Chef Sascia Marchesi returns from Hawaii to rejoin Nicola at Shops at Legacy in Plano

by PegNews wire

Happy to have him back but also wondering if he should have his head examined.

PLANO — After taking a break from Texas to work on the Big Island of Hawaii, Executive Chef Sascia Marchesi has returned to Plano to helm Nicola's Ristorante Italiano in The Shops at Legacy. In addition to bringing his Italian charm back to the states, Sascia has returned with his well-known passion for culinary excellence evidenced in new menu items such as his legendary Saturday night special, the 16-ounce bone-in veal chop. In addition to overseeing the Plano location, Chef Marchesi will also be instrumental in determining the menu and flavor profiles for the new Nicola's location at Preston Commons, which is scheduled to open in October 2009.

"We are thrilled to have Sascia back in Texas and back at Nicola's where he belongs," said Richard Gussoni, owner and developer of Nicola's. "His talent and creativity are boundless, and we look forward to a continued partnership with him both at our Plano and Dallas locations."

Chef Marchesi was born in Bergamo, Italy, and began his career at the age of 14 working in his family's Michelin-rated two star restaurant. He fine-tuned his culinary skills under the tutelage of his mother in the kitchen and went on to work at locations such Alfredo's of Rome at EPCOT Center, Walt Disney World, Florida and Donatoni's in the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island of Hawaii. No stranger to the spotlight, Sascia's great smile and charming personality have made him a popular guest on local television cooking shows and culinary programs.

"The past few years have taken me around the globe," said Marchesi. "But no matter where I was, I had great memories of Texas. I'm thrilled to be back and look forward to making more great food and great memories here."

Source: Nicola's