Originally from Russia, Yuri Drugov began his culinary journey in 2008, gaining experience in hotels including Radisson, where he mastered European and Japanese cuisine. In 2014, he discovered his passion for Italian gastronomy and dedicated himself entirely to it.

In 2016, he moved to Kazakhstan, working for eight years at a leading Italian restaurant. In 2024, invited by the Cucucina team, he visited Uzbekistan and immediately fell in love with the country.

Now based in Tashkent, Yuri continues to refine his style, drawing inspiration from local culture. For him, food is a form of self-expression, a dialogue with guests, and a way to tell stories through taste. He closely follows global culinary trends, is inspired by his peers, and is always open to new ideas.