? -You met him?

Yes, he's like il sindaco, the mayor of Ostia Antica.

And makes the best breakfast.

Oh, Aldo wears a lot of hats, doesn't he? [chuckles]

No, he's quite vain about his hair.

And if you're not too tired,

you should join us at Poisonto's this evening.

It's a few blocks over. We are playing tombola.

I don't think I know what that is.

-Uh, it's like, um, bingo. -Oh.

Well, I might be wide awake right now from the jet lag,

but I should probably try to get as much sleep as possible.

I have a very busy day planned tomorrow. [chuckles]

Okay, I'm sure you want to get settled.

Okay.

[Danielle sighs]

Uh, this place makes me feel like

I have been transported in time.

I hope that's a good thing.

[chuckling] Yes, it is.

[instrumental music]

Ooh, you have some great books.

-May I suggest something local? -Sure.

It's Eat, Pray, Love,way before it was even a thought.

And is set here, with an American. I'll leave you to it.

[mellow guitar music]

-Ciao. -Ciao.

[sighs]

[sighing] Oh.

[whooping]

[chuckles]

[crickets chirping]

[mellow music]

[sighs]

[exhales]

[church bells toll]

[groans]

[sighs]

Church bells now?

[groans]

[switch clicking]

[sighs]

[crickets chirping]

[Danielle] "What I love most are the streets.

The way my shoes click on the cobblestones

make their own kind of music.

And the people, the way they speak...

they make music too.

From anger to love in one breath.

To say I was at a crossroads would be wrong.

Crossroads have paths to choose from.

I was lost.

But from a seemingly random series of events,

I feel I've found the path.

To think it all began with tombola."

Tombola, huh? Mm.

[folk music]

[indistinct chatter]

You see?

-Salve! -Please, please.

-Giancarlo? Buonasera. -Oh. Ciao.

I have another book for you.

Grazie.How did you know I would like it?

You're the only one I know who would read

about the Galapagos Islands, so...

-What can I say? -[Elida chuckles]

I'm a sucker for "Famously, fearless, wildlife."

And trips around the world, if only in your mind.

[both chuckle]

Shall we place a bet on who is to win tonight?

You know, I'll always pick you, Aldo.

As long as you keep making my espresso.

[both laugh]

Addio.

[chuckles]

What about if I win, you let me try out a new flavor?

And if I win, you stop asking.

-Deal. -Okay.

[chuckles]

[folk music over stereo]

[indistinct chatter]

Danielle?

-Hi. -I'm glad you came. Come.

There's an open board here, just for you.

Oh, thank you.

Oh, it's you.

[quirky music]

[clears throat]

[chuckles] Smaller town than I realized.

You have no idea.

[scoffing]

[crickets chirping]

[indistinct chatter]

Let me guess.

You're a tombola expert too?

Okay, if you're referring to my comments

about your gelato, I never claimed to be an expert.

-But a chef. -Only on the good days.

And for the record, I have absolutely no idea

-how to play this game. -[Giancarlo] Simple.

If you hear your number, like five...

put a bean on the board. And voilà.

Oh, all right. Seems simple enough.

First person with two in a row yells ambo.

Three yells terno. Four, quaterna.

Five across, cinquina.

Cover your whole board, you yell tombola.

You know what? I think I'm just gonna watch.

It's not a spectator sport.

[chuckling] Okay, then maybe I'll just go back to my room.

Yeah, honestly, I'd probably be fast asleep right now

if it wasn't for those bells ringing.

[chuckling] La chiesa.

-Huh? -From the church.

Oh, does that happen every night?

Only when someone's been married that day.

Oh. Okay, that's kinda sweet.

And a little overkill.

Italians love love.

Okay, attention, please.

-May the best Aldo win. -Aldo, leave the boy alone.

[sighs]

I can't have fun with my boy?

I thought your name was Giancarlo.

Si.

The only one in a long line of Aldos.

[inhaling deeply] Ready?

[exhaling] Okay, I think I'm ready.

[rustling]

[playful music]

Santa Antonio!

Saint...

Mm...

13.

Sounded like she said San Antonio.

[chuckles] Right.

June 13th is St. Feast's day.

Okay, wait, so the game is in Italian,

but then there's numbers,

but the numbers really are inside jokes?

[chuckles]

Elida, Inglese per favore.

For the lovely Americana, of course.

-[Elida] 81. -81...

[music continues]

[clattering]

41!

Eh...

-[bean clicking] -Oh, Bingo!

[indistinct chatter]

[instrumental music]

Oh, I mean, uh, tombola!

[all groaning]

[sighs]

Was I not supposed to yell?

-Congratulazioni! -[all applauding]

-Brava. -Brava.

[Danielle chuckles]

[laughing] Yay! Yay!

[instrumental music]

-What's this? -Your winnings.

Oh, thanks.

[chuckles] An entire cake, wow.

-Thank you. -You're welcome.

[gasps] Wow.

Okay, please tell me you're gonna help me with this too.

I'm afraid I'm not hungry.

Goodnight.

[indistinct chatter]

Notte.

[quirky music]

[instrumental music]

[singing in Italian]

[sighs]

[lock clicking]

-[creaking] -[keys jingling]

What are you doing here so early?

[Giancarlo] You usually leave the quiet hours for me,

until your fans arrive.

Thinking.

