Stefano Annottoli

 The cuisine of Italy has always been popular in Ukraine – one of the many reasons why Stefano Antoniolli has made it his home.

But those who visit him at Fenix restaurant are in for a unique experience, for alongside all those much loved Latin favourites is a menu that also showcases the best Asian cuisine.

It’s an interesting concept under one roof, with Stefano in charge of the Italian side while chef Serhiy Bashynskiy oversees the Pan-Asian operation.

Yet it’s a formula that works, with diners returning time and time again to try both cuisines.

Originally from Italy, Stefano graduated from culinary school and then headed off to work in a restaurant Dubai.

When not working his time was spent honing his skills – plus attending seminars on everything from chocolate to ice carving.

He returned to his home country after two years and served in the army, before moving to the Ukraine where he has lived for the past 23 years.

At Fenix diners can go on a culinary journey which follows Stefano’s Mediterranean heritage.

Elegant twists are put in dishes like a bruschetta where the normal garlic and tomato mix is exchanged for truffle cream cheese, mushrooms and parmesan. Homemade burrata can be found on the menu, along with dishes that draw their inspiration from cities ranging from Venice to Tuscany.

Stefano predicts two things for Ukrainian cuisine’s future: first, its global acclaim; and second, the advancement of Ukrainian goods themselves.

Stefano chooses only produce that are in season and from growers that he knows and trusts. 

“I want clients to not only eat my food but to understand why we do it and what we want to say with this dish,” the chef said. “I want people to understand more and more about the cuisine that the chefs are creating from the dishes that we show.”