Dante Giannini is the head chef and founder of Farm to Fork Chef and is contracted as Jimmy Buffett’s private chef.
I am a classically trained chef. I went to the Culinary Institute of America right out of high school in 2006. I truly believe my most important education came on the job while working in restaurants across the tri-state area.
What inspired me to become a chef was growing up in a tight knit Italian American family where food brought us together. The satisfaction of when someone eats your creation and loves it is really special.
I was found by the Buffett family through a very high end concierge service based in NYC. I had worked for another prominent celebrity before Mr. Buffett, and it’s a very small world.
Mr. Buffett’s favorite entrée and dessert, hmmmm tough question cause he’s a true foodie. If I had to narrow it down it be a simple local fish ceviche with island flavors (it is Jimmy Buffett after all) and dessert would be a well prepared cheesecake.
Most unusual dish I’ve created for him has to be Grouse, which is a game bird that that he foraged himself. He brought it to my kitchen and I stewed it, it was a crisp autumn day.
Ingredients I enjoy using must be local, seasonal and at the peak of freshness, Simple as that!
Other celebs I’ve cooked for include, Madonna, Rebecca Minkoff, David & Lauren Bush Lauren, and some others I cannot name for confidentiality reasons.
Do I have a favorite spot to eat at, also a tough one because living in NY there are so many great options. At the moment I’m loving Toro on the West side of Manhattan.
Do I like Mr. Buffett’s music, of course!! He’s my boss and he’s a legend, his music appeals to all ages. Is it cliché to say my favorite is “Cheeseburger in Paradise”? Haha. I not only listen to his music but I also enjoy his beer from time to time, Landshark.
For more information on Dante Giannini and some recipes visit Farm to Fork Chef
There is certainly a great deal to know about this issue.
I love all of the points you made.