Massimiliano Alajmo was born in 1975 in Padua, Italy to a family of restaurateurs. He studied cuisine in his youth before joining the family restaurant Le Calandre in 1994. By 2002, Alajmo became head chef at the age of 28.
At Le Calandre, Alajmo pioneered an innovative style of modern Italian cuisine grounded in his heritage. Dishes like Foie Gras Ravioli with Pepper highlighted modern takes on classics.
Under Alajmo’s leadership, Le Calandre obtained its first Michelin star in 1999. In 2002, it earned a second star, followed by the maximum three stars in 2003 when Alajmo was only 28.
In addition to Michelin honors, Alajmo achieved recognition including Chef of the Year from L’Espresso guide in 2005 and a spot on Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list. He also authored cookbooks sharing his contemporary Italian vision.
For revitalizing Italian gastronomy by simultaneously honoring the past and advancing the future, Massimiliano Alajmo cemented Le Calandre’s reputation as one of Italy’s premier dining destinations. He continues refining his cuisine there today.
