Alberto Giaccone, meet the chef bheind the magic

about Alberto

Growing up in a small village at the foothills of the Alps in Piedmont, Italy, Alberto’s passion for cooking was ignited by the exceptional food he experienced on his grandpa’s farm. The farm, a place where every meal was a celebration of tradition and quality, became the cornerstone of his love for cooking. The vibrant atmosphere of the farm, combined with the authenticity of the homemade meals, made a lasting impression on him. It was there that he first tasted the simplicity and depth of traditional Italian flavors, which would later shape his career.

Can you recall a memory that’s etched in your mind forever? For Alberto, it was the deep-rooted winemaking traditions and family harvests that left an indelible mark on his memory. The rich scent of ripened grapes, the sound of laughter from family members gathering in the vineyard, and the warmth of the sun on his face—all of these sensory experiences shaped his worldview and love for food. Those formative years, spent in the company of his family, taught him the importance of connection to the land, tradition, and the joy that food brings to people’s lives.

Fuelled by his love for food, Alberto pursued his passion academically, obtaining a diploma from a hospitality school in 2007. Eager to learn more and explore the world of professional cooking, he made the bold decision to move to London for his first professional experience. The bustling city opened his eyes to a world of diverse culinary influences and cutting-edge techniques.

However, while London offered a wealth of opportunities, Alberto’s heart was always drawn back to Italy—the birthplace of his culinary journey. It was in Italy where he spent many years refining his skills, mastering the Mediterranean cooking style, and training under some of the most renowned Italian chefs. His time in Italy not only solidified his culinary expertise but also deepened his understanding of the cultural significance of food.

Today, Alberto’s culinary skills continue to inspire others. His dedication, hard work, and commitment to preserving the authenticity of Italian cuisine are evident in every dish he creates. Each plate is a reflection of his journey—a journey filled with passion, discipline, and the desire to share his love for food with the world.

In 2017, after much contemplation, Alberto returned to the UK, where he took on the esteemed role of Head Chef at Renaissance Club, a luxurious resort located in the heart of East Lothian, near vibrant Edinburgh. At Renaissance Club, Alberto found a new challenge—mentoring young chefs and conducting masterclasses for both resort members and international students. His role as Head Chef also involved overseeing all food preparation during major international golf events, including The Scottish Open. The high-pressure environment taught him to adapt quickly, think on his feet, and deliver exceptional meals even under tight deadlines.

His time at the Renaissance Club, combined with his international experiences, led Alberto to further refine his approach to cooking. His work at the Houston Oak Club in Texas inspired him to elevate his culinary skills even further, focusing on creating well-rounded dining experiences that engaged all the senses. It was in Texas where Alberto began experimenting more freely with flavors and techniques, always keeping guest experience at the forefront of his work.

With over two decades of experience working in Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury resorts, Alberto’s expertise in both Italian and French culinary techniques is solid. This wealth of experience equipped him to confidently take on the role of Head Chef at Under The Table, an acclaimed restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh. During his tenure at the restaurant, he played a pivotal role in elevating the restaurant’s reputation, helping it secure great reviews in the city’s top magazine.

Today, Alberto serves as Sous Chef at The Balmoral Hotel, Scotland’s most iconic luxury hotel. With two Michelin keys and five Forbes stars, The Balmoral represents the pinnacle of luxury hospitality and fine dining. In this prestigious setting, Alberto continues to hone his craft. His journey, marked by dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the joy of sharing exceptional food with others.

See also “In the mind of a chef”