il Centro Alimentari/Catering
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Introduction: Chef Darren Atkins was born in Australia, moved to New York City in 1991 where he pursued a career in the fashion and entertainment business as a model agent.
There, after working with Italian clients he developed an interest in Italian culture and food, his love for Italian food grew.
In 2000 he attended culinary school at the famed International New York based Culinary Center ( formerly French Culinary Institute) such alums include Bobby Flay, David Chang and Dan Barber.
After graduating in 2001, he followed his passion for Italian food and culture and went to work for celebrated Italian chef Cesare Casella at several of his acclaimed restaurants include Beppe, Maremma and Salumeria Rosi.
Later he worked for Michelin Star Italian Chef Fortunato Nicotra and restaurateurs Lidia and Joe Bastianich at Felidia. He then continued his journey to work with Food and Wine’s Best Chef Jim Burke at Storico, owned by the Starr Restaurant group.
Chef Darren recently moved to NC in 2014 , where he now resides in Burlington with his wife Jan and dog Bacon .
Darren is the Chef/Owner of
il Centro Alimentari-a specialty food store-offering salumi,artisanal cheeses, panini, prepared foods, fresh pasta and catering. il Centro Alimentari is proud to source from local farmers in North Carolina.
He continues to be inspired by Italian cuisine through his travels and study and passionate to continue his culinary journey.
Overview
3 employees
7 years in business
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, and Credit card.
Featured Projects
75 photos
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Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
9 reviews
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Nancy e.
Feb 8, 2020
Darren is a dream to work with! He has provided super delicious meals - including scrumptious desserts - for our client breakfasts and lunches. Several requests have been very last minute and Darren still delivers yummy menus choices on time and with a warm smile and true professionalism.
Cynthia H.
Feb 8, 2020
Darren at il Centro is a creative genius! His love of the art of food shows from the design of the menu to the execution in the kitchen. The presentation and flavors are like no other!! From catering to private chef events, enjoy, savor his love of food!!
Rebecca P.
Feb 8, 2020
Darren & his team have been great to work with. We had Darren prepare our Thanksgiving & Christmas meals for the last two years. Every dish was outstanding!! We have also picked up meals from his store, hangar steak, chicken parmigiana & salmon. Always delicious!! We highly recommend Darren & will continue to call on him.
Kay & Andy
Heidi N.
Feb 10, 2020
Darren and his staff provide excellent unique dishes with an ease and professionalism that makes them so wonderful to work with.
Elizabeth H.
Feb 10, 2020
Il Centro is a great choice for a unique, standout event. We have used them for multi-course dinners and for cocktail parties. They are incredibly professional, leaving nothing for the host to worry about. The food is both delicious and BEAUTIFUL. I wish I had taken photos to show you. Do yourself a favor and call Chef Darren today!