The Faces Behind the Bites:
Exploring the Culinary Symphony of” Taste of Little Italy”
Little Italy, renowned for its eclectic and vibrant culinary scene, is a place where the pulse of diverse gastronomy beats with unmatched fervor. It’s not just the assortment of flavorful dishes or the aromatic brews that set the neighborhood apart—it’s the stories of passion, perseverance, and culinary innovation. As we gear up for the Taste of Little Italy on June 18th and 19th, let’s take a moment to appreciate the faces behind the delectable dishes and discover what makes this event a cornerstone of culinary exploration.
Audrey Hermes | Frost Me Bakery and Café
Audrey Hermes transformed her passion for pastry into the heart of Little Italy’s Piazza Della Famiglia with Frost Me Bakery and Café. Overcoming challenges with unwavering determination, Audrey’s victorious stint on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars propelled Frost Me from dream to reality, opening in 2018. Today, it stands as a community favorite where every bite of their pastries feels like a celebration.
Samuel Zien | Grazed By Sam
San Diego’s very own Sam “The Cooking Guy” Zien, turned his back on corporate life to chase his culinary dreams. Sam’s infectious enthusiasm for simple, approachable cooking has made him a household name. Grazed By Sam is his ode to shared plates and global flavors, a place where every dish tells a story of his gastronomic journeys and a testament to living the dream.
Joe & Jonathan Santos & Fabrizio Cavallini | Bencotto & Monello
Joe and Jonathan Santos, in partnership with Executive Chef Fabrizio Cavallini, have crafted a slice of Italy with Bencotto Italian Kitchen and Monello. This duo of restaurants stands as a testament to Italian culinary craftsmanship, where traditional recipes meet contemporary ingenuity. The spaces they’ve created are a love letter to Italian culture, where food is synonymous with family and shared joy.
Roberta Cotta, Rodolfo Fanelii & Sebastian O’Connor | Puerto La Bocca Restaurant
At Puerto La Bocca Restaurant, Roberta Cotta, Rodolfo Fanelii, and Sebastian O’Connor bridge the gap between Argentina and Italy, offering a menu that sings with the bold flavors and spirited essence of Argentinian cuisine. Their shared heritage and culinary prowess have put Argentinian steaks and Italian-inspired dishes on the map in Little Italy, creating a fusion experience that captivates and delights.
The Taste of Little Italy is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of culinary artistry, community, and the stories that weave through the fabric of this vibrant neighborhood. As you wander through the streets on June 18 and 19, savoring bites and sips from over 40 establishments, remember the faces and the passion that fuel Little Italy’s culinary fires. Each dish is a journey, each flavor a story, and every experience a memory in the making. Join us, as we taste our way through the heart and soul of Little Italy, one bite at a time.
