| Born in Paris in the 1960s while his father was serving in the military, Massimo Cristiano Raffignone remembers very little of his “first country.” While still very young, his family moved back home to the region of Liguria in northwest Italy. His first memories are of this area along the beautiful Mediterranean Riviera, and he would come to marvel at its wonderful wines, olive oil, and pesto.
By the age of seventeen, Cristiano’s restlessness prevailed, and his love of adventure took him to London where he worked in various French and Italian restaurants, beginning to develop an appreciation of fine food while working side-by-side with different chefs in restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world. Nevertheless, he often called home to mother when cooking for himself (something that still goes on today).
Two thrilling years in Australia were next in this life journey. Cristiano managed a catering agency and assisted in the opening of several restaurants. Feeling eager for something different, however, he moved on to New York in the mid 1980s. Eleven years in New York gave him the opportunity to work in many capacities in the restaurant world, from waiting tables to positions in management and helping friends open their own successful businesses. South Louisiana and the town of Houma were the next stop. This choice was helped along by his wife who was from the area.
All of Cristiano’s travels and experiences have led him to the opening of his own restaurant, Cristiano Ristorante, Lounge, and Wine Boutique. He has also acquired Martinique Bistro in New Orleans, a place where he can take his skills and knowledge to a large metropolitan scene. It is here that he has the chance to share his learning about culture and food with you!
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