Introduction
Piero Selvaggio is not a household name, but he is a legend in the world of fine dining in Los Angeles. His innovative and diverse approach to Italian cuisine has made him an icon among restaurateurs and chefs alike. In this blog post, we will explore Selvaggio’s journey from Italy to LA, the success and growth of his iconic restaurant Valentino, and his contribution to LA’s culinary scene.
His Early Life
Selvaggio was born and raised in Sicily, Italy. Growing up, he developed a love of food and cooking. After completing culinary school, he worked in some of the finest restaurants in Europe before moving to America in 1971.
The Beginnings of Valentino
In 1972, Selvaggio opened Valentino, his first restaurant in Santa Monica. The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for excellent food, wine, and service. Valentino was the first Italian restaurant in LA to offer a fine dining experience, complete with white tablecloths and sommeliers.
Valentino’s Cuisine
Selvaggio’s philosophy for Valentino was to focus on regional Italian cuisine and seasonal ingredients. He worked with local farmers and suppliers to source the freshest ingredients possible. He also introduced LA to dishes that were previously not available, like risotto and handmade pasta.
The Wine Program
Selvaggio’s love and knowledge of wine led him to create a wine program at Valentino that was unmatched. He hired one of the first female sommeliers in the country, made frequent trips to Italy to explore vineyards, and stocked only the best wines at Valentino.
The Expansion of Valentino
In the 1980s, Selvaggio expanded Valentino to other locations in LA, including Las Vegas and Orange County. He also opened other restaurants, like Primi in West LA, which focused on casual Italian cuisine.
Selvaggio’s Influence on LA’s Culinary Scene
Selvaggio’s impact on LA’s culinary scene is immeasurable. He introduced LA to regional Italian cuisine, elevated the wine experience, and helped cultivate a dining culture that valued quality and innovation.
Selvaggio’s Awards and Recognitions
Selvaggio’s contributions to the restaurant industry have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards, including the James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Restaurateur Award and the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award from Fine Dining Magazine.
Selvaggio’s Legacy
After more than four decades in the restaurant business, Selvaggio’s legacy lives on through Valentino and other restaurants that he helped create. His impact on LA’s culinary scene will continue to be felt for many years to come.
Conclusion
Piero Selvaggio is a culinary icon whose impact on LA’s fine dining scene is unmistakable. His dedication to regional Italian cuisine, innovative approach to wine, and commitment to quality and innovation have left an indelible mark on LA’s restaurant industry.
FAQs
Q1. When did Piero Selvaggio open Valentino?
A1. Selvaggio opened Valentino in 1972 in Santa Monica.
Q2. What was Selvaggio’s philosophy for Valentino?
A2. Selvaggio focused on regional Italian cuisine and seasonal ingredients.
Q3. What was Selvaggio’s contribution to LA’s culinary scene?
A3. Selvaggio introduced LA to regional Italian cuisine, elevated the wine experience, and helped cultivate a dining culture that valued quality and innovation.
Q4. What awards has Selvaggio received?
A4. Selvaggio has received numerous awards, including the James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Restaurateur Award and the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award from Fine Dining Magazine.
Q5. What is Selvaggio’s legacy?
A5. Selvaggio’s legacy lives on through Valentino and other restaurants that he helped create. His impact on LA’s culinary scene will continue to be felt for many years to come.