[gentle music]

-About mama? -And summertime.

She always spiced it up, didn't she?

You never knew what flavors she'd come up with.

It was exciting.

It would be nice to continue that.

We'll talk about this.

You've talked about it.

It's not my forte, but I think it's important

to keep our summer tradition of trying new flavors.

I'll think about it.

At least let me try some out, papa.

See what our friends think. Even Nico.

Nico?

[chuckles] Okay.

If you can get Nico to approve any flavor

other than strawberry,

I'll put it there in the vetrina.

-Okay? -Grazie.

Eh, Giancarlo, he's a tough critique.

Choose wisely.

I will.

[music continues]

[birds chirping]

[pleasant music]

[sighs]

[clinking]

Buongiorno.

Our tombola champion, good morning.

Morning, uh, I thought you opened at 8:00.

Uh, it's Ostia Antica.

-8:00 is 8:00-ish. -Oh.

Uh, well, does that go for the bus as well?

[chuckles] The... What bus?

The bus stopped running a year ago.

Really? 'Cause I thought I saw a schedule online.

Did you see a date?

[birds chirping]

No, I did not.

[sighs] Great.

Where were you trying to go?

Um, um, let's see. [clicking tongue]

Okay, uh, Trastevere, for the cacio e pepe,

the old market for the Trippa alla romana.

Uh, the wine and cheese shop.

And then, oh, and the Salumeria in Campo de Fiori to start.

And that's all today?

Oh, well, no, no. Tonight, I have...

[chuckling] Not that I'm gonna bore you

with my whole itinerary, I, uh...

I'm just looking for some inspiration for my new menu.

So I'm really trying to pack it all in here.

Okay, and before you traverse the whole of Italy,

why don't you start here with breakfast?

A typical Italian breakfast.

Okay, I like the sound of that.

Good. Sit. Relax.

Breakfast will come to you.

All right. Grazie.

[pleasant music]

[indistinct chatter]

Here we are.

-Yogurt with fresh fruit. -Mm.

Cornetto.

-[women laugh] -[dish clacking]

-E caffe. -Oh.

Espresso, no Americano.

[chuckling] Grazie.

But first, try this.

[chuckling] Okay, do you always push your gelato

on all your customers or is that just for tourists?

I think you want to try it.

Okay.

[indistinct chatter]

[mellow music]

Hey, you added the yolks.

I kept thinking about what you said

and I had to try it. You were right.

It balances the rosemary and makes the flavors come together.

-Instead of competing. -Exactly. In harmony.

Wow, spoken like a true chef over there.

[chuckles]

I wish I had your gift, Chef Danielle.

Oh, just Danielle is fine. [chuckles]

So, how long have you been into gelato, Giancarlo?

Wait. Sit.

[indistinct chatter]

-Yes. -[chuckles]

[birds chirping]

Fun flavor combinations. They were my mother's specialty.

I just want to keep that going.

I know that good gelato starts with ingredients.

It's just the combination of ingredients

that I... sometimes struggle with.

Well, this one is really good.

-It's very refreshing. -Oh, yes.

But it didn't get Nico's seal of approval.

Who's Nico?

Discerning nine-year-old, yea-high.

-[chuckles] -He's my toughest critic.

So, if he's a fan, it's likely to please everyone else, too.

And then it can go in the vetrina.

[playful music]

-Gelato case. -Oh. [laughs]

Well, um, if you ever need any help,

I, I would be happy to.

You're very kind, but I couldn't ask you that

on your vacation.

No. Kind of a working vacation, anyway.

The whole menu thing, remember?

That's if I can figure out how to get around here. [chuckles]

[birds chirping]

-Can I make you a deal? -Hmm.

I'll help you find your way around

if you help me come up with the flavors of the summer.

You've time to do that?

I'll make the time.

-And you? -Yeah. Same.

[chuckles] Although, do I need to be terrified

-of this said nine-year-old? -Just a little bit.

[both chuckle]

-So, we have a deal? -[indistinct chatter]

-Si. -Great.

But first, please enjoy your breakfast.

Inspiration is never found on an empty stomach.

-Well, not in Italy. -[chuckles]

[pleasant music]

[birds chirping]

[water running]

You've really never made gelato before?

No, I'm afraid not.

But dessert isn't really my jam.

Luckily, our gelato is jam-free.

[chuckles]

I need to make more strawberry for Nico.

Anyway, let's begin.

-Okay. All right. -Cut, please.

The secret to good gelato is ingredients.

And what I don't know, there is one secret ingredient

which is most important to me.

Sugar.

-[clacking] -Patience.

-Oh. [chuckles] -We do not make gelato.

We sculpt it, like art.

Okay.

[clacking]

Oh, hey, how many, uh, strawberries

do you use per batch?

-A bunch. -A bunch.

Okay, um, how much water do you use per batch?

Some.

Do you not know how much you use?

Sure. I use the right amount.

It's all about instinct and intuition, right?

Trusting your taste buds and following your heart.

[soft music]

[whirring]

I've been thinking about flavor combinations

and you mentioned the farmer's market before.

And I was thinking maybe we could go there today?

Brainstorm a little bit?

The market waits for tomorrow. Today we start with this.

Don't think I forgot about my end of the bargain.

But, um...

-Oh, what? -The castle.

Why is it all the way at the bottom?

Oh, well, that's just...

