Meet the team

For Tore Trupiano, food has always been about family.

Raised in Monroe, Michigan, just south of Detroit, Tore grew up in a traditional Italian immigrant household where the kitchen was the heart of the home. Some of his earliest memories are of watching his mother and grandmother bake fresh bread, prepare family meals from scratch, and gather loved ones around the dinner table.

Those experiences instilled values that continue to guide him today: respect tradition, use the finest ingredients available, and always put family first.

As a third-generation restaurateur, Tore has spent decades building upon the foundation established by his father and family. His culinary journey has taken him from restaurant kitchens and barbecue competitions to national and international pizza championships, earning recognition as one of America's most accomplished pizza makers. Today, he serves as Captain of the U.S. Pizza Team, helping mentor and inspire the next generation of pizzaioli while representing American pizza on the world stage.

Tore is also the owner and visionary behind Mangia e Bevi, where his commitment to quality, hospitality, and innovation has earned both local and national recognition. His award-winning approach combines old-world Italian traditions with modern culinary techniques, creating food that is both authentic and memorable.

But despite the accolades, competitions, and accomplishments, Tore remains most proud of the family legacy being carried forward by his children, Santina, Damiano and Vittoria, who represent the next chapter of the Trupiano family's culinary story.

"The greatest accomplishment isn't winning a competition. It's seeing the next generation embrace the traditions, values, and passion that have been passed down through our family for generations."

Today, every guest who walks through our doors experiences the same philosophy that Tore learned as a child: exceptional food, genuine hospitality, and the belief that every meal should bring people together.

Ann Perham's love for hospitality was shaped by her upbringing in a warm and loving Italian-American family in Southern California.

Her parents, first-generation Italian Americans with roots stretching across Northern Italy, Southern Italy, and Sicily, filled their home with laughter, generosity, and unforgettable Sunday family dinners.

The kitchen was always the center of family life, where recipes were shared, stories were told, and memories were created.

Ann learned from her mother that food is far more than nourishment—it is a way of nurturing the soul and expressing love for those around us.

Her commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences continues to influence every aspect of the restaurant, from the welcoming atmosphere to the genuine care shown to every guest who joins us.

"Sharing a meal is one of the most powerful ways we connect with one another. Food brings people together, creates memories, and reminds us of what truly matters."

Representing the next generation of the family's culinary legacy, Damiano Trupiano brings passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence to the kitchen every day.

Raised in the restaurant business and inspired by the traditions passed down from his grandparents, parents, and mentors, Damiano has developed a culinary style that honors authentic Italian roots while embracing modern techniques and fresh California influences.

His approach combines handcrafted preparation, seasonal ingredients, and thoughtful execution to create dishes that are both comforting and memorable.

Damiano leads the culinary vision of Mangia e Bevi, ensuring that every plate reflects the values that have defined the family for generations: quality, authenticity, hospitality, and love.

"Every dish tells a story. My goal is to honor where we came from while creating experiences that inspire the next generation of guests and food lovers."