We absolutely adore Bettina Campolucci Bordi, she’s a plant-based/free-from chef who has a wonderful collection of tattoos. We had a great chat about Bettina’s favorite meals, post-tattoo treats, and more. Therapeutic buzz of the tattoo needle…
Bettina! We love your Insta feed (check out it!) @bettinas_kitchen). It provides us with such gorgeous food inspo… What made you fall in love with food and decide to follow it as a career? Since childhood, my passion for food has been a constant. I was fortunate to stumble upon hosting retreats, and it gave me the opportunity to fulfill my childhood dream of becoming a chef. It all just fell into place, and the rest is history. It is my passion and my job.
We love to see the tiny details of tattoos in your photos. Could you tell us more about your tattoos? I have my butterflies that were done by an artist in Malaga – my “believe” was done in Barcelona for my 27th birthday. Jonpall, an Icelandic artist who is based in Barcelona, has a large tattoo on my arm. My latest piece of Goddess Kali on the left side of my shoulder was done by a Balinese artist. I also have some more smaller hidden ones…
Is there anything that is of special significance? Are there any food-related issues? They all have meaning and were made during difficult times in my life. They are not food-related, but they are more life-related.
How can you locate the tattoo process? It’s almost like getting into a zone. I think anyone who gets them can relate. Some tattoos I had to choose and design took me years. It takes a lot of mental energy to finally get them done. It is magical to see the process of designing, connecting with the artist and then seeing the finished piece. I feel like I go into a trance during, then when it’s done you kind of come out of it. Once the piece is done I go through a bit of honeymoon period with my piece until it becomes part of you and your journey.
Are there any meals that you’ve had to eat in particular? I wish I could, but I tend to eat less. Get plenty of water, no alcohol, and get enough sleep before you go.
Or any that aid in the recovery/healing process? I love little chocolate treats! There are plenty of recipe ideas in my book [Happy Food]This is a great way to make batches and then pull them out of the freezer when you need them.
What’s your favourite meal? Why? A curry is comforting. It’s like a warm hug.
What do you have in store for the New Year? I am in Costa Rica right now, and will be in Bali soon. I am contemplating getting another tattoo but I am not sure yet! And The 7 Day Vegan Challenge [published by Hardie Grant]Now, my second book is available: Exciting.
Bettina’s book It is now available
