Famous Italian Chefs

Giada De Laurentiis is an Italian American chef, entrepreneur, writer, and television personality known for hosting Food Network's "Giada at Home." She is a contributor and guest co-host on NBC's "Today" show. De Laurentiis is the founder of the catering business GDL Foods and has received accolades such as the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lifestyle Host and the Gracie Award for Best Television Host. Her influence in the hospitality industry is recognized globally, being listed as one of the 100 Most Powerful People in Global Hospitality.

Lidia Giuliana Matticchio Bastianich is an Italian-American celebrity chef, television host, author, and restaurateur known for her expertise in Italian and Italian-American cuisine. She has been a regular contributor to public television cooking shows since 1998 and has launched multiple successful television series, including Lidia's Kitchen. Bastianich has owned and operated several acclaimed Italian restaurants across the U.S. in collaboration with her family members. Additionally, she is a partner in various Eataly locations in multiple cities, further establishing her influence in the culinary world.

Gabriele Corcos is an Italian celebrity cook, entrepreneur, and TV personality best known for hosting the TV show "Extra Virgin" on the Cooking Channel. He entered the culinary world unexpectedly in the mid-2000s and quickly rose to fame as one of the most renowned chefs globally. Alongside his wife, he actively participates in various anti-hunger charities, demonstrating a commitment to using his platform for social good. Corcos' career is characterized by his passion for cooking, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, making a significant impact in the culinary industry.

Antonio Carluccio was an esteemed Italian chef, restaurateur, and food expert known as "the godfather of Italian gastronomy." With a career spanning over 50 years, he made significant contributions to the culinary world. Carluccio gained widespread recognition through his television appearances, most notably in the BBC Two series "Two Greedy Italians" alongside Gennaro Contaldo. His passion for Italian cuisine and expertise in the kitchen endeared him to audiences worldwide, solidifying his legacy as a culinary icon.

Adriano Zumbo is an Australian pâtissier and television personality known for his innovative and creative approach to pastry making. He gained fame after opening his first patisserie in 2007 and appearing as a guest on MasterChef Australia. Zumbo is the host of the baking competition Zumbo's Just Desserts and a judge on the Netflix series Sugar Rush. With a reputation for his unique desserts, he has earned nicknames such as "Sweet Assassin," "Patissier of Pain," "the Dark Lord of the Pastry Kitchen," and "Lord Voldecake," being likened to "Australia's answer to Willy Wonka."

Ettore Boiardi, known as Hector Boyardee, was an Italian-American chef who founded the famous packaged food brand Chef Boyardee. Starting as a kitchen helper, he quickly rose to head chef at the Plaza Hotel in NYC. Boiardi catered President Woodrow Wilson's wedding and opened his own restaurant in Cleveland. He established the Chef Boyardee brand in the 1930s, adapting the name for easier pronunciation. During WWII, his company supplied rations to the US military before selling to American Home Foods in a lucrative deal.

Heinz Winkler was a renowned Italian-German chef known for his exceptional culinary skills and expertise in cooking wild game. He made history by becoming the youngest chef to receive three Michelin stars at the age of 32 in 1981, and he was also the first Italian chef to achieve this prestigious recognition. Throughout his career, Winkler's dedication to his craft earned him widespread acclaim and accolades, including the Federal Cross of Merit in 2001. His legacy as a pioneering figure in the culinary world continues to inspire chefs worldwide.

Gabriele Bonci is an esteemed Italian chef renowned for his expertise in pizza al taglio, a Roman style of pizza. With a passion for traditional Italian cuisine, Bonci has garnered international recognition for his innovative approach to pizza-making. He founded Pizzarium, a popular pizzeria in Rome, and has since expanded his culinary empire with multiple locations worldwide. Bonci is celebrated for his commitment to using high-quality ingredients and his dedication to perfecting the art of crafting delicious and authentic pizza.

