For Valentino, the story began in a 
sun-drenched kitchen in Chiaia, Naples. As a  curious young boy he watched his mother cooking mouth-watering traditional recipes and would pretend to be her sous chef. Perched at the kitchen counter, he learned that good food is only as good as the love that goes into it.

He grew up surrounded by the rich flavours and scents of southern Italy - the bright aroma of lemon groves and the deep, sun-ripened sweetness of tomatoes ripening on the vine.

After fifteen years in London, Valentino refined his craft as both a cook and a sommelier, building a career on the belief that great wine and wonderful food belong together.

Following the success of Enoteca Chiaia, his neighbourhood wine bar in South West London, he has brought all his skill and experience to create Casa Chiaia, to take the spirit and cuisine of a convivial Neapolitan table into private homes and gatherings, where there is always room for another guest.