Chef Luciano Schipano

Born in Canada and raised in Italy, Chef Luciano Schipano’s passion for food began long before his professional training. His earliest memories are filled with the aromas of his grandparents’ kitchen, where tradition met creativity. Watching his grandfather experiment with bold flavours while his grandmother stayed rooted in authentic recipes taught him the essence of balance and meaning in food. After graduating from culinary school in Italy, Luciano opened his first restaurant in 1999. There, he began crafting immersive dining experiences that married old-world Italian flavours with modern innovation. His commitment to creating memorable meals shaped the foundation of a lifelong journey dedicated to authenticity, creativity, and community. In 2011, Luciano returned to Canada, carrying with him the passion to share Italy’s culinary richness. Two years later, he launched his first business, which grew rapidly to include private chef services, corporate and wedding catering, culinary tours, and by 2018, a professional cooking school in Toronto. Today, as the head of a thriving hospitality group, he continues to blend tradition with progress while honoring his Italian heritage and nurturing a culture of excellence. A defining moment in his career came when he took over the catering operations at the Columbus Event Centre. It was a milestone that challenged him to grow as both a chef and a leader. Managing large-scale events in such a respected venue deepened his understanding of hospitality’s true meaning: creating moments that bring people together, celebrate culture, and build community. Luciano’s inspiration has always stemmed from his grandparents and the values they instilled: generosity, craftsmanship, and connection. He also draws energy from chefs who respect tradition while embracing innovation, and from the multicultural fabric of Toronto, where he continues to share his passion. Looking ahead, Chef Luciano hopes his legacy extends beyond flavour. He aims to elevate Italian culture in Canada while inspiring the next generation of chefs to honor their roots and pursue their dreams. Whether through a cooking class, a catered event, or a family meal, his mission remains the same: to create experiences that nourish the soul as much as the body. If he could offer one piece of advice to his younger self, it would be simple: just begin. Do not wait for the perfect moment or kitchen; trust your instincts, stay humble, and lead with love, because that is the most important ingredient in anything worth doing.