Floriano Pellegrino

I am from Lecce, Italy, where my culinary journey began in my family’s kitchen. From a young age, I was immersed in the world of cooking through my mother’s restaurant. This early experience ignited a lifelong ambition to become a renowned chef. My dream has always been to work in the world’s best kitchens, daily striving for personal and professional growth. At 16, I ventured beyond Lecce, honing my skills in modest hotels and restaurants across Salento. By 18, I had the opportunity to work at Ilario Vinciguerra’s Michelin-starred restaurant, beginning a remarkable journey. My path took me to prestigious kitchens like Martin Berasategui, Eneko Atxa, Claude Bosi, Alexandre Gauthier, Mugaritz, and Noma.

My journey has been a series of brick-by-brick experiences, each contributing to the foundation of who I am as a chef. One invaluable lesson I share with my team is maintaining resilience, belief, and discipline, no matter the challenges. My career, built on continuous growth and self-improvement, reflects this philosophy. While the Michelin star was a significant goal, my focus has always been on achieving the highest quality in my culinary creations. Managing pressure is crucial, and for me, staying focused through physical activity is key. I believe the future of high-level cuisine will see a clearer distinction from regular dining experiences, much like the different tiers in football.

In my view, gender does not influence one’s ability in the kitchen. My wife Isabella and I both stand by this belief, ensuring our approach is grounded in equality and merit. Beyond the kitchen, my ventures, such as our marketing agency and involvement in rugby, may add complexity to my life, but they serve as a testament to our drive and determination. These pursuits push me to continually refine my skills and remain focused on achieving excellence. While juggling multiple projects can be challenging, it fuels my passion and commitment, ultimately enhancing my capabilities as a chef with a diverse and unique portfolio of techniques.