Franco Brattoli

Franco was born in Italy and specializes in Italian cuisine, but he also strives to broaden his cooking talents with other culinary influences. His passion for cooking began at a young age and continues every day as he pleases the palates of his patrons.

Chef Franco's first professional job was at La Baracca di Fabio in Milan, Italy, at the age of 14. He aslo worked at the Apollo 11 and Playboy, two of the finest bars in Milan. At the age of 24, he worked under Master Chef Bottini Bruno of the Pasticceria San Carlo which was rated the best pastry shop in Italy.

In 1973, Chef Franco served in the Italian Army as chef to the superior officers. During 1974-1987, Franco worked for an import/export company, but never forgot his first love of cooking. He moved to the United States in 1989 and worked at many fine restaurants, including Il Capriccio, La Strada, and Italianissimo, among others. For the past five years, he has been the Executive Chef at Columbia Inn in Montville New Jersey.

In order to broaden his culinary talents, Franco had challenged himself in a competitive arena. He took first place in November 2000 in the Chefs Championships in New York City which was sponsored by the A.C.F. He then took first place in February 2001 in the La Parade de Chefs sponsored by Heineken.

Franco always strives to do his best and is quoted as saying, "I cook from the heart, not by the book." When not in the kitchen, Chef Franco can be found at home in his vegetable and herb garden, fishing or kicking a soccer ball with his wife, Lorraine and children, Francesca, Bianca and Alessio.

Chef's Recipes :

Pan-Roasted Sea Bass topped with Eggplant-Olive Caviar drizzled with Truffle Oil

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