The aroma of flour hangs in the air, thick and white, like a sudden snowfall. It clings to the floor, the shelves, and the dark hair of Natalie Bruno, who, with the precision of a seasoned artisan, rolls out fresh pasta dough. Beside her, Marisa, her sister, meticulously prepares ingredients for a rich sugo. In their world, the kitchen is more than just a place to cook; it’s a stage where memories are made and stories are told, all through the language of traditional Italian cuisine.
From Stuttgart to Abruzzo, and Finally Munich: A Culinary Journey
Natalie (35) and Marisa (32) Bruno, born near Stuttgart to a Swabian mother and an Italian father, spent their formative years in the Abruzzo region of Italy. This unique blend of cultures instilled in them a deep appreciation for both precision and passion, especially when it came to food. “In our family, the kitchen was always a game,” they recall, a shared smile hinting at countless hours spent learning the secrets of their grandmother’s recipes.
Though Natalie pursued a career as an architect and Marisa as a pharmacist, their hearts remained tethered to the rich culinary traditions of their heritage. Their Munich apartments often became vibrant hubs for friends, where pasta-making sessions evolved into joyous social gatherings, fostering a sense of community often missing in formal restaurants.
The Art of In-Home Dining: More Than Just a Meal
Last year, the sisters made a bold decision: they left their established careers to dedicate themselves entirely to their venture, “Le Sorelle Bruno” (The Bruno Sisters). Their concept is simple yet revolutionary: they bring the authentic Italian dining experience directly into their clients’ homes. “We don’t just drop off lukewarm boxes and leave,” Marisa emphasizes, highlighting their distinction from traditional catering services.
Before each event, the sisters meticulously assess their clients’ kitchens, ensuring they have the necessary equipment – an oven, sufficient stovetops, cutting boards, and workspace. A little space in the refrigerator is all they ask for before transforming the space into a bustling Italian trattoria.
Handmade Pasta and Abruzzese Delicacies: A Taste of Italy
Natalie, who honed her pasta-making skills at a cooking school in Bologna, is the undisputed expert of dough. Using only durum wheat flour and eggs, she crafts an array of fresh pasta, often employing a traditional chitarra to create thick, square-shaped noodles. Marisa, with her calm and focused demeanor, oversees the appetizers and desserts, ensuring every course is a masterpiece.
Their menu, typically a four-course affair, ranges from 110 to 150 Euros per person for a minimum of ten guests. It includes a classic starter, handmade pasta, a main course, and a dessert. While the traditional Italian secondo often features meat, Le Sorelle Bruno also offers exquisite vegetarian options. During a recent visit, Natalie’s chitarra pasta, bathed in a vibrant sugo of peppers, garlic, and tomatoes, was served alongside Polpette cacio e ova – fried cheese balls made with Pecorino, white bread, egg, and parsley.
Many clients, eager to explore beyond the familiar, request lesser-known dishes like Gnocchetti Sardi with salsiccia sauce or Lesso Rifatto, a Tuscan recipe for twice-braised beef. Their desserts, from classic Tiramisu to Zabaione mousse, are also entirely homemade, including the delicate ladyfingers.
Beyond the Plate: Stories, Wine, and a Clean Kitchen
The Bruno sisters offer more than just exquisite food; they provide an immersive cultural experience. As they cook, they share stories from their homeland and answer questions, creating an intimate atmosphere that fosters connection. Upon request, they can also provide aperitifs and carefully selected wines from Abruzzo, perfectly complementing the meal.
Their commitment extends to the very end of the evening. They remain until the last course is served and the kitchen is immaculately clean, leaving behind only the lingering scent of delicious food and the warmth of a shared experience. As one satisfied customer remarked, “It’s wonderful that such sisters are now available to everyone.”
While Natalie and Marisa have received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with many customers praising the authenticity and quality of their food, some online comments have sparked a debate about the pricing. One commenter noted, “Up to 150 € per person is already hefty! (Without wine pairing). I can get 4 courses in a Michelin-starred restaurant for that.” However, another quickly countered, referencing the high cost of fine dining in Munich, highlighting the value of Le Sorelle Bruno’s personalized and intimate offering.
The sisters, however, remain focused on their mission: to share their love for Italian cuisine and create unforgettable moments for their clients. Their journey from architecture and pharmacy to the heart of Munich’s culinary scene is a testament to the power of passion and the enduring appeal of authentic, home-cooked food.
Source: https://www.abendzeitung-muenchen.de/muenchen/daheim-essen-wie-beim-italianer-zwei-schwestern-machen-es-fuer-muenchner-moeglich-art-1110972
