Meet Alfredo Orza

 

     Alfredo Orza, born in Sarno, a little town that takes the name from the river gorge. The river Sarno, which is the life of the very famous San Marzano tomatoes, goes on feeding many cities including the great Pompei. This is the river where Alfredo had many “Tom Sawyer” type adventures...all full of fun.

In 1963 he went to England to study law, on his second year end term he went to visit his parents in Italy. There, he received a visit from the local Carabinieri, with his draft card (he forgot to prepare his remand papers). So, he went into the Italian Army. The draft made a very sharp turn in Alfredo’s life. After two years in the military, he went back to England, but this time not to study...but to make a life for himself.

     He started washing dishes at a friend’s hotel, and from there he moved up to Waiter, Manager, Club Manager, Overseas, Camp Manager. Alfredo worked for some of England’s elite companies in every aspect of management. And, eventually he opened his own restaurant, “La Capannina” in Luton, Bedfordshire, England. La Capannina was a very successful upscale restaurant with the best gourmet food and the very best wine list for miles around. “It was like leaving England and stepping into Italy” Everything he did was very Italian, relaxed and no rush, from soup to nuts.

     In 1984 he came to the USA for a vacation and met Anna. Two months later, after arranging his finances in England, he came back to America to sweep Anna off her feet and married her. He invested in some property in New York State, and eventually opened a small restaurant with plans of expansion. Alfredo, Anna, and his daughter Daniela (who has graduated from the University of Florida) is now attending the University of St Augustine to pursue her doctorate degree in physical therapy. Gabriela (who wants to follow in her daddy’s footsteps and become a restaurant manager) is currently attending UCF to obtain a Bachelors degree in Business Administration and Hospitality. “Finally the restaurant of my dreams.” Where food is always freshly cooked, even though this may cause you to wait a little longer. Simply the best. Enjoy your evening, and Buon Appetito.