Angelo Lollino is the owner of Massa Cafe Italiano in Elmwood Park and Vero Coffee & Gelato for Mariano’s. Lollino competed in the Gelato World Tour in September in Italy.
Q: Where did you grow up and go to school?
A: I grew up in the Elmwood Park/Galewood area. I went to Lake Park High School.
Q: How did you become interested in becoming a chef and owning businesses?
A: I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. Both of my parents owned businesses, so that inspired me. As far as the food component, I love food and I love to eat. My parents were in the food business.
Q: Where did the idea for Massa Cafe Italiano come about?
A: My wife would always tell me to open up a place in the neighborhood. She inspired the whole thing.
Q: When did Massa open?
A: It opened up in 1999.
Q: How did you partner with Mariano’s to open Vero Coffee & Gelato?
A: Bob Mariano approached me nine years ago. He had a vision for an Italian cafe. He wanted me to be a part of it.
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Q: What was it like competing at the Gelato World Tour in September?
A: It was a fabulous experience from the beginning to end. Having the opportunity to represent America in the heart of where gelato began in Italy was a super surreal experience.
Q: What was each day like for you?
A: It was strenuous every day. We served scoops and scoops of gelato. It was cool.
Q: What title did you win?
A: The technical jury chose us as No. 1. They gave us an award. As artisans, it means a lot to us.
Q: What was the best part of competing in Italy overall?
A: Just being in Italy! We were surrounded by great foods and rich traditions.
Q: What do you love the most about gelato?
A: I like how it makes people feel. It makes people feel happy.
Maryann Pisano is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.