By: Toshita Sahni
Image Credit: Instagram/valentinoluchin
A renowned chef in San Francisco, Valentino Luchin, was recently arrested after allegedly robbing 3 banks in a single day.
Image Credit: Instagram/valentinoluchin
On September 10, 2025, Luchin allegedly hit three banks in SF's Central District using similar methods.
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He reportedly handed notes demanding cash to tellers, who complied out of fear. The first robbery took place around noon on Grant Avenue.
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Luchin, 62, was arrested the same day. He is facing charges including robbery and attempted robbery.
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Luchin was the former executive chef at the famous Italian restaurant Rose Pistola. He owned Ottavio in Walnut Creek (which closed in 2016).
Image Credit: Instagram/valentinoluchin
In 2018, Luchin was arrested for robbing a bank in Orinda. He pleaded no contest. He was sentenced to one year in jail and three years of probation.
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After Ottavio shut, Luchin reportedly fell into debt. He claimed that financial problems and desperation drove his actions.
Image Credit: Instagram/valentinoluchin
A preliminary hearing is set for September 24. Meanwhile, Chef Valentino Luchin remains in police custody awaiting trial.
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