Just like when he was a boy and his nonna Carmela guided his little hands, to chef Chris Scarduzio, making a meal is a feast for the senses. All four of his grandparents hail from the Abruzzo region in Italy. Dad’s side settled in South Philadelphia while mom’s settled in Overbrook, West Philadelphia, St. Donato Parish.

The youngest of four, Chris and his parents John (Bucky) and mom Della Palma Scarduzio lived with grandmom Carmela and grandfather Donato Mazzenga. Both were the eldest of large families, and their tribes of siblings would visit often. The house was always full, and there was always something on the stove.