Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Spatara.
Anthony, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
L’Appetito opened on Columbus Day, 1981 in a new high-rise building at 30 East Huron. It was considered by many a pioneering venture. A little Italian grocery store from the Northwest side that moved into the heart of the big city. In time, the big city became its neighborhood and it survived and thrived while remaining true to its Italian roots.
More than three decades and three generations later, L’Appetito is still thriving as a family run business and it continues with the vision of its founder, Anthony Spatara. To this day, Cafe L’Appetito remains a destination for both Chicagoans and visitors looking for an authentic Italian experience
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Never a smooth road in the food business.
The restaurant business is a hard business, long hours & you can kiss all major Holidays goodbye. Every day is a struggle to keep up with the changing times and rising food costs. You must always stay ahead of the game.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Cafe L’Appetito story. Tell us more about the business.
L’Appetito has been around the city for over 35 years. We specialize in Italian gourmet sandwiches, coffee, and desserts. We are mainly known for our true Italian style panini and Sandwiches. I am most proud of how we started out as a small grocery store in downtown Chicago selling Italian specialty products and now we are serving our famous sandwiches at Chicago’s Midway airport. What sets us apart is our attention to detail, and one of our owners are always on site to oversee day to day operations
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I believe in luck however in this business hard work determines all. My father started the business 35 years ago with just enough money to open, barely spoke English and worked every day all day until it was a success. Luck was not a factor here, drive and hard work got us where we are today. And maybe two kids that were sucked into the business at an early age:)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lappetito.com
- Phone: 773-360-7290
- Email: lappetitomail@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/862209598/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cafelappetito/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/CafeLappetito
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
