When Federico and Viola Venturini came to Arizona from a small town in Umbria, Italy, in 2018, they brought their children, family recipes and a distinctly Italian idea of what it means to gather around a table. Now, as the founders of Pizzicata, the couple is being recognized for turning those traditions into an Arizona restaurant group while staying true to the food, hospitality and personality that started it all.
The Venturinis will receive the Tomaso Maggiore Culinary Excellence Award at the 2027 Arizona Italian American Gala on February 6, 2027.
Established by the National Italian American Foundation in partnership with the Maggiore family and administered by the Arizona Italian American Chamber of Commerce, the award honors the legacy of the late restaurateur Tomaso Maggiore, whose work helped shape Arizona’s Italian dining scene.
“Receiving the Tomaso Maggiore Culinary Excellence Award means so much to both of us,” Federico said. “We came to the United States with our children, a strong work ethic, and a love for authentic Italian food. To be recognized here in Arizona with an award carrying Tomaso Maggiore’s name is incredibly meaningful.”
Authenticity is the foundation of the menu, which draws on the food the Venturinis grew up eating, traditional techniques and carefully sourced ingredients. Pizzicata introduced Roman style pinsa to Arizona and became the state’s first certified pinseria. Made with a distinctive flour blend and long fermentation process, the dough creates a light, crisp crust that sets the style apart.
The kitchen balances old-world methods with a contemporary point of view, incorporating naturally fermented doughs and thoughtfully selected Italian ingredients. Viola brings her chef’s instinct for flavor, while Federico contributes the energy and warmth that turn a meal into a personal occasion.
“Tomaso demonstrated that it was possible to bring authentic Italian hospitality to Arizona while creating restaurants that became part of the community,” Federico said. “His legacy was built not only on excellent food, but also on generosity, relationships, and the ability to make every guest feel welcomed. That is the same spirit we try to bring to Pizzicata every day.”
For the Venturinis, the award recognizes a restaurant built on family, hard work and the relationships formed with guests. The couple shares the recognition with their family, business partner Phil Igneri, employees, guests and Arizona’s Italian American community. Together, they have helped turn a leap of faith into a growing restaurant group with a loyal following. Learn more: Pizzicata.
