Your Luxury Private Chef

- About Me –

Massimo De Belli

I am Massimo De Belli, a Luxury Private Chef with a passion for crafting unforgettable culinary experiences—whether at castles, villas, or private celebrations in Italy and beyond.

Crafting Excellence Since 1995

Raised in Friuli Venezia Giulia, I developed my culinary roots among the rich traditions and diverse landscapes of the region. My approach blends local flavors, fresh seasonal ingredients, and timeless recipes with a modern, exclusive twist. I see myself not just as a chef, but as a culinary artisan, committed to creating moments of elegance, storytelling, and connection through food.

Career Highlights

Castello Formentini – My culinary home for several years. At this enchanting 500-year-old castle in San Floriano del Collio, I brought to life the medieval charm through “medievalized” cuisine, reviving archaic recipes and honoring the heritage of the Formentini counts.
“4 Ristoranti” Appearance – I had the honour of participating in Alessandro Borghese’s acclaimed TV show, representing Castello Formentini among the top dining experiences of Friuli and gaining broader recognition.
Enoteca dell’Impero – Expanding beyond the castle, I directed this gastronomic venture in Gorizia’s Piazza Municipio. The project combined refined bar concepts with local Catalan-inspired tapas, regional wines, and a focus on craft and conviviality.
Iniziative con FVG (Friuli Venezia Giulia Turismo) – Throughout my career, I have collaborated with the regional tourism board on events and tasting experiences that showcase our regional cuisine, culture, and hospitality.

Passion & Craftsmanship

I believe a truly great dinner goes beyond taste—it engages all senses. As a Luxury Private Chef, I craft menus that are tailored, authentic and memorable for your villa, private celebration or exclusive event. Whether it is an intimate dinner for two or a refined gathering for 50, my goal is to deliver not just food, but an experience—immersive, elegant, and distinctly Italian.

As a Luxury Private Chef, I continue to draw inspiration from the storied heritage of Friuli, the textures of ancient kitchens, and the spirit of modern fine dining. My mission? To bring beauty, authenticity and unforgettable flavour to every table.

History

From 1997 to 2004

Ristorante In Taberna — A Culinary Landmark in Northern Italy

Culinary Philosophy: Mitteleuropean.
As the owner, I opened the first pilot venue in North-Eastern Italy for the renowned Augustiner brewery of Munich, introducing an authentic Mitteleuropean dining experience reimagined with contemporary elegance.

From 1997 to 2004

From 2004 to 2012

Luxury 4- and 5-Star Hotels

Culinary Philosophy: International.
I developed my craft as a seasonal Chef in distinguished hotels between Venice and the Alta Badia, shaping a culinary vision that harmonizes diverse traditions and cultures. Special attention is devoted to seafood cuisine, reinterpreted with contemporary finesse and an unwavering respect for exceptional ingredients.

From 2004 to 2012

From 2013 to 2022

Castello Formentini — Northern Italy’s Historic Castle

Castello Formentini — Culinary Philosophy: high-end banqueting for luxury events and weddings.
Within the Castle, I also managed the Imperial Wine Cellar, presenting a curated tasting journey featuring exceptional wines from North-Eastern Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Bohemia. A refined enogastronomic experience created to honor the excellence and heritage of these regions.

From 2013 to 2022

Febbraio 2018

Participation in the Renowned TV Show “4 Ristoranti”

I took part in the renowned Italian TV show “4 Ristoranti”, one of the country’s most popular formats celebrating excellence in dining. Hosted by Alessandro Borghese and aired on Sky Uno, the program highlights Italy’s finest restaurants and their distinctive culinary identities.

Febbraio 2018

Novembre 2019

The Italian Embassy in Prague

I represented Friuli Venezia Giulia during the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World, showcasing the culinary heritage of my region on a distinguished international stage.
In Prague, I conducted training courses for local Chefs and curated a Gala Dinner at the Italian Embassy, creating a refined culinary dialogue between the finest traditions of North-Eastern Italy and the European gastronomic scene.

Novembre 2019

From 2023 to the present.

Personal Chef & Culinary Consultant

As a Consultant and Personal Chef, I have worked with Italian and international establishments on high-end events and banquets, staff training, and the development of tailored restaurant business plans.
I have collaborated with numerous Italian Chefs, including Michelin-starred professionals, contributing to gastronomic projects that blend vision, technique, and a distinctive culinary identity.

From 2023 to the present.

Always

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Some reviews from

Our happy clients

Rated 5 out of 5

"I chose Massimo, an Italian Personal Chef, for my birthday celebration in my villa in the Canary Islands. I watched him prepare a complete buffet for 50 guests with incredible ease and speed. I still remember his witty remark: ‘It takes me less time to make gnocchi than to boil pasta.’ And it was true — everything was perfect."

- Rita R., Fuerteventura

Rated 5 out of 5

"We invited Massimo, an Italian Personal Chef, for a private celebration, and he exceeded all expectations. From the presentation to the flavors, everything was flawless. He doesn’t just cook — he creates an atmosphere where every guest feels special."

— James T., London

Rated 5 out of 5

"An extraordinary culinary journey with Massimo, our Italian Personal Chef. His passion for food is evident in every detail — the ingredients, the pairings, the storytelling behind each dish. Truly one of the most memorable dining experiences of our lives."

— Sophie & Daniel, Paris