Our Italian chef in L'Escala

In the kitchen with Francesco

Recipes that speak Italian, even if you don't speak it.

From Foggia to L'Escala: a Chef trained between the sea and the land

I was born in Foggia, in the northern part of the Puglia region of Italy, a land known for its vast wheat fields, tomatoes, and deep-rooted agricultural traditions. My hometown lies between the Adriatic Sea and the Gargano and Apennine mountains, an environment where nature and gastronomy are integral to the cultural identity of its people.

My training began long before culinary school. I grew up in a family passionate about cooking, and from a young age I participated in preparing traditional recipes with my parents and relatives. Later, I studied hospitality in Italy and continued my training through practical experience in various European countries: Italy, England, Belgium, and Spain.

An important part of my learning is linked to the pastry shop in my mother's village, Giannotti 1966, with which we continue to collaborate today and where I learned the value of craftsmanship, patience and respect for raw materials.

My Philosophy: to bring the culture of good eating closer

My culinary philosophy is about introducing people to a culture based on good food. In Italy, gastronomy is much more than just food: it's about community, tradition, respect for the ingredients, and quality of life.

Through Terra Ter I try to convey these values using quality ingredients, artisanal processes and recipes that allow you to enjoy food in a conscious and healthy way.

Terra Ter: the dream that was born in L'Escala

On June 13, 2024, I opened Terra Ter in L'Escala. I chose this location because it reminded me of many aspects of my homeland: its proximity to the sea and the mountains, the importance of Mediterranean cuisine, and its connection to nature. But above all, because I found people who made me feel at home from the very first moment.

Terra Ter's culinary identity can be summed up in a concept we define as "Mediterranean Fusion": a proposal born from Italian roots but paying homage to the entire Mediterranean culture. We don't seek to represent just one region or country, but rather to celebrate the gastronomic richness of the Mediterranean through shared ingredients, techniques, and traditions.

Career and Awards

Throughout my professional career, I have participated in various gastronomic competitions. I would especially highlight the third place I obtained in the 20th Gastronomic Competition of the Community of Madrid in 2013, an award that reaffirmed my commitment to quality cuisine.

A dish that represents me

If I had to choose a dish that represents me, it would be a pasta dish made with emblematic ingredients from my region: ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and high-quality pasta. It's a simple recipe, but it perfectly reflects my approach to cooking: respect for the ingredients, authenticity, and the ability to transform a few excellent ingredients into a memorable experience.

Discover my kitchen at Terra Ter

My passion for authentic Mediterranean cuisine is reflected in every dish I prepare. I invite you to experience it however you prefer:

If you want to enjoy my dishes at home, you can conveniently receive them at home in L'Escala or pick them up to take away.

For your special events, we offer a personalized Italian catering service that brings authentic Mediterranean cuisine to celebrations, businesses, and family gatherings.

If you are passionate about Italian cuisine and want to learn directly with me, we invite you to participate in our Italian cooking masterclasses where we share techniques, traditional recipes and the secrets of culinary craftsmanship.

And if you want to bring the Italian products we use every day into your kitchen, discover our Italian pantry with ingredients selected directly from Italy.

My door is open to share with you this passion for authentic Italian cuisine. If you happen to be in L'Escala, I invite you to visit Terra Ter and feel right at home, just as I felt when I first arrived.

Francesco Bellantuono

Chef of Terra Ter