BIO
Born in Manila and raised in Toronto, Chef Marvin Palomo's passion for cooking began early and led him to George Brown College before taking him to kitchens across Hong Kong and Italy. He returned to Toronto to serve as Executive Chef at Vela, building a reputation for refined, ingredient-led cuisine.
In fall 2025, he opened Liliana on Queen Street West, his first solo project, where he weaves Italian culinary foundations together with subtle Asian influences, reflecting both his global training and the rich cultural diversity of his adopted city.
The restaurant takes its name from a mentor Marvin met during his time in Italy, a tribute to the hospitality and generosity that shaped his vision for what a restaurant could be.
