Describe yourself in 3 words…
Create a community about family and friends, creative, nurturing.
How have your children inspired you in your career?
My mom inspired me to realize that I wanted to create an environment for others, and so I, as a mother, wanted to create a space for our family and friends to come together.
How did you decide to open Tutto il Giorno?
Tutto il Giorno was born of a love story. While I was on a decor assignment in southern Italy, I met my husband Gianpaolo. We fell in love, married, and settled in my hometown New York City, and the Hamptons. Gianpaolo loved Sag Harbor, which reminded him of his fishing village back home, and all that was missing was his mother's home-style Italian cooking. So while biking one day with his good friend David Mayer, they imagined a Hamptons restaurant that served Nona Carolina's fresh food under the open sky. They vowed to make this dream happen, and in 2007 we opened our first location.
The restaurant business can be very difficult, however you seem to have a lot of success with your spaces. What is your secret recipe for success?
We wanted to create an environment that is chic and intimate. A space that married art with culture. It's secret sauce is it's great staff and their passion for the restaurant. In every great business, the people that support you, are the ones that make your dreams come true.
Pay it forward and name a few of the other favorite restaurants you typically go to with your family.
Same restaurants we have been going for years: Bar Pitti, Indochine, and the kids love Nobu.
What is your favorite family vacation to date?
Our favorite vacations are our holidays in Turks and Caicos, our second home. Spending our days on long walks, swimming, biking, boating, and cooking with our family and friends.
What are your favorite activities to do with your children in the Hamptons?
Both my children are so different, so we share with them different special moments. For Stefania, I love hanging at the barn with her watching her ride, and watching her with her friends. With Sebastian, I love hanging at home and cooking. He makes the best desserts, and always makes us laugh.
What values do you hope to instill in your children?
Compassion, caring, and giving. As my mom taught me, it's not about the "me" but about the "we."
Where can our readers learn more about your restaurant?
We have locations in Southhampton, Sag Harbor, and in Tribeca. You can learn more about our restaurants on our website and follow us on Instagram.