Chef Adrianne Calvo: Crafting Maximum Flavor, Philanthropy, and the Future of Fine Dining
For Chef Adrianne Calvo, food isn’t just about flavor—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences. With a career built on her “Maximum Flavor” philosophy, she has captivated diners with bold, unexpected combinations that push culinary boundaries. But her impact goes beyond the kitchen. Through her Make It Count Foundation, she harnesses the power of food to uplift communities and give back in meaningful ways. From running top-tier Miami restaurants to working on her seventh cookbook, Calvo continues to redefine what it means to be a chef, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. In this exclusive interview, she shares the inspirations behind her signature dishes, her deep-rooted connection to Miami’s food scene, and the exciting projects she has on the horizon.
Miami’s Flavor Scene
You’re known for your “Maximum Flavor” philosophy. How does Miami’s bold culinary landscape inspire you to push the boundaries of taste?
Adrianne Calvo: Miami's vibrant culinary scene is a constant source of inspiration for me. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and that diversity is reflected in every corner of our food landscape. From the fresh seafood to the tropical fruits, and the rich Latin influences, every ingredient tells a story. In Miami, I’m surrounded by passionate chefs and local producers who push me to explore new techniques and flavor combinations.
SOBEWFF Perspective
You’ve been a major part of Miami’s food scene for years. What does the South Beach Wine & Food Festival mean to you as a chef and as someone deeply connected to the city?
Adrianne Calvo: The South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) is truly a celebration of what makes Miami's culinary scene so vibrant and diverse. As a chef, it's exhilarating to see so many culinary minds come together, exchange ideas, and inspire one another. The energy during the festival is electric! SOBEWFF represents the heart and soul of Miami’s gastronomy and celebrates the unique flavors that define Miami.
A Life-Changing Path
Your journey into cooking started with a happy accident in high school. If you hadn’t found your way to the kitchen, where do you think life would have taken you?
Adrianne Calvo: If culinary arts would not have become my world, I hope that somehow, I would have become the journalist/writer 16-year-old me was aspiring to be before I was mistakenly placed in a cooking class instead of a TV production/journalism class in high school. Perhaps I would have been on the TODAY Show or Good Morning America.
Cooking with Passion
Your dishes are meant to leave a lasting impression. What’s one dish on your menu that guests can’t stop talking about, and what makes it so special?
Adrianne Calvo: Guests haven’t stopped raving about our Brown Sugar Crusted Salmon with sweet chili potatoes and garlic spinach for 18 years now! I think it’s a culinary masterpiece that perfectly balances sweet and savory. The rich, flaky salmon is enveloped in a caramelized brown sugar crust that creates an irresistible crunch, while a hint of smokiness and spice elevates each bite. It’s the type of dish that keeps you wanting more and more of it. And after 18 years on the menu, it’s extra special. We have so many people who were dating the first time they had it, got married, had kids, and now their kids love the brown sugar crusted salmon. Wild!
Make It Count Foundation
You dedicate a lot of time to philanthropy. How has giving back through food shaped your perspective as a chef and entrepreneur?
Adrianne Calvo: Giving back through food has profoundly shaped my perspective as both a chef and an entrepreneur. Being the founder of the Make It Count Foundation has been one of the most formative parts of my life. When I engage with charitable initiatives, it reminds me of the incredible power of food to connect people, foster community, and create positive change. Food isn’t just about nourishment; it’s also about storytelling and sharing experiences. By dedicating time to philanthropy, I've seen firsthand how a simple meal can bring joy and comfort to those in need. It’s inspiring to witness the smiles on people’s faces when they enjoy a meal prepared with love and care. This experience reinforces my belief that cooking is an art that transcends mere ingredients—it’s about compassion, creativity, and connection.
As an entrepreneur, this perspective drives me to create businesses that prioritize not just profit but also purpose. It encourages me to innovate in ways that align with my values, ensuring that every dish I create has a meaningful impact. I aim to build a legacy that reflects my commitment to giving back. Ultimately, my philanthropy journey has enriched my culinary path, reminding me that success isn’t just measured in accolades or financial gain, but in the lives we touch and the communities we uplift. That’s what truly makes it count!
Miami Dining Favorites
When you’re not in your own kitchen, where do you go for a meal that truly wows you? Any hidden gems in Miami that deserve more recognition?
Adrianne Calvo: Some of my favorite spots are LPM, Fiola, and Vice Versa!
Expanding the Brand
Between your restaurants, TV appearances, and cookbooks, what’s next for Chef Adrianne? Any exciting new ventures on the horizon?
Adrianne Calvo: So many things are coming up! I am currently working on my 7th cookbook. It’s completely different from anything I’ve published before.
Chef Adrianne Calvo, known for her 'Maximum Flavor' philosophy, is redefining fine dining with bold culinary creations and meaningful philanthropy. Through her Make It Count Foundation, she uses food to uplift communities. In an exclusive interview, she discusses her Miami roots, signature dishes, and upcoming projects, including her seventh cookbook.