Massimiliano Alajmo is an accomplished Italian chef known for his exceptional culinary skills and innovative approach to gastronomy. He made history by becoming the youngest chef ever to receive three Michelin stars at the age of 28. With a strong background in hotel management and experience working in prestigious kitchens, he has established himself as a renowned figure in the culinary world. Alajmo has authored award-winning cookbooks, delved into sensory exploration with essential oil sprays, and expanded his influence through restaurant ownership, culinary education, and philanthropic endeavors.

Alessandro Borghese is an Italian celebrity chef known for his culinary expertise and charismatic personality. He has gained popularity through his cooking shows and appearances on television. Borghese is recognized for his innovative approach to traditional Italian cuisine, creating unique and delicious dishes that showcase his passion for cooking. He has also authored cookbooks and conducted cooking classes, sharing his knowledge and skills with a wide audience. Borghese's professional career has solidified his reputation as a talented chef and culinary personality in the industry.

Giovanni Rana is an Italian pasta maker and founder of the Giovanni Rana brand of Italian food products. He started the brand in 1962 with homemade tortellini and has since expanded distribution to 38 countries. Rana began making tortellini at his family bakery and personally prepared the pasta and filling. He oversaw the production and distribution of the pasta, delivering door-to-door with his motorbike. With the help of local engineers, he developed new machines to increase pasta production, leading to the company's growth and expansion worldwide.

Antonino Cannavacciuolo is a renowned Italian chef, restaurateur, and television personality. With a passion for culinary excellence, he has made a significant impact in the culinary world through his innovative cooking techniques and creative recipes. Cannavacciuolo's expertise and talent have earned him widespread recognition and acclaim, both in Italy and internationally. As a successful restaurateur, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the restaurant industry, while also showcasing his culinary skills on various television programs, captivating audiences with his charm and expertise.

Gualtiero Marchesi was an Italian chef renowned as the founder of the new Italian cuisine. Widely regarded as the most famous Italian chef globally, he made significant contributions to the development of Italian culinary culture. Marchesi played a pivotal role in elevating Italian cuisine to international acclaim by introducing the Italian version of the French nouvelle cuisine. His innovative approach and culinary creations positioned Italy as a prominent player in the global culinary scene, solidifying his legacy as a pioneering figure in the culinary world.

Bartolomeo Scappi was a renowned Italian Renaissance chef known for his culinary expertise and service to prominent figures such as cardinals and popes. He rose to fame for his work in the Vatican kitchen, serving under Pope Pius IV and Pope Pius V. Scappi's legacy is marked by his influential cookbook, Opera dell'arte del cucinare, which contained a wealth of Renaissance recipes and culinary insights. His impact extended internationally, with translations of his work into Spanish and Dutch, solidifying his reputation as one of the first celebrity chefs in history.

Cristina Bowerman is an accomplished Italian chef who earned a Michelin star at Glass Hostaria in Rome. Originally trained in foreign languages and law, she pursued a career in graphic design before transitioning to the culinary arts. Following her studies at Le Cordon Bleu, Bowerman returned to Italy and faced initial challenges at Glass Hostaria. However, her innovative approach eventually led to the restaurant receiving a Michelin star. She has since expanded her culinary ventures, opening multiple successful establishments in Rome. Additionally, Bowerman remains actively involved in the culinary community, participating in various events and competitions.

Damiano Carrara is an accomplished Italian chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author known for his expertise in the culinary world. With a strong presence in Italy, Carrara has made a name for himself through his innovative cooking techniques and creative recipes. As a successful restaurateur, he has established a reputation for delivering exceptional dining experiences to his patrons. Additionally, Carrara has shared his culinary knowledge and passion through his published cookbooks, making his expertise accessible to a wider audience of food enthusiasts.

Nadia Santini is an acclaimed Italian chef renowned for her restaurant Dal Pescatore in Lombardy, Italy, which has held three Michelin stars since 1996. She learned to cook from her husband's great-grandmother and has a culinary philosophy centered around intimate dining experiences. Taking over the family-run restaurant in 1974, she made history as the first Italian female chef to earn three Michelin stars. Highly respected by peers, Santini's expertise and dedication to traditional recipes have garnered international acclaim and recognition.

