Portrait of Raffaele Ronca
i. Biography
Raffaele Ronca, Executive Chef & Co-Owner of Rafele Rye, Westchester County, since 2018, carries a line that begins in Naples, Italy. His career reads less like a clean break from one kitchen to another than a family chain of rooms: Caffé Torino, Bellavitae, Palma, Rafele Ristorante, then the restaurant in Rye, each name handing forward a different responsibility around food, wine, and ownership.
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Raffaele Ronca 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.
Today
In 2018, the next branch became Rafele Rye, Westchester County, where Ronca took on the title Executive Chef & Co-Owner. The date gives the restaurant a clear place in his progression: after West Village ownership, and after the kitchen posts at Palma and Bellavitae, Rye became the address where that accumulated responsibility continued.
Signature
Raffaele's signature dishes include Buffalo Riccotta Cheesecake.
Recognition
Raffaele's honors include James Beard Foundation collaborator, Winner of Food Network's Chopped, and Guinness World Record for "The World's Most Expensive Cheesecake".
FAQ
Asked of Raffaele
What is Raffaele Ronca's current role?
As of 2026, Raffaele Ronca is Executive Chef & Co-Owner.
Where did Raffaele Ronca work before?
Raffaele Ronca's earlier career included Palma, Bellavitae, and Caffé Torino.
What recognition has Raffaele Ronca received?
James Beard Foundation collaborator.
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Raffaele Ronca 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.