In a thrilling new series, Big Zuu takes viewers on a culinary journey through Europe. Big Zuu’s 12 Dishes in 12 Hours will air on ITV1 and ITVX in 2024. Co-produced by Twofour and Big Productions, this six-part series promises a feast for the senses. It blends Zuu’s comedic charm with his passion for food and travel.
Big Zuu takes on a Unique Culinary Quest
Big Zuu, known for his irresistible personality, invites celebrity guests to join him. Together, they explore local cuisines across six European cities. In each episode, Zuu and his companions sample 12 dishes. These dishes embody the essence of their destination, ranging from street food to fine dining.
“I’ve always dreamed of having my own food travelogue, so I’m gassed to finally announce this new show!” Zuu expressed. “Travelling the world and eating food felt like the natural next step for me, and I’m grateful to ITV and Natalie Rose for making this happen!”
Big Zuu Discovers Hidden Gems
Throughout the series, viewers will see Zuu and his guests venture off the beaten path. They uncover hidden gems and local eateries that showcase each city’s culinary scene. Whether exploring food markets or indulging in culinary trends, Zuu aims to immerse himself in each location’s culture through food.
Entertainment Commissioner at ITV, Natalie Rose, shared her excitement about the series: “From fine dining to mouth-watering street food, 12 Dishes combines Zuu’s love for food and travel, taking his culinary passion further than ever before—beyond UK shores.”
All-Star Guests and Culinary Connections
The series boasts an impressive roster of celebrity guests, including Will Poulter in Bologna, Patrice Evra in London, Oti Mabuse in Marseille, Anna Maxwell-Martin in Amsterdam, Eddie Kadi in Cyprus, and Sindhu Vee in Valencia. Zuu’s personal connections with these stars add a unique layer to the show, allowing for genuine interactions and shared experiences over delicious meals.
Reflecting on his friendship with Will Poulter, Zuu remarked, “I never thought I’d be spending the day with an Italian Nonna drinking sparkling white wine and eating fresh tortellini. It was amazing to connect on a different level.”
Celebrating Cultural Diversity
At the heart of 12 Dishes in 12 Hours is Zuu’s commitment to cultural representation. He obviously aims to showcase Europe’s diverse culinary landscape. The series highlights lesser-known cuisines and celebrates the multicultural influences shaping each city’s food scene. For instance, in Amsterdam, Zuu delves into Surinamese cuisine, shedding light on a vibrant community often overlooked.
Zuu emphasised the importance of representation, saying, “With the growth of social media, we see so many different cultures being represented. It’s crucial that our media reflects that diversity.”
A Vision for the Future
As Zuu embarks on this new venture, he is also focused on fostering opportunities for emerging talent within the industry through his production company, Big Productions. Of course, he aims to create a more inclusive environment in television, ensuring that voices from diverse backgrounds are heard and celebrated.
With a passion for showcasing the beauty of food and culture, Zuu obviously has big dreams for the future. “I want to create more shows with ITV and explore the incredible food and culture of Africa,” he shared.
As Big Zuu’s 12 Dishes in 12 Hours prepares to tantalise taste buds and entertain audiences, it promises to be a delightful exploration of culinary delights, friendship, and cultural discovery. Be sure to catch this exciting new series when it airs.
