Chef Constantine "Dino" Kolitsas Takes the Helm of The Silo Cooking School

Big changes are happening in Litchfield County, and for those of us who live and breathe food, this announcement tastes like destiny. Chef Constantine "Dino" Kolitsas, the visionary owner behind the award-winning Greca Mediterranean Kitchen + Bar, has officially been named the new Director of The Silo Cooking School. Yes, that Silo Cooking School—Connecticut’s first-ever recreational cooking school and a place so steeped in culinary history that it practically invented the modern food world as we know it.

Chef Dino’s appointment marks a new chapter in the storied legacy of this iconic institution. And he’s stepping into the role with the kind of passion and respect that would make legends like Julia Child and Jacques Pépin proud. Over a conversation with Alessandro Piovezahn, President of Hunt Hill Farm Trust Inc.—the UN Accredited NGO that owns The Silo Cooking School—Chef Dino admitted to being “thrilled to accept the challenge and responsibility to take on the control of such an iconic institution.” For a chef who has already left his mark with Greca’s Mediterranean excellence, the opportunity to lead The Silo Cooking School is both a privilege and a calling.

“I’m thrilled and honored to take the helm of The Silo Cooking School, a beacon of culinary excellence,” Chef Dino said. And make no mistake—he’s stepping into some big shoes. The Silo isn’t just another cooking school. It’s the soil where food legends planted their roots. Before the Food Network was even a concept, before cable TV came knocking, culinary pioneers like Julia Child, Martha Stewart, and Jacques Pépin came to The Silo. They taught classes, recorded videos, and filled the air with their love for food, music, art, and nature. The Silo is not just a venue; it’s hallowed ground, a culinary cathedral where passion meets tradition.

Alessandro Piovezahn, President of Hunt Hill Farm Trust, couldn’t be more enthusiastic. “It took us a long time to find the perfect individual to direct The Silo Cooking School,” he explained. “This is such an iconic and exquisite place that requires someone capable of understanding all the nuances and details of its rich legacy and be able to maintain the same levels of excellence practiced and offered by Ruth Henderson. We also needed someone who could elevate us to an even higher level of excellence, and I’m certain Chef Dino is this person.”

That’s not praise thrown around lightly. Ruth Henderson—the powerhouse behind Hunt Hill Farm and the driving force behind The Silo’s culinary mission—built the school not just as a place to learn but as a sanctuary for the curious and the hungry. For Chef Dino, carrying that legacy is nothing short of an honor.

Daniele Piovezahn, Director of Legacy Preservation for Hunt Hill Farm, shared her thoughts on what makes Chef Dino the right leader for this unique place. “It is very gratifying to see the way Chef Dino dedicates his time to learn and understand our history and Ruth Henderson’s passion for the cooking school and Hunt Hill Farm. It took us a long time to find the right person with the right soul and energy to join our family. As the Director of Legacy, it brings me joy to work beside Chef Dino.”

The excitement at Hunt Hill Farm is palpable, and with good reason. Bringing Chef Dino into the fold isn’t just about adding another name to the roster—it’s about ensuring that The Silo remains a sanctuary of creativity, community, and, of course, outstanding food. Chef Dino’s expertise in Mediterranean cuisine and his keen ability to infuse tradition with innovation make him the perfect captain for this ship of culinary dreams.

For the students, visitors, and food enthusiasts lucky enough to step inside The Silo Cooking School, this new chapter isn’t just about the past—it’s a celebration of the future. Under Chef Dino’s leadership, classes and programs will honor the rich traditions of the past while inspiring the next wave of culinary pioneers.

Welcome to The Silo, Chef Dino. It’s more than just your next project—it’s home. And for all of us who gather around the table to share stories, break bread, and savor life, we can’t wait to see how you’ll carry The Silo forward, one dish at a time.