You wouldn’t expect to find a little piece of Italy in a backyard in Calgary, but that’s where it all began.

My grandparents were Italian immigrants who came to Canada by boat. They arrived with almost nothing—just their dreams, their passion, and a deep love for food.

As a child, I would spend hours at their home, mesmerized by the incredible aromas that filled the air. Their garden was a wonder to behold, bursting with fresh Italian ingredients. They grew everything they could during Calgary’s short growing season, and in the summer, we’d feast on fresh, homegrown produce. In the colder months, they preserved, canned, and cured the rest. Nothing went to waste.

I remember watching in awe as they made tomato sauce, homemade wine, and cured their own prosciutto. Their fruits and vegetables were some of the most spectacular I’ve ever seen—even now, as a seasoned chef.

My love for cooking was born in my grandparents' kitchen, and my passion for Italian cuisine only grew stronger with each passing year. I knew I wanted to share those flavours with the world—to bring a taste of Italy to everyone, no matter where they lived.

That’s why I created Ciao Chili—a brand dedicated to high-quality, authentic Italian flavours.

Our centrepiece is the Calabrian vinaigrette, a recipe that I am particularly proud of. It’s a flavour that’s been passed down through generations of my family, and now, it can be yours too.

The vinaigrette is bold, versatile, and made to go with just about anything. It’s the kind of ingredient that helps you carve your own path in the kitchen—whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd.

I wanted to create a product people could trust—made with care, intention, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Ciao Chili is more than just a brand. It’s a celebration of my family's heritage, of tradition, and of the flavours that have been passed down through generations.

And while we have big plans for the future, right now we’re beyond excited to share our long-awaited Calabrian vinaigrette with you.

It’s a taste of Italy in every bottle—and we can’t wait for you to try it.