MEET THE CHEF: Bruno Amato of B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas
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5 Reasons to Visit® sat down with Executive Chef Bruno Amato of B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas.
B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas
Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy?
I grew up in Southern Italy where I always helped my grandmother and mother cook in the kitchen. We would make fresh tomato conserva, eggplant marinade, dried figs, olive oil, and red wine. I was fortunate enough to participate in those activities that are now long gone. Cooking is and always has been a part of me and brings me so much joy. I love the noise of a busy restaurant, seeing our guests really enjoy their food, and creating a dish from scratch.
B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas
Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself that reflects your cooking style?
I am a perfectionist, so I am very critical of myself and my work. I am a Virgo, so I think that says it all! I also love to always be creative and consistently come up with new specials and dishes.
Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.
Growing up on the Southern Coast of Italy, seafood is very special to me. Branzino cooked in salt is one of my favorite dishes, along with any seafood pasta, but Lobster Alfredo is something I will never pass up!
B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas
What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without?
Pomodoro (tomato), peperoncino calabrese (Calabrian pepper), flour and eggs—to make my fresh pasta. I know that is four, but I have to have all of those!
We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?
I love using my imagination. I see something in my head and then I can transform that into something beautiful on the plate.
B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas
Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?
The dish had fresh white asparagus topped with the leaves of red beets stuffed with chicken pâté and garnished with mango jam. Absolutely fantastic (in my opinion!)
What is one of your greatest accomplishments and/or recent awards you've earned?
In 2014, I won the local “Top Chef of the City” in Sacramento, California while working at Il Fornaio.
B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas
What are some of the latest trends you’re seeing in top restaurants across the globe?
People want a variety of options, so a bigger menu is coming back along with faster service. Everyone is running 2,000 miles per hour now with our constantly evolving technology and social media, so consequently, people want their food faster, which is understandable.
What’s your favorite cocktail or beverage of choice?
I love all red wine, but my go to is Cabernet Sauvignon.
B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas
What do you love about being the Executive Chef of B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land, Texas?
First and foremost, I love our guests. Second, I love the authencity of the Italian food we make every day while making slight changes to consider the American palate.
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
