New Generations Step in to Guide Some Little Italy Favorites

A new generation is stepping up to carry Little Italy into the future as leaders, business owners and pillars of the community are passing the torch.

Christopher Gomez recently was appointed as the new chief executive administrator for the Little Italy Association. Here are other businesses that are welcoming new leadership:

Little Italy Mercato

Catt Fields White, who founded  San Diego Markets in 2008, a driving force behind the success of farmers’ markets like the Little Italy Mercato, will step aside so her daughter, Brijet Myers, can become CEO. White will focus on advocating for farmers’ markets nationwide, stepping back into an advisory role for the Little Italy Mercato.

Busalacchi Restaurants

A household name in San Diego behind establishments like Barbusa, Nonna, and Cafe Zucchero, the Busalacchi family, under the leadership of patriarch Joe Busalacchi, now turns to his three sons, Peter, Michael and Joey. The family recently opened Lala, a restaurant and cocktail bar on India Street, next to Barbusa.

Mona Lisa Restaurant

The Mona Lisa Restaurant, established in 1956 by the Brunetto family, has long been a cornerstone of Italian cuisine and culture in San Diego. Now, as Domenic Brunetto steps aside, his children Renata and Stefano are ready to step in at what started as a wholesale supplier of Italian goods to the local tuna fleet and other restaurants.

Rovino Restaurant + Bar

Rovino was established as a family business in 2016 by the Bruno, Buono and Tarantino families. The Bruno family has been involved in Little Italy real estate and business ownership since patriarch Vincenzo Bruno opened Vince’s barber shop in 1952. This inspired siblings Vince and Rosalia, along with Executive Chef Frank Anctil, to show their passion for the restaurant industry. Vince, a founding partner of Rovino, is passing day-to-day management of Rovino to Rosalia and Frank.