Photo of Walter Bianchi owner of Gusto.

Gusto: Taste of Rome celebrated its one year anniversary in Jacksonville Beach. This is a new hot spot down at the beach that appeals to people who don’t even go to Jacksonville Beach very often. This restaurant is highly recommended for a family get together, date night, or just for the love of Italian food. I sat down with Walter G. Bianchi, owner of Gusto, and got to know about him and the restaurant’s beginning.

Describe in your own words what customers will experience at Gusto: It’s like the sign says “Taste of Rome”, it’s a night in Rome, a night in old Europe, where you could relax with friends and not hurry to go in and get out. Add good music, good food, good wine, and good companionship and you can take a break from the worries of the world. It’s not about turning tables, it’s about getting people in here, welcoming them into your home; it’s like family, sit here and enjoy. They make it awesome as often as possible.

How did the idea for Gusto come about? They went through about 150 names until they got to the name Gusto. The name for Gusto stuck, coming from Rome’s word meaning “Taste” and also the Spanish word meaning “excitement”. Taste was what they wanted to get across as well as the enjoyment. When they came upon this name, they said “stop we got it”.

What brought you to Jax Beach and where were you from? Both Walter and his partner Colino are from Rome and met for the Toulon Soccer tournament. They both like the beach environment and the community. They wanted a place to combine good food with good entertainment. For example, the Chris Thomas Band played for them on their one year anniversary! Gusto loves to attract bands with blues and jazz that complement their environment.

Photo of the Gusto Staff

What makes your staff a great team? Everybody cares; the people working there come together to work in a unique environment and help in making it become well known. It’s not a chain or franchise; it’s a one of a kind restaurant. When the staff tells their friends that they work for Gusto, they become well known for working at this exceptional place.

What do you love about owning a business in Jax beach? They love already adding to a collective environment. They say Jax Beach has vibrant community and is very supportive. The community has received the idea very well. Everybody knows their names and some people at the beach regard it as a second home to them Walter always loved the beach because of its communal nature. He says the beach organizes so many events i.e.: Blues Fest, Movie night that brings many people in Jacksonville Beach out to the events. They are humbled by the amount of people who help keep up the quality and environment that they created.

Now, on the main reason of why Gusto is so amazing…..the food! The Fettine di Pollo Scarpariello was one of the first dishes I tried and it was incredible. It was made of chicken, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Walter didn’t just want to open any Italian restaurant, he wanted to serve authentic Roman dishes; in fact, Gusto is the first restaurant to serve the Scarpariello dish. Deliciosso!

Gusto's Fettine Di Pollo Scarpariello

What is your favorite meal on the menu? Walter has more than one, but Paparelli, Eggplant Parmesan, and their Brick oven pizza are some favorites. I had the pleasure of tasting their brick oven pizza, and it was beyond amazing. I look forward to trying many more delicious meals at Gusto!

What is next for Gusto? They plan on opening a Gusto 2 in the future. While it is not clear of where it will be, I know it is going to be a great place to eat authentic Italian food!