Read our interview with Chef Alessandro Salvatico to discover more about his culinary journey and plans for L’Amo Bistro Del Mare
With over two decades of expertise, Chef Alessandro Salvatico has taken the helm at L’Amo Bistro Del Mare as Head Chef, bringing with him a mission to craft a refined and authentic Italian dining experience. Hailing from Italy’s Langhe region, where his passion for Italian cuisine first blossomed, Chef Alessandro’s career spans an impressive international trajectory.
His notable achievements include leading the launch of the prestigious Armani Hotel in Dubai, where he set new benchmarks. Now, at L’Amo, he aims to infuse his global experience with a deep respect for Italy’s culinary heritage, overseeing a dedicated team of 30 to deliver a new dining experience.
How would you describe your culinary philosophy?
My culinary philosophy is rooted in simplicity and authenticity, with a steadfast focus on the finest ingredients and exceptional produce. Seasonality will be at the heart of our approach, allowing us to showcase seasonal specials that seamlessly complement our à la carte menu, ensuring a dynamic dining experience.
What aspects of Italian cuisine do you feel are underrepresented in Dubai?
Italian cuisine is incredibly rich and diverse, offering a wealth of flavours and ingredients. This is why I prioritise sourcing the finest products to deliver authentic Italian flavours. While there is still progress to be made, I’ve witnessed significant strides in the quality and appreciation of Italian cuisine in Dubai in recent years. I am proud to be part of this vibrant city and look forward to contributing to the continued evolution and elevation of Italian dining here with LÁmo.
When developing a new menu, what key elements do you focus on to ensure it resonates with both the local audience and international diners?
When creating a new menu, I focus on authenticity and delivering exceptional quality in every dish. Both local and international diners are looking for genuine flavours and a high standard of craftsmanship. I aim to stay true to the traditions of Italian cuisine while using the finest ingredients to create dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes. It’s about striking the right balance between staying authentic and meeting the expectations of a diverse audience.
In your new menu, you emphasise the use of seasonal and freshly sourced ingredients. How do you select your suppliers to align with your vision?
For the new menu, we carefully select suppliers based on their reliability and ability to consistently deliver the finest products. Maintaining strong relationships with our trusted local suppliers in Italy is a priority, ensuring a steady supply of premium ingredients that uphold the quality and authenticity of our dishes.
Can you share the challenges you face in sourcing authentic Italian ingredients and how you overcome them?
In the past, sourcing authentic Italian ingredients in Dubai was a significant challenge. However, with the country’s advancements in infrastructure and improvements in transportation and import processes, the supply chain has become far more efficient and reliable. While this progress has made high-quality Italian products more accessible, the cost remains a key consideration.
What role do you see sustainability playing in the future of restaurant menus, and how do you ensure your restaurant stays ahead of the curve?
Sustainability will be a cornerstone in the future development of restaurant menus, driven by guests increasingly adopting more environmentally conscious lifestyles. Currently, we place significant emphasis on vegetarian dishes and naturally sourced ingredients, recognising their importance in this shift. Looking ahead, it’s clear that diners will continue to prioritise thoughtful choices about what they consume, further influencing the evolution of menus and dining experiences.
What’s next for L’Amo Bistrò del Mare?
Building a strong team is essential to maintaining consistency in the products we create. Our aim is to develop a more inclusive menu that resonates with Dubai’s diverse audience, including locals, expatriates, and international visitors. We are introducing more seasonal and vegetarian dishes to enhance the variety and appeal of the menu.
