Celebrity chef returns to Franchesco’s Ristorante in Rockford for special dinner experience

Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — A celebrity chef recognized for recurring roles on national TV shows is returning to Franchesco’s Ristorante for a special dinner and wine experience.

Fabio Viviani, who has multiple appearances on “Good Morning America,” “The Rachael Ray Show” and numerous Food Network shows such as “Top Chef,” returns to the restaurant on Feb. 23 to create a special four-course meal and wine pairing.

Viviani was last at Franchesco’s in 2022, and the event sold out.

“We are thrilled to have Fabio back for this spectacular event. Not only is he an extraordinarily skilled chef and creator, but he is funny, quick-witted – really just a massively talented entertainer overall,” Benny Salamone, owner of Franchesco’s, Benny’s Bar & Lounge and Fresco at the Gardenns, said in a news release. “We were hopeful that we will receive the same success with this event as we had when he was here in 2022.”

Viviani prepares each of the four courses on stage while the Franchesco’s team simultaneously makes the same dish for the audience.

The author and entrepreneur, who has opened more than 60 restaurants, will work from a classroom-style setup with a camera crew to project the cooking onto a big screen for optimal viewing.

“My team and I are always looking for fresh, creative ways to wow our Rockford community with offerings that rival those found in the country’s biggest culinary hotspots,” Salamone said.

If you go | Celebrity chef experience

Where: Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford

When: 5 p.m. to 8 pm. Sunday, Feb. 23

Tickets: Starting at $150; go HERE

Reservations/info: Call 815-229-0800