Executive Chef & Co-Owner, Renato Ferrante
Locally trained, 20 years of experience on the Italian fine dining scene, Renato has worked with world class chefs from both Montreal and Italy.
A True, Passionate Chef, a Perfectionist and a Teacher
When it comes to authentic Italian cuisine, Renato is a true and passionate chef. He’s a firm believer in “less is more”: little manipulation and the freshest ingredients result in a fabulous product.
Culinary Style
The province of Quebec has evolved immensely over the past twenty years with new local farmers, local livestock and fresh local produce becoming better known. Renato’s food preparation and menu has taken a turn towards market fresh ingredients. Still, he can never forget Italy’s unique regions and the wonders they offer to a chef: the finest cheeses, extra virgin olive oils, cured meats and wines – which in his opinion cannot be beat!
Rest assured, if not spending time with his lovely family or out on the golf course, Renato is at DaVinci, overseeing daily preparation, checking inventory and implementing his vigorous quality control.
Inspiring Culinary Students
Renato works hand-in-hand with culinary institutes across Quebec. He helps young eager cooks and chefs “to be” learn more to improve their skills, so that they too can one day become executive or head chefs and possibly open their own fine dining establishment.
Charities and Causes
Renato and Ristorante DaVinci work together with different charities and fundraisers, both in hosting the events and getting them kick started. “I was always told at a young age that if you do good, the good will come back to you.”
Culinary Icons
Renato admires the work of Michel Troisgros, Gualtiero Marchesi and New York’s own Alfred Portale. “It’s more than safe to say that my own cooking has a little of each of these master chef’s inputs”.
