New Executive Chef, Antonio Franco

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From his earliest roots, Antonio “Tino” Franco established his love for food while cooking with his family. At age 15 he launched his career in the food industry and thus began what would become a lifelong obsession with great food and the pleasure of dining.

Beginning as a busboy, he worked his way up the culinary ladder over 13 years’ time. Working through jobs as a dishwasher, barback, valet, and Sous Chef, he truly appreciates all facets of running the kitchen. Tino is now excited to be the Executive Chef at Basta Restaurant in historic Pawtuxet village, where his love for food and service flourishes. Antonio has spent several years in the Federal Hill area in Providence at two award winning restaurants and is bringing those experiences to Basta.

With experience and commitment to excellence, Antonio truly lives and breathes food. Entirely self-taught, he lives his passion daily. He is constantly reading and researching, teaching himself what he needs to advance his technique.

His love of his craft can be experienced here at Basta.

“Great food is made with passion; bad food is made without pride, by cooks who have no love.”