Chef Enrico Bartolini’s five restaurants have a total of nine Michelin stars, making him Italy’s most awarded Michelin-star chef. In this exclusive interview, the culinary advisor of Roberto’s Group shares his culinary philosophy, cooking style and thoughts on the F&B industry.
The trend toward quality over quantity has become prominent in the culinary world. How did you decide to adopt this philosophy in your own kitchen?
For me, it has never been a question of choosing between the two; I have always prioritized quality first. However, true quality embodies an essential attribute, which is generosity. We express this generosity not only through the finest ingredients but also through meticulous techniques and boundless creativity.
How do you ensure that each dish you create has its own unique personality ?
In Italy, I initially defined my style as “contemporary classic,” but later embraced the philosophy of “talent and territory.” At every location, including Roberto’s, our goal is to offer guests a unique, original journey. Each dish reflects our Italian identity, highlighting the finest local ingredients and traditions. Additionally, we incorporate the creative flair that defines Roberto’s, enhancing the overall experience. This approach is exemplified in events like the 5 SAPORI dinner, where I had the privilege of uniting our talented chefs from across the GCC. The dinner celebrated our culinary identity, with each chef presenting a dish that honored the essence of Italian culture.
Do you think that focusing on fewer, high-quality dishes creates a stronger connection with your customers compared to offering a broad menu?
I believe the true quality of a dish is not solely defined by technique but by highlighting the ingredients’ essence. Sometimes, simplicity takes precedence and by focusing on fewer dishes, we can celebrate the ingredients’ natural flavors. By prioritizing high-quality components, we can truly honor the ingredients, allowing their genuine characteristics to shine brightly. This thoughtful approach fosters a deeper connection with our guests, as they experience authenticity and savor the true taste.
The 5 SAPORI dinner at Roberto’s perfectly exemplified this philosophy, as we featured select dishes showcasing the finest Italian and local ingredients. The overwhelmingly positive guest response reinforced the impact of quality over quantity in creating an unforgettable dining experience.
How do you balance commitment to sustainability with the need to maintain consistency and quality in your dishes?
Balancing sustainability with consistency and quality requires effective teamwork, along with thoughtful preparation, to achieve a seamless and harmonious result. We work closely as a team, ensuring that every element is utilized efficiently, thus minimizing waste while maximizing ingredient potential. By carefully processing and enhancing each component, we ensure that its full expression is beautifully showcased on the plate. This meticulous approach upholds the high standards of our dishes while reinforcing our unwavering commitment to sustainability practices. Consequently, this philosophy creates a harmonious experience for our guests and contributes positively to the environment as a whole.
