Matteo Rizzo

Il Desco has been a landmark of Veronese gastronomy since 1983. Matteo's return brought new energy — lighter preparations, sharper seasonal focus — while preserving the restaurant's reputation for warmth and Veronese hospitality.

Matteo Rizzo, born 1984 in Verona, grew up in the kitchen of Il Desco, the restaurant his father Elia founded in 1983. He trained in prestigious Italian kitchens before returning to take over the family restaurant, maintaining its Michelin star while evolving the cuisine toward a more personal, contemporary expression.

Verona, Veneto, Italy — family restaurant tradition; trained in Italian haute cuisine

Career

• Cook at Le Calandre, Rubano, Padua (Early 2000s)
• Cook at Le Gavroche, London (Mid-2000s)
• Head Chef at Il Desco (family), Verona (2008–present)

Mentored by Elia Rizzo (father), Massimiliano Alajmo, Michel Roux Jr..