Roberto Perico, champion of Italian cuisine in Chino Hills
It was inevitable that Roberto would someday open his own restaurant. While many children in Bergamo, Italy were outside playing soccer, Roberto was learning his way around the kitchen at his uncle Gio's pizzeria. His early culinary interest led him to seasonal positions at prestigious 4 and 5-star hotels, where he honed his skills as a prep cook. Gio's support helped him land a role at a luxury restaurant in Bergamo, where he refined his techniques and developed an appreciation for professionalism in the kitchen and for the industry.
His drive for excellence led him to the Ritz-Carlton, where he worked in banqueting and a fine dining restaurant. Interacting with guests from across Italy and Europe fueled his passion for hospitality; he realized that the restaurant industry could take him anywhere.
Guided by his mentor, Pier-Angelo Cornaro, Roberto made an initial move to America. Over the course of several years, he spent time between the U.S. and Italy, opening five restaurants, and assisting with two hotels, including the Petra Segreta Resort in Sardinia, and a catering business. Eventually, Roberto settled on Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California, where he oversaw the hospitality division for a resort operator.
His adventurous spirit led him to want to do more and in 2023, Roberto relocated to the Chino Valley community, eager to make his mark in the local culinary scene. This is where the vision for Gusto was born. At Gusto, Roberto combines traditional Italian flavors, drawing inspiration from his mother's recipes. He puts his own spin on classic dishes like her lasagna, marinara and meat sauces, and of course, her tiramisu. "When I was growing up, there would always be food on the table. Any time of day, you could guarantee 'mamma Pierina' would have food ready at the kitchen table." Roberto adapts several of her recipes by incorporating selected imported and local products and fresh ingredients to create "Gusto" (flavor, or taste, in Italian).
Roberto's passions are food and togetherness. He enjoys bringing his family together around the table, sharing stories about his children's school days, and also staying active by running and taking day trips with his family.
Roberto's journey is a testament to his dedication and love for bringing people together through quality food. At Gusto, he invites you to discover quality Italian food right in the heart of Chino Hills. "I love the Chino Valley and the lifestyle it offers. I am proud to live in this community and to contribute to its culinary scene."