Via Umbria owners, Bill and Suzy Menard are thrilled to announce the latest addition to their culinary team, Rissa Miller, who will help create menus and bring her Italian food expertise to the new kitchen at Via Umbria.

Rissa Miller said of joining the new Via Umbria food team, “I am proud to be a part of a project that has the essence of Italy in mind at every turn, and to be working with the combined talents and passion of Jodie Steiner and Vickie Reh.  We are planning classic items in the cafe that will make those who know Italy feel nostalgic, and customers who’ve never been to Italy be assured this is the next best thing.”

Chef Miller grew up on Vancouver Island in Canada, and has worked in kitchens since she was 14.  Not only has she worked as an executive chef who studied cuisine and pastry at some of France’s most respected schools and kitchens, she is also an artist, with exhibitions of her paintings and ceramics in several galleries in Florence, Italy.

“I’d like to bring the three most beautiful aspects of Italian gastronomy to Via Umbria—simplicity, quality, and conviviality,” she said.  “For me food is best when ingredients are unprocessed, fresh, prepared and eaten with family and friends, this is the essence of good eating.”

Growing up, Miller’s mom cooked 7 nights a week at home from scratch and food was respected, never wasted, and most of all it marked a moment every evening when everyone came together to communicate.  This original relationship with cooking still remains at her core love for food, and will be at the heart of the atmosphere of Via Umbria.

Miller has spent a lot of time in Italy, and adores the Mediterranean food culture and way of life.  She became certified in Neopolitan Pizza making, and worked in renowned restaurants throughout Italy.  Her knowledge of Italian foods and technique are strong, but with this creative cooking team, customers can also expect some interesting twists on Italian favorites.

Interested in following the menus and events at the new Via Umbria opening this fall?  Send an email to feedme@viaumbria.com and we will send you menus and updates.

Ci Vediamo!

–Via Umbria