EP 79: Taking the Culinary Scene to the Next Level

It all began with a childhood business selling golf balls. At just nine years old, Jeff Gigante knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur, embarking on the path that would lead him to a career as a successful restaurateur. Over the past 25 years, Jeff has developed a diverse collection of restaurant concepts, including Forbici Modern Italian in Tampa, Florida, and a reputation for excellence in hospitality, community involvement, and philanthropy. Jeff joins host Sarina Fazan in the Red House Streaming studios to go “On The Record,” sharing his journey from a humble entrepreneurial start to the founding of Next Level Brands - and what he’s doing now to elevate the culinary scene!

From a young age, Jeff knew he wanted to pursue a culinary career. Inspired by memories of the shared family table, he began working in all areas of hospitality, including, service, management, and operations.

 

During his senior year at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida, where he received a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Film, Jeff made his foray into the restaurant world, opening Gigamo Bros Pizzeria.

 

A few short years later, while pursuing acting and hospitality in New York City, he worked with and befriended the Lanza family, successful entrepreneurs with a passion for restaurants. Rising from food runner to trusted manager, Jeff convinced James Lanza to come to Tampa Bay, a city he saw as bright with potential for food and beverage and entertainment concepts. Together they would cofound Ciccio Restaurant Group, along with chef Luis Flores, and establish multiple popular brands over the better part of two decades.

 

With an eye towards his own vision, Jeff opened Forbici Modern Italian in Tampa's Hyde Park Village in 2019. The restaurant is known for serving Roman style pizza and pastas in a lively, convivial atmosphere.

 

The formation of Next Level Brands is a natural evolution and the culmination of Jeff’s life's work. Bringing together a talented and dedicated team built on valued relationships and an unwavering commitment to next level hospitality.

 

Jeff believes that the secret to living is giving back. He has or is currently serving as a member of several charitable and community organizations including The Bullard Family Foundation, Metropolitan Ministries, Glaziers Children’s Museum, CEO Council of Tampa Bay, Advent Health Carrollwood, The Tampa Foundation. He is also a supporter of the Children’s Cancer Center and The Children’s Home.

 

In his free time, Jeff enjoys fishing, diving, traveling, and speaking to students about the inspiration and drive it takes to succeed in business. He recently started his newest venture Grand Theming Studios, an 8000 square foot full 3 D Theming Fabrication Studio, with childhood friend and world-renown artist Jason Hulfish, where they create amazing experiential 3D themed areas for corporations, churches, and healthcare organizations.

 

He is married to the love of his life, Erica, and he has two amazing children, Ciro and Isabel. 

 

Learn more about Jeff and Next Level Brands at www.nxtlevelbrands.com.

 

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Gabriel Guerrero