I mean, that's only if there's enough time.

I mean, everything that I put in here

it's to get inspiration for my food.

It's just really important that I figure out my menu quickly.

-[book closes] -I suggest we work backward.

[instrumental music]

Let history ground your senses

and then everything else will follow from there.

Okay.

[liquid pouring]

So, if you said there's no buses

and you don't have a car, then...

Luckily, I live just here.

-As does Bombo. -Bombo?

My bumblebee.

[indistinct chatter]

[laughs] Wait, that's yours?

Are we gonna take that to the castle?

-Only if you're comfortable. -Are you kidding me?

I've wanted one of these since I was 16 years-old.

So, yes, yes, yes, very comfortable.

-Perfect. -Okay.

[instrumental music]

[birds chirping]

[whirring]

Oh, okay. It says here, Il Castello di Giulio Secondo,

where it said ancient stones whisper tales of centuries gone.

Around each corner, an echo of history etched up

is a dance with the spirits of the past.

Let's go chase some ghosts.

[quirky music]

Okay. [chuckles]

Lead the way, Chef Danielle.

[gasps] Okay, this place is, like, straight out

of a fairy tale. [gasps]

It was meant as a mausoleum, then became a fortress.

This castle has much history.

Not always pleasant.

But Italians know you find beauty in the dark.

[instrumental music]

Mm. Wish I could do that.

Find the beauty no matter how dark.

But with the lights temporarily off at Danielle's,

-I just... -Your restaurant?

Mm-hmm. Yeah, I'm just...

I don't know, I'm having a really hard time

seeing through it or past it, maybe. I don't... [sighs]

I don't know, we've already been closed a month, so...

[sighs]

There's still time, no?

Yeah. One more shot.

-[woman 1] Buongiorno. -Oh, buongiorno.

Ciao.

[chuckling] Everyone is so friendly here.

They're not friendly where you're from?

Um, it's in their own way, I guess.

[both chuckle]

And what is that?

Uh, well, I originally grew up in a harbor town

in Massachusetts, but now I live in Santa Monica.

Sorry, there's no reason you should know any of those places.

A harbor town? Like Martha's Vineyard?

Well, actually, I grew up in Hingham,

but have you been to Martha's Vineyard?

No, but I'd like to.

-Tell me about Hingham. -Uh, let's see.

Well, this diner that I grew up going to

and I loved, it's still there.

Same people inside. Older, but still the same.

Your town sounds like Ostia Antica.

[indistinct chatter]

Same faces, year after year.

Doesn't sound like a good thing?

-No, it is. Mostly. -Okay.

I just thought I'd be somewhere else

using my business degree there instead of here.

Here, at the cafe?

After college, it made sense to come back.

Learn all I can from my father.

I'll take over one day.

And, you know, there are some definite benefits

to a small town.

The cafe is a part of people's lives...

[mellow music]

which means you get to be a part of theirs, too.

I'm sure you get that with your diner.

Oh, uh, no. Not really, no.

It's more of like a, like a restaurant?

Well, it was.

Will be again, I don't...

Maybe... if I can hold on to it,

which is a very, very big if these days.

Uncertainty is a part of life.

[birds chirping]

Oh.

Look. [grunts]

A coin found is said to bring good luck.

This ground is so old. It must be especially lucky.

For you.

Oh.

[speaking in foreign language]

Portavort...

-A good luck. -[chuckles]

-Grazie. -Prego.

[birds chirping]

[distant vehicle whirring]

May I suggest an extra stop?

Uh...

To where?

You'll have to close your eyes to find out.

Okay.

[pleasant music]

[birds chirping]

[Giancarlo] We are at my friend's property.

Ah, ah! Keep your eyes closed.

Okay, just on a good ol' country stroll,

[laughs] but I can't open my eyes?

-Take my hand. -Okay.

This is not a place to be seen as much as experienced.

Just walk, listen, smell.

[laughing] Are you serious?

Let's see how fine-tuned your nose is, chef.

[groans] Why do I feel like I'm gonna fail?

Because you're not smelling yet, you're thinking.

-[Giancarlo] What do you smell? -Mint?

Perfect to enhance a fruit salad or freshen up

a green soup made with peas or asparagus.

Mm, okay, asparagus, yes, but peas?

[scoffs] Nah.

And what now?

Okay.

-Basil? -Uh-huh?

Perfect for a mint and basil gelato, perhaps.

Interesting. [chuckles]

-And now? -Okay.

[birds chirping]

Mm.

[instrumental music]

Tarragon?

Introduced during the medieval age.

Ah, okay.

Hence why you wanted us to start with history

and work our way back. You know I love tarragon.

So go with that.

The things you love, the aromas, always.

Then invite everyone else in to enjoy that with you.

And revel in how far you came.

[birds chirping]

[laughing] So can I open my eyes now?

-Yes. -Okay.

See where you are now.

[spirited music]

[laughs]

[gasps]

Wow.

Wow. [laughs]

[gasps]

[cat meows]

[crickets chirping]

[purring]

[ruffling]

I thought you weren't going to do much of this.

What, cooking? No, I wasn't.

But I just wanted to try out some new flavors

with all the herbs that we picked today.

How was Giancarlo's Vespa?

Well, how did you know that?

Never mind. [chuckles]

-Small town. -Tourist town.

Yeah, where everyone speaks English

and nothing is a secret.

