Chef’s Bio

Chef Michael Rolchigo grew up in Utica, New York. He discovered his passion for food at a young age, living downstairs from his Italian grandmother Lena Bello who cooked every meal for the family. At a young age he spent many hours sitting at his grandmother’s table watching her cook and internalizing her zest for life and family.

While in high school Michael began cooking in restaurants and was inspired to turn his passion into a career by attending the prestigious Culinary Institute of America and getting degrees in both the Culinary and Pastry Arts. After graduating, Michael then went on to work at the award winning Grammercy Tavern in New York City, the Frog and the Peach in New Jersey the Grand Summit Hotel in New Jersey.

In 2001 he decided to seek the warm weather of south Florida where he continued to build his reputation as the Executive Chef at the Players Club in Wellington, the Executive Chef at the Jupiter island Grill and then opening his own award winning restaurant Krave in Tequesta Florida.

During his time in Florida he won numerous awards for his culinary mastery including the Palm Beach Post’s A rating for food and service at both The Jupiter Island Grill and Krave, as well at the Vita Nova Award for Top Chef in 2010 and 2012. After selling Krave in 2017(?), Michael took time off to start a specialty food business, but his passion for the culinary world has grown even stronger. His childhood, along with his education and career experiences have now led to an exciting new venture called Tavolena that pays homage to his grandmother who ignited his passion for great food.