Domenico Natale is the Executive Chef of Casa Lever, one of Midtown’s most established destinations for authentic Italian dining excellence. Born with a passion for cooking, Domenico grew up in Francavilla al Mare, a quiet town filled with fishermen and farmers in Abruzzo, Italy. Chef Domenico finds inspiration in the small moments of each day and in the simplicity of the ingredients that are carefully sourced to bring out the complexity of Italian flavors in every dish. Under the helm of chef Iacopo Falai who appreciates Domenico’s humbleness, “Domenico is a young chef in New York City feeling challenged and accomplished by this type of culinary simplicity. It is rare and unique and shows his maturity. ”
Domenico joined the Casa Lever in 2013, an experience he describes as one of the most important decisions in his life. Domenico worked his way up the ranks to sous chef, and now executive chef. During his time with the restaurant, Domenico has displayed finesse and calm leadership, committing himself to cooking the quintessential Italian cuisine for which the restaurant is lauded.
Domenico Natale is executing an extensive menu, combining classic Italian dishes such as Melanzane alla Parmigiana, Spaghetti all’Arrabbiata and modern takes on dishes like Hamachi crudo. “I want to evoke ancient flavors that have been forgotten,” he exclaims. “The best ingredients and traditional techniques continue the legacy of the recipes our ancestors made.”