What were your favorite foods growing up?
Growing up, my mother's cooking was my favorite. It did not matter what it was she cooked— I always enjoyed it. She used just the right amount of spices and ingredients to make us the best meals.

Where and when did your career in food begin?
My career began in New York City in the year 1978.

When did you decide you wanted to open a restaurant?
In 1999, I decided that I wanted to share high quality Italian cuisine with the people of New York City.

What is the concept behind your restaurant?
The concept behind Sapori D'Ischia is to provide high quality imported gourmet Italian food.

If you didn't own a restaurant, what would you be doing?
I would still be in the food industry, probably doing food inquires.

What is your favorite secret ingredient?
My favorite secret ingredient is extra virgin olive oil.

If I'm trying to watch my weight and I'm eating at your restaurant, what am I ordering to eat?
You would order insalata cruda, which is a raw salad with vegetables and a light olive oil.

What is your least favorite food?
My least favorite food is cilantro.

What is your beverage of choice?
This would have to be any local wine made from my region in Italy.

What was the most spectacular meal you have ever had?
The most spectacular meal I ever ate was in a small village in Italy. It was grilled fish with lemon juices. It was a simple dish, but was prepared and made wonderfully.

What was your worst restaurant disaster?
My worst restaurant disaster was and it still occurs today when I am brought a check before I have requested it.

What is the one rule or value you try to instill in all of your staff?
I instill in my staff to be consistent and to deliver the same high standard customer service to everyone that comes in.