_____________________________________________________________________________________ Scott Harris Hospitality
“ Before becoming the owner and operator of Scott Harris , Scott was a chef with a wealth of experience in Italian cuisine . The company ’ s journey began in 1992 , when Scott opened our first restaurant , Mia Francesca , in Wrigleyville , Chicago . Since then , Scott Harris has expanded substantially into a multitude of unique concepts . As the group ’ s COO , I work collaboratively with Scott to continue on that growth trajectory . Despite the importance of my responsibilities as COO , I remain a chef by trade and feel most comfortable when working in the kitchen . As a result , my role extends beyond its initial scope . Nonetheless , by growing in the industry , particularly within a group that was created by a chef , owner and operator , I believe Scott and I align closely on our operational approach and discernment of priorities ,” he begins .
Culinary concepts
Over the past 32 years , Scott Harris has experienced significant growth , extending well beyond its initial establishment of Mia Francesca . “ Though we previously owned a taco and tequila bar that was recently sold to an investment group , with Scott still maintaining partial ownership , Italian cuisine remains the backbone of our group .
Our original restaurant , Mia Francesca , was a Roman Trattoria specializing in accessible Roman cuisine . Meanwhile , Davanti Enoteca offers a more rustic Italian wine bar experience , serving food inspired by small farm and fishing towns in Italy .
More recently , we have introduced Vinny ’ s Clam Bar , a fun concept I like to call ‘ East Coast Italian ’ as it embodies the flavors of New York and New Jersey through an emphasis on seafood and red sauces . Vinny ’ s Clam Bar has already become
The Old School Way
It all began when a baker named Mike met a chef named Scott back in the day when bakeries and restaurants were the hubs of a neighborhood . Mike Florio , of Casa Nostra Bakery , and Scott Harris , of Scott Harris Hospitality , both excel at many things .
They are unequivocally unique and have established their companies on the foundation of authenticity . Both companies reflect a deeprooted connection to their heritage . Casa Nostra Bakery ’ s family bread recipe dates back to 1950 in Bari , Italy . Scott Harris Hospitality ’ s quality ingredients and thoughtful service has ensured an impeccable dining experience since 1992 .
Decades have passed , yet the aroma of freshly baked bread and the taste of exquisite dishes remain unchanged , much like Mike and Scott themselves , unwavering in their commitment to tradition and excellence .
SERVING CHICAGO ’ S FINEST SINCE 1976
CASANOSTRABAKERY . COM
3140 N Mannheim Road , Franklin Park , IL 60131 Joseph Florio ( 847 ) 451-9481 michelebaking @ gmail . com foodchainmagazine . com 43