In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Vittorio Assaf, founder of the Serafina Group. Vittorio shares his journey from Italian stockbroker to celebrated restaurateur, recounting his early beginnings in 1986 with an investment from Andy Warhol, to the founding of the Serafina restaurants, a venture he conceived while lost at sea with his partner.
The conversation dives into the challenges of maintaining quality amidst expansion, the impact of the pandemic on the industry, and Vittorio’s advice on handling stress and ensuring efficiency. Vittorio also shares exciting new ventures, including international expansions and innovations in retail food products.
The episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about the hospitality industry.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:37 Meet Vittorio Assaf: Founder of Serafina Group
00:59 Vittorio's First Steps in Hospitality
03:04 From Stockbroker to Restaurateur
07:37 The Birth of Serafina
12:17 Navigating Early Challenges and Successes
22:16 Handling Restaurant Stress and Team Management
27:14 Expansion and the Second Location
35:45 The Hype of a Crazy Place
36:26 Expanding the Restaurant Empire
36:58 Maintaining Quality and Standards
38:02 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
39:51 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry
40:58 International Ventures and New Projects
44:02 Impact of the Pandemic on Business
46:11 Rising Costs and Economic Pressures
54:04 Technological Innovations in Restaurants
01:04:04 Final Thoughts and Advice
