Featured Chef Claudio Urciuoli of Prado at InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa.

Photography by Jackie Mercandetti

How did you get your start in the restaurant business?
I have always been fascinated by food and cooking. My great passion for food combined with my love for travel propelled me into an exciting life in the restaurant industry, which satisfied both of these desires.

What is your favorite Valley restaurant, besides your own?
Although I love many types of foods, I am a pizza fanatic (as long as it is great pizza). My favorite place to go to for a slice in the valley is Pizzeria Bianco and Pane Bianco.

What is your favorite dish at your restaurant?
Although I love all of the dishes served at Prado, the controne beans with pasta is a favorite dish of mine.

What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had?
I grew up in Italy, and I have always loved the home-cooked meals my mother prepared when I was growing up.

If you could have anyone visit your restaurant, who would it be?
I would love to have Italian professional motorcycle racer, Valentino Rossi, in Prado. I have a passion for motorcycles and Valentino Rossi is the best motorcycle racer of all time.

Name three ingredients that you have at home at all times.
My kitchen is never without extra virgin olive oil, sea salt and green tea.

What is your favorite bottle of wine or cocktail?
My favorite wine is an Italian white wine called Greco di Tufo. It is considered one of the most antique wines in Italy. This wine is full of personality; its dry flavor makes it a perfect choice for delicate foods like tapas and fish with butter or white sauces, though it is also great with meat dishes.

What do you like to do in your free time?
I love mountain biking, and am fortunate enough to live in the perfect place for it – the valley is great for hiking and mountain biking, and Camelback Mountain is right in the resort’s backyard!