chef Anthony Amoroso and his Michelin Star
If you are not familiar with the name Anthony Amoroso, I guarantee it is definitely a name you will be hearing more of in the future. For the last several years, chef Anthony Amoroso has been delighting palates in Vegas as the Executive Chef of some of Sin City's most renowned dining rooms. Amoroso also recently received a repeat Michelin Star as the Executive Chef of Michael Mina at the Bellagio.
Haling from the East Coast, chef Anthony Amoroso is no stranger to the kitchen. His Italian American background had him whipping up culinary creations in the kitchen with his grandmother as a young child. Amoroso later attended Hudson County College's Culinary Art's Institute and soon after worked in the kitchen at the Hilton in Short Hills, New Jersey.
John Dory Three Ways
While still on the East Coast, chef Anthony Amoroso moved to New York City and catapulted on to the fine dining scene where he worked with chef Rick Moonen at the famed Oceana as a sous chef and later as chef de cuisine. Amoroso's culinary flair shined as he continued honing his skills in the kitchen with chef Moonen at Branzini and later at RM Seafood.
Chilean Sea Bass
In 2003, Amoroso was brought on by chef Michael White to be the opening Executive Chef behind the Italian kitchen at Fiamma Trattoria and Bar at the MGM Grand. A couple years later in 2005, chef Amoroso became the man behind the kitchen at restaurant Michael Mina in the Bellagio where he deservingly earned a MICHELIN star for the kitchen for the last two years. On any given evening, you can find chef Amoroso on the line personally making sure that every plate that goes out is consistent and perfect to the palate.
Here is Food Fashionista's Exclusive Interview with chef Anthony Amoroso:
Where were you born?
Jersey City, New Jersey
Where do you live or spend most of your time now?
Las Vegas
When you are not in the kitchen, where would one find Anthony Amoroso?
Swimming, Cycling, or Running. I am a triathlete, so I am always in training
What is your favorite vacation hot spot?
I don't think it would qualify as a hot spot but anywhere in Italy works for me.
What are your favorite restaurants?
In Vegas: STRIPSTEAK, Lotus of Siam, Fiamma, Joyful House and Sette Bello
What is your favorite dish to prepare?
At Home: a simple pasta with seasonal vegetables. At the restaurant: I have fun cooking everything.
What is your least favorite dish to prepare?
If I didn't like it I wouldn't make it.
What is your favorite drink/cocktail?
I am really into beer right now and my favorite at the moment is Reutberger Export Hell, Munich Helles Lager.
What are three things that everyone should have in their kitchen?
I believe everyone should have a high quality (sharp) chef's knife, cutting board and high quality stainless steel pots & pans. You can do almost everything with those three items.
Do you eat junk/fast food? If so, what is your favorite?
If so, what is number one on your list? I don't do fast food. I do indulge on frozen yogurt quite a bit though.
If you weren’t a chef, what would be your ultimate dream job?
Aspiring professional cyclist and gastro pub owner.
Do you follow fashion? If so, who is your favorite designer?
I really don't. However Ted Baker and Ernest Sewn fit me well so I tend to gravitate towards those two stores/designers.
What kind of music do you listen to and who is your favorite singer or musical group?
There are too many to choose from- I listen to so much and enjoy all types.
When you are not in your Chef’s clothing, what is the typical Anthony Amoroso outfit?
Good jeans, simple tee shirt, plaid chuck taylors
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
No place cold!
What are your words of advice for aspiring chefs?
Be humble, work hard, read everything you can get your hands on, and you can learn something from everyone around you.
Who are your heroes?
Dick and Rick Hoyt.
What is something that would surprise people to know about you?
I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night!!!
To make Reservations for Executive Chef Amoroso's cuisine, visit Michael Mina Bellagio
