Antonino Cannavacciuolo, the two-Michelin-starred chef known for his creative use of local ingredients, decided to spend his vacation in his hometown of Vico Equense, near the picturesque Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy. He wanted to reconnect with his roots, visit his family, and indulge in the simple pleasures of life. Cannavacciuolo enjoys swimming in the crystal-clear waters, fishing with his friends, and appreciating the beauty of the coastline’s rugged cliffs and colorful houses. He also explores the local markets, where he finds inspiration for new dishes and ingredients to incorporate into his menu.
Carlo Cracco, the Michelin-starred chef from Milan, preferred to go on a more exotic vacation. He flew to Bali, Indonesia, to explore its rich culinary heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Cracco is passionate about using spices and herbs in his dishes, and Bali offers a unique opportunity to immerse himself in the local cuisine. He visited the traditional markets, tasted the street food, and even took a cooking class to learn how to make Nasi Goreng, the famous Indonesian fried rice dish.
Bruno Barbieri, the Italian chef with seven Michelin stars, chose to stay closer to home. He rented a villa in Tuscany, the heartland of Italian gastronomy, and invited some of his closest friends, including fellow chef Carlo Petrini. Barbieri enjoys the peacefulness and serenity of the Tuscanian countryside, where he can unwind from the stress of running his restaurants. He savors the local wines, truffles, and olive oil, and spends his time hiking, painting, and reading in the shade of the olive trees.
Gordon Ramsay, the multi-Michelin-starred chef famed for his fiery personality and bold flavors, opted for a more adventurous vacation. He traveled to Patagonia, Chile, to challenge himself and explore the wilderness. Ramsay is a fan of fly fishing, and Patagonia is renowned for its pristine rivers and abundant trout. He also hiked the Torres del Paine National Park, where he admired the glaciers, lakes, and wildlife, including guanacos, pumas, and condors. Ramsay believes that traveling and experiencing new cultures and environments is crucial for any chef’s development and creativity.
Despite their different destinations and preferences, the chefs share a common passion for food, cooking, and mastery. They see their vacations as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow as professionals and individuals. They also appreciate the chance to spend time with their family and friends, without the pressures and deadlines of the culinary world. When they return to their kitchens, they bring with them new ideas, flavors, and perspectives that enrich their cuisine and inspire their customers.