**From Blueprints to Superyachts: Matteo Pertoldi’s Rise as a Global Luxury Chef**

It’s not every day someone trades concrete skyscrapers for the vibrant aromas of handmade pasta, yet that’s the unconventional story of Matteo Pertoldi. Beginning his professional life as an engineer in Singapore in 2001, Pertoldi’s journey took a dramatic turn in 2014 when he founded *Atipico*, an intimate Italian restaurant in Singapore. The restaurant’s name—meaning “atypical” in Italian—reflects his remarkable reinvention from architect to globally sought-after luxury chef.

What started as a personal passion for crafting authentic Italian dishes has evolved into a celebrated global career. Today, Pertoldi creates unforgettable culinary experiences for billionaires, dignitaries, and elite clients at exclusive locales worldwide—from private dinners aboard opulent superyachts to elegant corporate events with hundreds of attendees. But beyond the prestige, the heart of Pertoldi’s craft lies in simple, soulful cooking that connects people through shared experiences.

—

### **The Elegance of Simplicity**

It’s a misconception that luxury dining is defined by extravagance, and Pertoldi is living proof. Known for his philosophy of simplicity, Pertoldi emphasizes the importance of quality over opulence. “Even when cooking for billionaires, I find they often prefer well-executed, straightforward dishes over anything excessively extravagant,” he explains.

At the heart of his repertoire are handmade pasta dishes—like vongole with fresh seafood or indulgent ravioli—and his signature bread and butter, described by clients as “spectacular.” For Pertoldi, these creations are more than just food; they evoke nostalgia, transporting diners to cherished places like the Amalfi Coast with every bite. While he’s skilled in working with luxury ingredients like truffles and caviar, he uses them only when they truly elevate the flavor. “It’s not about the flash,” he insists, “it’s about the soul of the meal.”

—

### **Cooking for the Global Elite**

Pertoldi’s rise in the luxury food scene has been nothing short of extraordinary, as evidenced by his impressive clientele. From preparing meals for billionaires to serving the President of Singapore at an embassy event, his reputation for creating not just meals but memories has earned him high regard.

His breakthrough came through a partnership with the Italian luxury watchmaker Panerai, which propelled him into curating culinary masterpieces for exclusive events. Since then, Pertoldi has graced high-profile gatherings, traveling internationally to craft unforgettable meals, including a private dinner in Cambodia for a millionaire. His adaptability and creativity underscore his ability to deliver, regardless of the setting.

—

### **Food as a Story**

For Pertoldi, cooking isn’t merely about nourishment—it’s a form of storytelling. Many of his elite clients request dishes that transport them to memories of a specific moment or place, turning meals into emotional and nostalgic journeys. Whether it’s Italy’s beloved *rum baba* or freshly baked bread that reminds one of a childhood kitchen, Pertoldi’s dishes bridge the gap between past and present.

“It’s never just a plate of food,” he shares. “It’s an invitation to relive an experience, sometimes one they didn’t know they missed.” To him, the sensory interplay of flavors is only one element; presentation, ambiance, and attention to detail complete the magic. These finer touches resonate deeply with clients accustomed to the very best.

—

### **Mastering Challenges with Grace**

Cooking for the world’s wealthiest doesn’t come without its challenges. Clients can be discerning, to say the least, and expectations are always sky-high. Nonetheless, Pertoldi views these challenges as opportunities to refine his artistry. His commitment to innovation and quality drives him to prepare dishes *à la minute* (on the spot), ensuring that each bite is as fresh as it is vibrant.

Far from feeling daunted, Pertoldi thrives under the pressure. “My clients push me to innovate and refine my craft,” he notes. This pursuit of perfection has cemented his reputation as not just a chef but a visionary in the high-end dining world.

—

### **A Journey Fueled By Passion**

What makes Matteo Pertoldi’s story so inspiring isn’t just his rise to prominence but his unwavering commitment to connection. Whether through a small supper club in Singapore or crafting culinary masterpieces aboard a superyacht, Pertoldi has remained true to his belief that food is about more than sustenance—it’s about creating shared experiences.

From the simplicity of his handmade ravioli to a meticulously planned dining ambiance, his craft reminds us that great food nourishes not just the body, but also the soul. As Pertoldi continues to expand his culinary empire, his story stands as a testament to the transformative power of passion, simplicity, and authenticity.

Perhaps that’s why, no matter the setting or the scale, diners leave a Matteo Pertoldi experience with more than a satisfied palate—they leave with a memory.