Alexia DiGiglio-Mancini is a Home Cook, Recipe Creator, Vlogger, and Television Personality behind the culinary lifestyle brand, U had me at Kitchen.

Born and raised in Johnston, Rhode Island, Alexia’s passion for cooking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where she learned that food was never just about eating — it was about family, tradition, laughter, and love. Proudly self-taught and not professionally trained, she has developed an “old world meets modern” approach to cooking, transforming simple, fresh ingredients into flavorful and approachable dishes inspired by her Italian-American roots.

Most recently, Alexia was selected as one of only 100 home cooks from across the United States to compete on Food Network’s groundbreaking new culinary competition series, 100 COOKS — the largest cooking competition show in Food Network history. Hosted by Terry Crews and judged by acclaimed chef Alex Guarnaschelli and culinary sensation Nick DiGiovanni, the series brings together 100 of America’s most talented home cooks to compete in a high-stakes culinary showdown. Representing Rhode Island as Contestant #63, Alexia proudly showcases her passion, personality, and home-cooking expertise on one of the biggest stages in food television.

Alexia has worked closely with The Pastene Company as a recipe creator and brand ambassador and has appeared on Food Network’s The Kitchen, as well as The Boston Hub representing Pastene. She thrives in live television and impromptu environments, something she credits to her experience as a recurring guest on The Rhode Show, where she regularly showcases her recipes, personality, and culinary expertise. She is also a monthly recipe contributor to Rhode Island Wave and has collaborated with numerous brands as a social media influencer, recipe developer, and culinary personality.

In addition to her television appearances, Alexia recently conducted a one-on-one interview with the legendary chef, restaurateur, author, and television personality Lidia Bastianich, further establishing herself as a respected voice in the culinary community.

Alexia also curates and hosts exclusive Italian-American culinary experiences at Foxwoods Resort Casino for their VIP Chairman and Diamond players. These private events combine exceptional food, storytelling, entertainment, and guest interaction. She designs the menus, performs live cooking demonstrations, engages directly with guests, and creates memorable experiences that celebrate the traditions and culture behind every dish.

Her television journey has also included appearances on Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen Season 24 as a featured diner and red-carpet guest. Her growing presence across television, digital media, live events, and culinary experiences continues to position her as one of New England’s most recognizable food personalities.

Before stepping into the culinary spotlight, Alexia enjoyed a career in the music industry during the 1990s as a rapper, singer, songwriter, and lyricist. A natural entertainer, she performed alongside artists ranging from The Notorious B.I.G. to Lionel Richie. After being tied to a recording contract for three years and ultimately shelved when the record company folded, she reinvented herself and redirected her passion for entertainment, creativity, and connecting with people into building her culinary brand, U had me at Kitchen.

Today, Alexia is a television personality, food blogger, recipe creator, event host, and brand ambassador known for her vibrant personality, storytelling ability, and passion for bringing people together through food.

She also worked in the travel industry at her family’s agency, Anyplace Travel, which gave her the opportunity to travel the world and experience diverse cultures and cuisines firsthand. Alexia loves all people, all food, and all cultures, and she brings those influences into everything she creates.

At the heart of her work is her signature message: Bring Back Sunday Dinner.

For Alexia, Sunday Dinner is more than an Italian tradition — it is a universal tradition. It is about gathering around the table, sharing a meal, connecting with loved ones, and creating lasting memories in an increasingly busy world.

For Alexia, food is love.