The chef has risen as a culinary visionary, thriving on integrating tradition and innovation in the world of food.
No matter how much we discuss the life stories of a few founders, experts, thought leaders, and professionals across various fields who walked their own paths to success, it still feels like there are many more discussions that need to be had around them. Highlighting more about their journeys will let the world know their genius and also may inspire the gen-next to follow in their footsteps and propel forward toward their definition of success. Inspiring many lives in the world of food as a one-of-a-kind chef and culinary director is Daniele Chiari, who in every possible way has been bridging cultures and inspiring innovation in the industry.
It is safe to say that Daniele Chiari is a culinary diplomat who has been bridging borders through food. Starting a journey from a bakery in Genzano di Roma to achieving global leadership in Saudi Arabia, he has come a long way and still believes he has just begun. He has been redefining tradition with innovation, connecting cultures one dish at a time, and striking the right chords with food lovers and connoisseurs
Speaking about his journey, Daniele says that after starting his career with his family’s bakery and restaurant in Italy, he traveled through Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa, gaining extensive international experience in hospitality and culinary innovation. All these experiences, combined with his immense passion for food and expertise in the industry, have today led him to become the Culinary Director of the Saudi Arabia Government entity, managing official events for world leaders and elevating national cuisine to new global heights. A few of his achievements include being a Member of the Euro Toques Association and a Member of the World Master Chefs Society. He served as the representative chef of the Saudi government in the prestigious Club des Chefs des Chefs, marking the first time Saudi Arabia was officially represented in the organization
He has thus far received several accolades and awards, including Global Recognition Award 2025 for Culinary Excellence, and Best commented Sous Chef in the Middle East (Caterer Awards 2009), among others.
Besides these achievements, Daniele went on to become the founder of the Tastes Beyond Borders community, a partner of Dinner Incredible, an international Michelin-starred chef initiative, with his compatriot CEO of dinner incredible, Giorgio Diana, and the author of the culinary memoir “The Taste of My Steps.” He explains how in a world divided by politics, cuisine offers common ground. Through leadership, he ensures that every official event becomes a canvas of culture, where tradition is honored and innovation takes top priority. The kind of work he has been doing in the industry exemplifies how food can transcend mere nourishment and evolve into a language of connection and respect between nations.
Daniele Chiari’s culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in preserving cultural identity while propelling it into the future. He has remained committed to promoting both Saudi and Italian cuisines at an international level, which has also become his central mission. With initiatives like Tastes Beyond Borders and his collaboration with Dinner Incredible, he highlights local ingredients and stories that need more public attention.
Even while he was earning several accolades throughout his journey, in 2009, particularly, he faced a profound emotional crisis, he recalls. Burnout, isolation, and internal conflict pushed him to step away from the professional spotlight. Thus, he embarked on a soul-searching journey through Indonesia, reconnected with nature, people, and the essence of cooking. This proved to be a turning point in his journey, shifting his focus from technical excellence to intentional leadership. Today, Daniele Chiari, through mentorship and training, especially under the Tastes Beyond Borders initiative, guides young chefs in respecting the roots of tradition while daring to reinterpret them.
Talking about his vision, Daniele Chiari highlights, “I wish to position culinary heritage as a global cultural pillar, elevating traditional cuisines through modern interpretation. And, as for my mission, through Tastes Beyond Borders, I aim to train, inspire, and connect chefs worldwide, encouraging respect for cultural identity while embracing creativity and evolution.”