[laughs]

It's not every day he shows tourists around, you know?

Oh, that? No, no, no, that's...

That's just 'cause I'm helping him with a project.

The gelato? I know that too.

-Still. -[chuckles]

Oh, hey, thank you again for that book, by the way.

I'm enjoying it.

I really see myself as the main character

-when I'm reading it. -I knew you would love it.

Hey, I'm trying out some new flavor combinations,

-so tell me what you think. -Mm-hmm.

White chocolate with basil or mint?

-For the gelato? -Mm-hmm.

-Both? -Both. [chuckles]

All right, maybe I'll just start with the mint first.

Okay.

[clattering]

[electricity sputtering]

[whirring fades]

[tense music]

Scusa.

[sighing] Okay.

All done. [chuckles]

Grazie,Bruno.

Ugh, I have no idea what I did,

but thank you so much, Bruno, for coming

so late and so fast.

I'm happy to come anytime you need.

Th-that's very sweet, Bruno.

[mellow music]

It is very sweet.

How long have you two known each other?

We go way back, Bruno and I.

-He's always been so talented. -[chuckles]

And Elida's always been so kind.

Please, l-let me know if you need anything else.

Okay.

Grazie,Bruno.

Ciao.

-Goodnight. -Goodnight. Thank you.

[furniture clattering]

[door opens]

[door creaking]

[door closes]

What?

Mm, I'm just sayin',

I don't think Bruno does that for just anyone.

[keypad clicking]

[pop up chiming]

-[notification dinging] -[chuckles]

[sighs]

[pen clicking]

[sighs]

[soft music]

[scribbling]

[pen clicks]

[sighs irritably]

[breathe deeply]

[ruffling]

[Danielle] "I didn't realize how much

my world had been shrinking at home.

The less I did, the smaller it got.

So much so that I started to feel shy.

Turns out, meeting new friends, at least in Ostia Antica,

is like riding a bike.

Once you put yourself out there,

the rest naturally follows.

And before you know it, new pathways open up

that you never saw before.

Only for the first time,

I didn't know which way I wanted to go

and that excited me."

[regal orchestra music]

Is it much further?

No. The bicycles are just down the street.

We're riding bikes today, no Vespa?

I thought we might get some exercise.

-You don't like biking? -No, no, no. I-I-I love biking.

[chuckles] No, it's just that I, I keep reading things

in this book that happened in real life.

I don't know, it's like I've stepped into

a choose-your-own-adventure book.

And what is it asking?

Maybe I don't need to rush back.

Maybe I just need to stop

and just ask myself, is this really what I want?

Am I on the right path?

That is definitely not a question to be rushed.

Hmm, just a thought.

It's a very sweet thought.

One I like the sound of, the staying part.

[mellow music]

[birds chirping]

-Here we are. -Hmm.

Okay, well the more immediate question is,

what flavor are we going to make today?

To that I say, lead on, Danielle.

Wait, me?

Okay, you realize if I lead,

we may never make it to the market.

I'm pretty sure you'll find your way.

Mm, all right.

Let's go.

[rattling]

[uplifting music]

Mm...

Okay, this way. [laughing]

[regal orchestra music]

[Giancarlo] Sea salt, pear, and avocado gelato.

In my father's cafe.

I think I prefer your mint basil idea.

[chuckling] No, no, no, I promise you,

it takes the creaminess to, like, a whole other level.

And it gives you that little taste for travel.

Maybe for some, but not Aldo.

My father feels no need to see the world.

The world comes to see him.

In and out of the doors of his cafe.

So he's never left Ostia Antica?

-Not that I know of. -Oh.

He picked up English from the tourists.

What about you? How did you learn English?

-Ah, Hollywood movies. -Oh.

I wanted to attend college in the States,

but... it didn't work out.

Oh, why not?

Oh, Giancarlo. Buongiorno.

-Buongiorno,Marta. -Ciao,Maurizio.

-And who's your friend, ah? -Oh, I'm Danielle. Hi.

-Hi. -She's visiting from California.

Ah, an American.

I hope you felt welcome in our country, eh?

No, more than welcome.

Um, embraced, really. It's like a dream here.

Ah, if it's a dream, may we never wake up. [chuckles]

This dragon fruit looks amazing.

Wait, those aren't local, right?

Well, I'd like to bring a few curiosities for Giancarlo, eh?

A hint of the world over the horizon.

Ah, but you have to try my-my fresh honey, eh?

Hey, what if we did,

like, a tropical dragon fruit and lemon gelato

with Marta's honey to soften the acidity

and we could use some... cocoa nibs

to cut the sweetness and maybe even pomegranate seeds

to add a little bit of crunch.

-Hm? -I love it.

You know, you two make a you make a good team, huh?

Maybe we're onto something.

-Business and boldness? -Mm.

Passion and perseverance?

[chuckles]

This, per favore.

-Okay. -And some lemons.

[Giancarlo] And your honey as well.

Okay.

I can't wait to hear what else you come up.

-[chuckles] -Here it is.

-Oh! -Oh, please, Giancarlo.

For your guest. [chuckles]

-Grazie. -Grazie.

-My pleasure. Ciao. -Ciao,Marta.

-Nice to meet you. -Nice to meet you.

Buongiorno.

Hmm, let's see, let's see.

Uh, typical.

