May 14, 2009 |
Short Order
Fabio Trabocchi Shopping Neighborhood Concept
Photo: Steven Richter
Using an unexpected sabbatical from the kitchen after Wall Street’s bloodbath led Fiamma to close, Chef Fabio Trabocchi and his wife Maria have been dating every night. “It’s like a honeymoon,” they confided when I spied the two of them nuzzling at the counter of Salumeria Rosi Tuesday night. “It’s my first vacation in 12 years,” Trabocchi said. “I’m getting to know my family again.”
The chef left Mobil Guide five-star fame at Tyson’s Corner in Virginia bringing 12 members of the staff with him, ultimately to win three stars at Fiamma for eats-mogul Steve Hanson because he dreamed of making a mark in this town. Now he says he’s working on a neighborhood concept – low-key, simple, affordable (all the currently rational buzzwords apply). He’s looking for the right space at the right price and…oh yes, an investor to back him.
Trabocchi says the decision to pull the plug at Fiamma was mutual. “Steve was very generous to me. We talk often. Talking to him is inspirational. His passion for the business is contagious.”