Daniel Migliaccio
Head Chef, Studio Amaro
With a career spanning over two decades, Daniel Migliaccio has established himself as a dynamic force in Melbourne’s hospitality scene. As the Head Chef of Windsor day-to-night Italo eatery and bar, Studio Amaro, he brings an energetic, no-nonsense approach to the kitchen, driven by his deep-rooted love for nostalgic Italian flavours and a commitment to excellence.
Born and raised in Hampton Park and Dandenong, Melbourne, Migliaccio’s passion for food was sparked at a young age, cooking alongside his Italian-born mother and nonna. He found his calling in the kitchen at just 13, drawn to the fast-paced, hands-on nature of professional cooking. Since then, he has honed his craft in some of Melbourne’s most respected venues, including Grossi Florentino, Mister Bianco, Feast of Merit, and Hanoi Hannah, before stepping into his current leadership role at Studio Amaro in 2023.
Migliaccio’s culinary style is laid-back yet refined, celebrating his Italian heritage with simple, nostalgic dishes. He specialises in small plates, pastas, braises, and pastries, with signature dishes like his namesake, Migliaccio Cake – a traditional cheesecake-type Neapolitan cake made with semolina, lemon and ricotta, and baked and Pastiera Napoletana, Italian Easter pie showcasing his love for tradition.
Known for his big energy and team-first mentality, Migliaccio thrives on the camaraderie of the kitchen, pushing himself and his team to deliver excellence every day. His hospitality heroes include Karen Martini, Gennaro Contaldo, and Matt Lindsey, among others who have shaped his journey.
Outside of the kitchen, Migliaccio is a dedicated father and enjoys aquascaping, a hobby that helps to get away from the hustle and bustle of hospitality. His love for bold flavours extends to his drink choices, favouring Negronis, amaros, and big pinot noirs.
At Studio Amaro, Migliaccio continues to evolve and refine his craft, bringing a passionate, no-compromise approach to one of Melbourne’s most exciting dining destinations.
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Notes to editors:
About Studio Amaro
168 Chapel Street, Windsor, VIC 3181
Located on Chapel Street’s Windsor end. Studio Amaro is a day-to-night Italian-inspired restaurant and basement bar from Commune Group (Firebird, Moonhouse, New Quarter, Hanoi Hannah, Tokyo Tina). The multi-faceted venue, also Commune’s largest to date, champions the forgotten drink of Amaro, boasting an extensive list of the bittersweet liqueur remixed to ignite an Italian affair, served alongside a feast of Italian-style sharing dishes.Offering a menu of snacks, antipasti, pastas, and dishes from the woodfired grill. With a strong music focus, every Thursday to Saturday night, the underground DJ booth vibrates with the rhythmic beats of disco and soul, soundtracked by a rotating lineup of DJs selecting tunes, whilst conversation, laughter and shots will continue to spill well into the night.
Google Drive media image gallery link: Here
Website: www.studioamaro.au
Instagram: @studio.amaro
For media enquiry, please contact:
Sarah Ryan | Reymond Communications
E: sarah@reymond.com.au | M: +61 (0) 402 528 893
Maddie Lurati | Reymond Communications
E: maddie@reymond.com.au | M: +61 (0) 466 594 407
