I grew up in a very large traditional Italian family in New York and had my first espresso when I was around 7 years old. My father and uncles said it was time to become a man. It became my first love, and I never stopped drinking my espresso and cappuccinos (with the exception of my time in the Marine Corps in Vietnam where I swore I would never drink green moldy coffee again).

Over the years people have been coming to my home, making funny remarks about my espresso bar with its’ large espresso machine topped with a brass eagle. The guests always seem to have a reason to drop by for another cup. The first thing they would say is “Can I please get one of your great cappuccino or a hazelnut latte”? They have always commented that my coffee is so much better than anything they have ever had.