You could say that Franco Barone has just the right recipe for success when it comes to preparing the finest Italian cuisine in Southern California. Just ask former President Clinton, Ben Affleck and Nicole Kidman -- some of the luminaries who have dined at Antonello Ristorante. As the executive chef of Antonello, Barone blends the charm and tradition of the Old World with contemporary Italian culinary concepts.

Originally from Sicily, Barone literally grew up in the restaurant business. He would spend hours in his uncle's restaurant which was conveniently attached to the back of the family's home. Under the tutelage of his gifted uncle, Barone developed into a discerning, creative and brilliant chef. When the cocky youth arrived in the United States in 1982, he assumed a position in the kitchen at La Scala, even though he had no formal training. He graduated through the hierarchy of positions in the kitchens at various restaurants including Anthony's Seafood, San Pedro Restaurant and Di Oricio before making his debut at Antonello.

Now hailed as one of the finest chefs in Orange County, Barone understands what it takes to be part of a successful restaurant like Antonello. "I think it's very important to acquire as much knowledge about gastronomy, restaurant operations and other facets of the industry both here and abroad so that you can meet the demands of today's discriminating diner."

Barone's many honors include being recognized as one of the Great Chefs of Orange County by the Orange County Kidney Foundation and being nominated as Chef of The Year by the Southern California Restaurant Writers. Local and national restaurant and food critics regularly cite the exceptional fare prepared by Barone when they evaluate Antonello Ristorante.