

Francesco Torcasio
Executive Chef — Chic Nonna
Celebrated for world-class contemporary Italian cuisine
“Simplicity is the ultimate expression of mastery.”
Meet Francesco
Born in Calabria, Italy, Chef Francesco began his culinary journey at fifteen — peeling tomatoes beside his grandmother long before he ever held a knife of his own. Today he leads the kitchen at Chic Nonna in DIFC, combining the authentic traditions of the Italian south with contemporary technique and an obsession for the perfect ingredient. His cooking is quiet and confident: a few elements, treated with respect, allowed to taste exactly like themselves.
Experiences & Bookings
Dine with Francesco

Home of Francesco
Chic Nonna
DIFC, Dubai
The home kitchen behind the collection — where every dish starts.
The Pantry
The Francesco Collection

Nonna's Tomato Sauce

Calabrian Chili Oil

Truffle & Parmesan Condiment

Sunday Ragù Base
Learn
Learn from Francesco

Italian Masterclasses
Start learningBehind-The-Pass
Start learningSeasonal Ingredient Stories
Start learningContent Hub
Stories, films & interviews
Social & Community
Follow Francesco
Upcoming Events
Where to find Francesco
- 12 Jul
Calabrian Supper Club
Chic Nonna, DIFC
- 26 Jul
Pasta Masterclass
The Tomato Man Studio
- 09 Aug
Four Hands Dinner
Downtown Dubai

Impact & Mission
Cooking with a conscience
Francesco champions slow, seasonal sourcing and zero-waste kitchens — proving that respect for the ingredient and respect for the planet are the same discipline.
Part of Chef's Market

