History

After two terms of catering school in Italy and a couple of years roaming and working around Europe I came to London in 1965, and what a year it was.

There I met my wife to be. Not long after she suggested that her hometown Redcar would be cheaper to live than London…. She was right, there was nothing to spend your money on…. I am only kidding!

In 1967 I got a job at the Angus Room in Middlesbrough, which was the best place in town where everybody who was anybody would go. Those were the days, I was good looking and a charmer, everyone liked me …. Well almost everyone.

That’s how it all began. In 1976, having enjoyed my stint at the Angus, Barbara and I opened our first restaurant in Richmond, “Serino’s”. It was small, only six tables but it was cute and always full.

In 1979 Barbara and I went our separate ways, so I moved to Yarm and opened Santoro, named after my mother’s family. I could not think of a better person to name my restaurant after.

Santoro was a success from the word go. Soon afterward Gianni joined us as Headwaiter and he has been a tremendous asset throughout. He must like me! David, our Head Chef, has also been with us for quite a few years and so has Chris, the ever reliable Chris!

About fifteen years ago Ricci, my number two son came back from travelling in the United States and thought it was time to settle into the family business, so he joined Santoro too. Ross, my youngest son, had already started in the restaurant from a young age and has been working alongside Ricci for some time now. Both are doing a great job and in their hands the future of Santoro’s is assured.

It’s over 30 years since we first opened and because of the long serving staff and my boys being here too, it really feels Santoro is a true family restaurant and it feels good to be here not just for us but also for all our customers

Long may it continue!

Bless you all,