04/18/2026
It’s 3pm, I’m finishing tonight’s dinner prepping and I came across these beautiful pictures of my friend and Mentor, Chef Damien DiPaola, from Carmelina’s North End in Boston.
Damien just celebrated his birthday this Tuesday, April 14th.
I was 18 years old when I began working for Damien at Mezza Luna and Carmelina’s.
Time flies, but these photos capture precious moments of our life and times together.
The culinary field is indescribable, especially when working in a commercial restaurant setting. It demands every part of your overall being.
But there is solace in the camaraderie between you and your colleagues. Especially when one of them is a dear friend.
Every Chef’s dream is to one day own their own restaurant. It’s very rare to find someone who is a willing teacher and patient mentor, knowing how and when to bring out the best in you. And I was privileged enough to learn from the best!
Some say “Happy Birthday”, but I think it’s fitting to say “Happy Birthday Weekend” to Damien!
Cheers to Damien and our friendship!
Please share your birthday wishes and favorite moments in the comments below.
Buon compleanno Damiano! 🥂
Chef Martin
