In July of 2014, he got his chance. With a handshake from a local property owner he says “didn’t know him from Jack,” but who recognized his passion for food—one passed down through generations of family, Il Rosso Italiane was born. And for close to two years Verderame built up a small business and sense of place that amassed what has been likened to a “cult-like” following, all in the name of excellent Italian food.