Heinz Beck is a renowned European chef known for his innovative cooking styles and minimalist presentations. With over 260,000 Instagram followers, he showcases his colorful creations from his restaurant La Pergola. Beck received his formal chef qualifications in 1983 and worked his way up from Sous Chef to head chef at La Pergola in Rome. He has earned several prestigious awards, including 3 Michelin Stars, and the Golden Medal of the Artists Foyer Award. Beck is recognized alongside other Michelin Star chefs like Andre Chiang, Tom Kitchin, and Richard Corrigan.

Martino da Como, also known as Maestro Martino from Como, was a renowned Italian culinary expert in the 15th century. He gained fame as the chef at the Roman palazzo of the papal chamberlain and the Patriarch of Aquileia. Martino was highly esteemed by his contemporaries, earning the title of the prince of cooks. His influential work, Libro de Arte Coquinaria (The Art of Cooking), published around 1465, is considered a pivotal piece in Italian gastronomic literature, showcasing the evolution from medieval to Renaissance cuisine.

Rubina Rovini is a versatile Italian chef with a diverse professional background. Known for her appearance on Master Chef Italy, she has established herself as a personal chef, brand ambassador, food consultant, and executive chef. With a published recipe book and experience as a classical dancer, she brings a unique perspective to her culinary creations. Trained at the Academy of Haute Cuisine Cordon Bleu, she collaborates with various brands and engages with a large social media following through Instagram. Her career showcases a blend of creativity, skill, and passion for food.

Annie Féolde is a French chef renowned for her culinary expertise as the head chef at Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence, Italy. She made history by becoming the first female chef in Italy to achieve three Michelin stars, a feat accomplished with her partner Giorgio Pinchiorri. Féolde's journey to success was marked by resilience and determination, as seen when she overcame challenges such as a fire at the restaurant. Her innovative approach to Tuscan cuisine and dedication to her craft have solidified her reputation as a trailblazing figure in the culinary world.

Simone Zanoni is an accomplished Italian chef known for his culinary expertise. He currently serves as the head chef at the George, a distinguished restaurant located within the Four Seasons Hotel George V. Prior to this role, Zanoni honed his skills working at renowned restaurants owned by Gordon Ramsay, where he earned accolades including two and three Michelin stars. With a wealth of experience in the culinary world, Zanoni continues to impress diners with his exceptional dishes and innovative approach to fine dining.

Stefano Callegari is an Italian chef renowned for inventing the Trapizzino, a widely-loved street food delicacy. Prior to this culinary breakthrough, he gained valuable experience as a flight attendant for 15 years. Eventually, Stefano decided to follow his passion for pizza, leading him back to Rome where he embarked on a new chapter in his career. Through his innovative creations and dedication to the art of cooking, Stefano has been able to leave a lasting impact on the culinary world with his unique approach to street food.

Isabella Poti is a renowned professional chef and partner at Bros' Restaurant, known for her expertise in pastries. She gained fame as a celebrity guest chef on MasterChef Italy and has trained under esteemed chefs like Claude Bosi, Martin Berasategui, and Paco Torreblanca. Recognized for her culinary skills, she was listed on Forbes Magazine's Thirty Under Thirty Europe list in 2017. Isabella co-owns Bros' with her partner, Floriano Pellegrino, and has collaborated with other notable chefs like Joe Bastianich. Her culinary journey showcases a commitment to excellence and innovation in the culinary world.

Nadia Santini is an acclaimed Italian chef renowned for her Michelin 3-star restaurant Dal Pescatore. Her culinary journey began under the guidance of her future mother-in-law, shaping her exceptional cooking skills. In 2013, she was honored as the Veuve Clicquot World's Best Female Chef, a testament to her culinary prowess. Santini's expertise in Italian cuisine has garnered international recognition, placing her among esteemed chefs like Giada De Laurentiis. With a passion for traditional flavors and innovative techniques, she continues to inspire and delight food enthusiasts worldwide.

