Interveiw with Tony Ottomanelli, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: We’ve always had a passion for food and wine from working 25-plus years and acquiring all the necessary experience for this industry. So, when the time seemed right, we took action to make this dream come true and we did it as a family.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: When you come to Dagotto’s Bistro, it’s like coming over to dine at our actual home, whether for lunch or for dinner, we are very personable and eager to assist. Dagotto’s is family-owned and operated; we do not, by any means, serve food items to our guests that we wouldn’t want for ourselves. We offer a wide array of specialty pastas, paninis, salads and desserts. Our Italian beef panini is second to none. It literally brought a grown man to tears — tears of joy, because he was a Chicago native and our flavorful sandwich quickly brought back all sorts of childhood memories of growing up in Chicago. Our mission is to ensure that Dagotto’s Bistro brings that memorable taste of Chicago’s Little Italy directly into the heart of downtown Golden.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: Creating an experience and witnessing all guests appreciate our consistency while also enjoying the quality results. Overall, socially interacting with our customers and attempting to create an unforgettable experience for them while simultaneously building positive relationships throughout our customer base are by far the most rewarding aspects.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: There are many challenges for small businesses. But it’s all about paying attention to detail because, after all, it’s the small things that make big things happen.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: Each month, we host a special event — our Italian Dinner and Wine Tasting. We started holding these special wine tastings at the beginning of 2014. To put this into perspective, the first few times we had merely a half-dozen guests. However, we all worked very hard to get the word out, so we now sell out our seating capacity each month. On a recurring basis, there are anywhere from 30-35 guests in attendance. I am a certified specialist of wine and carefully choose the wine pairings in order to create a dining experience above and beyond any other within Dagotto’s vicinity. Dagotto’s Bistro is very fortunate to have been voted Best Italian Restaurant in Golden (2014 Best of the Best Contest).
Profile
Business: Dagotto’s Bistro
Address: 700 12th St., Suite 150, Golden
Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday
Founded: 2013
Contact: 720-379-7751; ; @dagottosbistro
Employees: 7
