Portrait of Gianluca Leocata
i. Biography
The Climb
At Me Cumpari Turiddu in Catania, Gianluca Leocata holds the Executive Chef role, with the work framed by Sicilian roots rather than by a detached idea of modernity. When Leocata says, “I treasure my Sicilian roots, and I express them as art,” the point is clear: the kitchen reads place as method.
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Today
Traditional Sicilian cooking is the register at Me Cumpari Turiddu, where Leocata's cooking stays close to the region's table and its inherited forms.
Signature
Two dishes mark Leocata's range within that Sicilian frame: Macco soup of broad bean from Leonforte and spatula fish rolls with stimpirata vegetables.
In Their Words “I treasure my Sicilian roots, and I express them as art.”
Recognition
Michelin Bib Gourmand is among Gianluca Leocata's honors.
FAQ
Asked of Gianluca
What is Gianluca Leocata's current role?
As of 2026, Gianluca Leocata is Executive Chef.
What recognition has Gianluca Leocata received?
Michelin Bib Gourmand (2024).
What is Gianluca Leocata known for?
Traditional Sicilian cooking.
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Gianluca Leocata in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.