The esteemed chef of Osteria Francescana in Modena, Massimo Bottura, was honored with the title “Maestro dell’Arte della Cucina Italiana” (“Master of the Art of Italian Cuisine”) by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during a ceremony at Palazzo Chigi on April 2, 2025.

This award appreciates Bottura’s exceptional contributions to Italian gastronomy and his dedication to social initiatives. Notably, his projects “Tortellante,” which provides employment opportunities for young individuals with autism, and “Food for Soul,” an international network of refectories aiding those in need, highlight his commitment to using culinary arts for social good. ​

The award ceremony also celebrated other prominent figures in Italian cuisine, including Iginio Massari (Maestro della Pasticceria), Franco Pepe (Maestro dell’Arte della Pizza), Carlotta Fabbri (Maestra della Gelateria), Carlo Petrini (Maestro dell’Arte della Gastronomia), Piercristiano Brazzale (Maestro dell’Arte Casearia), Maria Francesca Di Martino (Maestra dell’Arte Olivicola Italiana), and Riccardo Cotarella (Maestro dell’Arte Vitivinicola.

This recognition adds to Bottura’s extensive list of accolades, reflecting his influential role in both the culinary world and social advocacy.