Aldo Zilli is an award-winning celebrity chef, restaurateur, and author renowned for his innovative approach to Italian cuisine and his dynamic personality. Born one of nine children in the picturesque seaside town of Alba Adriatica in Abruzzo, central Italy, Aldo developed a passion for food early, learning from his mother’s kitchen before refining his skills at catering college.

Aldo rose to prominence in London as the founder and chef-patron of some of the city’s most iconic restaurants, including Signor Zilli, Zilli Café, Zilli Bar, and Zilli Green — one of London’s most successful vegetarian restaurants. There, he personally cooked for the McCartney family for a decade, inspiring his acclaimed book Fresh & Green. His celebrated Italian seafood restaurant, Zilli Fish, became a Soho institution, serving loyal diners for over 15 years before Aldo shifted focus to new culinary ventures in 2012.

A prolific author, Aldo has published 10 books, including his autobiographies Being Zilli and My Italian Country Childhood. His cookbooks, such as Fresh & Green: Over 100 Exciting Vegetarian Recipes, have garnered critical acclaim, with The Telegraph naming it one of 2012’s Top Ten Cookery Books. Aldo also shares his culinary expertise through a weekly column for Daily Express’s Saturday magazine.

A charismatic media personality, Aldo regularly appears on television and radio. His credits include Celebrity MasterChef, This Morning, The Alan Titchmarsh Show, Lorraine, Through the Keyhole, The Chase, and his own ITV documentary Home Is Where the Heart Is. He also co-hosted Sicily with Aldo and Enzo on the Good Food Channel, showcasing the flavours of his homeland, and currently hosts a bi-weekly show on Soho Radio. Aldo’s appearances on Celebrity X Factor and Celebrity Fit Club further endeared him to the public, highlighting his energy and versatility.

For over a decade, Aldo served as Head Consultant for the San Carlo Restaurant Group, enhancing its reputation for exceptional Italian dining. Now, Aldo is set to return to London with his latest venture, Undercroft Mayfair, opening in December 2024 in the historic crypt of St George’s Church. The restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience, with a masterful menu inspired by Italy’s diverse regions, showcasing Aldo’s creativity and expertise.

Beyond the kitchen, Aldo has cooked for royalty and A-list celebrities, including Dame Judi Dench, Freddie Mercury, and George Michael. He’s also a favourite among Premier League footballers, who many years regularly request his signature dishes and his famous secret recipe the ‘Zilli Dip’

Aldo has hosted and spoken at many events worldwide and currently a Head Judge for the Scottish Italian Awards with his charisma and knowledge complimenting in entertainment and education. Aldo also conducts private dining events and sought-after cooking demonstrations including his popular masterclasses both in the UK and internationally.

A committed philanthropist, Aldo supports numerous charities and is a proud Patron of Bowel Cancer UK. His contributions to both food and community have cemented his legacy as one of the culinary world’s most beloved figures. He is also an ambassador for leading brands such as Benecol, Duxiana, and Heart UK.

Aldo’s exceptional reputation and passion for creating unforgettable culinary experiences have made him a beloved figure around the world, celebrated not only for his expertise but for his dynamic character as one of the world’s greatest chefs.