NEW OWNER HAS DEEP ROOTS IN ITALIAN FOOD.
“As a child, I remember on Sunday our family would gather at my Nonnie’s house,” Frank Fautas said. “Grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins filled the house. We would gather around the table and feast on giant bowls of pasta and gallons of sauce we would call ‘gravy.’ It is the memory that inspired me to share my version of Grandma’s Sunday gravy with everyone. I have always wanted to share my passion for food with others.”
Fautas has worked in the restaurant business for much of his lifetime. His father was an Italian chef, so Frank grew up in the business. “I got out of it for a long time. I have eaten here for 13 years, and I always told my wife if this place ever came for sale I would love to buy it,” Frank said. “Lo and behold, the right timing came up. We found out it was for sale, and I pursued it. It just worked out. I love the area. I love Plant City. I like the small-town feel. I know we don’t pull from a huge draw like they do in Brandon, but I like the locals here. I have come to know the regulars that come here. I learn them—they learn me. It is a pretty cool feeling.”
George Katinos is continuing as the manager for Esposito Pizza. “George is unbelievable,” Fautas commented. “I couldn’t do this without him. George has held this place together for many years. He has been a rock to me.”…