He arrived at Ellis Island and later settled in Memphis, Tennessee. Rinaldo had little more the a couple hundred dollars in funds, but carried with him something more precious than gold, the Grisanti famiglia art form, passed down from his famiglia to him, a treasure since 1505, Cusina Tuscanno. Joined in 1929 by his eldest son Elfo, the Grisanti's family legacy began. After meeting with Vincent P
rice, two of Elfo's recipes, Elfo Special and Spinach Uova were published in Price's world famous cookbook Mary and Vincent Price' Treasury of Fine DIning, opening the eyes of the culinary world to the Grisanti's skills and art. Handmade ravioli, lasagna al forno, tortellina, mezzo-mezzo, eggplant parmesan, manicotti, Miss Mary's salad, Tuscan garlic bread, Elfo special, and spinach uova as well as other Grisanti Northern Italian style dishes captured the taste buds of thousands. Each Grisanti chef--Rinaldo, Elfo, John, John Jr., Alex, Judd, Frank, Frank Jr., Larkin, and myself has in some manner added his signature touch to our famiglia's tradition. Now, 73 years later, I find myself Patriarch over a 103 year old culinary institution. Time now being my master forces me to make my benchmark contribution which will establish me as Chef di Cusina over the Grisanti chefs whose brush strokes on our art form remain constant while the canvas only increases. With my remaining time I commit to protecting the taste of my offerings by complete dedication to the recipes for our gravies and sauces that can only be done by a Grisanti in his kitchen. You will once again taste the true flavors blended with the love, simplicity, and elegance you first experienced in your first seating in our restaurant. I pledge to you our friends and customers that there can be no better Cusina Tuscanno served in the 103 year history of our famiglia. This will be the benchmark of Chef Rinaldo (Ronnie) Grisanti. My gift to our community who allowed us the opportunity of raising our famiglia in the greatest place in the world, our home, Memphis, Tennessee. May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ continue to protect and bless you and your loved ones forever. Peace and Love,
Chef Rinaldo Grisanti, CWC, Sommelier
