This week’s Free Idea Friday is dedicated to
J. Charles Grieco, a distinqued member of Toronto’s hospitality community who passed away this week.
To call him a pioneer is an understatement since his own mind set was so forward thinking –
a maverick is definitely more like it! Hospitality was not a job, it was a vocation.
During his highly successful 35-year career as owner of the renown La Scala Restaurant, he and the Grieco family set a new standard for fine dining and fine wines in Toronto.
His accomplishments later on in life are what resonate most for me, with his leadership of the Ontario Hostelry Institute in 1977 and subsequently becoming managing director at the Canadian Hospitality Foundation, which helped raise millions for student awards and support.
We can all learn from his own words:
“Great hospitality is taking however we felt before we came to the table, and making us feel a little better when we leave.” For Mr. Grieco it wasn’t about what you did exactly or how timely the service was or the food you plated or what wine you offered - but how you made people feel around the table.
Saluti to you Sir – your inspiration will live on through our memories of sharing many a table with you. It was my privilege.