[Italian song]

-Buongiorno. -[gasps]

Look. See, look at it.

See. These are so beautiful, aren't they?

Yeah. Si.

Let's try.

Buongiorno.

[speaking in Italian]

[song continues]

[birds chirping]

[machine whirling]

Ah! You know, I don't even know the last time I did this.

Hm. Two days ago?

Oh, no, no, no. [chuckles]

I just mean, like, uh...

cooking without caring what other people think.

Not even Nico?

Okay, maybe. Maybe Nico.

[plate rattles]

Hey! What's the deal between Bruno and Elida?

-Oh, Bruno and Elida? -Uh-huh.

A crush is all destined.

I knew it!

Okay, so why has nothing happened between them yet?

I don't know. I guess timing has never been right.

Okay, what?

I mean, you can't always just wait around.

Sometimes you just have to... go for it.

[soft music]

[indistinct chattering]

Yeah.

Well... I think it's very sweet

how personal this place is.

Is Danielle's not?

Um... no, not like this, it's not.

Well... maybe it can be, no?

I don't know.

Honestly, I'm not sure that I can or...

even want to do this anymore. Just...

I feel kind of paralyzed lately.

[instrumental music]

-The restaurant bears your name. -Mm-hmm.

Isn't that like... giving up on a part of yourself?

Hey... just a name.

Aldo's isn't even named after my father, you know?

Really, that's a bizarre coincidence, no?

The cafe was started by my great grandfather.

-His name was also Aldo. -Oh.

As was my grandfather, as is my father.

In fact I'm the first man in my family,

in four generations, not named Aldo.

Have you ever asked your dad why they didn't name you Aldo?

He always says the same thing.

I guess your mother and I are more creative than my ancestors.

Well, I think Giancarlo is a great name.

[Danielle] It's an important name, no?

Giancarlo, the, the gelato maker.

Sounds like a, a fairy tale

where the gelati comes to life at night and speaks to me.

Oh! [chuckles]

Well, does your gelati speak to you?

When I cook... I have a conversation with my food.

You know, I ask it questions and it tells me its flavors.

Or... I don't know, I guess it, I guess it used to do that.

It's a song.

-What? -A duet.

I dream of new flavors, arias waiting to be sung.

I think you're gonna need the whole of vetrinathen,

if that's the case. [chuckles]

It would be my trip around the world.

Mm. A cure for a restless soul, perhaps?

Whose path is already laid out.

[instrumental music]

[bell chimes]

-Is it time? -To bring your flavors to life?

No, uh-uh. Our flavors.

-Our flavors. -Si.

-There you are. -Ciao,Nico.

-This is my friend, Danielle. -Ciao.

You come by just in time...

to try our new dragon fruit-lemon flavor.

Hm.

[tense music]

I prefer strawberry.

[sighs]

Go to the vetrina. I'm coming.

[sighs] I wonder why he didn't like it.

My father says... never let success go to your head,

never let failure go to your heart.

Tomorrow we try again, si?

Si!

[instrumental music]

[insects chirping]

[church bells tolling]

[chuckles]

Here it is.

The beauty in the dark.

[instrumental music]

[Danielle] "A love for life is coming back to me.

But the love that moves the sun, the moon, and the stars,

that was not what I was looking for.

Not then.

Not until I found...

Masolino."

[playful music]

Thank you for bringing the firewood, Bruno.

There you go.

-[thudding] -Ah!

[rattling]

Something smells delicious.

Oh, well, that would be my lasagna.

Wow, i-it looks tasty.

-Anything else you need? -Uh, yes, yes.

Could you look at the sink?

[birds chirping]

Something wrong with the sink?

Yes, it's been dripping a lot.

Uh, would you mind?

-Yeah. -Okay, thank you.

[metal clanks]

[music continues]

Doesn't seem to be doing it now.

[chuckles] You know?

It's gonna start all up again as soon as you leave.

Oh, could you just double check?

-Yeah, double check down there. -Thank you.

-[door opens] -[door closes]

Sorry, I'm late. I got tied up, and...

Bruno, I didn't realize you were coming.

Buongiorno,Elida.

[mellow music]

Uh, Bruno.

Um, Elida has been telling me

how much she loved your work with the door-frame.

Haven't you, Elida?

[chuckles] It was nothing.

No, it's the work of a master.

Yeah, I think attention to detail is important.

Me too.

I think that lunch is gonna get cold.

Yeah.

You know, I made enough to feed an army,

so you two should sit.

-Enjoy. -I couldn't impose.

No, no imposition. Truly.

[birds chirping]

Okay then.

[music continues]

[rattles]

All right, well, I guess I will be leaving you.

You're not eating with us?

No, I'm so sorry. I had to eat already.

I'm meeting with Giancarlo.

I wouldn't want to get in the way of that.

-Bye. -Bye.

Bye.

[clattering]

Here.

[indistinct chatter]

[birds chirping]

[thudding]

Truth, papa... why didn't you name me Aldo?

Uh, you know why.

Your mother and I...

are more creative than my--

-Ancestors, right. -Ancestors, yeah.

Buongiorno,Aldo.

Buongiorno,Daniela.

Posso avere un cappuccino e un cornetto, per favore?

Danielle, you Italian has improved so much.

Okay, one croissant and cappuccino right away.

You're a good teacher.

Grazie.

-Ready to get started? -Si.

