Gaetano Guarducci

Today's guest is Gaetano Guarducci of Sant Ambroeus Hospitality Group. Gaetano grew up in the restaurant business that his father, Gherardo Guarducci, co-founded in 2003, and has been working for the family business since graduating from university. The New York-based group comprises 29 restaurants across 3 brands - Sant Ambroeus, Felice, and Casa Lever - and is opening 3 to 4 restaurants per year with the backing of Italian British private equity fund Three Hills Capital. Sant Ambroeus, in particular, is unique in the way they combine Milanese tradition while embracing fashion & culture trends. They've done creative collaborations with brands such as Saint Laurent, The Attico, Alaia, Le Labo, and several others. It's part of their approach to maintaining longevity and desire throughout several market cycles, along with prioritizing consistency in the customer experience and the food.Thank you Peoplevine for sponsoring this episode. Peoplevine is trusted by the best brands in the members club business. Book a free demo to see why at ⁠peoplevine.com.⁠ This episode was recorded at NeueHouse Madison Square. NeueHouse is the premier work space in NYC and LA for those in the creative industries. Use code THESTANZA for a special offer when applying for your membership.Learn more about Sant Ambroeus Hospitality Group hereFollow Sant Ambroeus on InstagramConnect with ⁠The Stanza on Instagram⁠⁠Subscribe to the newsletter⁠ for the full experienceInterview Highlights:Longevity in the restaurant sectorGrowing up in the hospitality businessInsights from the pandemic eraWhy does Sant Ambroeus have a creative director?Collaborating with fashion brandsThe origin story of Sant Ambroeus as a Milanese pastry shop"Selling pasta to Italians" & doing business in Europe as an American companyKey details considered in restaurant design & operationsOperating seasonal locations in Aspen & East HamptonRaising capital from private equityBalancing brand preservation and private equity expectationsWhy haven't they expanded into members clubs?Gaetano's vision for SAHG as the next gen leadership