The Franklin London appoints new head chef
Besides working alongside Alfredo Covino, Claudio Covino will also be responsible for all food offered throughout the hotel, including breakfast and room service
Five-star hotel, The Franklin London in Knightsbridge, has announced the appointment of Claudio Covino as head chef of the hotel’s fine dining Italian restaurant, The Franklin Restaurant by Alfredo Russo.
Covino brings over 25 years of industry experience and a wealth of knowledge to the role. He will be responsible for running the kitchen, guiding, training and developing staff, as well as maintaining the exceptionally high standards of the restaurant.
Working collaboratively with Alfredo Russo, Covino will also craft “innovative and seasonal-centric” menus showcasing the restaurant’s signature modern Piedmontese cuisine. Covino will also be responsible for all food offered throughout the hotel, including breakfast, room service and hotel events.
Hailing from Rome, he reportedly began his career in hospitality management, before making his move into the kitchen. Whilst in Italy, Covino developed his skills, working in a number of notable restaurants including Massimo d’Azeglio Hotel in Rome, as well as the Grand Hotel and the Sadler Restaurant, which are both in Milan.
In 2004, Covino moved to the UK Michelin-starred Locanda Locatelli before taking a position as sous chef at Sardo Canale where he was quickly promoted to head chef. He has also held senior roles at The Wallace Collection, Novikov and Pampero in the Hari Hotel.
Covino said: “I’m extremely excited to take on the role of head chef at this prestigious London hotel and to have the opportunity to work closely alongside Alfredo Russo. I look forward to putting my own stamp on the already elegant and dynamic menu, bringing a new range of simple yet elevated dishes to The Franklin London’s dining experience.”
Francesca Tereggia, director of operations at Starhotels Collezione, said: “A true culinary creative with a real passion for Italian cuisine, Claudio is an excellent addition to the team. His wealth of experience working within multiple first-class establishments means he is well placed to lead the restaurant to ongoing success.”
