The St. Regis Goa Resort has announced the appointment of Chef Silvio Zaccareo as the new Italian Chef at the resort’s acclaimed dining venues
With over 27 years of experience in the culinary world, Chef Zaccareo brings a wealth of expertise and passion for authentic Italian cuisine to this property, having previously worked in renowned locations across 10 countries, including the Maldives, Istanbul, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kenya, and Egypt.
Chef Zaccareo has a proven track record of excellence, having successfully opened and managed several Italian fine dining restaurants around the globe, where his talent for blending classic Italian traditions with local ingredients has garnered widespread acclaim. At the St. Regis Goa Resort, he will continue this legacy of delivering exceptional Italian cuisine, carefully curated to offer a distinctive dining experience to guests.
A native of Sicily, Chef Zaccareo’s culinary journey began when his passion for food was sparked by local traditions and global travels. Over the years, he has refined his skills and explored the diverse flavours of the world, while maintaining a deep respect for the authenticity of Italian cooking. His approach emphasises the use of high-quality, seasonal ingredients and an unwavering commitment to creating dishes that are both delicious and beautifully presented.
Commenting on Chef Silvio Zaccareo’s appointment, Satish Kumar, General Manager of The St. Regis Goa Resort, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Silvio to our team at The St. Regis Goa Resort. As a chef who has worked around the globe, Silvio brings a rare blend of international expertise and a deep respect for his culinary heritage. At The St. Regis, we are dedicated to promoting the authentic flavours of Italy, and Chef Silvio’s vast experience with Italian cuisine—coupled with his genuine understanding of global palates—will undoubtedly elevate our guests’ dining experience. His appointment perfectly aligns with our commitment to offering truly authentic and remarkable culinary journeys.”
Chef Zaccareo’s leadership style is centred on inclusivity, mentorship, and a commitment to excellence. His philosophy is simple but powerful: lead by example and always strive for perfection. He believes in creating a collaborative environment where every team member is encouraged to contribute and grow. “I motivate my team by pulling them with me, not pushing them,” said Zaccareo. “My grandfather’s words always resonate with me: ‘What you are, I have been. What I am, you will be.’ This is the mindset I instil in my team, helping them develop and take pride in their work.”
In addition to his culinary expertise, Chef Zaccareo brings a wealth of international experience, having had the honour of cooking for notable figures such as Valentino Rossi, Forrest Whitaker, and former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. Now at The St. Regis Goa Resort, Chef Zaccareo is eager to create memorable dining experiences for both the resort’s guests and its vibrant local community.
Chef Silvio Zaccareo shared his culinary philosophy with heartfelt enthusiasm: “Cooking, for me, is about creating connections—between tradition and innovation, between culture and the palate. My goal is to deliver an authentic Italian culinary experience that honours the timeless recipes of my heritage while celebrating the incredible local ingredients and flavours that make Goa so special. I am inspired by the opportunity to craft dishes that narrate a story, one that blends the essence of Italy with the vibrant spirit of this beautiful region.
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