WHO WE ARE

Chef Tony Riccio was born in Manhattan, New York and raised in Palm Springs, California. At the age of 14 he began his culinary apprenticeship under his uncle Tony Riccio who founded the Marque West and Martoni’s in Beverly Hills. His training also included working at Riccio’s in Palm Springs “fine dining for the stars”. After completing a successful tutorship under his uncle and being an adventurous person, Chef Riccio left Southern California briefly to work at Tom Selick and the Denver Bronco’s Black Orchid in Oahu, Hawaii. He was one of the opening chefs responsible for training the culinary staff in Italian cuisine. Chef Riccio traveled to Pulsano, Italy and worked at the California Beach Restaurant and Hotel. He was responsible for managing all aspects of food preparation and presentation for wedding receptions.

Once he perfected his skills and gained 20 years experience, Chef Riccio decided to open his own restaurant with his wife Elena in Palm Desert, California. Chef Riccio opened the La Bella Cucina Trattoria in 1995.

LA BELLA CUCINA TRATTORIA ~ Since 1995

Chef Riccio creates his traditional Italian dishes using only the freshest ingredients and the simplest methods of cooking which bring out the natural flavor of every dish. You will find flavors from his family’s origins in Benavento and Naples, Italy. He pairs his dishes with a great variety of Italian wines — the new and old world. The La Bella Cucina is so successful because Chef Riccio and Elena enjoy what they cook and serve to their clientele and they have fun doing it!