Danilo Cortellini is one of my favourite Italian exports. Before landing on British soil over fourteen years ago there were stints at the revered San Domenico near Bologna and Perbellini in Verona, both of which hold two Michelin stars. London saw him throw himself into 3 Michelin starred French restaurant Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester, a brave move for an Italian chef!

He carved out a career based on discipline, precision and dedication which put him in good stead to take over the role as head chef at the Italian Embassy, an esteemed position which he held for over 9 years. Catering for and hosting both intimate dinners and galas alike for dignitaries and on plenty of occasions the rich and famous, it was there that he had his first cookery book published ‘4 Grosvenor Square’.

2015 saw him compete on Masterchef The professionals, where he made it to the finals!

The pandemic was the turning point in his career, catapulting this Italian chef towards social media stardom. He went on to amass almost half a million followers across instagram alone. His Italian heritage is firmly at the forefront of everything he does and his dedicated followers wait with bated breath for his every post.

Better Than Nonna is available to pre order now.

Follow Danilo here