The Serafina Story: Vittorio Assaf's Journey in Hospitality

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Vittorio Assaf, founder of the Serafina Group. Vittorio shares his journey from Italian stockbroker to celebrated restaurateur, recounting his early beginnings in 1986 with an investment from Andy Warhol, to the founding of the Serafina restaurants, a venture he conceived while lost at sea with his partner. The conversation dives into the challenges of maintaining quality amidst expansion, the impact of the pandemic on the industry, and Vittorio’s advice on handling stress and ensuring efficiency. Vittorio also shares exciting new ventures, including international expansions and innovations in retail food products. The episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about the hospitality industry.00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast00:37 Meet Vittorio Assaf: Founder of Serafina Group00:59 Vittorio's First Steps in Hospitality03:04 From Stockbroker to Restaurateur07:37 The Birth of Serafina12:17 Navigating Early Challenges and Successes22:16 Handling Restaurant Stress and Team Management27:14 Expansion and the Second Location35:45 The Hype of a Crazy Place36:26 Expanding the Restaurant Empire36:58 Maintaining Quality and Standards38:02 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs39:51 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry40:58 International Ventures and New Projects44:02 Impact of the Pandemic on Business46:11 Rising Costs and Economic Pressures54:04 Technological Innovations in Restaurants01:04:04 Final Thoughts and Advice