Cathy Dobson
There are dozens of telephone listings for pizzerias in Sarnia and virtually every one of them is busy on the weekends.
The challenge is keeping customer traffic high on weekdays, even though we live in a city that loves its pizza, says Red Seal chef Sam Federico.
He’s the owner of the new Tutto Pizzeria on Rosedale Avenue.
Federico grew up in Sarnia, always close to the restaurant business. In 1964, his grandparents opened Riverside Pizzeria in Point Edward where they had a reputation for great food.
Riverside Pizzeria has been closed for years but other members of Federico’s family continue to thrive in the local restaurant industry.
He left for Fanshawe College and studied to become a chef in 1994. Since then, he’s owned a number of local restaurants including a pizza place on Michigan Avenue, a Mexican place on Mitton Street and the Seattle Perks Café in the St. Clair Corporate Centre downtown and in the courthouse.
“As I grow older I’m maturing,” smiled the 41-year-old. “I’m going to stick with Tutto because I’m married now with a three-year-old.
“Owning your own business is about being independent, working hard and being around people. It’s also about having family and a steady income.”
Very recently, Federico’s mom, Angela Federico, passed away. Her death has convinced him even more to make a long-term success of his new venture.
“She was my number one fan,” he said.
Opening a pizzeria again brings Federico back to his roots and what he knows best, he said.
Regular prices range from $23.99 to $32.99, plus tax, for two pizzas with three toppings, depending on size.
Federico also offers wings, pasta al forno, and baked panzerotti. He has a pick-up special for 12-inch pizza with three items for $10 on Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only.
Tutto Pizzeria at 780 Rosedale Ave. is open Tuesday to Thursday 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 3:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. and Sunday 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Call 519-491-1313 for pick up or delivery and visit www.tuttopizzeria.ca.
THEATRE CAMP NEARLY FULL
The mother/daughter team of Holly Wenning and Amy Mayea is holding their eighth annual Stars of Tomorrow Musical Theatre Day Camp for kids ages 6 – 14.
The one-week camp runs Aug. 3 – 8 at St. Lukes United Church in Sarnia. The week culminates with two shows at the Sarnia Library Auditorium. For theatre camp details, visit www.starsoftomorrow.ca.
Got an interesting business story? Contact Cathy Dobson at [email protected] or 226-932-0985.