Tony first visited Costa Rica in 84 when he came down to see his brother who lived here. He never imagined that trip would change the course of his life. Riding a bus he met a woman and fell in love. But he went back to New York, where he lived.
He later returned to Costa Rica to marry his sweetheart. And today 14 years later they have two daughters, and still live in Costa Rica. As newly weds they lived for four years in New York, but returned shortly after.Once back in Costa Rica he opened a restaurant II Ponte Vecchio.
Tony explains that Costa Rica appeals to him because he was born in a small Italian town that was surrounded by nature, and is right next to the sea, and people in this area are very kind. He saw these things in Costa Rica as well and decided to make Costa Rica his home.
Once again he returned to the United States so his daughters would learn English, until five years ago. Since then he has been running the restaurant II Ritorno, that is located in Casa Italia (Italian House) in San Jos�.
When Tony looks back on the years he's been in Costa Rica he assures that Costa Ricans have always treated him very kindly. And the best friends he has ever made are from Costa Rica.
"They always made me feel at home , it is good to live in Costa Rica"
says this Italian chef, small in height with his smock and hat, and always smiling.
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