Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorenzo Boni.
Lorenzo, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I grew up in Bologna, Italy, where I developed my passion for Italian food. At about eight years old, I decided I wanted to be a chef after taking a cooking class at my elementary school. While studying culinary arts, I traveled extensively throughout Italy, immersing myself in the regional cuisines of Italy.
When I first lived in the United States, I was the Second Chef and Pastry Chef at the San Domenico Restaurant in New York City. After working in New York, I returned to Italy and opened my own restaurant called Osteria du Madon, in Bologna, which was awarded by Fodor’s guide as best Osteria of Italy.
In 2001, I joined Barilla Italy at their world headquarters in Parma. In 2003, I was promoted to Executive Chef for Barilla America, returning once again to the U.S. In my current role, I am responsible for product and recipe development, as well as managing the culinary execution of all Barilla sponsored events. Working with the leader in Italian food for over 15 years has been an amazing opportunity that has allowed me to perfect my pasta skills.
I live in Evanston, Illinois with my wife Beata, daughter Valentina and dog Coco.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not been an easy road, but certainly an adventurous one. As a chef, you need to be ready for long hours in the kitchen, and the willingness to put a lot of passion into it. You can’t do it hoping to become famous or the next Iron Chef, but because it’s truly what you love doing.
Please tell us about Barilla.
I’m currently responsible for the culinary projects of Barilla America, as well as managing the execution of all Barilla-sponsored consumer and trade events. I also serve as a spokesperson for Barilla and Italian Food Culture Educator in many food conferences around the country.
I have a major passion for pasta so it’s a natural fit to work with Barilla, a 140-year-old company that has earned the accolade of being Italy’s #1 pasta brand. As an Italian, I eat pasta multiple times a week, and Barilla pasta reminds me of my Italian heritage in every bite. Barilla is an advocate of healthy eating and is committed to providing the highest-quality products to consumers.
I was recently dubbed the “Pasta King” by INSIDER when one of my videos from a food festival went viral on social media. Nowadays, I love being able to inspire my followers with pasta recipes and cooking tips at a moment’s notice.
What’s your favorite memory from childhood?
My favorite childhood memory is definitely Sunday lunch with my family, especially in the winter time. Bologna has a great tradition in an amazing array of different food. I remember gathering around and sharing amazing meals with my family, most of the time prepared by both my parents together
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheflorenzoboni/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cheflorenzoboni/?ref=br_rs
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