Paul Bartolotta

Paul Bartolotta (born June 8, 1961) is an American chef and restaurateur known for his authentic style and innovative approach to importing fresh seafood from Mediterranean waters. He has won the James Beard Foundation Award twice—for Best Chef: Midwest in 1994 at Spiaggia, and Best Chef: Southwest in 2009 at Bartolotta, Ristorante di Mare at Wynn Las Vegas. Bartolotta was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and began working in restaurants at the age of 15. He obtained an apprenticeship under John Marangelli, which helped cultivate his sense of taste. In 1980, he moved to Italy to further his culinary knowledge before returning to the United States to open his own restaurants.