Gambero Rosso Chef of the Year Award goes to Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Executive Chef Marco Calenzo

Renowned Italian food and wine publication Gambero Rosso has announced Marco Calenzo, Executive Chef of Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club as Chef of the Year for the top Italian Restaurants guide.

The Florentine Chef arrived at Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club in the summer of 2023 and since then has become an emblem of authentic Italian taste in Miami, most notably for his influence at Lido Restaurant, originally the ballroom of The Surf Club, now transformed into a proud dining atmosphere, representing the connection between the coasts of Italy and Miami: beautiful pools, soft sandy beaches, unhurried afternoons spent on scenic verandas.  

“I am honoured and thankful to Gambero Rosso for this award, as it is a testament to my years of dedication as a chef, and grateful as well to all the culinary teams I have worked with over the years as they have all contributed to this achievement,” says Chef Calenzo.

Growing up in a city synonymous with art, culture, and culinary allowed Chef Calenzo to build from a young age a passion for transmitting his country’s cuisine. After spending years in Michelin-starred and world-recognized restaurants across China, England, Japan and Hawaii, where he learned and perfected his culinary talents and discovered an affinity to Asian cuisine, his journey led him to The Surf Club, a culinary destination in South Florida and home to Four Seasons Hotel and Residences at The Surf Club.

Here, his distinctive style transmits a fresh perspective on classic Mediterranean dishes with a predominant focus on Italian cuisine with Japanese influence. Dishes including Tonno al Tartufo Nero, Branzino al Vapore, Rissotto Zafferano, and pasta fatta in casa all impress for precise execution, assertiveness of flavours and delicate presentation. A guest favourite is Langoustine Carpaccio with duo of Caviars, for its mix of textures, subtle but vibrant flavours, and stunning presentation.

Gambero Rosso, since its founding in 1986, continues to be a global and established authority on Italian wine, food and travel across Italy and abroad, publishing respected guides for best wines, top Italian Restaurants, top Italian Chefs and more.

Lido Restaurant at The Surf Club is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Reservations can be made via Open Table.