After 15 years as a cherished destination for authentic Italian cuisine in San Diego's Pacific Beach, Enoteca Adriano is preparing for a change in ownership. Longtime owner and chef Francesco Tassone, who opened the beloved neighborhood Italian restaurant in 2009, will soon pass the torch of ownership of Enoteca Adriano to fellow Italian-born chef Giuseppe Ciuffa, bringing new energy to this local institution while honoring its roots.

Franco Tassone, born in Italy into a family of six chefs and restaurateurs, discovered his love for cooking at a young age, often helping his mother in the kitchen. His passion and curiosity for the culinary arts led him to study and work abroad, from Italy to Australia, Canada, and America. After moving to San Diego in 1989, Tassone became a pioneer in the city's Gaslamp District, helping to open La Strada.