Alida Gotta is an accomplished Italian chef known for her impressive culinary skills and diverse ventures in the food industry. Her rise to fame began with a notable 2nd place finish on MasterChef Italy's 5th season, leading to hosting her own show, Dream Chef. Alongside her culinary pursuits, she pursued a law degree, showcasing her versatility and intellect. Alida further demonstrated her creativity by creating the web series Alida Teen Chef, captivating audiences with her passion for cooking. Hailing from Turin, Italy, she impressed renowned judges like Bruno Barbieri on her culinary journey.

Chiara Maci is a multi-talented professional known for her transition from a successful law and marketing career to becoming a prominent food blogger and television personality. She gained recognition through her eponymous website and later expanded her reach as a cooking personality on FoxLife. In 2013, she further solidified her culinary expertise by releasing her own cookbook. Her achievements were acknowledged in 2016 when she was named one of the Best Italian Food Bloggers by the Macchianera Awards. Collaborating with her sister on the blog Sorelle in Pentola, Chiara Maci has established herself as a respected figure in the Italian food blogging community alongside other popular influencers like Eleonora Rubaltelli.

Wilma De Angelis is a renowned Italian singer, TV presenter, and cook known for her successful talk show "A pranzo con Wilma" and her exceptional cooking skills. She hosted the popular cooking program "Telemenù" on Telemontecarlo from 1978 to 1987, showcasing her culinary expertise. Additionally, she has authored two cookbooks, further establishing her reputation as a talented chef. With a career spanning music, television, and cooking, Wilma De Angelis has solidified her status as a versatile and accomplished figure in the entertainment industry.

Gianfranco Chiarini is a versatile Italian celebrity chef, food engineer, and renowned television personality with a diverse professional background. His impressive career encompasses working in Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels, and resorts. Chiarini has served as a consultant and research and development chef for food companies across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. He is also a skilled culinary teacher, author, and multilingual speaker, allowing him to excel as an intercultural chef, bridging culinary traditions across various countries and styles.

Ernst Knam is a prominent German chef renowned for his expertise in pastry-making. With a career spanning over three decades, he has worked in various restaurants across Germany, Scotland, Switzerland, and England before settling in Italy. In 1992, he established his own pastry shop in Milan, solidifying his reputation as a master pastry chef. His culinary talents have earned him accolades such as the Italian Champion of Cioccolateria and the title of Chef Ambassador for the 2015 Expo in Germany. Ernst Knam's television appearances, notably on Bake Off Italia, have further showcased his skills and passion for desserts.

Sonia Peronaci is a renowned Italian chef, blogger, and television personality known for founding the popular online cooking website Saffron Yellow, attracting over four million monthly visitors. She established her own television cooking show, Cooking with Giallozafferano, and authored multiple cookbooks. Transitioning from accounting, she and her husband founded Saffron Yellow in 2006, propelling her to become the Italian ambassador for Kraft Philadelphia in 2010. Beginning her culinary journey at an early age in her father's restaurant, Sonia is often likened to the Italian Martha Stewart for her culinary prowess and success in the kitchen.

Vincenzo Falcone is a renowned Italian chef known for opening a series of successful restaurants in Italy that offer a unique blend of American-inspired cuisine. His popular presence on Instagram, where he shares tantalizing food images, has garnered him a large following. Falcone's culinary journey took him from Italy to San Diego, California, before returning to Italy to pursue his dream of starting his own restaurant. In addition to his culinary ventures, he has also showcased his talent in the film industry, appearing in the movie "Io Non Ci Casco" (2008).

Niko Romito is a renowned chef known for opening the first and only three Michelin star restaurant in Abruzzo, Reale. His culinary journey includes earning accolades such as being named the country's best restaurant by the Gambero Rosso guide and establishing a cooking school in partnership with the University of Gastronomic Sciences. Romito is also an author, having published an autobiography in 2015. With a significant social media following and notable friendships in the industry, he continues to make a mark in the culinary world.

