Canadian chef Jessica Rosval has secured a second Michelin star for Al Gatto Verde, her restaurant in Modena, Italy, adding to a year of major international recognition that also saw her named the world’s Best Female Chef 2026.
Born in 1985, Rosval has built her culinary career around cultural exchange, research and the blending of different culinary traditions. Her approach draws inspiration not only from food but also from art, history and travel.
Her career took a decisive turn after a dinner at the three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana, where she was introduced to the cooking of renowned Italian chef Massimo Bottura. Impressed by his approach, she joined his team, initially working as a chef de partie before moving on to external catering projects.
In 2018, Rosval was appointed head chef at Casa Maria Luigia, the hospitality and dining project established by Bottura and his wife, Lara Gilmore, in the Emilia-Romagna countryside. She took charge of the kitchen at Al Gatto Verde, located within the same estate, in 2023.
A philosophy built on cultural exchange
Rosval’s cooking reflects a combination of influences, traditions and personal experiences. She views culinary cross-pollination as a form of creative freedom, bringing together different techniques, styles and memories without necessarily assigning national or cultural labels to individual dishes.
She argues that culinary traditions have always been shaped by encounters between different cultures, with the stories behind those encounters providing the real identity of a dish.
For Rosval, a chef’s work extends beyond the kitchen. Research into art, history and travel plays an equally important role in developing new ideas and establishing a dialogue with the wider world.
The second Michelin star adds to an exceptional year for the Canadian chef. On 5 November, she received the Best Female Chef 2026 award at the World’s 50 Best Restaurants ceremony. Al Gatto Verde also made its debut in the global top 50, securing 24th place after ranking 92nd in the extended 51-100 list the previous year.
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