Andrea Bocelli praises controversial ‘Salt Bae’ chef, Nusret at fancy dinner in Italy

Renowned Turkish “Salt Bae” chef Nusret Gokce hosted an exclusive dinner at Alpemare Beach Club in Forte Dei Marmi, Italy.

The beach club, owned by the famous tenor Andrea Bocelli, served as the venue for a memorable evening that gathered high-profile guests, including the family of Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela.

The Turkish chef, celebrated for his distinctive way of seasoning meat and his vibrant restaurant experiences, shared moments from the event on his social media, describing it as an “exceptional night” with “wonderful people.” The evening offered a luxurious dining experience that Gokce described as having “the best of everything.”

Notable guests at celebrity chef Nusret’s high-profile dinner

Among the distinguished guests were Lydia and Giorgia Mae, the wife and daughter of Prime Minister Abela. Their attendance further illustrated the exclusivity of the gathering, reinforcing Gokce’s connections with influential figures across Europe.

This follows Turkish chef Nusret’s visit to Malta earlier this summer, where he met Prime Minister Abela, an encounter that also attracted significant attention.

‘Salt Bae’ chef Nusret receives high praise from Andrea Bocelli

Tenor Andrea Bocelli, who hosted Gokce for two days, expressed his admiration for the chef in a heartfelt post on his social media.

Bocelli wrote, “The world has come to know and admire Nusret Gokce, better known as ‘Salt Bae,’ the Turkish chef and entrepreneur who has captivated the palates and imagination of millions. Nusret Gokce is more than just a master of the culinary arts; he is an innovator in the world of cooking, and above all, a generous, beautiful, and tireless individual.”

Bocelli continued, “We are truly delighted to have welcomed him once again in Italy, this year at Villa Alpebella. We thank him sincerely for the special bond he shares with Alpemare and with all of us. Thank you very much, Nusret.”

Turkish chef Nusret enjoys expanding influence amid legal controversies

Despite his growing influence among Europe’s elite, Nusret Gokce remains a controversial figure. He has faced numerous accusations of mistreatment and discrimination at his restaurants.

Former employees have claimed that non-Turkish staff were treated unfairly compared to their Turkish colleagues, and some female employees have reported being pressured into wearing revealing outfits and facing harassment.

The Turkish chef Nusret has also drawn criticism for hosting controversial figures like Donald Trump Jr. and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro at his restaurants, actions that have sparked significant public backlash.

The dinner reinforced Nusret Gokce’s culinary reputation and simultaneously solidified his role as a significant figure among Europe’s elite. Gokce continues to draw attention as a chef who goes beyond the kitchen, earning praise from those who experience his exceptional hospitality.