Phil Stefani and Chef Art Smith Launch Exclusive Vatican Restaurant

Phil Stefani and Chef Art Smith: A Culinary Dream at the Vatican

In an extraordinary collaboration, restaurateurs Phil Stefani and Chef Art Smith have been granted the unique opportunity to lead the sole restaurant and catering services at the Vatican's Borgo Laudato Si'. This historic site, which is a part of a newly opened papal retreat, promises to offer a vibrant culinary experience infused with sustainability and cultural exchange.

Pope Leo XIV made the announcement of this unprecedented partnership today during the inauguration of the Borgo Laudato Si', reflecting a vision inspired by Pope Francis' teachings on ecology and community. As exclusive chefs for this venture, Stefani and Smith intend to craft a menu that melds traditional Italian farm-to-table practices with influences from global cuisines, particularly resonating with Chicago and Peruvian elements.

An Exciting Culinary Journey

Phil Stefani, the owner of the Stefani Restaurant Group, expressed his deep honor at being part of this significant project. He remarked, “As a Catholic and Italian, this project is a dream for my family and me. We also share this honor with the city of Chicago, bringing a taste of home to a global audience.” Stefani's passion for culinary artistry shines through as he envisages this venture as not just a restaurant, but as a gathering place for community and cultural exchange.

On the other hand, Chef Art Smith, renowned for his humanitarian work and his time as Oprah Winfrey’s personal chef, emphasized the celebration of community that will be at the heart of the Borgo. He highlighted the intention to create a menu that pays homage to traditional Italian cuisine while integrating flavors and influences from around the world. The eclectic offerings aim to reflect the diversity of the guests who will visit the papal estate.

The Vision of Borgo Laudato Si'

The Borgo Laudato Si' spans a remarkable 135 acres, occupying a historical site that has served as a papal retreat since the 17th century. Additionally, it is built atop the remnants of Emperor Domitian’s villa, giving this location nearly two millennia of rich history. The property showcases a commitment to integral ecology—a principle championed by Pope Francis—as it melds spirituality with sustainability.

At the core of this initiative is a greenhouse resembling the iconic colonnade of St. Peter's Square. This innovative structure, powered by solar energy, features AI-driven irrigation and employs rainwater harvesting techniques alongside zero-waste systems. The Borgo also aims to provide vocational training in organic farming and regenerative agriculture, making it a beacon of ecological responsibility and education.

Dining Experience at the Borgo

As the exclusive caterers, Stefani and Smith's culinary offerings will be underpinned by fresh, locally-sourced ingredients along with international influences. The restaurant is designed not only as a place to dine but as a space for immersive experiences that promote ecological awareness and cultural conversations. Guests can look forward to guided tours, a market, and various ecological and cultural activities during their visit.

While the venue is now open for public exploration, the restaurant is set to debut in the spring of 2026, offering breakfast and lunch to visitors. It will also cater to private events throughout the year, ensuring that guests can indulge in a memorable experience that intertwines centuries of tradition with a vision for a sustainable future.

About the Culinary Duo

Phil Stefani has been an influential figure in the Chicago culinary scene since 1980, establishing the Stefani Restaurant Group, which includes popular establishments like Tavern on Rush and Tuscany. Meanwhile, Chef Art Smith, an acclaimed chef and humanitarian, has garnered recognition for his dedication to sharing food as a way of bringing people together, winning acclaim and awards, including three James Beard Awards.

In collaboration, this duo has set their sights on creating a unique culinary destination that honors the spirit of the Vatican while fostering a community of sustainability and celebration.

Thus, the partnership between Phil Stefani, Chef Art Smith, and the Vatican transforms lunch into a life-affirming experience, entrenching the culinary arts within an ethos of compassion, sustainability, and unity amid historical grandeur.