Episode 129. Vincenzo Gabriele – Founder, Vincenzo’s Italian Restaurant
Vincenzo Gabriele and his brothers grew up with a love for fine dining, inspired by their father, a captain in the Merchant Marine.
In 1969, Vincenzo came from Italy to work with his brother Giovanni in St. Louis. In 1975, Don and Michael Grisanti approached Vincenzo to come to Louisville as maître d’ of their family restaurant. With his great people skills and an incredible knowledge of the art of hospitality, Vincenzo eventually became the restaurant’s co-owner. In 1981, Vincenzo was awarded the Ivy Award, an award given by his peers.
In 1986, Humana approached Vincenzo to take over its downtown dining facilities. With the help of his brother, world-renowned chef Agostino Gabriele, Vincenzo’s Italian Restaurant was born. Vincenzo’s is an upscale, fine-dining establishment that has been honored with numerous industry awards and is a favorite stop for famous guests to Louisville.
The Gabriele brothers have donated financial support and food to a wide variety of charitable organizations and Vincenzo has received much recognition for his dedication to community service.