Bahrain Confidential shares a conversation with Oliveto’s Executive Chef, Valter Piergiovanni.
What is it that made you decide to become a chef?
I grew up in my parents’ restaurant and I became so passionate watching my mother cook. My grandmother was also a chef in a very well known restaurant in Rome. The Kitchen was a part of my life. At 15 years old, I decided to go to Culinary school to learn the foundation of this job that I grew up falling in love with. This is my calling.
What do you enjoy most about living in Bahrain?
I have worked in so many countries around the world and I see Bahrain as a good place to share as well as develop my food knowledge. I love the Bahraini people. I have been on this island for four years and I can see that people here are interested in eating delicious food with quality ingredients.
What do you most love?
Cooking is my passion and I put so much effort and energy in this job which I actually do not consider a job. I am thankful to the support my family provides me since my schedule is not easy. Now at Oliveto, along with Chef Paolo I am able to combine our passions for the exquisite taste of simply delicious Italian food.
Any dislikes?
Well, sometime I have to renounce social life and family time because of my work. Nothing comes without sacrifices.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in life?
To always be humble and listen to advice from the right people.
What is your proudest moment in your career?
Years ago I cooked together with chefs Joel Robuchon and Alain Ducasse in Paris for the World Table. It was a wonderful and unbelievable experience as well as the proudest moment of my life.
Any favorite saying/motto?
Listen and learn.