About
Welcome to La Cucina con Sofia — from my kitchen to yours
Food has always been at the heart of Sofia Gallo’s life. Born and raised in Cilento, a stunning UNESCO National Park in Southern Italy, she grew up surrounded by the vibrant flavours of authentic Italian cooking. Her nonna taught her the art of making fresh pasta—an act that became more than just cooking but a ritual of love and creativity.
Now based in Buckinghamshire with her family, Sofia channels her passion for Italian cookery into everything she creates. As an Italian food stylist, private chef, recipe developer, and content creator, she brings both artistry and expertise to the table.
"Styled with class"
Her journey has taken her from her family kitchen to becoming a multi-award-winning chef, notably reaching the quarterfinals of MasterChef UK 2021, where her signature dish earned her the iconic apron, and high praise from the judges. She also won the ICG Cooking Competition Award, impressing esteemed chefs with her use of fresh, seasonal ingredients—described by John Torode as “styled with class.”
Luxury food styling & brand collaborations
Sofia’s expertise in luxury food styling and bespoke recipe creation has led her to collaborate with brands such as Foodim, Riso Gallo, Cole & Mason, and Zyliss. Offering a full-service approach, she specialises in everything from bespoke recipe development and testing, to styling, imagery, and engaging content creation, ensuring each dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. A seasoned writer, she is also developing a book that celebrates the rich culture—and most importantly, the food—of her home region.
Beyond her professional career, Sofia is deeply committed to charity, volunteering her time and culinary expertise to support organisations that make a difference. For her, food is more than nourishment—it’s about bringing people together, celebrating culture, and sharing joy.
In recent years, she has proudly supported charities such as Toybox, which works to protect and support vulnerable children living on the streets around the world, and Willen Hospice in Milton Keynes, a much-loved local charity providing compassionate care for people with life-limiting illnesses and support for their families. Sofia is also passionate about supporting mental health charities, including Mind and Mind BLMK, which offer vital advice, services, and community support both nationally and locally.
Sofia regularly supports fundraising efforts—donating prizes for charity auctions, creating and selling beautifully crafted cakes, and running both online and in-person cookery classes to help raise much-needed funds for these important causes. It’s a meaningful way of giving back and reflects her belief in using her skills to champion charities that truly matter.
Whether teaching others to craft the perfect ravioli at an authentic Italian cookery class, hosting an intimate dining experience, or supporting a good cause, Sofia brings warmth, creativity and authenticity to everything she does.
