Italian chef Danilo Cortellini brought the spirit of Italy to Ulster University’s Academy Restaurant for a memorable evening celebrating the culinary legacy of Antonio Carluccio, marking the grand finale of this semester’s Culinary Salon series, presented in collaboration with the Oxford Cultural Collective and supported by the Savoy Educational Trust.
With over 20 years of experience in the world of fine dining, Danilo made his mark as Head Chef at the Italian Embassy in Londonand as afinalist on MasterChef: The Professionals. Coming from a Michelin-star background, he has successfully transitioned into content creation while continuing to run his kitchen.
Danilo is also a published author, with titles including 4 Grosvenor Square: The Menu of the Italian Embassy in London (2016), Better than Nonna (2024), and Pasta Rules, set for release on June 3, 2025.
As the final event in a highly successful three-part Culinary Salon series featuring Georgina Hayden and Mark Hix, Danilo worked alongside BSc Culinary Arts Management and BSc International Hospitality Management students from Ulster University to create and serve a bespoke menu inspired by timeless Italian culinary traditions.
In tribute to Antonio Carluccio, widely regarded as ‘the godfather of Italian gastronomy’, Dr Sabine Stevenson, Antonio’s long-time partner and a founding trustee of the Antonio Carluccio Foundation, attended the event to honour his enduring impact on the world of food and education.
The Foundation has played a vital role in supporting Ulster University’s outreach programme, inspiring over 600 pupils since its launch in 2020 to consider careers in hospitality and culinary arts, and to explore university as a viable path.
As part of this renewed partnership, Sabine has generously donated Antonio Carluccio’s personal book collection - over 300 culinary titles, some personally annotated by Antonio Carluccio himself - to Ulster University’s Department of Hospitality Tourism and Events Management. A selection from this remarkable collection is currently on display in the University’s library.
Reflecting on the event, Danilo Cortellini said:
“It has been a privilege to be part of the Culinary Salon at Ulster University and to share my passion for Italian cuisine with the next generation of culinary and hospitality leaders. Antonio Carluccio was an inspiration to so many, and it is a great honour to celebrate his legacy while collaborating with the talented students at Ulster University.”
Dr Sabine Stevenson, Founding Trustee of the Antonio Carluccio Foundation, reflected on the partnership:
“Antonio was deeply passionate about sharing knowledge and inspiring young people in the fields of culinary arts and hospitality. It is wonderful to see his legacy live on through Ulster University’s outreach programme and this collection of his cherished books. I am delighted and honoured to be part of this very special event.”
Professor Ioannis S. Pantelidis, Head of the Department of Hospitality Tourism and Events Management, highlighted the significance of the series, saying:
“The Culinary Salons series offers our students an invaluable opportunity to learn from successful industry leaders and gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. We have had several high-profile events at our Academy restaurant, and we have been delighted by the response of our students, the public and our industry colleagues. This culinary salon concludes our series for this academic year and hosting Danilo Cortellini has been especially meaningful as it coincides with celebrations of our Business School 50th year anniversary and allows us to honour the enduring legacy of Antonio Carluccio and his profound impact on the culinary world.”