La Piazzetta Ristorante’s General Manager
HOW DID YOUR STORY AT LA PIAZZETTA BEGIN?
My story began in 1999 via an exchange between the Hotel Cipriani in Venice and Casa de Campo; for me, coming to Casa de Campo and the Dominican Republic was a great adventure, I fell so much in love that I stayed and started my family, it has been now been 21 years.
The best thing about this company is that we are constantly evolving and I am proud and honored to continue to be part of the Casa de Campo family; which has given me the opportunity to grow and live my passion, first beginning as a Chef in the restaurant El Pescador (which today is the Minitas Beach Club & Restaurant), and then as a Chef at La Piazzetta, where I am currently Manager of the restaurant.
YOU HAVE BEEN AT CASA FOR MANY YEARS, ANY MEMORABLE MEMORIES OR SITUATIONS TO SHARE?
I have had the opportunity to meet people who have left a profound mark on me, such as Mr. Sirio Maccioni, who gave me the opportunity to manage his Le Cirque brand during the time Casa de Campo had a partnership to operate the beach restaurant. It really offered a tremendous professional growth. Another great experience I will never forget, was cooking at his villa for 5 days for the great master Luciano Pavarotti, during his holiday here at Casa de Campo. This part has been very important, since every day in Casa de Campo we find people who mark your life for one reason or another.
WHAT IS THE MOST SATISFYING THING ABOUT YOUR ROLE AS MANAGER OF LA PIAZZETTA?
Currently as manager of La Piazzetta, I feel I am an ambassador of Italian culinary traditions, along with our fantastic chefs we provide customers with classic seasonal regional cuisine in a cozy and friendly atmosphere for families, friends or couples, with high standards of service and attention to detail.
WHAT MAKES LA PIAZZETTA SUCH A SPECIAL PLACE IN YOUR OPINION?
The general setting of Altos de Chavon, reminiscent of a medieval Mediterranean village, its decoration and atmosphere, as well as the different settings it boasts make it the perfect place for a romantic dinner, or a night with friends or family. Its complete and varied menu offers a selection of Italian classics, as well as Italian-inspired signature dishes, including a wide variety of fresh, handmade pastas prepared by our staff. All this is complemented by the service and sense of family provided by all employees of La Piazzetta.
OF ALL THE CHANGES YOU HAVE WITNESSED AS FAR AS THE GASTRONOMY OF CASA DE CAMPO, WHICH HAVE IMPACTED YOU THE MOST?
Over time gastronomy has evolved, and equally the needs and expectations of our customers. I remember that when I arrived the culinary offer was classic international cuisine with a fusion between Creole and French, then began the period of Mediterranean cuisine. Today Casa de Campo has evolved according to the trend of world gastronomy and at the moment with the great work that our chefs are doing we remain as leaders in culinary experiences and quality of service. Our next challenge, considering the great change that gastronomy will bring because of the current pandemic, will offer the same high quality as always with an efficient service that meets new standards and assures our customers welfare while they enjoy time with their family and friends.
