Today we’d like to introduce you to Mario Vollera.
Mario, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I came to the USA in 2008 and started to work at Antica Pizzeria and Piccolo in Venice – lots of dreams and a very big passion for food, wine, and cocktails. 2013, I open, with my partner Patrick Brunet, South End Wine Bar, a small, cozy local gem in Ve Ice serving pizza and wine.
2018 I reopen the world-famous Roosterfish Bar, one of the oldest gay bar in LA; in 2023, we reopen a sushi bar in Venice called ŌWA – previous WABI SABI location
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Well, obviously, COVID was a big challenge for our business – besides that, the struggle opening a bar and restaurant is to be sure to find a good balance between fun and good service.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a restaurateur, in my blood since I was a 16 y old kid – started as pizza chef in my city, ROME, then I travel in different country (Sweden, Germany, Spain, Italy’, Tenerife, etc. etc.) and worked with many different cultures, always between front of the house and kitchen. I am known for pizza, I own the Guiness World Record of the longest pizza in the world. I specialize in wine, service, sushi, cocktails, and whiskey. I am proud of myself for always working hard and make sure we make an impact on your clients-
What were you like growing up?
I grow up close to ROMA, in a little countryside of center of beautiful Italy – grow up between olive oil and wine grapes – simple life with family and friend – my interest were soccer, food, and motorcycles;)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.owavenice.com / www.roosterfihsla.com
- Instagram: Owavenice / Roosterfish
