Massimo Bottura, the renowned chef behind the Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana in Modena, is once again making waves in the culinary world with his latest venture. As a UN Environment Programme Goodwill Ambassador, Bottura has always been dedicated to using his talents to give back to the community. His latest project involves launching a new chef’s collective at Refettorio Harlem, a progressive community kitchen in New York.
Refettorio Harlem, which opened its doors in 2020, serves restaurant-style meals to individuals in the neighborhood who may not have access to high-end dining or know where their next meal is coming from. The initiative is part of Bottura’s larger network of community hubs aimed at inspiring and empowering human potential through the act of sharing meals. These Refettorios can be found across Europe, in Sydney, and in South America, each offering local cuisine and character thanks to the efforts of talented chefs who volunteer their time to cook for those in need.
In New York, Refettorio Harlem is located at the Historic Emanuel AME Church on 119th Street in Harlem and serves three-course dinners three nights a week. The menu features dishes like grilled baby romaine and arugula salad, chicken on lobster bread, and raspberry cream layer cake. Additionally, the program helps combat food insecurity by redirecting potential food waste and offering ingredients as groceries through an accessible food pantry.
Looking ahead to 2025, Bottura is spearheading a new initiative at Refettorio Harlem called The Harlem Chef’s Lab. This project aims to raise funds and awareness for the community kitchen through collaborative, ticketed monthly events featuring some of New York’s top culinary talent. Members of the Harlem Chef’s Lab include chefs like JJ Johnson, Nadav Greenberg, and Anthony Mangieri, all of whom bring their unique expertise to the table.
As the collective grows, it is hoped that a rotating group of 52 chefs will ensure that a top talent prepares a meal each week of the year at Refettorio Harlem. The goal is to continue providing high-quality meals to those in need while also reducing food waste and promoting sustainability in the culinary industry.
For those interested in supporting Refettorio Harlem and The Harlem Chef’s Lab, seasonal events and ticket sales will be announced soon. Signing up for Refettorio Harlem’s newsletter is the best way to stay informed about upcoming opportunities to dine with the Chef’s Lab. Additionally, volunteers can apply online to help with various tasks at Refettorio Harlem, and monetary donations are also accepted to support the initiative. With the support of the community, Massimo Bottura’s vision of using food to nourish, inspire, and empower others can continue to flourish in Harlem and beyond.
