Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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This is Chris Redgrave, the new voice for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
I walk into Valter's office, and he's on the phone speaking fluent Italian to a dear friend. I'm talking about Valter Nassi of the Italian restaurant Cucina Toscana.
His excitement for the restaurant business and life in general is nothing short of amazing. He comes by it naturally. His father was in the food business in Italy and would take Valter with him as he sold poultry, truffles and tasty cheeses. In fact, the whole family helped with the business.
To sit with Valter and listen as he talked about his lifelong devotion to the art of preparing food was an experience I won't forget anytime soon. He talks to his mother, Enrichetta, who is still enjoying life at the age of 90, every day. She resides in his home town of El Sansorvino, Italy. He claims she is the reason for his food passion and the attention he gives to preparing some of Salt Lake City's best Italian food.
He explained how family conversation at the dinner table is critical to children's development. The food is the center and while it's important, the feedback and life lessons the kids receive are the treasure they in turn give to the world.
Valter is another great example of what's right with Utah. Not only is he a successful business leader, but he always talks about how fantastic Utah is. He's done so as long as I've known him. He feels much of Cucina Toscana's success comes from his wife, Phyllis, whom he met in Nairobi and fell instantly and madly in love with. He is still in love with her and their son, Enrico.
Cucina Toscana has the feeling of a classic Italian restaurant in Manhattan. Anything pasta is what Valter does best. In addition, his desserts are a must. You have to try the hot, liquid chocolate he prepares, a favorite from his past. Seriously, I have never had a bad meal there. He even remembers everyone and greets his guests like they're royalty.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
