Viviana Varese: Culinary Revolutionary at Viva Milano

At the heart of Milan's vibrant dining scene, Viva Milano stands as a testament to Chef Viviana Varese's remarkable journey and culinary vision. Growing up in Salerno, southern Italy, Varese endured relentless bullying as a misfit in her small community—experiences that later shaped her inclusive leadership philosophy.

Finding sanctuary in her family's restaurant kitchen at age 13, Varese discovered her passion for food, eventually transforming personal struggles into professional triumph. Today, her Michelin-starred Viva Milano celebrates contemporary Italian cuisine with bold, innovative techniques and vibrant presentations that honor traditional ingredients while embracing global influences.

Varese's "kitchen without barriers" philosophy extends beyond cuisine. Her Diversity Kitchen Foundation provides culinary training to marginalized individuals, including refugees, domestic violence survivors, and LGBTQ+ youth facing discrimination. As an openly gay chef in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Varese has become a powerful advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in gastronomy, hosting Pride dinner series and mentorship programs.

Her career highlights include earning her first Michelin star in 2011, being named "Female Chef of the Year" by L'Espresso guide, and receiving the Sustainable Restaurant Award for her commitment to ethical sourcing and zero-waste practices. Through Viva Milano, Varese continues to prove that embracing diversity—both on the plate and in the kitchen—creates not just exceptional food but meaningful social change.