Celebrity chef Monica Galetti – chiefly known to TV audiences as one of the judges on Masterchef: The Professionals and Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby – is returning to her birthplace and roots in Samoa later this month as a guest of The Samoa Tourism Authority (STA).
Ms Galetti is an Ambassador for the Samoa Tourism Authority, and the STA said her visit highlights her enduring connection to the islands and aims to boost Samoa’s global profile as a must-visit destination.
Born in Samoa and raised in New Zealand, Ms Galetti’s deep-rooted passion for food, influenced by her Samoan heritage, has propelled her to a distinguished career on the global culinary stage. After earning a Diploma in Hospitality from the Central Institute of Technology in New Zealand, she competed in renowned cooking competitions across New Zealand, Australia, and Europe, rapidly gaining recognition for her exceptional talent.
Ms Galetti’s career took a pivotal turn in the late 1990s when she moved to London to join the iconic Le Gavroche restaurant. Starting as first commis, she quickly ascended to the role of sous chef, becoming the first woman to hold such a prominent position at this 2 Michelin starred restaurant.
In 2005, she and her husband David Galetti, former Head Sommelier at Le Gavroche, took their expertise to Mauritius to lead Le Gavroche des Tropiques. Returning to London in 2017, Monica launched her own restaurant, Mere, named after her late mother in collaboration with her husband,David Galetti. Mere closed its doors in 2024, but the couple is already planning an exciting new culinary venture for 2025.
Toleafoa Pativaine Petaia-Tevita, CEO of the Samoa Tourism Authority, said: “We are excited to welcome Galetti, both as an ambassador for Samoa Tourism Authority and a daughter of Samoa. Her international acclaim and deep connection to her heritage make her the perfect advocate to showcase the beauty and culture of our islands. We are confident that her visit will inspire more visitors from the UK, Europe, and beyond to experience all that Samoa has to offer.”
STA said in a statement: “Monica Galetti’s homecoming is more than a personal journey, it is an opportunity to spotlight Samoa on the world stage. The Samoa Tourism Authority warmly invites travellers to discover the enchanting landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant hospitality of Samoa, as celebrated through the eyes of one of its most renowned daughters.“
