#INTERVIEW: Executive Chef Alessandro Salvatico

L'Officiel Arabia: What inspired you to become a chef? Was there a specific moment or experience that sparked your passion for cooking? 

Alessandro Salvatico: I’d say the moment I knew was when I was 14. Visiting a hotelier school with a friend and seeing the chefs in action, the whole team delivering a service in their white jackets, was truly incredible. The energy and teamwork really struck me, and that's when I decided this was what I wanted to pursue.

Can you tell us about your culinary journey? How did you start, and what were the major milestones along the way?

My culinary journey began at hotelier school, where a teacher recognised my passion and offered me a weekend role in the Langhe region, working alongside the talented Chef Colornella. This experience ignited my love for Italian cuisine. Following that, I spent ten formative years in France, including working with a one-Michelin-starred chef in Paris. A significant milestone was our move to Corsica, where we achieved one Michelin star in our first year and a second within five – a tremendous achievement that motivated me to pursue my own path. This led me to Dubai, where I helped with the opening of the prestigious Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa, enjoying nine rewarding years before joining the team at L'Amo.

What makes L’Amo unique? How would you describe its philosophy and what sets it apart from others?

L'Amo is a place where everyone can find their own space. It's a restaurant that encourages conversation, sharing, and enjoyment, all while maintaining a strong focus on the guest experience and their individual preferences. Our philosophy centres on authenticity and simplicity, with a deep respect for the quality of the ingredients and a genuine celebration of Italian cuisine. We aim to create an environment that is both welcoming and refined, ensuring that every guest, regardless of dietary needs, finds something they enjoy. This dedication to quality and experience has been recognized with accolades such as 'Best Italian' at the Time Out Restaurant Awards 2025 and a Gault & Millau toque.

How did you develop the new menu? What is the process behind creating signature dishes?

Our new menu was developed with seasonality in mind, aiming to highlight the best Italian ingredients while catering to Dubai's varied palates. When creating new dishes, we start by identifying seasonal ingredients. From there, we experiment with techniques, that highlight their natural flavours, always aiming for a balance of tradition and subtle innovation, ensuring the final dish is both genuine and memorable.

What is your signature dish, and what makes it so special to you?

I'm particularly proud of two dishes: the Risotto al Limone e Gamberi and the Ravioli del Plin. The risotto, with its vibrant lemon and sweet red prawns, represents L'Amo's essence through its simplicity and quality ingredients. The Ravioli del Plin is deeply personal, a traditional dish from my region and an homage to my childhood, connecting me to my roots and family.

Are there specific dishes or ingredients that you’re particularly excited about now?

As we are now in April, moving towards the warmer months, I'm particularly excited about the fresh spring vegetables becoming available. Ingredients like tender asparagus, sweet peas, and vibrant zucchini and their blossoms inspire lighter, more refreshing dishes that capture the essence of the season.

How do you source your ingredients, and what role does seasonality play in your cooking?

We prioritise sourcing the best possible ingredients, working closely with suppliers who share our passion for quality and consistency. We follow the European seasons closely, sourcing primarily from Italy, Spain, and Greece, and also collaborating with local farms when the quality meets our standards. Seasonality is crucial because the best flavour and quality of any ingredient are at their peak when it's in season. 

What can guests expect when they visit L’Amo for the first time?

Guests can expect a welcoming space that is both bright and elegant. Our aim is to transport them to Italy, providing a genuine Italian experience while being attentive to their preferences. We want to ensure they leave wanting to return for another lunch, dinner, special occasion, or even to host their events in our beautiful restaurant. We also aim to highlight the quality of our ingredients and the unique ambiance of L'Amo.