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Stephane is more than a chef—he’s a passionate storyteller, an accomplished entrepreneur, and a man who has built a life around the joy of food, wine, and community. With roots in both Europe and the U.S., his culinary journey has taken him from the finest kitchens in France to the heart of the Berkshires, where he built a legacy in hospitality, and now to his dream home in Tuscany.
For the guests of Sip & Savour: The DARE Tuscan Retreat, Stephane isn’t just your chef—he’s your guide into a world of extraordinary flavors, intimate culinary traditions, and the slow, intentional rhythms of Italian life.
I’m a chef, restaurateur, husband, and father of three. Born in Geneva to an Italian father and French mother, I grew up in Switzerland, where my love for food, wine, and the land first took root. My passion for foraging, hunting, and fishing deepened my connection to nature, and to this day, I believe the best meals begin with an appreciation for where ingredients come from.
After spending years building a successful restaurant group in Lenox, Massachusetts, I made the life-changing decision to return to my European roots and settle in Tuscany. Today, I live on a beautiful 25-acre farm, Podere Monterosoli, where I tend to my vineyard, bees, and olive groves, embracing the simple yet rich pleasures of farm life.
When I’m not in the kitchen, you’ll find me wandering through the fields with my dogs, playing soccer with the locals in our village, or gathering fresh ingredients for a meal shared with friends.
My career began with classical training at Thonon-les-Bains Culinary High School in France and a Bachelor’s in Hospitality Management from the Lausanne Hospitality School in Switzerland. From there, I worked in some of the world’s most esteemed establishments, including:
The Wheatleigh Hotel in Lenox, Massachusetts – One of the Small Leading Hotels of the World, where I worked as restaurant manager for four years.
The Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris – Assistant Manager of The Gallerie, one of the hotel’s renowned dining experiences.
The Lenox Restaurant Group – In 2007, I returned to the Berkshires to open my first restaurant. Over the next few years, I expanded into three successful restaurants, employing a team of 90 and creating a beloved culinary destination.
Moving to Tuscany – In 2022, after 15 years in the restaurant industry, I made the decision to sell my stake in the group and move to Italy, embracing a life filled with joy, simplicity, and the flavors of the Tuscan countryside.
My connection to Lenox and the Berkshires runs deep. It was my home for 15 years, the place where I built my restaurants, raised my family, and formed lifelong friendships. Many of my former guests, friends, and partners at DARE Bottle Shop & Provisions share my passion for exceptional food and wine.
This retreat is a homecoming in the best way possible—it’s an opportunity for me to bring my Lenox community to my new home in Tuscany.
The same dedication to hospitality, attention to detail, and love for farm-to-table cooking that I brought to my restaurants in Lenox is now woven into every experience at Sip & Savour. This retreat is not just about indulging in food and wine—it’s about reconnecting with the roots of great cuisine, sharing stories around the table, and discovering the heart of Tuscany in an intimate, unforgettable way.
I love that Paul refers to me as The Joyful Chef. It’s fitting because, right now, I’m living a life filled with happiness and purpose.
One of my favorite moments during the Sip & Savour retreat is when I welcome guests to Podere Monterosoli, my farm. Here, we step away from the busy world and cook together in a way that feels natural and deeply fulfilling.
We’ll forage for fresh ingredients straight from the land around us or source them from nearby organic farms.
We’ll prepare an authentic Tuscan meal together, where every step—from slicing fresh tomatoes to rolling handmade pasta—is a shared experience.
We’ll dine under the Tuscan sun, savoring the wine, the view, and most importantly, the company.
Cooking should never be rushed. It’s about slowing down, enjoying the process, and appreciating the flavors of a meal made with love and care.
To me, cooking is more than a skill—it’s an act of connection. Through food, we share culture, history, and emotion. And in Tuscany, it’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s about who you share it with and the memories you create along the way.
This retreat is a chance for us to step into the heart of Tuscany together, explore its hidden culinary treasures, and savor every bite, every sip, and every moment.
I can’t wait to welcome you to my farm, to my kitchen, and to this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A presto e buon appetito!
Stephane
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