Gaetano Verde is a young chef from Palermo who has brought a fresh wave of innovation to the renowned Charleston restaurant in Palermo. With an international career behind him, Verde has rejuvenated the restaurant's culinary offerings by blending modern techniques with local flavors to create dishes that tell a new culinary story.
The Biography
Born in 1995 in Palermo, Gaetano Verde began his culinary journey in local markets, developing a passion for fresh and authentic ingredients. His professional career took an international turn when he worked at some of the world's most prestigious restaurants, including Taverna Estia in Naples, The Ledbury in London, and the Ritz in Paris. These experiences allowed him to perfect his technical skills and gain a deep understanding of high-end dining dynamics.
After completing a Master in Restaurant Management at the MAD Academy in Copenhagen, founded by René Redzepi, Verde returned to Italy. He initially worked at Organika in Tuscany before coming back to Palermo in 2022 to take on the role of Executive Chef at Charleston.
Charleston, with a history spanning over 50 years, has been revitalized to offer a new gastronomic experience that ranges from Café to Bistro, and fine dining. In 2022, Charleston was named among the top 10 at TheFork Awards, recognizing the best new restaurants in Italy, highlighting the extraordinary work of Verde and his team. Additionally, Gaetano Verde served as a judge for the European Young Chef Award 2022, where he had the opportunity to influence and inspire other young chefs.
Verde's cuisine is described as "instinctual, essential, and dynamic," centered on the seasonality of ingredients and respect for the territory. His culinary philosophy is rooted in what he defines as very primordial work, where the search for raw materials is fundamental. His dishes are known for their refinement and elegance, with a particular focus on the quality of ingredients, as evidenced by his collaboration with local producers to ensure freshness and authenticity.
