XS Orlando
Francesco Abbinanti's passion for food and beverage began at a very young age, where he grew up in Altavilla Milicia, a small suburb of Palermo, Sicily. He has trained with many European chefs, adopting their cooking philosophies and techniques.
His experiences range from small cafes in Chicago, to major hotel operations such as Sheraton International, Hilton Corporation, Dobbs International Services, and the Walt Disney World Corporation.
Francesco has won many culinary Salon Awards, including Tennessee Hot Food Champion; gold medal and Best of Show in Virginia's Culinary Salons; gold medal in North Carolina and Fort Meyers, Florida; and Hot Food Champion in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
He is a certified Executive Chef, an American Culinary Federation Approved Culinary Judge and a member of many culinary organizations.
Francesco has spent the past ten years working in various restaurants and opening new restaurants at Walt Disney World, including Animal Kingdom. While living in Venice, Italy, has developed menus and the food and beverage practices for the Disney Wonder cruise ship.
"XS is a high-energy, high-quality restaurant and entertainment venue that's spared no cost on our state-of-the art equipment and dynamic furnishings. But we recognize our employees as our most valuable asset, focusing on giving them the necessary tools and training to succeed," said Francesco.
Francesco is also the Chief Operating Officer for Pacino's Inc., Key W. Kools restaurants.