Originally from Chile, Giulio has been living in New Zealand for 13 years. Quickly he became established as one of the most relevant and influential chefs in the hospitality industry today, Giulio is also the founder and driving force of Eat New Zealand, a movement to promote New Zealand ingredients and their stories both domestically and overseas. A firm believer in the value of developing a better food system that celebrates the best ingredients out there while also representing the unique culture of the country, he has been pioneering and championing Kiwi cuisine for the past decade. 

Giulio was the chef and creator of Roots, an acclaimed restaurant in Lyttelton, just outside of Christchurch. There he focused on experimentation while researching, foraging and integrating local produce, inspiring many across New Zealand. Open for over six years, Roots achieved many cuisine accolades and media features, including being named the only three-hated restaurant outside of the Auckland CBD. In 2018, Giulio was named Chef of the Year. 

Giulio continues to share his love for New Zealand ingredients and a passion for its people across multiple projects. At the moment he is focusing on delivery the most memorable dining experiences both in and out of MAPU and advancing his mission for kiwi flavours around the world.