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Cristian Marino

Executive Chef | Culinary Consultant | Author | Global Food Innovator

Born in Milan and raised between Calabria and various corners of the world, Cristian Marino is a chef, traveler, and culinary consultant with over 25 years of international experience. His journey has taken him across 10+ countries on land, leading luxury hotels, resorts, and high-end restaurants in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Additionally, his time working on Silversea Cruises, one of the world’s most awarded luxury cruise lines, allowed him to refine his skills in a high-paced, international environment while traveling across 30+ countries.

Cristian believes that food is more than a meal—it’s a story, an experience, and a connection between cultures. His expertise extends beyond the kitchen, shaping innovative dining concepts, consulting for luxury hospitality brands, and mentoring the next generation of chefs.

A Journey Through Culinary Excellence

Cristian’s passion for cooking started early, inspired by his Italian heritage and education at the hospitality school in Stresa, Piedmont. From his first experiences in classic Italian kitchens, he expanded his horizons to international fine dining, working in luxury hotels and exclusive restaurants worldwide.

As an Executive Chef, he has led kitchens in renowned hotel chains such as Marriott, Radisson Blu, and InterContinental, where he developed menus, led pre-openings, and elevated culinary standards.

Before taking on executive roles, Cristian also gained valuable experience working for Silversea Cruises, one of the world’s most awarded luxury cruise lines. This opportunity allowed him to refine his skills in a high-paced, international environment, further shaping his global culinary perspective.

Cristian has a longstanding connection with the Maldives, where he worked as Executive Chef at Meeru Island Resort & Spa for nearly two years, overseeing multiple dining outlets and enhancing the culinary experience. Before returning as a Culinary Consultant, he gained further international experience, refining his expertise in high-end hospitality projects across different regions.

Latest Consultancy Projects in the Maldives

Cristian played a key role in transforming the dining experience at Veligandu Maldives Resort. As a Culinary Consultant, he crafted innovative menus, led hands-on kitchen training, and streamlined service operations to enhance guest satisfaction. In addition to menu development and training, he was instrumental in recruiting and building a skilled culinary team, ensuring a seamless pre-opening and a world-class dining experience that aligns with the resort’s unique identity.

➡ Read more about Cristian’s consultancy for Veligandu Maldives Resort

At Meeru Island Resort & Spa, Cristian returned as a Culinary Consultant, leveraging his previous experience as Executive Chef at the resort for nearly two years. His deep understanding of the property and its culinary operations allowed him to redefine the dining offerings and introduce new concepts tailored to modern guest expectations.

➡ Read more about Cristian’s consultancy for Meeru Island Resort

Notable Achievements

• Executive Chef for luxury hotels and resorts across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East
• Consultant for Veligandu Maldives Resort & Meeru Island Resort
• Awarded the Ospitalità Italiana quality certification for promoting authentic Italian culinary standards in international hospitality projects
• Honoured with a Silver Plate from the Accademia Italiana della Cucina
• Experience across 10+ countries, leading high-end culinary teams
• Traveled to 30+ countries while working aboard Silversea Cruises, gaining international culinary experience in a luxury environment
• Food & Drink Awards 2025 – Luxury Resort Dining Innovator of the Year – Maldives (awarded by Lux Life Magazine)

Work With Me

Cristian Marino is available for culinary consulting, menu development, Executive Chef assignments, Guest Chef collaborations, and speaking engagements.

📩 For collaborations or inquiries:
📧 Email: contact@chefcristianmarino.com
📲 Follow on Instagram: @chefcristianmarino

Books & Publications

Cristian’s passion for culinary leadership inspired him to write books that share his insights and expertise.

10 Rules of the Chef in the Modern Era – A leadership guide designed for chefs navigating the evolving culinary industry.

The Healthy Italian Chef – A book that explores the balance between traditional Italian cuisine and modern cooking techniques.