Just a short year ago, I was staring down graduation from Texas Christian University. I had just told my family and friends I was turning down the job offers, turning down the new luxury car, and turning down financial security. I saw raised eyebrows and some crazy looks when I apprised them I was ditching it all and going to chase my passion – I was going to be a craft butcher.
A butcher?
Yes, a butcher. But not just any butcher, I explained, I wanted be like “the” butcher.
Of course, words failed me in describing “the” butcher so I turned to the videos - the same ones that inspired me to ditch the American dream.
Dario Cecchini is described as, "...a personality, a celebrity, and a butcher extraordinaire. A theatrical host, a show-stopper, and an artist."To me, he is the rock star in the butchery game. He is an 8th generation butcher and his family's shop has been open for more than 250 years in the small town of Panzano, Italy.
Dario manning the counter of his butcher shop.
Dario embodies everything I want to do:
- Educate,
- Satiate,
- and Entertain.
He is the reason I picked up the cleaver.
Tonight, as I write this post, I have freshly arrived in Panzano, in the Tuscany region of Italy. The small ancient town sits atop a good sized hill, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees on the rolling hills as far as the eye can see. I am setting at a small bedroom window overlooking Antica Macelleria Cecchini. I am watching "the” butcher welcome guests with a warm smile and open arms. Here, the meat is plentiful and the wine flows profusely.
Dario taking a quick look down the street that runs directly in front of his shop.
Tomorrow morning it will be my honor to stage with my idol for a week.
Again, words escape me.
I am truly blessed.
We have an AMAZING God!
Dinner with Dario.