Ciao! I’m Matteo Zacchino, the proud owner of Vespa Healthy Italian Café in Sedona, AZ. Born in Italy and rooted in the rich traditions of Italian cuisine, my passion has always been to create food that brings people together. At Vespa, we blend authentic Italian recipes with a fresh, healthy twist, offering a dining experience that feels like home—filled with warmth, flavor, and love.
With years of dedication to both culinary artistry and hospitality, I’ve cultivated a space where every guest is treated like family. My mission is simple: to share the vibrant tastes of Italy while prioritizing health-conscious ingredients that nourish the body and soul.
When I’m not crafting dishes or perfecting Vespa’s menu, you’ll find me exploring new ways to innovate in the restaurant world, mentoring my team, or simply enjoying a good glass of wine. Life, after all, is best when shared over great food and meaningful connections.
Benvenuto—welcome to my journey, and thank you for being part of it!
Things I Can Do
Father, Restaurateur, Artist, Vedic Astrologer.
1. Craft Authentic Italian Cuisine
I bring the rich flavors of Italy to life with health-conscious recipes that honor tradition while embracing modern tastes.
2. Run Vespa Healthy Italian Café
As the owner, I oversee every detail of the café—from curating our unique menu to ensuring every guest feels at home.
3. Innovate in the Kitchen
I’m always experimenting with fresh ingredients and techniques, introducing creative dishes like Pinsa Romana that redefine Italian dining.
4. Foster Community
I believe in connecting with people through food, creating a welcoming space where guests become family and every meal is a celebration.
5. Mentor and Lead
I guide and inspire my team to grow personally and professionally, building a culture of passion, excellence, and hospitality.
6. Promote Sustainability
I prioritize sustainable practices by sourcing fresh, local ingredients and adopting eco-friendly initiatives in my restaurant.
7. Share Italian Culture
Through every dish, interaction, and detail at Vespa, I share the beauty and heritage of Italian cuisine and hospitality.
8. Embrace Creativity
From crafting signature dishes to refining restaurant design, I thrive on creating experiences that delight and inspire.
A Few Accomplishments
1. Founder and Owner of Vespa Healthy Italian Café
Established Vespa Healthy Italian Café in Sedona, AZ, blending traditional Italian cuisine with health-conscious, innovative recipes. The café has earned a reputation for its unique dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to quality.
2. Successful Transition to Full-Service Dining
Transformed Vespa from a counter-service concept to a full-service restaurant, enhancing guest experiences and fostering a deeper connection with patrons.
3. Culinary Innovator
Introduced Pinsa Romana, a healthier, ancient-style Roman flatbread, to Sedona, offering a one-of-a-kind menu item that has become a guest favorite.
4. Sustainable and Health-Focused Advocate
Promoted sustainability by incorporating locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices, aligning the restaurant with Sedona’s values and ethos.
5. Hospitality and Team Development Leader
Built a culture of excellence at Vespa, focusing on team mentorship, personal growth, and exceptional customer service.
6. International Experience and Perspective
As an Italian-born restaurateur, Matteo has brought the authentic flavors and hospitality traditions of Italy to the U.S., elevating Sedona’s culinary scene.
7. Community Supporter and Innovator
Supported local causes and created unique experiences for the Sedona community, from hosting culinary events to advocating for social responsibility through restaurant initiatives.