Oh, do you have ricotta cheese?

I had an idea.

[instrumental music]

Come with me.

[chuckles]

Right. Smell it.

Ricotta, honey, and mint.

-Interesting. -[Danielle] Mm-hm.

It's, uh, sweet... like a cannoli.

But the mint adds a burst of unexpected flavor.

Try it. Tell me what you think.

Wow. The taste is very good.

But it's missing something.

-Mm. -[clattering]

Mm. Mm-hm. You're right.

You know what? Let's take a break.

[Giancarlo] What are you thinking for today?

I feel like I distracted you.

Maybe... but in a good way.

[instrumental music]

This has all been... way more fun than I expected.

And... more necessary...

than I realized.

That makes me happy.

-[chuckles] -So... where to?

Hmm.

[uplifting music]

[birds chirping]

Oh, uh, scusi.

Uh, we're looking for a Signore Chiellini.

Ah, luck smiles on you today.

Mario Chiellini, head to toe.

Let me guess, you want to do either

a wine or olive oil tasting?

I know it's last minute. but olive oil, per favore.

Of course, I can't say no to a young couple in love.

Let's head inside, shall we?

Yeah.

[chuckles]

So, we're a couple now?

Apparently.

Then we better get in there.

Okay.

[chuckles]

[instrumental music]

[instrumental music]

Okay, so a harmonious balance between fruitiness,

bitterness, and pungency

is what Mario said we're looking for.

Mm.

[indistinct chattering]

What?

Are you good at everything you do?

[chuckles] Oh, no, I wish.

I mean, I can't even seem to make my restaurant a success.

But you are willing to change and try new things.

-That's just as important. -Is it?

For me, yes.

Failure just gives you another opportunity.

You know, we're having a party on Friday.

-Starting at noon. -Oh!

No, I didn't. What's the occasion?

The occasion? This is Italy.

We don't need a reason to throw a party.

-Oh. -Especially in summer.

Well, it sounds amazing,

but my flight leaves--

No, no, no, we're not talking about any departures.

Just the here and now.

Well, it wouldn't be till the evening, so...

-Yeah, I'd love that. -Good.

[indistinct chatter]

Because it wouldn't be the same without you.

[instrumental music]

Especially now that we're a couple.

[chuckles]

That's right, how could I forget that?

So, is it fancy?

-Party? -Hm-mm.

We take any chance that we can get to dress up.

Mm. Well, looks like I'll need to find a dress.

Please, you'll be beautiful in whatever you wear.

[gentle music]

Ah, my lovebirds!

I wanted to give you one of my favorite bottles of olive oil.

It's one of my favorite olives with a hint of hazelnut.

Huh?

I think I just figured out

what our missing ingredient might be.

[instrumental music]

[engine whirring]

[singing in Italian]

[song continues]

Ugh! I don't know what I was thinking.

Get a dress, why would I even say that?

-Because you like him. -Ugh!

Is that a bad thing?

Yes, it is because he lives here and I live...

really far away.

Don't focus so much on the small details.

Yeah, like the Atlantic Ocean?

[chuckles] Okay, water is fluid.

[Elida] Your heart, not so much.

Trust me, it feels good

to listen to it every once in a while.

I did.

-Are you talking about Bruno? -Mm-hm.

So you're really going on an official date, finally?

-Yes. -I'm so happy for you.

Both of you, and Bruno is, he's a great guy.

He is. They both are.

Now, let's see if we can find you a dress.

I have one that is way more you than me.

Come on.

[soft music]

[insects chirping]

[sighs]

[birds chirping]

[sighs]

[bell chimes]

It's ready.

[rattles]

[exhales] Okay.

Hopefully the hazelnuts gave it that nutty undertone.

[clattering]

Wait. It's best to let it rest.

Oh. Okay.

[instrumental music]

Okay, it's rested long enough.

Okay. [chuckles]

-Salute. -Salute.

[clinks]

[instrumental music]

-It's... -It's delicious.

-It's delicious! -It's delicious!

-It's delicious! -[both chuckles]

But... will the customers like it?

Will Nico?

Hey... win or lose.

Win or lose?

[chuckles] It's something that my sister and I

have said to each other since we were kids.

It just, it-it means, uh, succeed or fail

we'll be there for each other.

Win or lose. Vincere o perdere.

To our new flavor.

Honey cannoli with hazelnuts and mint.

Maybe it needs a better name first.

Oh. Oh, okay.

Um...

Oh! What about Masolino's Song?

That feels random.

Okay, well, it's-it's from this book

that I'm reading that's set here in Ostia.

In honor of this Italian gentleman

who made this young American girl's trip to Italy

very special.

[instrumental music]

So... Masolino's Song?

Masolino's Song it is.

[chuckles] Okay.

Oh, yeah, hey, I need to get to the tailor.

I already went this morning,

but apparently opening at 9:00 really means 9-ish.

-The tailor? -Yeah.

I got a gown for the party.

I look forward to seeing it.

-Ciao. -Ciao.

[birds chirping]

[instrumental music]

Masolino's Song.

[chuckles]

[phone buzzing]

[indistinct chatter]

-[Owen] Danielle? -Hey.

Hope you were getting the inspiration

you were looking for.

You know what? I think I am.

I feel the wheels turning.

That's good. That's great.

-Because I have news. -That sounds ominous.

