Valerio Di Falco - Owner of Mercato Italiano in Naples, Florida
Born in Catania 47 years ago, Valerio Di Falco started his career as a draftsman after completing his high school studies as a surveyor. Though construction provided a stable beginning, his passion for cooking and hospitality quickly led him to work in restaurants and hotels across Sicily. However, his creative spirit wasn’t confined to the kitchen alone. In 2006, he founded Animamu, a marketing, graphic design, and video production company that found considerable success, even collaborating with prominent television formats in Sicily.
At 30, Valerio took a leap of faith, moving to the United States, where he began working as a waiter for the renowned Bice restaurant chain. His dedication and talent led him to become a manager in one of the chain's prestigious locations. While managing restaurants, he never let go of his passion for computer graphics, successfully expanding Animamu into the American market.
The pandemic, though challenging, gave birth to his latest venture. His parents, on vacation in the U.S., decided to stay, and together, they reminisced about the beloved flavors of Sicilian bakeries. Out of this longing, Mercato Italiano was born—a place where authentic Italian croissants, sandwiches, and wines bring the heart of Sicily to the States. Today, Mercato Italiano is more than a restaurant; it’s a tribute to his roots and a celebration of the culinary and cultural traditions of Italy.
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