Beachfront location on Kamala beach
A premier beach club & restaurant right on the beach of Kamala, offering international cuisines set to chill-out music to elevate the senses.
Open now
Open time: Daily 12.00-00.00
Resevation: : +66 93 580 4486
www.phuket.cafedelmar.comChef Francesco Cantiani is a culinary virtuoso with a remarkable career spanning over 17 years in the realm of international culinary experience. Hailing from the enchanting city of Rome, Italy, Francesco's culinary journey has been characterized by a relentless passion for food, an unwavering dedication to special cooking techniques, and an unyielding commitment to using only the finest quality ingredients. His exceptional skills and deep-rooted love for gastronomy have earned him a well-deserved reputation as a true maestro of the culinary arts.
Francesco's culinary education began at the Professional State Institute for Hotel and Restaurant Services (IPSSART) in Spoleto, Italy, where he honed his craft over four years. His early career flourished in his homeland, where he collaborated with prestigious hotels, acclaimed restaurants, and reputable catering services in iconic Italian cities like Perugia, Rimini, and Rome. These formative experiences allowed him to rise through the ranks, assuming roles of Chef and Executive Chef, and gaining invaluable expertise in the art of cooking and food presentation.
However, Francesco's ambition and curiosity extended beyond Italy's borders. His culinary prowess and dedication led him to embark on a global journey, leaving his indelible mark on the culinary scenes of Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Thailand. Notably, he orchestrated the catering for the esteemed World Endurance Cup from 2003 to 2006, a testament to his capacity to handle large-scale events with finesse.
Fluent in multiple languages including Italian, English, French, and Spanish, Francesco's adaptability and openness to diverse cultures have enhanced his ability to connect with people across the world. This international perspective has enabled him to create culinary experiences that resonate with a wide range of palates.
Francesco's Thai odyssey spanned more than a decade, during which he pursued the personal challenge of infusing his Italian culinary heritage into an Eastern setting. In 2012, he realized a long-held dream by opening his own restaurant in Phuket. This milestone marked a new chapter in his career, where he not only satisfied his creative ambitions but also continued to offer his expertise to companies seeking professional guidance in Thailand's culinary landscape.
After a successful stint in Phuket, Francesco embraced yet another challenge by joining the Minor Group in Doha, Qatar, where he played an instrumental role in rebranding the Avani and Tivoli brands. Following this endeavor, he returned to Phuket as a Corporate Executive Chef for Ocean Group Resort, where he skillfully managed the kitchen and F&B departments across six distinctive resorts. Coming back to the land he loves, Thailand, Francesco was also involved in the launch of a sophisticated fine dining establishment, "Bella Vista," in Kamala Beach, as well as overseeing the development of a new Beach Club and managing two existing restaurants, "Little Roma" and "Little Paris."
His culinary philosophy resonates with simplicity, focusing on allowing the purity and freshness of ingredients to shine. He embraces traditional, hearty cooking while staying open to innovation and continually refining his techniques, particularly with local produce.
Chef Francesco Cantiani's visionary approach extends beyond his impressive culinary journey, as he embarks on an exciting venture with Café del Mar Phuket. With a rich background in elevating dining experiences, Francesco's mission for Café del Mar Phuket is to transcend the club's reputation for party vibes and chillout music, transforming it into a culinary haven and a melting pot of both local and international cuisines. Through his culinary expertise, Francesco aims to craft a menu that caters to various dining preferences, whether it's a casual beachside indulgence or an exquisite sit-down dinner. His aspiration is to curate an experience that transcends the ordinary, offering a sensory journey that matches the stunning backdrop of Phuket's shoreline.
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