Elio Locanda Italiana
Elio Orsara, born into a family known for good food and a warm welcome, he has been a chef almost his whole life. A fast learner, Elio Orsara studied and worked hard, and at age 15 joined the kitchen team of a top hotel in his native Calabria, Italy. Elio Orsara graduated two years later from culinary school and moved north, to Milano, as chef in a 5-star hotel. After mastering the arts of both Southern and Northern Italian cuisine, Elio was recruited by the famed London eatery Simeoni's as chef de parti.
In 1991, Daiei Group sought to develop a series of Italian restaurants in Japan and chose Elio to lead the effort. Success followed. For Elio, the work honed his skills as manager and fostered a love for Japan and its people. The inevitable decision to settle in Tokyo came paired with a new mission: to recreate his hometown experience, notably the Orsara family traditions in food, on his own terms.
An ideal site for Elio's restaurant near Hanzomon Station came available in 1996. Elio Locanda Italiana opened, word spread, and soon a reputation had solidified for authentic Southern Italian cuisine of a consistent standard, and for professional service. Three years later, the President of Italy, Oscar Luigi Scalfaro, presented Elio with a certificate acclaiming Japan's "Best Italian Restaurant."
Elio Ermanno Orsara was made a Cavaliere della Repubblica d'Italia on October 26, 2006.
Today, Elio is busy serving his guests, teaching Italian cuisine, and raising a family.
www.elio.co.jp