Eesha Kulkarni

If you love Italian food, then we’ve got some great news for you! In the heart of Gurugram, where luxury meets fine dining excellence, The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences has onboarded Italian Master Chef Carmine De Filippo to its culinary team. This marks the beginning of a new era for the legendary haven, as Zanotta, the authentic Italian Specialty Restaurant, now boasts the expertise of a culinary maestro with over 30 years of global experience.

Chef Carmine De Filippo’s journey is woven with flavours and experiences that span continents. Hailing from the vibrant culinary scene of Milan, Chef Carmine has honed his skills in prestigious establishments worldwide, leaving an indelible mark everywhere he goes. His cooking prowess has been celebrated in prestigious kitchens across the world. Chef Carmine’s deep love for the culinary arts is evident in every dish he creates, reflecting a dedication to perfection that aligns seamlessly with The Leela Ambience Gurugram’s commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury and dining experiences.

Guests can anticipate a menu fueled by authentic Italian flavours and innovative techniques. Having worked in professional kitchens across the globe for decades, Chef Carmine is set to elevate the hotel’s already outstanding Italian fine-dining restaurant, adding another star to its illustrious reputation in the hospitality industry.

Renowned for its soothing ambience that affords panoramic views of the city’s skyline, Zanotta boasts interactive live cooking stations and a repertoire of signature dishes and a high-end premium collection of Italian wines. Their interactive kitchen not only allows guests to observe but also engage in conversations with the chefs as they meticulously craft each dish with authentic Italian flair.

We especially loved their creamy Tiramisù with mascarpone cream layered with coffee-soaked savoiardi and the Tortelli di Formaggio e Zucca, featuring cheese and pumpkin tortellini in gorgonzola sauce with caramelised nuts. Don’t miss the Arancini al Jalapeno e Pomodori Secchi, golden crumbs encasing jalapeno and sundried tomato risotto dumplings stuffed with Bocconcini and served with spicy tomato coulis—a delightful antipasto.

The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel And Residences, located on Ambience Island, offers a lifestyle complex featuring 412 rooms, suites, and apartments with contemporary and true Indian luxury. Conveniently situated 15 minutes from the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the hotel also features Spectra - all-day dining restaurant, Le Reve - a patisserie, Diya - an Indian dining restaurant and a stylish bar, Rubicon Bar & Cigar Lounge. With the addition of Chef Carmine De Filippo to its team, the hotel chain is reinforcing its dedication to creating extraordinary experiences for its guests, blending timeless luxury with the artistry of a true-blue master chef. Zanotta is set to become everyone’s go-to gastronomic destination, offering patrons an authentic taste of Italy curated by Chef Carmine’s rich expertise.

This article has been written in association with The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel And Residences.