Meet Alessandro: A culinary journey
Discover the passion, tradition, and global influences that define Alessandro's unique approach to cooking. Learn about the chef behind Alessandro's Cuisine and what makes his dishes truly special.
From Sicily to Dubai: My culinary beginnings
My journey as a chef began in my family home in Sicily, Italy, where I grew up watching my madre, nonna, and zie, cook for our large family. Their passion for food and hospitality inspired me to pursue a culinary career and create memorable dining experiences of my own.
I began my culinary journey in Italy, where I had the privilege of developing my foundation under the guidance of Chef Massimo Villa at La Madonnina in Milan. Eager to expand my experience, I moved to Switzerland, refining my skills with Hotel La Stazione and Celi Burger Restaurant before returning to Italy to continue my growth with Il Delfino and Alma Sri Catering.
My journey then brought me to the Middle East, beginning in Doha, Qatar, where I joined renowned Italian dining concepts including Cicchetti Restaurant and Scalini Doha. Eventually, I settled in Dubai, UAE, where I’ve had the opportunity to work with prestigious hospitality brands and restaurants such as Scalini Dubai at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jamie's Italian in Dubai Hills, and the deli concept at Armani Hotel Dubai inside the iconic Burj Khalifa for Emaar Hospitality Group.
I was also involved in several pre-opening projects under Emaar Hospitality Group, including Vida Hotel Dubai Mall, Farina Restaurant at Address Beach Resort JBR, and Palace Beach Resort Marassi in Egypt. After returning to Dubai, I continued supporting operations at Armani Hotel Dubai during its pre-renovation phase before being transferred back to Vida Hotel Dubai Mall while the Burj Khalifa area underwent renovations.
From Sicily to Dubai, my passion has always been the same: creating authentic, memorable experiences through food, creativity, and hospitality.
My love affair with Italian cuisine
I love cooking Italian cuisine the most because it connects deeply to my roots, my family, and the memories that first inspired me to become a chef. Growing up in Sicily, food was never just about eating—it was about togetherness, tradition, celebration, and sharing love around the table. What I enjoy most about Italian cooking is its simplicity and honesty. With the right ingredients, even the simplest dishes can become something unforgettable. Fresh pasta, slow-cooked sauces, artisan breads, pastries, and desserts all tell a story through flavor, texture, and tradition. I’m especially passionate about creating dishes and desserts that combine classic Italian influence with modern presentation and creativity. I enjoy balancing comfort and elegance—making food that feels warm and familiar while still delivering a refined dining experience. Beyond technique, I love cooking food that creates emotion. Whether it’s a pastry shared during a celebration, a beautifully plated dessert, or a hearty pasta dish, food should evoke feelings of joy and connection.
Influences that shape my cooking style
Today, my cooking style is a reflection of all these experiences: rooted in Italian tradition, refined through European technique, inspired by international hospitality, and elevated by modern presentation and creativity. That combination is what shapes many of my signature dishes and desserts today. Every plate I create is a culmination of my heritage, my travels, and my continuous learning in the culinary world. My goal is to transport diners through flavors and experiences, offering a taste that is both familiar and exciting, comforting and sophisticated.