### From Engineer to Culinary Maestro: The Remarkable Journey of Chef Matteo Pertoldi

In the world of fine dining, it’s not often that you hear of a chef whose career began on construction sites. Yet Matteo Pertoldi, the mastermind behind *Atipico*, one of Singapore’s standout Italian fine-dining restaurants, took an unconventional path from engineering to culinary artistry. Inspiring and relatable, his journey embodies the beauty of chasing a passion, proving that life’s richest connections often happen around a well-prepared table.

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### From Skyscrapers to Supper Clubs

In 2001, Matteo Pertoldi left Italy for Singapore to build a career as an engineer and architect, blending his technical expertise with creative design. But over time, this path left him unfulfilled. “I realized I preferred the personal connection with people, something my previous work couldn’t offer,” said Pertoldi in an interview. Seeking a meaningful creative outlet, he began hosting intimate supper clubs. These events quickly gained popularity, with diners enchanted by his ability to craft dishes that were not only delicious but deeply personal.

By 2014, Pertoldi made the bold decision to turn his passion into a full-time profession, founding *Atipico*, which translates to “not typical” in Italian—a fitting nod to his unusual career trajectory. The restaurant became more than just a dining venue—it was the tangible expression of his daring leap from construction to the culinary arts.

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### Perfecting the Art of Luxury

What sets Pertoldi apart in the world of fine dining is his knack for creating more than just exquisite meals: his cooking delivers an immersive experience for his clientele. His reputation for crafting exceptional dining events caught the eye of Panerai, the luxury Italian watch brand, which invited him to cater a high-profile event. This pivotal moment opened doors to Singapore’s elite, from embassy gatherings to private superyacht dinners.

Among his many accolades, one of Pertoldi’s career highlights was serving the President of Singapore during a formal embassy event, a milestone that solidified his reputation as a go-to chef for prestigious occasions. His skillset even took him overseas, including a notable tenure cooking for a billionaire client in Cambodia and hosting bespoke celebrations ranging from intimate boutique weddings to grand corporate events.

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### Simplicity as the Pinnacle of Elegance

While luxury dining often conjures images of intricate presentations and exotic ingredients, Pertoldi believes the key to winning over his high-net-worth clients is simplicity done to perfection. His philosophy is rooted in authenticity and nostalgia. Dishes such as handmade bread and butter—elevated through flawless execution—and homemade ravioli filled with fresh seafood consistently leave his patrons raving.

“People often ask me to recreate dishes from their own travels, especially from Italy. Nostalgia plays such an important role in food,” says Pertoldi. Whether it’s a *rum baba* inspired by a honeymoon on the Amalfi Coast or a rustic pasta dish that evokes memories of Italy’s countryside, Pertoldi takes pride in bringing personal stories to the plate.

One of his greatest strengths is his meticulous approach to freshness—each dish is prepared *à la minute*, ensuring an unforgettable experience. His ability to balance rustic charm with impeccable technique showcases why his intimate and luxurious creations resonate so deeply with his discerning clientele.

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### The Symphony of Fine Dining

For Pertoldi, fine dining is not just about exquisite food; it’s a symphony of details. Every aspect of the meal, from meticulously plated ravioli to how freshly baked bread is served, is carefully considered. “It’s the little things—how the pasta sits on the plate or how a truffle is shaved—that elevate the experience,” he explains.

This attention to detail not only meets but exceeds the high expectations of his elite clients. Pertoldi thrives on the creative challenges they present, describing their dynamic as a “mutual exchange”—their ambition for perfection pushes him to continuously hone his craft.

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### Inspiring New Horizons

Matteo Pertoldi’s journey from engineer to culinary artisan is a testament to the power of following one’s passion. At *Atipico*, he is redefining modern Italian cuisine in Singapore, creating moments that linger far beyond the last bite.

Whether it’s a vongole pasta dish that whisks diners to the Amalfi Coast or an intricately designed private dinner for the world’s most discerning clientele, Pertoldi shows that the most extraordinary adventures in life can begin with a leap of faith—and a simple meal done extraordinarily well.