HI, MY NAME IS… Rocco Pezzano.
I’VE LIVED IN ARIZONA FOR 30 YEARS AND I LOVE IT BECAUSE… of the weather (mostly in the winter), and its golf courses. It’s also where I first started my career and family life.
A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… waking up early to tackle the day’s necessities in the way of restaurant management, family time and, when possible, some golf or much needed relaxation time. I am very hands on with Sfizio Modern Italian Kitchen, located at 21050 N. Tatum Blvd., #110, in Phoenix, as I want to make sure that my guests experience the maximum value that I can provide, which requires constant oversight to ensure that everything is running smoothly.
MY FAMILY IS… the center of my world.
ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IS… the first thing that comes to mind is my family, and then the realistic part of me says, money.
MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING AND WHY IS… “The Godfather” and “Once Upon a Time in America,” to connect to my Italian roots. Being away from home has me longing to connect with Italian culture in many ways and that includes movies and media.
WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… I always wanted to own my own business, whatever it may be –– a restaurant or a bakery at first, as they were my first jobs. I fell in love with cooking and serving up excellent food and experiences for people.
THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KARAOKE NIGHT IS… mostly old Italian songs, “O Sole Mio,” “C’è la luna in mezzo mare,” etc.
THE ONE PERSON WHO MOTIVATES ME IS… my family. I cannot choose an individual but collectively, they keep me going and help me out in areas where I may struggle.
THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS… my wife’s “joke number one” (she has a number one and a number two).
THE PERFECT DAY IS… spent at a golf course, my favorite pastime.
MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS… New Pathways for Youth. They help kids succeed in school so they can build their future.
MY LIFE IS… full of surprises, but great. Seven days a week managing and growing the business with my family by my side is a dream of mine, but I would be lying if I didn’t say there are unexpected hurdles that pop up everywhere.
THE BEST GIFT I’VE EVER RECEIVED WAS… my children.
MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE… resting, relaxing by the water at a beach, fishing, and golfing. Location? Probably the Caribbean.
THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED IS… “Whatever you do — give it 100%.”
