Spoleto was founded in 1999 in Rio de Janeiro by Eduardo Ourivio and Mario Chady with one clear vision: to make high-quality, chef-inspired food accessible to everyone. Today, with over 300 locations across South America and a growing presence in the U.S., that mission remains at the heart of everything we do.
In 2015, Spoleto expanded to Florida, launching our first U.S. locations and planting the seeds for something bigger. I joined the team that same year and have since helped shape Spoleto’s evolution first as Executive Chef, then as National Director of Operations, before becoming a managing partner in the US Market.
Fast forward to 2020, when our company, like many others, suffered a severe loss. We were forced to close our doors and put our dream on the back burner.
After a year of social distancing, baking foccaccia, learning card tricks, and even putting together a small team to feed our neighborhood during the pandemic, I decided I had nothing more to lose, and I made a call to our founders.
We decided that I would become the Master Franchisee for the State of Florida. With my newfound title, I partnered with my longtime friend Ross and we got to work. We tested the market with a ghost kitchen, then a food hall and now, the first brick and mortar is finally set to return.
In Fall 2025, we’ll open our flagship U.S. location in the heart of Winter Garden, Florida, at 21 S Main Street. This space will embody the full Spoleto experience where guests can explore bold flavors, build their own dishes, and watch our chefs bring their creations to life in real time.
At Spoleto, we believe in culinary democratization: the idea that everyone deserves to eat well without breaking the bank. We’ve built our brand around this principle, offering customizable, fresh, and flavorful meals made with real ingredients at an honest price. Even in uncertain times, our values will never waver.
Spoleto isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a movement built on creativity, community, and a deep commitment to making great food available to all. We’re proud of where we’ve been, excited about where we’re headed, and more dedicated than ever to the values that started it all.
Mangia Bene!
Laura | Co-Owner
