Vittorio Assaf is an Italian-American restaurateur, celebrated for his role as the co-founder of the Serafina Restaurant Group. With a net worth estimated at approximately $25.73 million in 2024, Assaf has made significant contributions to the culinary world, particularly through his dedication to authentic Northern Italian cuisine. His restaurants are known for their warm and inviting atmosphere, which has attracted both locals and celebrities alike.
The Serafina brand has seen remarkable growth, expanding globally while maintaining its commitment to quality and authenticity. Recently, Assaf has garnered media attention not only for his business achievements but also for his personal life, particularly his relationship with model Aoki Lee Simmons, which has sparked considerable interest online.
Much of Vittorio Assaf’s wealth is derived from his ownership of the Serafina Restaurant Group, which has become a beloved brand with ten dining locations in New York City alone. The group’s success can be attributed to its unique blend of casual dining, charming service, and a creative twist on traditional Italian fare.
Serafina Restaurant Group: A Culinary Journey
The Serafina Restaurant Group was founded on July 17, 1995, by Vittorio Assaf and his partner Fabio Granato. Their journey to establishing this successful restaurant chain is quite remarkable. The duo’s adventure began when they found themselves lost at sea, which led them to dream about creating the perfect pizza. Upon their rescue, they fulfilled their promise to each other by opening Serafina Fabulous Pizza on the Upper East Side of New York City.
Since then, the Serafina brand has expanded across three continents, with numerous locations in the U.S. and around the world. The name ‘Serafina’ is derived from the Latin word “seraphina,” which means “fiery” or “burning,” reflecting the passion and warmth that Assaf and Granato wanted to infuse into their restaurant’s atmosphere and cuisine.
Other Ventures and Contributions
In addition to the Serafina Restaurant Group, Vittorio Assaf has been involved in various other business ventures that have contributed to his net worth. Before his success with Serafina, he opened his first restaurant, Café Condotti, in 1985, which quickly became a hotspot in New York City. This restaurant featured original paintings by Andy Warhol and attracted a fashionable clientele.
Assaf also established the Portofino Sun Center, a tanning salon located directly below Café Condotti, marking the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey in New York. His diverse business interests and ventures have played a significant role in building his wealth and reputation in the culinary and business worlds.
Personal Life and Recent Developments
Vittorio Assaf was previously married to Charlotte Bonstrom, with whom he shares two children. However, the couple separated in 2021. Recently, Assaf has been in the spotlight due to his relationship with 21-year-old model Aoki Lee Simmons, the youngest daughter of model Kimora Lee Simmons and entrepreneur Russell Simmons. Their relationship has raised eyebrows due to the significant age difference, with Assaf being 65 years old.
Reports indicate that Assaf and Simmons met while vacationing in St. Barths, a popular destination for the Simmons family. They have been spotted together on several occasions, and their relationship has generated considerable media attention. Aoki Lee Simmons, who graduated from Harvard University in 2023, has a net worth estimated at $55 million, largely due to her family connections and her ventures in modeling.
Vittorio Assaf: Quick Facts
| Name | Vittorio Assaf |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | November 29, 1958 |
| Birth Place | Milan, Italy |
| Education | Higher Education in Political Science |
| Profession | Restaurateur, Entrepreneur |
| Net Worth (2024) | $25.73 million |
| Relationship Status | Dating Aoki Lee Simmons |
| Past Relationship | Charlotte Bonstrom |
Conclusion
Vittorio Assaf’s journey from a young boy in Italy to a successful restaurateur in New York City is a testament to his dedication and entrepreneurial spirit. With a net worth of approximately $25.73 million, he has built a culinary empire that continues to thrive. His recent relationship with Aoki Lee Simmons has added a new chapter to his life, capturing the attention of the media and the public alike. As he continues to expand the Serafina brand and explore new ventures, Assaf remains a prominent figure in the restaurant industry.
FAQs
What is Vittorio Assaf’s net worth in 2024?
Vittorio Assaf’s net worth is estimated to be around $25.73 million in 2024.
What is the Serafina Restaurant Group known for?
The Serafina Restaurant Group is known for its authentic Northern Italian cuisine, casual dining atmosphere, and creative twists on traditional dishes.
Who is Aoki Lee Simmons?
Aoki Lee Simmons is a 21-year-old model and the youngest daughter of Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons. She graduated from Harvard University in 2023.
What was Vittorio Assaf’s first restaurant?
Vittorio Assaf’s first restaurant was Café Condotti, which he opened in 1985 in New York City.
What is the origin of the name ‘Serafina’?
The name ‘Serafina’ is derived from the Latin word “seraphina,” meaning “fiery” or “burning,” reflecting the passion and warmth of the restaurant’s atmosphere and cuisine.