About Us
Our Story
When we share Italian food, we'e all Italian
At Polpetti Market & Catering, we believe that food is more than just sustenance; it’s a way to bring people together and create memories that last a lifetime. Our passion for good food, done well, is rooted in the rich traditions of Italian cuisine and shaped by years of experience.
Peter and Georgia Riccobono, partners in life and business, bring over 50 years of combined expertise to the table. From Peter’s time as executive chef of La Gondola and his work with the Kennedy Center and Smithsonian to Georgia’s leadership in event planning and Whole Foods Market, their journey reflects a lifelong commitment to serving others through food.
Rooted in Tradition
Three generations of Italian heritage, carried forward in Richmond
The inspiration behind Polpetti runs deep. Peter’s Italian roots span from Puglia, Sicily, and Calabria to Brooklyn, before finally finding a home in Richmond, VA. His great-grandfather, Portobello, immigrated from Puglia and opened El Dorado on West 37th Street in New York City with his life savings, beginning a family tradition of homemade Italian cuisine that lasted for generations.
For three generations, the Riccobono family poured their hearts into the restaurant, treating patrons like family and passing down recipes and lessons. Peter’s father, Vinny, carried those traditions forward, inspiring three of his six children—including Peter—to become chefs. Today, Peter and Georgia honor that legacy in Richmond, keeping those cherished recipes and values at the heart of everything Polpetti serves.
Catering Service
Food has a way of transforming gatherings, and we’re here to make that transformation unforgettable. Let us handle catering for your next event and give your guests the Italian flavor you enjoy at our restaurants.
