Chef Carmen — Private Chef in Bari

I am Carmen, an Italian chef by origin, born and raised in the vibrant city of Bari, in Puglia. My passion for cooking is a journey rooted in Mediterranean tradition, a world of authentic flavours and genuine ingredients. I have always believed that cooking is an art that goes beyond mere sustenance, a sensory experience that engages all the senses. My philosophy is based on celebrating local excellence, with a keen eye on sustainability and the quality of raw materials. Every dish I create is a tribute to my land, a story of intertwining tales and traditions in a harmony of tastes and aromas. I am dedicated to conveying the beauty of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, with a touch of innovation that respects and enhances my cultural roots.

I began my professional journey with a solid education at the Istituto Perotti in Bari, where I obtained the qualification of Kitchen Services Operator. My career has been enriched by significant experiences as a cooking instructor at renowned institutions such as Mondadori Cook & Books in Milan and Domus Milan, where I had the opportunity to share my passion with both children and adults. Since 2012, I have had the honour of teaching at the University of the Third Age in Bitritto, sharing my love for traditional cooking. My experience has further expanded with the role of food and wine consultant in Rutigliano and Conversano, where I developed menus and recipes reflecting local identity. Currently, I am responsible for the breakfast area at the Hotel Vis Urban Suites in Bari, where I coordinate gastronomic events and cooking shows, combining my experience and creativity to offer unforgettable culinary experiences.

I love bringing haute cuisine directly into people's homes, creating personalised culinary experiences that reflect my cooking philosophy. My passion for personalised service is expressed through traditional cooking lessons and experiential dinners that I organise as a host of culinary experiences on Airbnb in Bari. This role allows me to connect directly with guests, offering them a unique gastronomic journey that celebrates the authentic flavours of my land. I firmly believe that cooking is a universal language that unites people, and every experience I create is an opportunity to share stories, traditions, and my passion for the culinary art.

My specialisation embraces Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, with a particular focus on pastry and vegetarian cooking. I am distinguished by my ability to combine traditional techniques with an innovative approach, creating dishes that are a perfect balance between flavour and aesthetics. I have honed my skills through numerous specialisation courses, including a master’s in pastry with Stefano Laghi and regional cooking courses with masters like Luca Montersino. My attention to detail and dedication to quality allow me to create culinary experiences that delight and surprise, making every meal a memorable moment.

I am deeply connected to Puglia, a region that has shaped and inspired me with its rich and varied culinary traditions. My Apulian roots are reflected in every dish I create, where authentic flavours and local ingredients take centre stage. I collaborate with local producers to ensure that every ingredient is of the highest quality, celebrating the biodiversity and excellence of the territory. My cuisine is a tribute to my land, a journey through the flavours and traditions that make Puglia unique and fascinating.