Chef Franco Pisani
Innovative. Authentic. Personal.
Learn more about the man behind the perfect Italian meal.
About Chef Franco
With a culinary style rooted in family tradition and a passion for authentic Italian cuisine, Chef Franco Pisani is a celebrated figure in the culinary world of Colorado Springs.
Chef Franco masters the art of creating the perfect Italian meal by using only the freshest seasonal ingredients and blending traditional family recipes with contemporary culinary concepts.
Growing up in Waterbury, Connecticut, Chef Franco was immersed in cooking from a very young age. Raised by Italian immigrants, he attributes his inspiration to his mother Mary Pisani's love of all things food and admires her dedication to their family-owned bakery.
Chef Franco is a graduate of Baltimore Culinary College and a trained chef, yet pays homage to his culinary style and techniques from lessons he learns from his dear mother.
After honing his skills in various Italian restaurants throughout Connecticut, Chef Franco Pisani set his sights on a new path and relocated to beautiful Colorado Springs, in 1996.
He initially began working as a food and beverage director for a private country club, before his passion for the flavors and aromas of the Italian kitchen soon beckoned him back to being under the hood. In search of a more authentic and traditional Italian cooking experience, Chef Franco took a position at a large Italian restaurant in the Colorado Springs area.
However, his true culinary vision came to life when he opened Paravicini's Italian Bistro in April of 2003. Since then, Paravicini's has become a beloved culinary destination for locals and tourists alike, earning numerous accolades for its exceptional Italian cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere.
Through his dedication to from-the-heart cooking and family recipes, Chef Franco continues to delight the palates of diners and share his love for Italian cuisine with the world.
Concepts —
Paravicini’s
Paravicini’s is an award-winning staple in Colorado Springs since 2003, that serves as a culinary destination for family gatherings, date nights and special occasions. Meet us here to experience our delicious Italian cooking in a welcoming atmosphere with stellar service that you won’t find anywhere else in town.
Ristorante Di Sopra
Enjoy an elegant night on the town, right here in Colorado Springs, that goes beyond great service, curating an evening full of exceptional cuisine, impeccable ambiance and immeasurable hospitality from the moment you ascend the steps.
Catering by Andiamo
Introducing Andiamo Catering by Paravicini’s. Italian food is our specialty, first and foremost, but our brand new concept “by chefs, driven by chefs” brings our blend of gastronomic expertise directly to the table at your next special event on the Front Range.
Purchase a gift card
Experience the very best in authentic Italian cuisine by visiting one of our award-winning restaurants in historic Old Colorado City