The MICHELIN Guide honours a visionary chef whose Roman roots and global experience shape a distinctive,
authentic and constantly evolving cuisine.
Rome – In the heart of Rome, there is a place where every dish tells a story of roots, memories and travel. That place is INEO. Two years after opening, the fine dining restaurant at Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel, led by Chef Heros De Agostinis, has been awarded its first MICHELIN Star.
Born and raised in Esquilino, one of Rome’s most historic and diverse districts, De Agostinis was inspired by its melting pot of cultures to explore the world. With INEO, located in his home neighborhood, he has now returned to his roots, channeling the spirit of Esquilino into his cuisine. At this historic crossroads of people, goods and traditions from around the globe, a border cuisine has taken root, blending European techniques with global ingredients into an unmistakably Roman identity. Shaped by years abroad, his richly layered heritage now finds expression in the distinctive fine dining vision of INEO.
“I would like to thank the MICHELIN Guide for this extraordinary recognition. It is a great honour,” says Heros De Agostinis. “I dedicate this star to my team, my family, my partner Wassiliki and to this neighbourhood that inspired me to look beyond our borders. We will continue to work with even more humility, determination and the passion that has always guided us.”
Among the signature dishes that embody the philosophy of De Agostinis is maccheroncini al ferretto, rustic hollow pasta cooked in Madeira sauce and enriched with Eritrean-style beef ragout and 24-month Parmigiano Reggiano. The recipe bridges memory and mastery, symbolically uniting the two worlds most meaningful to the chef: Eritrea and Italy.
The MICHELIN Star also recognises the work of a cohesive and talented team of 35, including the pastry programme led by Daniele De Santi, the dining room managed by restaurant manager Damiano Verdone, and a wine cellar of over 900 labels curated by sommelier Federico Spagnolo.
“For INEO, this star is not a destination but the beginning of a new chapter,” says Francesco Mennella, General Manager of Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel. “It confirms that a cuisine built on authenticity, impeccable technique and a strong identity can speak to the world with clarity and emotion. A light that now shines even brighter on Rome, and on Esquilino.”
