Born in 1955 in California, Suzette Gresham is a renowned chef and co-owner of the Acquerello restaurant in San Francisco, which holds two Michelin stars. With a career spanning over three decades, Gresham is a pioneer in fine dining, known for her elegant and contemporary approach to Italian cuisine. She is one of the few women in the United States to lead a kitchen awarded two Michelin stars, and her restaurant is a landmark for high-class gastronomy.
The Biography
Suzette Gresham began her culinary career in a predominantly male environment, facing and overcoming numerous challenges. Her first position as a chef was at the Donatello Hotel in San Francisco in 1988. In 1989, together with her partner Giancarlo Paterlini, she opened Acquerello, which has since earned and maintained its reputation for culinary excellence.
Acquerello received its first Michelin star in 2007 and a second in 2014, making Gresham one of only three female chefs in the United States to receive this recognition. Her cuisine is described as "simply elegant," featuring modern interpretations of classic Italian dishes. Among her most famous creations are the ridged pasta with foie gras, black truffle, and marsala, and the aged pigeon breast with sour cherries, smoked honey, and elderflower.
In addition to leading Acquerello’s kitchen, Gresham opened the restaurant 1760 in 2013 and, more recently, the cocktail bar Sorella in 2021. She is also very active in training young chefs, promoting a serene and respectful work environment, free from intimidation, where she consistently encourages her team to expand their skills and knowledge.
Gresham has been awarded the Antonin Carême medal by the American Culinary Federation and named "Chef of the Year" by the San Francisco Chronicle. She is known for her commitment to sustainability and promoting Italian cuisine, working closely with local farmers and suppliers to ensure the highest quality of her ingredients.
