Born in Cremona, Italy, Massimo began his career in the farm kitchen of his family home with fresh, locally picked ingredients prepared simply and with love.

His passion for all things gastronomical propelled him from some of Italy’s leading culinary destinations to Canada where he continues to pursue his gastronomic passion at his own restaurants Mistura and Sopra Upper Lounge.

Massimo climbed the culinary career ladder by working in Italy’s best restaurants and hotels. In 1982 Massimo landed in Canada to work at “Archers”. It was here that Massimo used his experience to master the English language and his own style.

In 1989, he met Michael Carevale of famed Prego and was offered a position as Chef. Prego became one of the most important restaurants in Toronto during his nine-year stay there.

Massimo opened Mistura Restaurant in October, 1997, to a very receptive public. The exclusive Sopra Upper Lounge is the latest addition to Massimo’s list; since August of 2006 Sopra has become a favourite among many of Toronto live music lovers.

Massimo currently is a regular guest expert on CITY TV Cityline and a chef host on the Food Network’s hit series Restaurant Makeover. Massimo also has a lengthy list of television appearances from local breakfast shows and TV magazines including; Global TV, TLN, OMNI, STV, CITY TV, CHCH and Rogers Cable Toronto. As if these commitments didn’t make him busy enough, Massimo found time to author a new cook book entitled “One Pot Italian” and regularly writes for The Globe and Mail Life section.