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Project Highlight: Apericena—An Authentic, Italian Ristorante in Boise's Hyde Park

Updated: Jan 25

Building Apericena: A Culinary Journey Rooted in Passion and Purpose


Apericena was a deeply personal project and a reflection of everything I love about food, community, and creativity. From 2021 to 2024, I poured myself into this farm-to-table concept, serving as the executive chef and chief operations officer. Every recipe, every design element, and every team moment was built with intention and heart, creating a space where connection thrived through exceptional dining experiences. Crafting the brand, leading the team, and bringing the vision of Apericena to life was a labor of love. Here’s a deeper dive into what went into building this unforgettable chapter.


 

The Vision: A New Take on Dining


Inspired by the Italian ritual of aperitivo—a time for light bites and shared moments before dinner—Apericena was designed to offer a modern, welcoming take on the tradition. The goal was to create a space where guests could enjoy small plates, thoughtful pairings, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that encouraged connection. Every aspect of the project, from the menu to the ambiance, was built around the idea of bringing people together over food that felt both elevated and approachable.


 

Developing Apericena's Brand Identity, Brand Voice, and Messaging


The brand identity for Apericena needed to capture its essence: refined yet comfortable, inspired yet grounded. I developed every aspect of the brand, from the logo and typography to the color palette and menu design. Clean lines, natural tones, and subtle nods to Italian heritage created a cohesive visual language that resonated with guests. The branding extended beyond visuals—it became part of the overall experience, setting the tone for every interaction guests had with the restaurant.


 

Building the Menu: A Culinary Story


As executive chef, I crafted every recipe on the menu with a focus on seasonality, local ingredients, and balanced flavors. Each dish was designed to tell a story, blending creativity with tradition to create something entirely unique. I also developed plating protocols to ensure each plate was a visual representation of the care and artistry behind the food. The menu was dynamic, evolving with the seasons and guest feedback, keeping the dining experience fresh and exciting.


 

Designing the Space: A Dining Experience Beyond Food


The interior of Apericena reflected the same balance of elegance and warmth as the food. From selecting tableware and decor to arranging seating for an intimate yet open feel, I curated a space that invited guests to linger. Thoughtful touches like soft lighting, natural materials, and a view of the kitchen added to the charm, making the restaurant feel like a home away from home.


 

Marketing and Community Building


Apericena’s marketing strategy focused on creating genuine connections with guests and the broader community. Through curated social media content, stunning food photography, and engaging captions, we built a loyal following of nearly 9,500 Instagram followers within the first year. Campaigns highlighted seasonal menus, behind-the-scenes moments, and the people who made the restaurant special, creating a sense of belonging and excitement.


 

Operational Excellence: The Backbone of Success


Running Apericena required more than creativity—it demanded structure and leadership. I developed efficient operational systems, from staff training and scheduling to inventory management and vendor relationships. Leading a team of passionate professionals was one of the most rewarding parts of the journey. Together, we created a high-performing, collaborative environment that delivered exceptional service and memorable dining experiences.


 

The End Result? A Space That Connected People Around Food


In its first year, Apericena generated $1.7 million in revenue, a testament to the dedication and thought poured into every aspect of the project. But more than the numbers, Apericena succeeded in creating something intangible: a space where people came together, celebrated milestones, and shared meaningful moments.


 

A Legacy of Passion and Creativity


Although the chapter of owning and operating Apericena has closed, the lessons and experiences gained from building it remain invaluable. The project brought together everything I love about food, design, and connection, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, passion, and community. Apericena wasn’t just a restaurant—it was a reflection of the magic that happens when vision and dedication come together to create something truly special.







 

Project Highlights


  • Client: Apericena

  • Project Completion Date: July 2022

  • Services Provided: Brand Development, Logo Design, Content Creation, Website Development, Search Engine Optimization, Social Media Management, Photography

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