This Fine Dining Italian Restaurant, Valentino Cucina Italiana, opened originally during 2006 in a much smaller venue as one of Fort Lauderdale's hidden gems. Chef Giovanni Rocchio takes pride in challenging himself, and increasing his knowledge to reach higher levels of cooking. Valentino Cucina Italiana uses the highest of quality ingredients, and provides remarkable dishes consistently to its customers. In addition to serving only the most delicious dishes, Chef Giovanni believes in providing guests with exceptional service, and respectful hospitality.
In 1974 Giovanni's Father, Tony Rocchio, opened the original Valentino in a near-by South Florida suburb. It was clearly evident that young Giovanni was interested in food service. He quickly learned basic culinary skills, the importance of using high quality ingredients, constantly testing recipes, and the importance of fine service with respectful hospitality. Giovanni takes pride in challenging himself, and increasing his knowledge to reach higher levels of cooking.
After years of working at various top notch restaurants in New York as well as Italy, Chef Giovanni returned to Fort Lauderdale in 2006 to open Valentino. The restaurant became an instant success. Though in a nondescript location, Valentino Cucina Italiana has remained one of Fort Lauderdale's best kept secrets. Six years later Chef Giovanni, and his partner Elke Quintana were able to re-open Valentino in a bigger location. The new location features a Full Service Bar, Chef's Table, Private Dining, and a beautiful Dining Room.