I am really sorry, but the timeline, it's changed.

[Owen] I have to make a decision on my investments

by the end of the week.

By the end of this week?

[Owen] Yeah, but I still want to hear your ideas.

I know it's only two days away,

but I'm pulling for you, Danielle.

-Ciao. -Bye.

[tense music]

[sighs]

[uplifting music]

[Bruno] Good morning.

Oh, ciao,Bruno.

-Usual? -Chocolate, please.

How about trying something new?

-[plate rattles] -New kind of chocolate?

No.

Come on, try a new flavor.

I call it Masolino's Song.

I think, I'll just have chocolate.

[indistinct chatter]

-I'll try it! -[chuckles]

[instrumental music]

Si.

[rattles]

Buono!

I like it.

-Maybe a small taste. -Right away.

-[chuckles] -[indistinct chattering]

One at a time.

[uplifting music]

Ah, scusa.Sorry.

Oh!

-They love it. They love it. -That's great.

I scoop and scoop until I hit the bottom.

And still they ask for more. We need more hazelnuts.

A whole grove of hazelnut trees.

Is everything okay?

Yeah. Yes, um, I'm really happy for you.

Happy for us. I couldn't have done this without you.

This calls for celebration.

Tonight, Poisonto's, my treat.

Um, you know what, I think

I'm gonna have to stay in tonight.

Work call that I have got pushed up,

so I need to prepare for it.

Anything I can do to help?

No. No, no, it's okay.

I just, um, wanted to see how everything was going.

[pensive music]

But I should probably go.

-Bye. -Okay.

Scusi.

[insects chirping]

[sighs]

[paper rustling]

[Danielle] "I watched the Anticans.

Joyous, cheerful, in their own world, while wondering,

can there be a future for me here?

[instrumental music]

He had shown me a whole new way of being alive,

and I knew whatever I decided, my life would change forever."

Hey, careful with that face.

-We need you. -[chuckles]

[insects chirping]

Danielle... she seemed so distant.

Hey, don't worry.

Men can better understand women than we can the weather.

[instrumental music]

We've gotten pretty good at predicting the weather, La Rana.

[thunder rumbling]

[rattles]

Hm?

That's strange.

It wasn't supposed to rain.

You see? Buona notte.

[scoffs]

[rain pouring]

[birds chirping]

[gentle music]

[sobbing]

[exhales deeply]

[music continues]

Danielle!

[engine whirring]

Danielle!

[exhales deeply]

[sniffles]

[birds chirping]

Elida told me where you were.

I was just coming to find you.

Why, why?

Danielle, have I done something wrong?

No.

No, no, it's me.

I came to Italy for inspiration and it just...

just hasn't come like I'd hoped.

[pensive music]

Now, I have nothing to show.

Is this about your call?

[sobbing] I now have one day to come up with an entire new menu.

It doesn't seem possible.

Hop on. I'll get the bike later.

Oh, no, no, no. It's okay. I'm-I'm okay, really.

Danielle, it's a journey for all of us.

No one needs to be alone in it

if we don't have to be.

[gentle music]

-Grazie. -I want to show you something.

-If you have the time. -[chuckles]

I mean, at this point, why not?

[birds chirping]

I've never shown anyone this.

Here, I can go anywhere in the world.

With a click, I can be at Niagara Falls,

[Giancarlo] the Galápagos Islands,

even Martha's Vineyard.

And all without leaving Ostia Antica.

It's beautiful.

Wow.

I thought I'd go further than Rome at some point,

but my mother passed away.

[gentle music]

So... I decided to stay,

help my father, and carry on her legacy.

Picture of the woman in the cafe, is that your mom?

Si.

She taught me everything I know about making gelato.

Like, her parents and grandparents did.

I'm only mentioning this because we can plan all we want,

but life tends to get in the way.

[birds chirping]

That's not always a bad thing.

[music continues]

There's always beauty in the dark.

[chuckles]

[insects chirping]

[clattering]

You think they'll let me bring this on the plane?

Long as it's less than three ounces.

Mm.

Well, I guess we just have to

finish it all by tomorrow then.

[chuckles]

-Or longer? -Mm?

What if you stayed in Italy?

-You mentioned once. -Giancarlo--

You can open your restaurant here.

Y-you want me to move to Italy?

If not move... stay another month.

[soft music]

-Even a week more. -[chuckles]

I wish I could. I do. I...

But if I don't go back and-and fight for it,

it'll be just like you said.

It'll be like me giving up on a part of myself, you know?

And yeah, I may only have one day to come up

with an entire new menu,

but, Giancarlo, I gotta at least try.

Of course. You're right.

[music continues]

I was being selfish.

You shine too bright to give up on your dreams, Danielle.

I wish you all the luck.

Me too.

[instrumental music]

Here you go.

Grazie.

[birds chirping]

Your new flavor is a success!

I hope Masolino enjoys his place under the vetrina.

Maybe we can add some more flavors as well.

One flavor to start, Giancarlo.

The wheels of time turn slowly.

Or not at all.

Not everyone wants to live in this bubble,

or at your pace, all the time.

[instrumental music]

Not when there's so much more out there.

[birds chirping]

[door opens]

Buongiorno,Aldo.

Oh, La Rana!

-[chuckles] -Buongiorno.

Buongiorno.

Hey, what a cloudy face on such a sunny day.

