Every two years at HostMilano innovations in the key sectors are presented – in everything from food service and the hotel industry to pastry, gelato and bread – to show visitors from all over the world what the mood will be in tomorrow’s world of hospitality.

For its first edition, HoReCa Bites decided to involve Davide Oldani. This leading chef, who in 2020 was awarded his second Michelin star and received a green Michelin star for outstanding eco-friendly commitment at his D’O restaurant at Cornaredo, outside Milan. He is a regular at the International Hospitality Exhibition.

His “Pop” cuisine, which is all about giving humble ingredients a new contemporary twist, has made him not only something of a celebrity, but also an example for young people keen to get into the catering business with a new approach.

Describe your cuisine in three words

I believe education, honesty and love to be necessary parts of the Pop Kitchen at Ristorante D’O.

Chef and technology: what’s your relationship with innovation?

Innovation in the kitchen is essential, provided one is familiar with all the traditional recipes, because there cannot be any kind of innovation unless you fully know the classics and unless you identify your DNA with that of the territory you live in.

What do you find most interesting about HostMilano?

Everything, really. It’s written in its history, in all the years it’s been going on for. The last edition of HostMilano took us up a gear because it was a great opportunity to leave the last two years behind us. It was a crucial moment that helped everyone in the industry get back on track and working passionately together again.

What kitchen equipment can’t you live without?

In this particular moment I absolutely need a triple oven, and then there’s vacuum packing and the Roner. But in the end the most important thing is the human element, which I believe to be the most up-to-date technology.

What advice would you give to young people?

Some advice I would definitely give is follow your heart, do something you’re passionate about, know the rules and put a lot of commitment into your work. Then always have clear goals to aim towards.