Ivan Calista: The Heart and Soul of "Come Prima"

Much more than just a chef, Ivan (or Ivano to his friends) Calista is a guardian of traditions, a tireless innovator, and a warm-hearted host.

As head chef and owner of the trattoria Come Prima in Ivoz-Ramet (Flémalle), he single-handedly embodies the very essence of authentic Italian cuisine. Born in Pescara in the Abruzzo region and having moved to Belgium at a very young age, Italy is not merely a distant place of origin for him: it is a philosophy of life, sharing, and hospitality.

The Guardian of Traditions

Ivano’s passion for food took root in the kitchens of the restaurant Chez Mimi, run by his mother Miriana in the 1980s. It was working alongside her that he discovered “cucina della nonna”—the home cooking of mothers and grandmothers, where no time is spared and every recipe has a soul. From that time, he has retained a deep commitment to quality and a profound respect for raw ingredients. It was also his older brother Gianluca who, as early as the 1980s, sparked his passion for the restaurant business and later instilled in him an unconditional love for great French and Italian wines.

A Traveler in Search of Excellence

Nicknamed “Ivan des Polpette,” the chef has built his culinary identity on the road. An entrepreneur at heart and a true fighter, he regularly embarks on journeys across Italy—from the peaks of the Dolomites, with which he fell in love, to the hills of Tuscany, passing through his native Abruzzo. With every return, he brings back in his suitcases new secrets, rare cheeses, prized olive oils, and unique flavors. Curious about everything, his love for ingredients now drives him to push the boundaries of his cuisine by incorporating the treasures of the Mediterranean and Crete.

The “Come Prima” Experience

Far from formulaic Italian cuisine, Ivano conceived Come Prima as a celebration of the authentic Italy, brilliantly blending tradition and innovation. Slow cooking, wood-fired ovens, hearty mountain recipes, and meticulously crafted food-and-wine pairings: he offers a unique culinary experience, designed for food connoisseurs.

Since 2020, he has been supported by Jessica, who brightens up the dining room with her organizational skills and warm smile. This partnership allows Ivan to focus on what he does best: creating, dreaming, and delighting his guests.

With a 98% customer satisfaction rate, Ivan Calista has established himself as a symbol of excellence and transalpine hospitality. At Come Prima, every meal is a discovery, and every guest who walks through the door quickly becomes a friend.

Trust Ivan; sit back, relax—you’re about to have an exceptional experience.