About Me
Who’s GP!?
Born into a family of restaurateurs, Gian Paolo has been running around restaurant floors quite literally his entire life. He was in his mother’s womb at 9 months as she interacted with guests in the Family’s restaurant. At the young age of 6, Gian Paolo found himself in his grandmother’s kitchen in Sicily, helping her make dinner for the whole family. At age 13, he officially joined the family business, starting as a dishwasher and then working his way to the restaurant floor where he quickly found his passion – connecting with other humans!
Over the years, Gian Paolo began to take restaurants more seriously, studying both the business side as well as the people side of the business. After graduating from San Diego State University with a degree in International Business, Gian Paolo started his corporate career with Canaletto in Newport Beach, part of the Il Fornaio group. In 2012, Gian Paolo realized another passion – Wine! He became a Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and began hosting guests both in the restaurant as well as in their homes for dinner parties, attempting to simplify the wine world and make it more fun & accessible for anyone sitting at his table.
In 2013, Gian Paolo decided to acquire an MBA, all while traveling the world. As part of his studies, he traveled to over 15 countries, including China, Dubai, Thailand, England, France, Spain, Germany & Italy. This journey enlightened Gian Paolo, showing him the true importance of deep human connection, and how it can be heightened while sharing food and beverage.
Gian Paolo came back to California to become General Manager of Restaurants for Eataly Los Angeles, introducing the famed Italian concept to the West Coast. During his time at Eataly, Gian Paolo was part of the opening team for ‘Terra’ rooftop restaurant in Boston as well as the Eataly Las Vegas location. After two years there, Gian Paolo was brought on as the Director of Operations for the legendary Antica Pizzeria Da Michele, as seen in Eat, Pray, Love introducing the famed Neapolitan pizza concept to the US, opening the Los Angeles, Santa Barbara & New York locations.
After his steady climb in Corporate America, Gian Paolo entered the realm of Wellness & Human Optimization, moving to Costa Rica to become a Yoga Instructor and Reiki Practitioner to ultimately connect deeper with himself & anyone he meets. During his time in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, Gian Paolo prepared many dinners for backpackers alike, further instilling the idea that dining together is one of the most ancient, intimate, beautiful, & carnal things we can do.
Gian Paolo’s passion for food and beverage can only be surpassed by his passion for radical hospitality and making people feel great. He is now living out his personal mission, to raise our frequency as a people, one interaction at a time! But don’t take our word for it, take a seat at Gian Paolo’s table, and let the good times roll!!!