Chef Franco Curci
Chef Franco was born in the picturesque city of Bari, Italy, in 1969. Raised among the rich culinary traditions of the Puglia region, Franco developed a deep passion for cooking at an early age. His love of food and dedication to craftsmanship led him to work in several renowned restaurants throughout Italy, where he honed his skills and mastered the art of Italian cuisine.
In 1999 Chef Franco opened his own restaurant in his hometown, a venture he ran successfully for 12 years. His restaurant has become a local favorite, known for its authentic dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere. However, Franco has always dreamed of sharing his culinary expertise with a wider audience. Being an American citizen, he made the decision to move to the United States with his wife and two daughters.
Settling in Ridgewood, New Jersey, Chef Franco quickly made a name for himself with his first restaurant. Its authentic Italian cuisine has captivated the local community, earning it widespread acclaim and a loyal customer base. Franco's culinary talent caught the attention of the television producer, leading to his guest appearance on the popular Cooking Channel show "Holy and Hungry."
Encouraged by his success, Chef Franco opened a new restaurant in Hoboken, New Jersey. The “Apulia” restaurant, located at 1319 Washington Street, offers diners an authentic taste of Italy. The restaurant is famous for its dedication to traditional Apulian cuisine, fresh ingredients and exceptional service.
Driven by a desire to share his knowledge and passion for cooking, Chef Franco founded The Savor Zone, a comprehensive online cooking school. The Savor Zone offers live cooking classes and private courses designed for both home cooks and professional chefs. Through this platform, Franco provides valuable insights, techniques and inspiration to aspiring chefs and restaurateurs around the world.
Chef Franco's journey from a small Italian town to becoming a well-known chef in the North Jersey area is a testament to his dedication, talent and love for the culinary art.