Filippo La Mantia is a renowned Italian chef known for his expertise in baked goods, Italian pasta, and traditional dishes. He gained recognition as the head chef and owner of restaurants such as Oste e Cuoco and La Trattoria. La Mantia began his culinary journey at a young age and has since garnered a strong following on Instagram, where he showcases his culinary creations. He has also worked as a consultant for establishments such as the Losari Coffee Plantation resort in Indonesia.

Massimo Capra is an accomplished Italian restaurateur, restaurant consultant, cookbook author, and celebrity chef. Renowned for his expertise in the culinary world, he has been featured on various television shows such as CityTV's Cityline, Global's The Morning Show, and Food Network programs like Restaurant Makeover, Chopped: Canada, Top Chef Canada, and Wall of Chefs. Capra is based in Mississauga, Ontario, near Toronto, where he continues to showcase his culinary talents and share his passion for food with audiences worldwide.

Bruno Barbieri is a renowned Italian chef, restaurateur, and television personality. His restaurants have earned an impressive 7 Michelin stars, solidifying his status as one of the top chefs in Italy and globally. Barbieri is well-known for his involvement in popular Italian TV shows such as MasterChef Italia and its various spin-off versions, where he collaborates with other esteemed chefs. Additionally, he has created successful television programs like Bruno Barbieri - 4 hotel, showcasing his talent and expertise in the culinary world.

Gabriele Rubini, also known as Chef Rubio, has had a diverse professional career. He began as a semi-professional rugby player in Italy before transitioning to become a well-known television presenter for DMAX. With his engaging personality and passion for food, Chef Rubio has made a name for himself in the culinary world. Through his TV appearances and cooking expertise, he has garnered a loyal following of fans who appreciate his unique approach to food and storytelling.

Carlo Cracco is a renowned Italian chef and television personality known for his innovative approach to cooking. With a strong background in traditional Italian cuisine, Cracco has gained international recognition for his culinary skills and unique style. He has successfully established himself as a prominent figure in the culinary world, earning multiple Michelin stars for his restaurants. In addition to his success in the kitchen, Cracco has also made a name for himself on television, where he showcases his expertise and passion for food.

Erica Liverani is a successful chef who gained fame by winning the fifth season of Master Chef. With a degree in physiotherapy, she transitioned into the culinary world and has since amassed a significant following on her Instagram account. She is also an author, having published a book titled Small Steps - My Seasonal Cooking. Hailing from Italy, Erica's culinary expertise has garnered her recognition alongside other notable chefs like Giada De Laurentiis. Her dedication to cooking and seasonal cuisine has solidified her reputation in the culinary industry.

Ennio Carota is a renowned Michelin Star chef and television personality, recognized for his role as a judge and host on the Chilean version of MasterChef. He further showcased his culinary expertise by founding the successful Pastamore Italian food restaurant. Carota expanded his TV presence by hosting the children's spinoff series Junior MasterChef Chile and his own cooking program, The Specialist. His collaboration with Diana Bolocco on Chile's MasterChef further solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the culinary world.

Fabio Viviani is a renowned chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author known for his appearances on reality television. He transitioned from Florence to Southern California in 2005. His breakthrough came in 2008 when he won "fan favorite" on Top Chef, leading to a successful career as a television host, on-air personality, and product spokesperson. Additionally, Viviani offers a selection of wines under his brand. His diverse professional roles showcase his culinary expertise and engaging personality, making him a prominent figure in the food industry.

Moreno Cedroni is an acclaimed Italian chef known for founding the renowned seafood restaurant La Madonnina del Pescatore. He gained recognition with his debut cookbook "Sushi & Susci" in 2001, leading to the restaurant earning a second Michelin star in 2006. Cedroni founded La Madonnina del Pescatore in 1984 at a young age and received further accolades when it was named one of the Wall Street Journal's top fish restaurants in Europe. He also published an autobiographical book in 2004 and is associated with fellow chef Ferran Adria.

