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Michele Casadei Massari        

Executive Chef & Founder of Lucciola NYC

Michele Casadei Massari, born in the picturesque Riccione in 1975 and deeply steeped in the rich cultural backdrop of Bologna, Massari's journey is a testament to his passion for the multifaceted heritage of Italy.

In the symphony of Massari kitchen, three tenets shine through: a dedication to the rhythm of seasonal and local ingredients, a mastery of time-honored techniques refined to perfection, and an artistic inquiry that goes beyond mere cooking. Each dish, meticulously crafted, tells a story, not merely mingling ingredients, but weaving them into a narrative of passion and purpose.

Massari, an esteemed chef, design enthusiast, and visionary entrepreneur, proudly holds the titles of CEO, Founder, and Executive Chef at Lucciola, a sparkling jewel nestled in New York City's vibrant heart. With a charismatic personality that captivates every audience, Massari is not only a maestro in the kitchen but also an emotional speaker, drawing people into his narratives of Italian traditions and culinary artistry.

In 2009, with the city's dynamic pulse matching his own, he, alongside his trusted business partner, Alberto Ghezzi, birthed Lucciola. This intimate 25-seat culinary haven is where Massari's magic unfurls, highlighted by a meticulously curated chef’s tasting menu. Each dish is expertly paired with selections from an award-winning wine list, a collection that recently earned the revered "Due Bicchieri" accolade from Wine Spectator.

Executive Chefs and propelled him as an in-demand culinary consultant. His esteemed collaborations span globally, partnering with renowned entities like Consorzio del Parmigiano Reggiano and Pastificio Felicetti, solidifying his role as chef and brand ambassador for the US domain

Beyond Lucciola's mesmerizing confines, Michele graces the BiograFilm Food Academy in Bologna as their Executive Chef. His love for the cinematic arts has also led him to contribute as an Advisor & Partner for I Wonder Pictures, a notable film production and distribution entity celebrated for cinematic masterpieces like the Oscar-laureate "Everything Everywhere All At Once" and "The Whale".

Speech Topics

The simplicity of the perfect ingredient

A high-quality, fresh ingredient doesn't need much adornment or complex preparation to shine in a dish. It emphasizes the importance of sourcing the best ingredients because they can stand alone in their natural state, showcasing their inherent flavors and qualities. It's a philosophy often found in cuisines that prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients and minimalist preparation to let those ingredients speak for themselves.

10, 100, 1000

Dive into the simple rule of pasta - a culinary guideline indicating the proportion of pasta, salt, and water. This fundamental principle not only serves as the backbone for perfect pasta but also provides a window into Chef Michele's unique perspective on talent and passion. He believes, "Talent has the exhilaration of speed", underscoring the thrilling and exhilarating sensation one experiences when witnessing raw talent in full flourish. Just as a dish can enrapture the senses, so too can the sheer force of talent, propelling forward with the momentum and impact akin to the adrenaline rush of great speed. Join Chef Michele as he intertwines the art of pasta-making with profound reflections on the nature of talent and its electrifying essence.

Merging Medicine with Culinary Artistry

Chef Michele delves into his unique academic background in medicine and its unexpected synergies with his culinary pursuits. Explore how a deep understanding of the human body can elevate the dining experience, intertwining science, health, and the art of cooking.

Cinema, Cuisine & Collectibles: Crafting Narratives

A feast for the senses! Journey with Chef Michele through the intersection of film, food, and the art of collecting. Discover how cinematic storytelling, film photography, and the crafting of a dish are all intertwined, each filled with emotion, history, and artistry. Michele's diverse passions extend beyond the kitchen, evident in his collaborations with I Wonder Pictures and his role in the BiograFilm Food Academy. Delve into the nuances of his vintage watch collection and appreciate the timeless allure of Elsa Peretti jewelry, reflecting his keen eye for detail and beauty in all facets of life.

Urumboro & Ethical Epicureanism: Navigating Zero-Waste & Conscious Choices

In the vast world of gastronomy, Chef Michele Massari has always embraced the essence of his Italian heritage, ensuring every ingredient sings its fullest note. In this enlightening session, delve deep into the philosophy of "Urumboro" an ethos that respects the cyclical nature of life and food. Chef Michele sheds light on how making better choices in sourcing, preparing, and presenting dishes can not only elevate the culinary experience but also minimize waste. Drawing from his experiences at Lucciola and his vast knowledge of Italian culinary traditions, he illustrates the beauty of conscious consumption and how it intertwines with the age-old practices of Italian cooking. Experience the fusion of tradition and sustainability as Chef Michele shares his insights on making ethical choices that benefit both the palate and the planet.

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