Just a lot on my mind, that's all.

Life one advice.

If money can fix it... no problem.

If money can't fix it,

just drink more coffee.

Or eat a gelato.

-Okay. [chuckles] -Mm.

Rana... you should try Giancarlo and Danielle's new flavor.

[Aldo] It's called Masolino's Song.

You named it after me?

Masolino's Song?

I just got it from a book.

Oh!

So you named it after my father.

[instrumental music]

The Steps of Ostia Antica,no?

Yeah.

My mother wrote that book about coming here

and meeting my father.

I'm named after him.

She started writing the book... right here

at this very table.

She loved this place.

She was so inspired by watching people coming here,

looking for food, conversation, comfort.

[music continues]

[La Rana] This place was just more than a restaurant to them.

It was a community.

[birds chirping]

Let me tell you why you aren't named Aldo.

From the moment you were born,

your mother said, "Our son was special."

She asked me not name you Aldo

because to be an Aldo wasn't your destiny.

She knew your roots grew shallow here in Ostia Antica.

I'm sorry.

I wasn't strong enough that you thought you had to stay for me.

We must be one with our hearts, Giancarlo.

[instrumental music]

I've been watching the two of you.

You remind me of your mother and I.

And it-it's made me remember what she said about you.

I can see now that your desire to make gelato

is because of the dreams in your heart of something more.

[exhales sharply]

My heart is here.

In Ostia Antica, this cafe.

[music continues]

But your heart will be on a plane tomorrow.

-[chuckles] -Thank you.

[insects chirping]

[soft music]

[exhales sharply]

[rattles]

[music continues]

[Owen] Hey, Danielle.

You know I feel terrible about pulling you in

like this on your last day in Italy.

Oh, well, the containers wait for no one. [chuckles]

I have a contract on my desk and a shaky pen.

-Let me hear the fireworks. -There aren't any.

I don't get it.

Like, I was so concerned with getting it wrong

that I forgot to stay true to what felt right

and I mean it isn't about me or the recipes.

It's about people...

community and what makes them happy.

[upbeat music]

Go on.

Okay.

So...

Good day.

Danielle.

Hi.

You look lovely.

Thank you.

Sorry I'm late.

How did it go?

Giancarlo, is it time to play now?

Go. We can talk later.

Scusi, signorina.

Come on. Bambini, gather around.

Come here. Come. Come, come.

Feast your eyes, little ones, on the color field.

Three, two, one.

-And... -And play!

[whooping]

[applause]

Who's ready for Strega Comanda Color!

[all] Me, me, me, me!

The witch will say a color, and you must touch that color

[Giancarlo] before the witch catches you.

Beware, bambini, for the witch is me.

-[chuckles] -[Giancarlo] Ready?

[kids] Yes!

Eh, verde!

[instrumental music]

Rosso!

The heart. The heart. The heart.

Arancione?

-Oh! -Okay, wait. What are we doing?

Playing, I think.

-Turchese! -Eh, Turchese.

Turchese,okay.

Turquoise, turquoise... [chuckles]

You've been captured by the witch, signorina.

What happens now?

I don't know, uh, I've never caught anyone before.

[chuckles]

You're free now.

Verde!

Uh, giallo.

[indistinct chattering]

We're thinking of renovating the cottage together.

Elida is so creative.

And Bruno is so good at fixing things. [chuckles]

I think we make a pretty good pair.

I think so too.

I'm gonna miss you guys.

Me too. Come here.

Sorry if I interrupt.

I'll go to get the van.

We need to be leaving soon.

Okay.

Before you do...

I believe someone has been waiting patiently

to speak with you.

[instrumental music]

Go.

[indistinct chatter]

So, I talked to Owen, and he likes my new direction.

-A more personal one. -Like a diner?

Maybe more like a cafe,

where you really get to know your customers.

You know, you and Aldo's gave me

all the inspiration that I really needed.

[music continues]

-He'd be a fool not to. -Agreed.

I'd love for you to come visit me.

I hope... one day.

["Una Furtiva Lagrima" over stereo]

[chuckles]

"Una Furtiva Lagrima."

Beautiful.

What's he saying?

Okay, yeah.

What more searching need I do?

For an instant, I felt the beating of her heart

as if my sighs were hers and her sighs were mine.

[indistinct chatter]

[mellow music]

Can't wait to see you in... the magazines

when your restaurant will be a success.

I'll project them on-on my walls.

It will be as if I was there.

You can always visit.

Arrivederci,Danielle.

[music continues]

[uplifting music]

I figured out what was missing.

From Danielle's?

But now I know what's missing from me.

It's you.

[indistinct chatter]

Come back to America with me.

It can be our specialty. We can make Giancarlo's gelato.

Just forget making one flavor. We can make all the flavors.

[chuckles]

You know you said that no one ever leaves Ostia Antica,

and you won't. Because it'll always be right here.

You can't always wait.

Sometimes you just have to go for it.

Looking at pictures of jungles, mountains, islands,

I thought maybe I'd find a place

that felt like where I was meant to be.

But now I can stop looking.

[music continues]

Because where I'm meant to be...

is with you.

[chuckles]

Good thing you got that passport. [chuckles]

[music continues]

-To Danielle's. -Oh! To Danielle's.

[clinks]

[chuckles]

[instrumental music]

[singing in Italian]