Valerio Braschi is a professional chef who gained recognition by winning the 2017 MasterChef Italy competition. He showcases his culinary skills on Instagram to over 250,000 followers and has cooked at the Italian Embassy in New Delhi. Braschi promotes various cooking and nutrition companies such as Bahlsen and Fico Essere Buoni. He has hosted private dinner events in collaboration with Fight Eat Club and Ristorante Botero. Braschi's journey began when he took a break from culinary school to compete in the Italian MasterChef.

Roland Trettl is a renowned chef known for his impressive culinary achievements. He served as the Executive Chef at Restaurant Ikarus in Hangar-7 at Salzburg Airport for a decade, garnering a Michelin star for his exemplary work at Ca's Puers. With a culinary career spanning over three decades, Trettl honed his skills at Parkhotel Holzner before establishing himself as a prolific author with publications like "Culinary High-Flighers" and "Served: The Truth About The Best Cooks In The World." Trettl's expertise and Italian heritage align him with other esteemed chefs like Angela Hartnett.

Lorenzo Boni is an accomplished chef known for his expertise in Italian cuisine. He began his career at Barilla in 1999 and eventually became the Head Chef in 2003. With a strong passion for culinary arts, he studied throughout Italy to perfect dishes from various regions. Upon moving to New York, he was appointed as the Second Chef at San Domenico Restaurant. With a significant online following on Instagram, he continues to showcase his culinary skills and inspire food enthusiasts worldwide.

Donato De Santis is an Italian chef renowned in Latin America for his appearances on cooking shows and Italian programs. With a career spanning over decades, he began cooking professionally at 16 and later studied gastronomy. De Santis opened Cucina Paradiso in Buenos Aires and served as a director for GVCI. Hailing from La Puglia, Italy, he has showcased his culinary skills in various U.S. cities and even worked for Gianni Versace. Additionally, De Santis is a published author with four cookbooks under his belt.

Gianluca Fusto is a professional pastry chef, author, and social media personality known for his international cookbooks like My Sweet 24 Hours and Tarts. With a popular Instagram account, he has amassed over 140,000 followers. Fusto started his culinary career in his twenties and published his first book, Paths, in 2013. Hailing from Milan, Italy, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the culinary world. In one of his Instagram videos, he featured the song "Ma Che Bontà" by Mina.

Paola Carosella, an Italian Argentine businesswoman, cook, and celebrity chef, gained prominence as a juror on the popular TV show, MasterChef Brazil, alongside French chef Érick Jacquin and Brazilian chef Henrique Fogaça. With a successful career in the culinary world, she has established herself as a respected figure in the industry. Her expertise and passion for food have made her a well-known personality, contributing to the success and popularity of the show. Carosella's professional journey reflects her dedication to the art of cooking and gastronomy.

Davide Oldani is a renowned Italian chef who gained fame for opening his Michelin-starred restaurant D'O. He showcased his culinary skills on TV shows like The Chef and engaged with a large following on Instagram by sharing his plated creations and behind-the-scenes shots. Oldani's passion for cooking led him to establish D'O in 2003, earning him the prestigious Ambrogino d'oro award in 2008. He is also a published author, with books like Chefacile and Return Cook. Alongside other esteemed chefs like Massimo Bottura and Bruno Barbieri, Oldani continues to leave a mark in the culinary world.

Matteo Brunetti is a renowned Polish-Italian chef known for his success on the reality TV cooking show Master Chef. With a substantial following on Instagram and YouTube, he has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Brunetti ventured into the world of content creation in March 2018 and has since amassed 430,000 loyal Instagram followers. Through engaging posts, including throwback pictures and selfies with celebrities like Polish soccer star Artur Boruc, Brunetti continues to showcase his culinary talents and passion for food.