I have been in the restaurant business for most of my life. I started as a dishwasher at 15 years old, moved up to serving customers and in 2008 became an owner at Melo’s with my brother Aldo. I am also a musician and started playing the drums at 10 years old. That passion has allowed me to play on stage with some of the best iconic bands including playing with Les Claypool of Primus. I went from practicing drums in my garage to traveling to every state, Japan and Europe. It’s been an amazing experience and journey!
Q: What are some fun activities to do in Livermore?
I like to get on the vintage beach cruiser and enjoy the local wineries. Then at the end the day, head back to Melo’s for dinner.
Q: What makes the Livermore community so special?
When I first opened the restaurant I didn’t know anyone. Because of the loyal and close community, I quickly knew everyone. I can’t believe the support and loyalty of the people in this community. In hard times, and the past 2 years, we have had so much support from our customers.
Q: Please tell us about where you work and what you love about what you do?
I own Melo’s Pizza & Pasta in Livermore with my brother. I am Italian so I love anything food based. When we put the heart and love into creating the meals, the food just comes out better! I really like the open kitchen concept that we have because it allows our customers to be a part of the experience. They can smell and see the food being created. I enjoy making a difference and having people come here for a good family meal. I mostly enjoy creating “Thanksgiving” every night with great loud conversation with friends and family. Plus, we like giving the kids a ball of dough to play with while they wait for their meal. I do creative art pizzas. I’ve even made a Hello Kitty pizza and it was a huge hit, but I really just do it for fun.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Melo’s of course. lol I really like Kobe Sushi and Japanese restaurant. They have great hibachi tables and sushi. Sauced is great too.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
For 14 years. We opened on Cinco de Mayo in 2008.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I am way into Yellowstone right now and 1883. Ozark is amazing too.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Opportunity and preparation! You have to prepare to seize the opportunity. Effort equals results. You have to work like crazy to get the results. I wasn’t the smartest guy in school, but I knew I could make up for it by working hard. In the restaurant and music industry, I have had to work very hard to achieve success. Using common sense while you work hard also goes a long way.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I really like the community of the community. It’s a pretty big population with a small-town feel. There is a sense of people looking out for each other is really unique. Plus there are a lot of local events like the farmer’s market, fair and Livermore Rodeo. You would have to go to another state to get this kind of feeling.
Q: What current or formal local business makes you feel the most nostalgic about our community?
I really liked Youmigo. The place was so much fun to race. People came from all over and it was a great time.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’ve played the drums since I was 10 years old. I am a wood carver and make Tikis. I’ve made a few for customers. It’s a sense of relaxation for me and allows me to clear my mind and be creative.
Q: What is your favorite holiday?
Thanksgiving! Highballs and turkey, I’m old school.
Q: Who inspires you?
Anyone who is doing what they really love to do and making it! Even if they aren’t making money doing it, they are doing something right. Whether someone is a musician or working at the Sunglass Hut, as long as they love what they and they found “their thing.” Someone who figures out what they want to do and has the courage to do it. Sometimes there is a risk, but there is huge satisfaction. You can’t live with regret.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Safe, comfortable and familiar.
What is the best way to get a hold of you? Melo’s Pizza & Pasta, 4433 First Street, Livermore, 925-371-4499.
