EXECUTIVE CHEF PROFILE
Award-winning, executive chef, specializing in authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, including operations, scheduling, staffing, inspection, sanitation, instruction, menu pricing, plating, presentation, as well as general management as needed.
RECENT EXPERIENCE
Executive Chef | Riva Steak & Seafood, Omaha NE 2017-Present
The Riva Steak & Seafood Restaurant is an integral part of Ameristar’s Pinnacle Entertainment Casino Hotel in Council Bluffs, IA. Duties include daily kitchen operations, menu development, inventory, quality assurance, and interaction with the customers.
Executive Chef | Enoteca Rossa, Houston , TX 2016 – 2017
Executive Chef for an upscale Italian restaurant in the high-profile Bellaire community, responsibilities include menu update and daily specials.
Chef de Cuisine | Pechanga Resort & Casino – Temecula, CA 2014 – 2016
Head Chef of the popular Paisano’s Italian Restaurant at Pechange Resort & Casino, including specialization in authentic seafood and sauce pairings, as well as traditional arancini de riso, lobster ravioli, and a wide variety of pizzas.
Chef, Manager | Il Fornaio – Las Vegas , NV & Sacramento, CA 2006 – 2014
Supervise kitchen operations, ordering, staffing, scheduling, and other related tasks for national chain.
Executive Chef Mauricio Mazzon, at the Venetian Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, and later at the Wells Fargo Center, Sacramento, CA.
EDUCATION
Culinary School of Vibo Valentia, Italy (1987)
Culinary Arts Diploma
CERTIFICATIONS
Food Handler Manager Certification Nov 2016 – Nov 2022
AWARDS
Top Chef Sacramento Competition Winner (2014)
Winner of local Top Chef competition, representing Il Fornaio. Best Italian Restaurant, La Jolla California (2005) Head Chef of Sante Restaurant, La Jolla, CA – awarded best Italian restaurant in 2005.
FEATURES
Featured Interview – SoCal Restaurant Show (Podcast) Featured guest on the SoCal Restaurant Show, Episode 161, Feb. 27, 2016: Chef Bruno Amato, Paisano’s Italian Restaurant, Pechanga Resort & Casino.