I first met Luigi in the fall of 2009. I was given the assignment of writing a review about Sorrento, at the time, a new restaurant in uptown Toronto.
After being warmly greeted by Owner Nino Cioffi, the Chef also took a couple of minutes out of his busy dinner service to shake my hand and introduce himself. Young guy, inspirational and very personable with a contagious smile and a warm personality.
I didn't know it at the time but that Chef, Luigi Spasiano, would soon turn into a dear friend of mine. It would soon go beyond a professional food critic/Executive Chef relationship, critiquing his work. It turned into a friendship. Sorrento restaurant itself turned into my go-to restaurant, time and again. My girlfriend and I would celebrate birthdays there, even took my Mom there for Mothers Day. I would recommend it to everyone who ever asked me where to go for a great meal, conversation, experience. Not only because Nino welcomed everyone in with open arms but also largely because Luigi added another element; a positive, lovable energy to the room, to the conversation. His personality and sense of humour made the evening that much more memorable, fulfilling. He complimented every room he was in.
Modest, humble, funny and incredibly talented and ambitious, Luigi Spasiano was taken from us in late 2010. Like many around the World, I was shocked and saddened to hear of the news. He was taken from us much too early. I continue to pray for his family and send my deepest condolences.
I didn't know him all that long but Luigi Spasiano made an impact everywhere he went and touched everyone he met. A young guy, he was focused on being the best he could be both professionally and personally.
Rest in peace Luigi. You are and will always be dearly missed, remembered and loved!
