Luxury Lens: “Inspiration can come from a simple walk down the street”
Giovanni Luca di Pirro, executive chef at Tuscan luxury escape, Castello Del Nero, reveals the passion and creativity it takes to serve Michelin-starred cuisine in the food capital of the world
Tell us about your career path Being the son of a cook, I began my career as a young man, doing a lot of work experience, both abroad and in Italy, under many prestigious chefs and important restaurants. While working at a well-known restaurant in Alba as sous chef, I achieved my first Michelin star. In 1999, I landed in Montalcino,
Tuscany, and began to run a small restaurant with my wife, Paola. I then became executive chef at a beautiful luxury hotel in Montalcino, then ran a popular restaurant in region, before eventually becoming executive chef at Castello del Nero Hotel and Spa in 2012 where, where I lead the gourmet restaurant La Torre and La Taverna, which offers typical regional dining. And, in November 2014, I received a Michelin star for La Torre.
What inspires you? My inspiration can come from a simple walk down the street, a re-working of a past dish, an ingredient, a work of art, a journey abroad or from a mix of experiences and tastings.
What is a typical working day like for you? Highly organised, as I try to satisfy
every guest request thanks to the help of my team. It’s important that we face the day with the right spirit.
What’s your favourite thing about your job? Serving my dishes to guests and making them happy.
And the most challenging? My job is always challenging, I stay determined not let the stress to overwhelm me.
What’s your philosophy when it comes to creating five-star cuisine? My philosophy is to be positive and consistent. I’m inspired by tradition and the territory, and raw seasonal materials of highest quality and freshness. I propose contemporary and innovative cuisine, bound to the local area, which never overflows into excess. Every single dish needs to be “good, beautiful, modern and light.”
Connections Meetings in Italy will be hosted by Toscana Resort Castelfalfi from November 19-21, with part of the programme taking place at Castello Del Nero. To enquire about attending, please contact David on
david@weareconnections.com
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